Use the wait time to bond with your kids and create happy family memories.
Play Charades
Let them act out movie titles, books, characters, or anything they come up with while the adults guess. Then switch roles and make a fool of yourself in public for your kids as they guess.
Social Connections
Have them invite and bring friends or plan to go with another family that has kids of similar ages so that you can all socialize without the kids whining and interrupting.
The Stand-by Bag
Pack a bag full of activities or games: a coloring book and a few pencils, an Etch-a-Sketch or Aquadoodle, NintendoDS/ Playstation/ MP3 player, or small cars/ small dolls. You probably already do this, but don't forget these on the fourth; this is a late night for young children.
Snacks
Bring pre-firework snacks like a large bag of homemade popcorn or Chexmix. Some other popular favorites include chocolate chip cookies, fresh summer berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries-be sure to bring the wipes), homemade brownies, or chips.
Girly Activity
If you have girls, give each other manicures and pedicures complete with fancy fingernails and toenails in patriotic theme. Your girls will love having red, white, or blue nails that match Mommy's, especially if you buy the glitter or jewelry to really dress it up. Don't forget to bring the nail polish remover for the times someone veers off the nail.
For the Boys
If you have boys, play catch, dribble the soccer ball, or toss a frisbee with them while you wait. Take the time to help them improve their skills for their favorite sport.
Water Fun
If you're going somewhere with concrete, bring a jug of water and a large paintbrush. Your kids can “paint” designs with water on the concrete.
Read and Snap
Our school has a summer reading program. This year, they want to make a bulletin board of students reading in different spots. Take along a book and a camera to snap a shot of your child reading in a different spot: the relatives you're visiting, the lawn where you view the fireworks, the playground at the campground. You might choose a historical book for the fourth or a book about holidays since they tend to be too excited to read unless you can connect it to what's coming soon . . . the fireworks, sparklers, and fun.
Lifelong Learning
Take flash cards or make up a worksheet or a real-life scenario (like money counting) to help them with academic skills. My sister goes as far as checking out books about the civil war and then replicating the clothing and food for her three young “soldiers” who show an interest in history. While not every five-year-old can show off a civil war jacket while eating his “hardtack,” young students will take an interest in academics if their parents influence them positively. This may mean having them write a letter or story while you help with the editing or illustrating. It could mean you read to them or share some facts about your favorite subject. It doesn't have to be elaborate; it just needs to be quality family time.
These are good tips for the ride and I should remember them!