Summer is here, which makes it the perfect time to get your kids outside and moving. We all know that our kids aren’t spending enough time out in the fresh air and getting their hour of physical activity. Back in the day, there was no “one hour of physical activity,” and we didn’t have the technology that made us want to stay inside and sit on the couch all day. Instead, we spent much of our summer outdoors playing games and sports until the street lights came on.
Today is a bit different. Getting kids interested in going outside isn’t as easy as it used to be, but there’s better opportunities than ever to take advantage of the summer sun. Here are just a few fun outdoor activities that will get your kids outside.
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee isn’t just for college students—kids can get in on the action too! This game, which is also just known as Ultimate, is a non-contact team sport played with a Frisbee. Ultimate is much like soccer or football in that a point is scored when a player catches the Frisbee in the opposing end zone. However, unlike soccer or football the player with the disc isn’t allowed to move—they must stand in place to pass the Frisbee. If the pass is incomplete (meaning the disc touches the ground before it’s caught), then it’s considered a turnover and the opposing team gets the disc. It may sound confusing, but it’s actually quite simple. Just think soccer-meets-rugby-meets-football. Your kid will get great cardio and gain coordination skills, not to mention they’ll feel super cool knowing that college kids play the sport.
Swimming
There’s no other activity as essential to summer as swimming. Whether you’re gearing up for your little one’s first swimming session or you want to improve your child’s swimming abilities, this activity is a great full-body workout that defines every muscle in your body including your heart. Let your kids beat the heat with a dunk in the community pool or lessons at the YMCA. Swimming is a great life-skill to learn and a fun way to stay cool.
Beach Volleyball
Wherever there’s a beach, there’s a volleyball net nearby. If your young ones aren’t quite tall enough to hit a ball over the net yet, consider investing in a child-size volleyball net. These portable nets are easy to set up and you can take it with you wherever you go. Set it up in the sand, at the park or in your backyard so your kids can flex their skills. Volleyball is another sport that works every muscle in your body, especially your calves, quads, and glutes.
Baseball or Softball
America’s favorite pastime can become your child’s new favorite sport. Whether you want to introduce them to a fun neighborhood hobby with other kids or you want to enroll them in a baseball or softball league, both sports provide the opportunity for exercise and new friends. Unlike other sports, baseball and softball require more equipment. This site has baseball gloves, bats and other gear that will get your child started. You may even want to get custom baseball tees to add some flair to their team.
Camping
There’s simply no better time of year to go out and appreciate nature than during the summer. Usually, early summer is a great time to appreciate the fresh flowers in bloom, the rolling green hills, and the lively atmosphere that the sunshine brings. If you live near a National Park, take a weekend trip with the kids and go on day hikes. Your kids will love camping out in tents and roasting hot dogs over the fire. It’s a great opportunity to get your kids off the phone and get them to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
We all know that our kids could use more time out in the sun. Get your kids to try something new this summer with one of these fun activities.