I wrote a few weeks ago about water play activities for kids, which is one great way to get them outside and playing even when it’s hot. But I thought it would be fun to share some other outdoor activities for summer that kids can do when its not too hot outside (which is, like, first thing in the morning where I live!).
When my daughter was younger she loved playing with sidewalk chalk paint. To the point I had the (very simple) recipe memorized and stockpiled corn starch for this purpose.
We’re big fans of outdoor art activities, and this bubble painting project from My Home Based Life is another great idea. Or use a clear shower curtain liner as a canvas for outdoor painting, as in this idea from Happy Toddler Playtime.
If you have a backyard with a play set you can make this obstacle course inspired by American Ninja Warrior. The DIY “floating steps” are so fun, easy to make, and great for gross motor skills, too! Check out all the details at Teaching Mama. Imagination Soup has a great post all about the different kinds of actions you might want to include in your obstacle course
and things you can buy (or that you might already have) to make the best course ever. Here is a Montessori-style balance beam for toddlers designed with a child’s learning, exercise, and safety in mind.
Pool noodles
are an easy way to build obstacles, or to make simple outdoor games that don’t cost a lot of money. Mission to Save has a great roundup of ways to use pool noodles when you don’t have a pool (I love the ring toss idea!).
But if you do want a little water involved in your summer outdoor activities, try a squirt gun
water race like this one from Mom Brite. Or if water balloons are going to be used, make some water balloon launchers out of old milk jugs, like these from Kid Friendly Things to Do.
Don’t skip learning while you’re playing outside! Growing Book by Book has a fun giant memory game you can make and play outside (or inside, when it’s too hot or cold to be outside). The pairs rhyme, adding a layer of fun.
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