Summer is upon us and it’s time to get out of the house and enjoy our patios and backyards. There is no need to spend a lot of money to have fun with the family on the weekend. You can save money and create memories that will last a lifetime as well! Keep reading to discover some summer activities that are a guaranteed blast for the whole family.
Obstacle Course:
Create an obstacle course in the backyard using simple common items such as hula hoops, jump ropes, and cushions. If you have a pool, you can incorporate it into the course by requiring players to swim across or pick up items from the bottom of the pool to advance. There can be puzzle and trivia sections too. Players can race to put together a jigsaw puzzle or answer trivia questions in order to advance.
Backyard Camping:
Spend a night under the stars by setting up a camping tent in the backyard. This opens the door for all types of activities. After it gets dark, learn about constellations by star gazing or using a telescope. Use the opportunity to tell stories or make smores in the outdoor fire pit. Or check out our previous blog post to learn how to stay warm on the patio.
Image via Flickr
Ice Blocking:
This activity requires a steep grassy hillside, so it might be performed better at a local park. But if your backyard can accommodate it, this activity is unforgettable. First, you’ll need to purchase ice blocks from a local source, such as a grocery store or liquor store. They are very cheap. Once you have your block(s), go to the top of a grassy hill and use a folded up bath towel to sit on the block of ice. Then have a friend push you down the hill. Hang on and enjoy the ride!
Image via Flickr
Chalk Art:
If your kids are more of the creative type, creating chalk art is a great idea. You’ll need a flat area made of concrete or asphalt, so this might work better in the driveway. From there, all you need is a little bit of chalk and a whole lot of imagination. Work together to make a giant mural or have a contest for the best design.
Image via Deviant Art
Scavenger Hunt:
Why wait until Easter? Scavenger hunts are fun any time of the year. Create a makeshift map of your backyard with markers and paths to the hidden prizes. This will make the kids feel like they are pirates on a treasure hunt. Prizes can include candy and small toys.
Movie Night Under The Stars:
Take the TV out of the living room and into the patio. Set up sleeping bags around the TV with pillows to add to the experience. Set up some stringed lighting to add to the mood. If you have the resources, you can use a projector to watch the movie on a large flat surface, such as the side of the house or garage door.
Image via Flickr
Make a Movie:
Thanks to modern technology, making homemade movies has never been easier. You can shoot, edit, and watch a homemade movie all from a smartphone or tablet. It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn and exercise different types of creative skills. First, come up with a story and a script. This is a great chance to use those creative writing skills. Then make storyboards for the scenes, which lets children use their artistic abilities. After that, design costumes for the characters. A trip to the thrift store and old halloween costumes are great sources. Filming the movie will require kids to work together and coordinate, emphasizing the use of social and communication skills. Have an adult film and edit the movie together if necessary. You’d be surprised to see what kids can do with a smartphone these days!
Bird Watching:
For the nature lovers in the family this is an exciting activity. Set up birdfeeders in your backyard and wait to see what shows up. Use a pair of binoculars to watch them from a safe distance without startling them. Learn more about bird watching in your backyard in our previous blog post.
Image via Wikimedia Commons
Make the most out of summer and get outside to enjoy what nature has to offer. Summertime is a great opportunity to spend time with the kids and teach them some valuable lessons. Everyone remembers those summertime memories of bright sunshine, green grass, barbecues, and fun games with friends.
Keep everybody comfortable outside with some outdoor cushions and patio heaters available in our online store. We also carry a selection of patio furniture for kids.
About The Author
Cheryl Khan is a passionate blogger who contributes regularly to the Patio Productions blog. She will forever be a kid at heart and enjoy the simple things in life.
