How to have a family fun-filled Fourth of July

The Fourth is never an ordinary summer day, especially when you turn the occasion into a celebration of outdoor family fun. Here are some creative ideas for all ages, starting with a fantastic "fireworks of art" activity.

Fireworks art

In a small bowl or recycled container, stir together 4 tablespoons of liquid tempera paint and about 1 tablespoon of water to dilute the paint. It should be runny. Make several different color mixtures.

Gather around a picnic table and give each person a sheet of sturdy construction or watercolor paper and a drinking straw. Pour a spoonful of one color near the center of each sheet, tell everyone to hold their straw just above the puddle of paint at a 45-degree angle and blow through it, spreading the color in all directions like a fireworks display.

One-by-one, pour other colors of paint on the paper and blow through the straw to create a dramatic design.

To turn your picture into a place mat, cover the completed and dried project with clear, adhesive-backed plastic.

Tip: If you wish to sprinkle sequins and glitter on the design for added sparkle, stir 1 teaspoon white craft glue into the original paint-and-water mixture. Add more water if necessary for a runny consistency.

Patriotic stones

Collect several large rocks with a flat side. Rinse off rocks if needed, and let dry thoroughly. Paint an American flag design on each with red, white and blue acrylic paints. Use as napkin weights at mealtime.

Sing-a-long

Have a song fest and sing familiar American songs together, such as "Yankee Doodle," "This Land is Your Land" and "America the Beautiful." Make up your own verse to your favorite.

Story time

In the evening, make a bedtime story extra special for young and old by reading it outdoors with a flashlight. Choose a book about the subject of independence, where children, fairy-tale characters or animals are searching for freedom.

Donna Erickson's award-winning series "Donna's Day" is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit donnasday.com and link to the new Donna's Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families." (c) 2015 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.