5 Ways to Get Active With Your Kids This Summer

Share

Tweet

Share

Share

Email

Comments

Summer means more free time and better weather, so take advantage! Get outside and get active with your kids, starting with these five ways to maximize fun as a family.

 

Summer is nearly upon us and everyone is trying to find fun and new activities to do outdoors. For parents, that means it’s time to ensure your kids stay occupied and soak in that sun. Just because school is out doesn’t mean boredom is inevitable. Get active with your kids this summer and embrace the outdoors!

More BuzzChomp: May The Fork Be With You – Unique Flatware and Sets

Even before the pandemic, up to 70% of business partnerships failed. But whether you’re gainfully employed or a stay-at-home parent, spending time with your kids outdoors will do magic for your mental and physical well-being. It’s a great way to stay healthy, because being outdoors equates to avoiding illness. In an average year, Americans contract approximately 1 million colds. Spending time outdoors directly combats this, ensuring good ventilation and more distance between your family and others. Of course, some planning may be involved to make the most of your time outside. If you don’t know where to start, don’t panic! This guide gives you the best tips to help you get active with your kids this summer.

 

5 Ways to Get Active With your Kids

 

1. Make a backyard obstacle course

This is our first tip for a reason. The fun arena is just a door away and you don’t need a big investment to create it yourself. Get creative with your obstacle course, but you really don’t have to go all American Ninja Warrior style. Instead, you can use simple objects that you may already have in the house to create an obstacle circuit of outdoor activities that can last all summer. You can try the following:

• Hula-hoops
• Jump ropes
• Water balloons
• Activities such as sit-ups, jumping jacks, press-ups, toe touches, bodyweight exercises, and stretches

This is a great way to gamify physical activity and make use of your green space. Add a little competition by timing your kids through the course, but remember, you are getting active with them. Do the course yourself, or as much of it as possible. Be prepared for some lasting memories, especially when water balloons are involved.

2. Do some gardening with your kids

There are many advantages to going outdoors and planting, growing, and consuming your own food. It’s even better if your kids can lend a hand as they learn where food comes from. Summer is a good time for gardening. Your body will gain a lot from being active in the garden. If you lack ample space for gardening, creating a “pizza garden” for your kids. Helping them grow plants can be a fruitful activity. You can grow tomatoes, peppers, and herbs in containers if you don’t have a large plot for gardening!

 

 

3. Go hiking in a local park

Hiking is a great summer activity, especially if you want your kids to move their bodies while having fun with nature. As a working parent, there is nothing as precious as taking time out of the corporate world to enjoy the healing feel of nature. This is a great way to relieve your stress as you watch your kids and explore hidden treasures in your town. Before you venture out into nature, be sure to apply bug spray. Approximately 500,000 people are admitted to the emergency room from insect bites and stings each year, and nearly 2 million Americans are allergic to the bites and stings. Sunscreen is equally as important, especially during the summer months.

4. Try kayaking in a local lake

If you have yet to try it, your kids will absolutely enjoy kayaking on the river or lake this summer. However, as you plan your kayaking schedule, remember safety. Use a kayak that offers safety and is recommended for use with kids. Just know that it’s best for children under 10 years old to share a tandem kayak with an adult. In this case, the children should always sit in the front seats, and the person responsible for paddling should sit in the back. Remember to outfit your kids with life vests, as well!

5. Go biking and explore your neighborhood

Biking can be an intense activity, but you can easily take an evening ride around your neighborhood! Either way, make sure you ride safely to avoid accidents. Always wear helmets and make sure your kids feel comfortable on the bike before heading out. Steer clear of traffic and make sure your kids know pertinent hand signals, as well. Then set off on an adventure, seeing your neighborhood from a whole new perspective.

 

Now that you have some ideas for outdoor activities to try this summer, you can start planning how you’ll spend your kids’ summer vacation. With these ideas in mind, you’ll never be bored and you’ll have a chance to explore the beauty of your community. Best of all, you’ll stay happy and healthy as a family. What could be better?

BuzzChomp is an affiliate for products and services recommended herein. Please read our Full Disclaimer for further information on affiliate programs and opportunities.