12 Fun Activities that will get Kids Outside
Outdoor activities the kids can’t resist
Sick of the kids being couped up inside? Want them to get some fresh air? You aren’t alone!
Over the last five years technology has really taken hold of young minds; which is why it is important to actively encourage children to play outside. Parents can do this in many ways and these tips for getting kids outside will help.
At risk of sounding like I’m from the dinosaur ages; back when I was a kid we would spend nearly every waking moment outside playing. Mum would fire up the vacuum cleaner and it was either time to help or get our bottoms outside quick smart. If that wasn’t incentive enough to head outdoors, I don’t know what is.
If the threat of cleaning isn’t for you, try these outdoor activities. They will have so much fun you will have to call them in for dinner!
Obstacle course
Create a course that requires running, rolling, climbing, crawling and jumping. I like to incorporate dancing and twirling as well because it keeps the kids wondering what’s next.
Things you could use: hula-hoops, witches hats, balls, wading pools, balance beams, bike ramps, and so much more. The only limit is your imagination!
Scavenger hunt
Go on an adventure! Whether this is to the park, the backyard or even around your neighbourhood; there is so much to see. Create a print out with typical everyday things such as a bike, car, lizard, leaf, butterfly, sprinkler, bird, etc. For older children make it a bit harder – something red, a key, something sharp, etc.
Scavenger hunts encourage kids to pay more attention to their surroundings and are a great way to inspire teamwork.
Pokemon GO
We have all seen the memes and Facebook videos of adults playing this game but it really is a great way to get the kids out of the house. Most kids love Pokemon so the offer of going on a family Pokemon GO adventure would be a welcomed one.
It is free to play, encourages kids to explore their surroundings (with parents) and requires exercise to initiate egg hatching.
Scooter/bike ride
Get on your bike and go for a ride. It could be just down to the local park, oval or around town. The fresh air and exercise will do wonders for their energy levels and mood.
Geocaching
Take your kids on a modern day treasure hunt. Let them feel like pirates. The great thing about geocaching is that you don’t always have to go far to find one; they are often in places you pass every single day. Others will require you to take the unknown road but the adventure is all the same. The kids will often be rewarded with a little trinket and as per geocaching etiquette, put a new trinket in its place.
Not all caches are difficult so there are heaps the kids can do too!
Water bomb fight
Add a bit of excitement to a simple water bomb fight and set up barriers, sprinklers and hiding spots. A simple game of water bombs could become a kid friendly version of paintball.
Don’t forget to let them have the full experience of filling up hundreds of water bombs by themselves!
Chalk drawing
This activity is so easy and yet entertains for hours! They can draw on the driveway, brick walls and even the trampoline. Think of games like hopscotch, body outline trace and even footpath rainbows.
Add colour to the boring concrete and let them embrace their inner artist. When they are done, simply hose it off!
Science experiments
What kid doesn’t love science experiments? From bottle rockets to volcanos; kids are dying to get their hands dirty and learn at the same time. This teaches them about chemical reactions and because it is fun they will want to continue to learn. Some experiments are messy which is why they are great for getting the kids outside.
Art
Nature has so much to offer. Why not incorporate it into our artwork. Get the kids to find leaves, sticks, gum nuts, etc. and use them to create a masterpiece. There are many ways you can use nature in art, they include: gluing them to cardboard or paper, dabbing them in paint to make fun prints and patterns and even tracing around them to recreate the real thing.
Kite flying
It’s an oldie but a goodie. Kids and adults have been flying kites since way back when and it is because it is fun! If wind is predicted in your area, take the kids to your local sporting oval or park and let those kites fly high.
Bubble making
Let’s be honest, everyone loves bubbles so why wouldn’t it be on the list? You can buy bubble mixture if you like but if you want to add even more excitement and a sense of satisfaction for your kids, make the bubble solution. The best mixture we have found is the one listed on the Questacon website. It is stretchy and lasts longer than any shop bought bottles. Watch the smiles and laughter on your kids’ faces as they twirl, blow and fan bubbles around.
Sport
If they are the sporty type than sport is the perfect way to get them outside into the fresh air. Team sports will also teach them how to work with others, develop hand eye co-ordination and improve social skills. Taking the football, soccer ball or tennis racquets to the field/courts is also a great way to bond with your child over something they love.
Outside play is crucial for not only your child’s health but also their imagination. This is why it is important to try not to dictate how and when your kids play outside. While it is great to offer suggestions and join in, it is key that children decide how they spend time outside because that is how their imaginations will grow.
By enforcing digital free days or periods throughout the week it will encourage children to think outside the box, beyond the technology and devices and put their creative ideas in to action.
What fun activities get your kids outside?
Kell Kelly
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