I'm not a crafty parent and used to dread summer. I learned 5 easy ways to keep my kids entertained when school is out.

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• Kate Bast is a mom of two and an influencer.
• She says simple crafts and repurposing items you already have can keep kids entertained.
• Here she shares her favorite ways to keep kids busy during the summer.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Bast. It has been edited for length and clarity.

When you're a mom, sometimes a few minutes of entertainment for the kids makes all the difference. It can allow you...