Summer programs?

With summer peeking around the corner, everyone seems to be thinking about what to do with their children. I see friends posting things on facebook about being able to get rid of their kids for a few days a week if they sign them up for this program or for that program. Then other parents saying "At least my child will get out of the house for a little bit." Really? Make your kid get out of the house. Turn off the television, turn of the games, take away cell phones (if your children have them) and let let them be kids again.
My kids do Not have video games, they do not have cell phones, or any other devices. They read books. They play outside. They color. They do the same things that I did as a child. I am all for summer programs. All three of my children will be involved in the summer reading program at the local library but I will be reading books to W since he is only two. They get prizes for so many books that they read, honestly my kids would ready without the prize incentive though.
With all of the summer programs that your kids can be involved in just do not forget to encourage them to simply go outside and play (with sunblock on of course!).