Keeping Kids Active and Entertained This Summer

Summer is officially here, and for parents, that usually means one thing: finding creative ways to keep their kids both active and entertained. It’s no secret that balancing screen time and outdoor activities can be difficult, especially when there are so many other distractions.

But fear not, because in this post, I’ve got you covered with six great ideas for keeping your kids moving and learning all summer long. From backyard games to nature walks and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone on this list. So put down those tablets and let’s dive in!,

Backyard Games

In addition to nature walks and outdoor adventures, there are countless backyard games that can provide hours of fun for the whole family. These games don’t require any special equipment or a lot of space, making them perfect for impromptu play anytime throughout the summer. 

One classic game that kids always seem to love is Red Light, Green Light. This game is simple to set up and can be played with just two or more players. Choose a player to be the “traffic light” and have them stand at one end of the yard or designated play area. The other players line up on the opposite end. The traffic light calls out “green light” and the players move forward, but when the traffic light says “red light,” the players must stop immediately. The first player to reach the traffic light becomes the new traffic light and the game continues.

Another backyard favorite is Capture the Flag. This game is best played with larger groups and requires a bit more space, but it’s well worth the effort. Divide players into two teams and designate each team’s “territory” with a marker like a cone or rock. Each team hides its flag in its territory, and players must work together to capture the other team’s flag and bring it back to their own territory without getting tagged by a defender. 

Of course, there are many more backyard games to choose from, like Freeze Tag, Four Square, and Simon Says. The options are endless, so why not try out a few new games and see which ones become your family’s favorites? But before you head outside for some fun in the sun, don’t forget to put on lots of sunscreen and hydrate!

Water Fun

One of the best ways to beat the heat during the summer is with some good old-fashioned water fun. If you’re lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard, make sure to take advantage of it. Teach your kids how to swim or play a game of Marco Polo. If you don’t have a pool, don’t worry! You can still have a blast with some DIY water activities. Set up a sprinkler or slip-n-slide in your yard, or create a backyard water obstacle course with buckets, sponges, and water balloons. 

But water fun isn’t just limited to your backyard. Look for local lakes, rivers, or beaches where you and your family can spend the day swimming, fishing, or kayaking. Make sure to pack sunscreen and plenty of snacks, and don’t forget to follow any safety rules or restrictions in your area. 

After a day of water activities, take a relaxing nature walk with your family. Explore local hiking trails or parks and enjoy the beauty of nature. Not only is it a great way to unwind after a day of excitement, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Plus, you never know what kind of wildlife or natural wonders you might discover along the way.

Nature Walks

After a day of water activities, take a relaxing nature walk with your family and explore the beauty of your local hiking trails or parks. It’s an excellent way to unwind and get some exercise and fresh air. Along the way, you might discover natural wonders and wildlife that you haven’t seen before, which will make it a fascinating and educational experience for everyone.

Nature walks can also be a perfect opportunity to teach children about different plants, animals, and ecosystems. As you walk, point out certain features of the environment and ask your children questions about what they see and hear. It can spark their curiosity and encourage them to learn more about the world around them.

Nature walks can lead to other outdoor activities like bird watching or collecting natural materials for art projects. If your kids are interested in art, then the next section on “Arts and Crafts” will give you inspiration on how to use those materials.

Arts and Crafts

If your children enjoy art, then summer is the perfect time to let their creativity flourish. Making art can be both fun and educational for kids, and it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Simple projects like painting rocks, making collages, or creating sculptures out of clay can keep kids entertained for hours.

Nature walks can lead to great art projects as well. Gathering interesting rocks, leaves, and flowers can inspire children to create beautiful paintings or sculptures. Even just drawing or coloring pictures of their favorite animals or plants can help them learn more about the natural world around them.

There are also plenty of art kits and supplies available at craft stores or online that are specifically designed for kids. These kits usually include materials like paint, markers, and colorful paper, as well as instructions and ideas for projects.

Making art can also be a great way for kids to express themselves and relieve stress. Encourage them to experiment with different techniques and materials, and let them be creative without worrying about making something perfect.

Art projects can seamlessly transition into outdoor adventures as well. For example, after collecting enough materials from a nature walk, your children might want to use them to make a birdhouse or other outdoor decoration. The possibilities are endless when it comes to combining art and outdoor activities.

Outdoor Adventures

Exploring the great outdoors is an excellent way to get kids moving and excited about the world around them. Outdoor adventures can include anything from camping trips to hiking trails to playing in the backyard. Spending time outside not only promotes physical activity but also allows children to learn about nature and develop an appreciation for the environment. 

One fun way to incorporate the outdoors into your child’s daily routine is through gardening. Planting flowers or vegetables can be an exciting and educational experience for kids. They can watch their plants grow and thrive, and even enjoy the fruits of their labor by harvesting their own vegetables. 

Another enjoyable outdoor activity is going on a scavenger hunt. You can create a list of items for your children to find, such as a specific type of flower or a certain colored rock. This will keep them entertained and engaged while also encouraging them to explore their surroundings.

Overall, outdoor adventures are a fantastic way to keep your children active and entertained this summer. Plus, they provide a perfect setup for your next adventure: exploring new parks!

Going to New Parks

Exploring new parks is a great way to keep your kids active and entertained this summer. With so many parks to choose from, you’re sure to find one that offers something for everyone. If your kids love to climb, look for a park with a playground that has challenging structures. If your kids are more interested in nature, find a park with wooded trails to explore.

Before heading out, do a bit of research to find parks in your area that you haven’t visited before. Look for parks with amenities such as picnic areas, splash pads, or bike paths. You can even make a day of it by packing a picnic lunch and spending a few hours exploring the park.

When you arrive at the park, take a few moments to orient yourself. Look at the map and decide on a few areas that you want to explore. Encourage your kids to lead the way and see where their sense of adventure takes you.

Overall, exploring new parks is a fun and exciting way to keep your kids active and entertained this summer. And who knows, you might discover a new favorite spot for your family to enjoy for years to come. Keep reading for more ideas on how to make the most of your summer with your kids.,

In conclusion, keeping your kids active and entertained doesn’t have to be a struggle this summer. From backyard games and water fun to nature walks and outdoor adventures, there are countless ways to get your family moving, exploring, and learning. By incorporating these activities into your routine, you can help your kids stay healthy and engaged while creating lasting memories. Don’t forget to review some of our summer safety tips for kids and families before taking the plunge and trying something new. As Maya Angelou once said, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” So go ahead and get creative with your summer plans, and let the fun begin.