The endless benefits of staying active and being outside go without saying but in the digital age it’s a little more difficult to get your kids out when they’re more interested in what’s happening on the screen in front of them. The challenge is finding outdoor activities that your kids will enjoy doing; activities that will make them want to spend time outside.
Whether they prefer more physical action or relaxing among nature, there’s something for everyone and most of it comes at little to no cost. So, slap on some sunscreen, put on your boots, and get ready to ditch the sofa in exchange for days filled with vital fresh air and exercise.
Build A Construction Site
Kids love to build, but not everyone has the funds or real estate for a full-fledged sand pit. Luckily there’s a versatile solution that you can turn into something useful for yourself once the kids get bored of it. Fill a square or rectangular block with a layer of pea gravel contained with a few large stones or wooden planks.
Add some extra wood and stone, bring in the construction vehicles and leave the rest to the kids. If they’re no longer finding it fun, don’t stress about the tedious task of chucking the gravel away. Simply plant a few of your favorite flora or some bushes.
Trampoline
Assuming you pick one up that’s properly set up for children, a trampoline will provide endless hours of fun and will ensure that every friend in the block wants to visit your kids to have a go. The combination of focus and fun makes trampolines a great intense activity that won’t make your kids feel like they’re running 50 miles while still providing the physical health benefits.
Trampoline First has a comprehensive list of trampolines for kids that are both safe and affordable.
Spinner Swing
This is about as affordable as outdoor items get. Some bicycle handles, a heavy-duty climbing rope and a tree to tie it around are all you need. The handles should be about as high up as your child when their arms are fully extended. This way they won’t injure themselves when swinging faster.
Build A Toad Abode
This adorable crafts project has your kids building their own property within a plant pot. Pick up a sizeable plant saucer, drill some small holes for drainage and fill with potting soil. Head to a nursery if necessary and purchase a couple of small plants and mosses that grow well in your area.
Plant everything, add a bit of water and accessorize with whatever your kids see fit. A birdhouse makes for a great main home and some ice-cream picks or toothpicks strung together can act as a fence. Drop some pebbles in for a natural look and voila.
Conclusion
Getting your kids outside isn’t difficult when you’ve figured out what they enjoy. Simply keep exploring and find activities that they can participate in together for longer periods of time and before you know it, the iPad will never be turned on again.
