Congratulations to Alli on her 100th post with us! Thanks for all the wonderful advice, and here’s to another hundred posts to come! – Guiding Stars Team
You got the kids outside and away from screens (yeah!), but now you need to encourage them to run around. While the summer sun is a welcome sight, the heat can sometimes leave kids needing a bit of motivation to run around. What you need in these moments are a bunch of simple, fun games your kids can play. No need to worry, we’ve rounded up some fun ideas for you here as well as some refreshing drinks and more to complete your summer afternoon.
Not just tag…
Take a game of tag way beyond the basic “you’re it” with these games that include counting, strategic thinking and endurance building. Engage your children in chasing games and they won’t even notice that they are also getting exercise. For most young children, these games are going to be way more fun that simply going for a jog.
Remember when…
It may have been awhile since you played “red rover,” but you can probably still remember the feeling of a long summer day with nowhere to be and the bliss of knowing “sending Bobby right over” was all you had to do. Introduce your kids to the many classic games of your childhood and they will be able to lead themselves in a round or two (though you may want to join!)
You Slip, You Slide…
Set up the sprinkler on a hot day and you are pretty much guaranteed smiles and giggles. Add sprinkler games and you are also sure to get the kids moving. With so many different sprinklers to choose from, including sprinkler balls your kids can play catch with, you will easily find the perfect fit for your backyard.
Arts and crafts meets activity…
It is amazing what some chalkboard paint and sidewalk chalk can do to enhance summer time!
Paint a huge piece of plywood with chalkboard paint and watch your kids turn it into a bean bag toss, a giant game of tick tack toe and more. With sidewalk chalk a game of hopscotch or other jumping game is bound to happen. You can also go for this DIY glowing bowling kit and you can keep the activity going when the sun sets.
Just say “No” to Sunburn
Enjoy the summer sun safely with these tips and sunscreen guidelines. Limit direct exposure to the sun by planning outdoor fun to take advantage of shade or late day sun.
Gotta keep them hydrated…
It’s very important to remain hydrated on a warm summer day and our survey results show you are looking for the lowest calorie, best tasting beverage options. Consider purchasing a beverage dispenser or cooler to keep outside and remind kids (and yourself!) to keep drinking. I suggest keeping a bunch of flavored seltzers on hand, as well as fresh produce and herbs to make your own flavored water. Or try one of these delicious recipes…