Outdoor Activities to Play With Your Kids
It's summer, which means that it's time for you and your children to head outdoors! It's not always easy to come up with creative ways to entertain your kids, but there's so much to do when you're outside. From games to sports, it's possible for your family to have fun every day – and blow off some collective built-up steam.
Take a look at these ideas.
- Host a Scavenger Hunt
Whether you have a small or large family, it's always fun to host a scavenger hunt. It's a simple excuse to enjoy the sunshine all while you work your brains! Your family can learn about teamwork as you navigate puzzles and riddles to earn a prize. It's also easy to adapt your game to an indoor format if the weather changes on a dime. If you need a suggestion for a theme, here are some options:
- Put together a code that participants can decipher with clues. The first person to come up with the correct phrase wins!
- Outline different colored blocks on paper. Who can find objects that match every color?
- Write down items that players can find outside. This idea requires them to engage with their senses as they collect leaves and rocks.
You can always adapt these recommendations for your kids' ages. As long as everyone has fun, you've succeeded.
2. Go on a Hike
There's no better way to spend an afternoon than with a family hike. You don't have to live near a national park to experience the benefits, either. Aside from apparent advantages like physical fitness, there's more to this activity than meets the eye. When you walk a mile on your local trail, you'll likely feel stress-free and relaxed afterward. How's that for a natural remedy?
Choose a local path that's fit for your family's capabilities. Be sure to wear breathable clothes and sturdy boots – and don't forget your water bottles. You can also turn this excursion into an educational experience. Ask your kids to look around at the wildlife. What do they see, hear and smell? Work with them to identify these species.
3. Organize a Badminton Tournament
You don't need to be a professional tennis player to swing around a racquet. Instead, your family can try badminton. This sport dates back to ancient times, but it wasn't officially played until 1873. Badminton works perfectly for younger children, as the tools are lightweight. Plus, it's easy to organize and play wherever you are. The rules aren't complicated, either.
This sport doesn't require much – you'll need a few racquets and shuttlecocks, plus a designated court area. If you don't want to buy a net, you can measure out a line across your makeshift field. Typically, each team requires two players for either side, but you can play with more people. When someone hits the shuttlecock over the net to where it lands within the lines, they've scored a point.
The first team to score 21 points wins!
4. Learn How to Roller Skate
This activity provides many wellness benefits as well as pure fun. If you've ever ice skated before, it'll be easier than you think to pick up this new ability. Like toys such as scooters and skateboards, it's clear that roller skates present a kid-friendly way for children to experience the outdoors. Plus, you don't have to head anywhere special to learn these skills.
If you don't want to splurge on a new pair, it's possible to find used roller skates at your local thrift store. Once you have the necessary equipment, like helmets and kneepads, it's time to learn! Work with your kids to practice at home before you find a nearby path.
5. Try Some Lawn Games
Try some traditional lawn games if you're not up for an overly competitive basketball or soccer game. These activities won't increase your heart rate, but they're still a way for your family to connect. Have you ever tried croquet or horseshoes? There are many options to consider – or you can set up a station for each one. Either way, you'll be able to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with your loved ones.
Aside from contemporary activities like bocce, it's enjoyable to explore modern backyard games like Pickleball and cornhole. If you plan to have a cookout, try these ideas for some entertainment!
6. Create a Backyard Water Park
When it's hot outside, it's more comfortable to stay inside all day. But you can make an effort to enjoy the outdoors even when it's 85 degrees. A backyard water park can be a simple way to stay cool while you play together as a family. Put on your swimsuits and lather on the sunscreen!
Whether or not you have a large backyard, it's possible to engage with a few water-based activities. Try a sprinkler with your hose or set up a waterslide. A little creativity goes a long way. You can also add water balloons and water sprayers if you want to have a water battle.
Use These Ideas for an Active Summer
You can fill this summer with various activities and games fit for the whole family. Use these suggestions whenever you need an idea.