Summer is here, and that means it’s time to get the kids outside and active! Instead of letting your children spend their summer days glued to their screens, encourage them to get involved in fun and exciting activities that will keep them engaged and active all summer long.

1. Plan a Family Camping Trip

Camping is a great way to get your kids outside and experiencing nature. You can set up a tent in your backyard or plan a full-on camping adventure in a nearby state park.

Not only will your kids get to learn about the great outdoors, but they’ll also get the chance to unplug and connect with their family in a new and exciting way.

2. Have a Backyard Olympics

Who says you have to go to the Olympics to be a gold medalist? Set up a series of fun and challenging events in your backyard, such as relay races and obstacle courses, and let your kids compete to see who can come out on top.

This is a great way to get your kids active while also fostering healthy competition and teamwork skills.

3. Volunteer in Your Community

Summer is the perfect time to teach your children about the importance of giving back. Look for local volunteer opportunities in your community, such as helping out at a food bank or spending time at a nursing home.

This will not only give your children a sense of purpose and satisfaction but will also help them develop empathy and understanding for those in need.

4. Learn a New Skill

Summer is a great time to learn something new, and there are plenty of fun and educational activities that your kids can explore. Sign them up for an art class, a cooking class, or a sports camp to help them develop new skills and interests.

Who knows, they might even discover a lifelong passion!.

5. Plan a Scavenger Hunt

Whether you’re in your backyard or exploring your town, a scavenger hunt can be a fun way to get your kids active and engaged.

Make a list of clues or challenges for your children to complete, such as finding a specific flower or taking a picture with a stranger. This will help them develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills while also keeping them entertained and active.

6. Take a Hike

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of reaching the top of a mountain or exploring a new trail. Take your kids on a hike to explore the natural beauty that surrounds you.

You can even turn it into a scavenger hunt by looking for specific plants or animals along the way. Not only will your kids get some exercise, but they’ll also learn about the environment and the creatures that call it home.

7. Start a Garden

Gardening is a great way to teach your children about responsibility and the science behind how things grow. You can start a small garden in your backyard or even a container garden on your porch.

Let your kids choose the plants, help them plant and care for them, and watch as they grow and thrive throughout the summer.

8. Create a DIY Obstacle Course

You don’t need a fancy gym membership to get your heart rate up. Create a DIY obstacle course in your backyard using items you already have, such as hula hoops, cones, and jump ropes.

This is a great way to get your kids moving while also encouraging creativity and problem-solving skills.

9. Host a Game Day

Whether it’s a simple game of catch or a more complex game like soccer or basketball, hosting a game day is a great way to get your kids active and competitive. Invite their friends over and let them choose the games they want to play.

This will not only keep them engaged but will also help them develop teamwork and social skills.

10. Plan a Beach Day

If you’re lucky enough to live near a beach, plan a fun day in the sun. From building sandcastles to playing beach sports, there are plenty of activities for your kids to enjoy.

Plus, swimming in the ocean is a great form of exercise and can help your kids develop water safety skills.