Getting Outside! 4 Activities to Encourage Your Kids to Enjoy the Outdoors this Summer {Guest Post}

Guest Post By Dixie Somers

A lot of kids have smartphones these days. While they can make your child safer, they also prove to be a distraction from the activities that can make your child healthier. It almost seems as though the days spent under the sun and playing are long gone. This doesn’t have to be the case for your child though. For parents who want to encourage their children to play outside, here are four activities to try with them.

Swimming

During the hot summer months, kids want to stay cool. You can let them enjoy the warm weather while staying cool by either having a pool installed or by taking them to a pool. If you happen to live by a lake or beach, then you can also take them for trips there, too. Whichever method you choose, swimming is a lot of fun for children. It’s also a great way to stay in shape and encourage exercise.

Yard Games

For children who have moved past the age where their imagination can do most of the hard work for them, they need a little help in finding fun outside. You can show them that fun by buying or creating yard games for them to play. Luckily, there are more yard games than ever. Everything from bean bag toss, Ladder Ball, volleyball, or even badminton can all be great games for them to enjoy. Because many of them are competitive, it’s also a great way to get them to socialize, too.

Sports

If you really want to make sure that your child gets the exercise they need this summer, then you should sign them up for summer sports. There are a lot of leagues out there that are both friendly and competitive. So, whether your child is super competitive or just likes to play the game, you can find a league perfect for them. For something less professional, you can even organize a sport yourself for your child and their friends.

Outdoor Treasure Hunts

For parents who really want to be hands-on for their children in the summer, you should create an outdoor treasure hunt. Never mind just making a map and burying treasure. This should be an experience. Create obstacles that your child has to complete in order to find the next clue.

The summer season is meant to be spent outdoors. These four activities can ensure your child does just that. If your lawn or home needs some sprucing up, be sure to take care of any necessary lawn installation and supply-gathering ahead of time so your summer fun can begin as soon as possible.

About the Author

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, home, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.