summer activities for kids

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, SUMMER

    Creating a Summer Bucket List with Kids

    As the warm, sun-kissed days of summer approach, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about and planning a summer filled with outdoor adventures that will forge lasting family memories. Summer is a season brimming with opportunities to escape the confines of indoor routines and embrace the wonders of the great outdoors. Today, Courtney Cronin of Wild Migration Family will show you how to take advantage of this precious time and create a summer bucket list for your family, filled to the brim with exhilarating outdoor activities. She’ll guide you through the process of curating an enchanting summer bucket list that promises cherished moments and bonds that will endure a lifetime.

    Now is the time to create your summer bucket list

    As the weather begins to transition from the coolness of winter to the warmth of summer, there is a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air. Spring brings a renewed energy and a feeling of excitement, making it the perfect time to brainstorm and plan for the upcoming summer adventures. Summer will be here before you know it, so it’s time to get started on your summer bucket list.

    As a kid, summer felt everlasting. As an adult, it feels like we blink three times, and it’s over.  By starting to make your summer bucket list now, you can maximize your summer fun as you plan! You have ample time to research, gather information, and make necessary arrangements for the activities on your bucket list. Whether it’s booking campsites, researching hiking trails, or planning day trips to local attractions, having a head start allows you to secure reservations and ensure smooth logistics.

    In this post, you’ll find tips and tricks for creating a summer bucket list to help set your summer up for success– supporting memorable adventures and family growth. Whether you seek thrilling escapades, tranquil explorations, or moments of pure relaxation, the options are endless for a summer filled with outdoor adventure.

    What’s a summer bucket list?

    A summer bucket list is a collection of activities, experiences, and goals you and your family want to accomplish during the summer. It’s a way to create a roadmap of adventures, both big and small, that will make the most of the season. By involving your kids in the process of creating a summer bucket list, you not only empower them to have a say in the family’s activities but also foster their creativity, curiosity, and sense of exploration.

    Creating a bucket list together allows your kids to dream big and think outside the box while actively participating in the planning process. Making a summer bucket list together as a family not only builds anticipation and excitement but also strengthens the bond between family members as you embark on shared experiences and create lifelong memories. It encourages quality time spent together, away from screens and distractions, and enables you to discover new places, try new activities, and explore the beauty of nature together. It’s a chance to break away from routines, step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of the fleeting summer months.

    We are a bucket list family

    I am a BIG bucketlist person. We, collectively as a family, make one every season to ensure we are intentional about setting goals and carving out time for the things we value most. Bucket lists can help increase buy-in (from everyone), keep us on the same page, and help ensure we’re living our lives with intention. 

    If you’re new to bucket lists, summer is the perfect season to start. The long days and forgiving schedule of summer make bucket lists both exciting (for dreaming) and invaluable (for structure and planning). For me, it’s crucial that my bucket lists are diverse in both intensity and scope. I include goals that are big and challenging, and also the small, easy-to-accomplish glue-like pieces that keep us moving and happy. We need it all!

    How to make a summer bucket list together as a family

    We always make our seasonal bucket lists together as a family. In many ways, treat it as a code we’re committing to because in order for any of the stuff to happen, we all have to be on board, invested, and involved in the pieces. Everyone also naturally has their own ideas, interests, and priorities; sharing these can be really grounding as a family. 

    When planning your summer bucket list with your kids, it’s essential to foster open and engaging conversations that allow everyone’s ideas to be heard and considered. There are so many ways to frame this process, but essentially we just sit down and talk about what sorts of things we want to do and dig into this coming season.

    The planning process is an opportunity to bond, communicate, and create a shared vision for the summer. Encourage your kids to express themselves freely and embrace their imaginative ideas. By involving them in the decision-making, you empower them to take ownership of the summer bucket list and ensure a memorable and fulfilling summer for the entire family.

    How to plan and research your summer bucket list activities

    Researching and selecting activities for your family’s summer bucket list can be an exciting and enriching process. Here are some tips to help you research and choose activities that will make your summer truly memorable:

    Gather inspiration

    Start by gathering inspiration from various sources. Look for travel blogs, websites, magazines, and social media platforms that feature family-friendly activities and destinations. Follow outdoor adventure pages and explore hashtags (including #runwildmychild) related to family adventures and summer activities. Pinterest can also be a great resource for visual inspiration and ideas.

    Utilize online resources such as travel websites, outdoor recreation websites, and review platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about popular attractions, hiking trails, water parks, campsites, and other outdoor activities. Read reviews and look for activities that have positive feedback and align with your family’s interests.

    Seek local recommendations

    Reach out to friends, family, and local community groups for recommendations of things to do nearby. Ask for their favorite outdoor activities, hidden gems, unique attractions, or family-friendly events happening in your area during the summer. Local tourism websites or visitor centers can also provide valuable information on attractions and activities suitable for families.

    Consider age, interests, and skill levels

    Take into account the age, interests, and skill levels of your family members when selecting activities. Ensure that the activities you choose are suitable and enjoyable for everyone involved. Look for options that offer varying difficulty levels or have options for beginners and more experienced participants. Discuss your family’s shared interests in outdoor activities. Talk about the activities you enjoy as a family, such as hiking, biking, swimming, camping, or picnicking. Explore any new activities they might want to try, such as stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, or fly fishing.

    Weather and seasonal considerations

    Consider the weather and seasonal factors when planning your activities. Some activities, like swimming, boating, or water sports, are perfect for hot summer days, while others, like hiking or nature walks, may be more enjoyable during cooler parts of the day. Make sure to plan accordingly to optimize your experiences. 

    Mix thrills and tranquility

    Be sure to include a mix of thrilling and relaxing activities in your summer bucket list to cater to different interests and preferences within your family. This can range from adventurous activities like ziplining or kayaking to tranquil experiences like picnicking in a beautiful park, reading outside in a hammock, or stargazing on a clear night.

    Look for learning opportunities

    Look for activities that provide opportunities for learning and personal growth, for both adults and kids. This could involve visiting museums, historical sites, or nature reserves where your family can discover and appreciate new knowledge and perspectives.

    Our bucket list planning process

    There’s no right or wrong way to choose the activities on your summer bucket list. Some folks love websites and books for ideas and inspiration. We’re big map people, so inevitably, a map always gets pulled out somewhere in our planning process. 

    In planning our summer bucket list, we usually try to include the following activities:

    • 1-2 big summer adventures
    • 6-10 “can’t do summer without” type activities
    • 1-2 ongoing home-based activities
    • 4-8 challenges

    These numbers are obviously fluid and can be changed according to your family’s needs and desires. Every family has a different capacity and schedule. My husband is a teacher, so we have full-on open family summers. This means our summer bucket list goals are quite ambitious, to maximize our time together as a complete family unit.

    Consider what would work best for your family, both for your time and your budget. You want your bucket list to feel inspiring, not overwhelming, so while you can certainly get ambitious, don’t stress out about having to do it all. Make it manageable and set yourself up for success, so don’t layer on more than you can handle.

    Big summer adventures

    We usually add 1-2 “big summer adventures” to our summer bucket list. These are the adventures that push your edge and require more planning and prep. Usually, this means travel, reservations, potential gear investments, and vacation time taken from work.

    In order to hone in on what these should be, think about what you currently do that your whole family enjoys and is within your comfort zones, and then push into this. It’s incredible how habitual we can become, and how much we miss out on as a result. Use this summer to lean into what you love, and plan an adventure that will push you a bit further.

    • Do you always go to the same beach or trail? This summer, make a goal to check out some new places. Find trails using the Alltrails app or look up local Land Trusts.
    • Want to adventure with friends? Find a local playgroup or family meet-up, such as a Forest Playgroup or Hike it Baby branch, or set a day each week that you’re going to adventure with friends. Don’t have a group in your area? Start one! Be an adventure friend to others. 
    • Feel comfortable on day trips? Level up and plan an overnight camping trip! Check out a local campground. Don’t wait to make reservations as many campgrounds, particularly these days, book up and book up fast. If it’s your first time camping, chose a campground in an area you’re familiar with. We’ve got a great resource for parents camping with kids for the first time. 
    • Car camping pro? Why not try backpacking! Pick a hike-in site next time you make a reservation, or plan an overnight backpacking or canoe camping trip. Regardless of how many packing lists you check out, prepping for these trips will be a learning curve. Surrender to that reality and trust that once you can figure out how to go light in a way that makes sense for your family, the world becomes your oyster.

    Plan easily doable adventures

    It’s clutch to have easily doable adventures on your bucket list. These are the small activities or gatherings that don’t take a ton of planning or prep, but you want to make sure you don’t go the whole summer without missing! These can be the tried-and-true summer traditions that you do every year, or new small things you’ve been wanting to try. Write them down to make sure you don’t breeze past them.

    • Ice cream party (either at that favorite ice cream shop, or buy the supplies and have an ice cream party picnic somewhere)
    • Sunset picnic
    • Sunrise hike
    • Fish a nearby river
    • Explore a “new to you” park or hiking trail
    • Scenic bike ride
    • Baseball game 
    • Family movie night (in the backyard or at a drive-in)
    • Friend/cousin sleepover
    • Swimming at your nearby beach or pool
    • Pick-your-own fruit at an orchard
    • Fort slumber party
    • Beach BBQ with friends
    • Kids’ “yes” day (Pro tip: Set guidelines in advance to set them up for success)

    Map out some all-weather challenges

    Sure, sunshine and summer feel kind of synonymous, but there inevitably will be some not-beach-perfect days. With our changing climate, we never know just how many perfect summer days we’ll have each year. Therefore, we always plan for this by including some “all-weather” activities and challenges on our bucket list.

    • Go for a hike in the rain. (One further: After, have kids create a packing list for all the things they need when hiking in the rain.)
    • Search for amphibians in the woods on a wet day (One further: Do research on the species you found and create a bio card about it)
    • Fly a kite on a windy day (One further: Go to multiple fields on a windy day, track the windspeed at each site, and compare how the kite flew differently.)
    • Create a watercolor painting on a stormy day (One further: Track the clouds with timed watercolor paintings throughout the day.)
    • Build a leakproof fort outside when it’s raining (One further: Have them sketch their structure like an engineer.)
    • Track the sounds of nature when it’s storming (One further: Research how weather affects birds, and what clues you can tune into to know when a storm is approaching.)

    Engage in ongoing home-based activities

    While much of summer adventuring happens outside of the home, make sure to include some home-based activities on your summer bucket list. Having some creative and engaging projects can help make home time feel both slow and meaningful. 

    • Raise a monarch (One further: document its development with a monarch journal)
    • Plant a garden (One further: Make a garden map. Track growth and harvest on a calendar. Kids create a responsibility chart for garden maintenance.)
    • Make a recipe book (One further: Have kids illustrate step-by-step recipe instructions.)
    • Make art (One further: Visit an art museum and map out key features– artist bios, art piece descriptions, etc. Have kids chart out their own art show. Kids create invites, with bios, to invite family/friends. They write descriptions for their pieces. Design their art displays. Prepare hors d’oeuvres, etc)
    • Reading Challenge (Many local libraries have excellent summer reading programs. If yours doesn’t, make your own up. A simple board game blueprint with reading time goals and incentives along the way can be magic.)
    • Put on a talent show (One further: Let each kid choose their talent to perform for an audience. Let them create tickets and a program. Invite friends, neighbors, and family. Maybe they want to sell refreshments and set up seating arrangements.) 

    Curate some kid challenges

    Summer is a great time to build kid life skills and let your kids take on greater responsibility. What better way to do this than through fun challenges? We always love to think about what are some of the “next level” things our kids are ready for, and how we can get some practice through fun challenges.

    Integrate these into your bucket list by including a few “kid challenges.” Don’t name the actual task on the bucket list, but instead, write “kid challenge,” pick a day, and give them a card that maps out their challenge. They check off a kid challenge on the bucket list when they complete it. Some kids may need more help if these are new skills. There’s no cheating here; make a checklist of things they need to remember in order to succeed. 

    Here are some fun ideas for kid challenges that not only challenge them, but teach them skills in the process: 

    • Kids pack for the beach/a hike/an overnight sleepover
    • Let the kids plan and cook dinner (from making a grocery list to serving)
    • Kids bake a dessert for a friend or neighbor
    • Have them make and deliver breakfast in bed for the parents
    • Kids do their own laundry– from hamper to drawer
    • Build map reading skills by letting them plan a route for a family bike ride

    Support the spontaneous

    Part of the beauty of summer is having greater time and space for spontaneity. Allow your bucket lists to hold space for the magic of in-the-moment adventures and plan-making. If you have a hard time with spontaneous plan-making, include that in your bucket list as one of your challenges! Add “Say yes to a spontaneous adventure with friends” as one of your bucket list items. Just having that intention out there may make it easier to prioritize and make happen.

    Final notes on summers with kids

    At best, we have 18 summers with our kids. Sure, there are lots of variables there and different definitions, but I think about this A LOT. Particularly, as my oldest is just about to turn 10, which means we’re over the halfway mark. This keeps a lot in perspective and pushes me to really make the most of each day we have together. I think about all the ways that I want him and his sister to remember the seasons of their childhood, which are all too fleeting. And arguably, there is no season more memorable than summer. 

    This is the first summer in 5 years we’ll be in our home State of Maine. After traveling around North America and Central America over the last few years, I have decided that nowhere beats a summer in New England. (There’s something magical about loving where you live.) The weather is glorious, there are clean rivers and lakes, the ocean water is warm(ish), and there is a plethora of epic outdoor adventuring– from lobstering to hiking, and everything in between.

    Most importantly, Maine is home, so I know exactly when my favorite wildflowers are in bloom, what beaches have the sweetest tide pools, and the best spots to watch the sunset. The summer countdown is officially on, so we’re soon to be charting out our summer bucket list– tapping into the joys of home and making sure to discover new places and push ourselves to try different things. 

    What will you include in your summer bucket list?

    About the author

    Courtney’s the homeschooling mother of two wild and kind kids, the founder of 2 non-profit organizations, an avid traveler, and a passionate experiential educator. She has spent the better part of the last two decades traveling around the US and Central America – first as a part of her traveling high school, where she lived out of a converted school bus and slept in tents every night for 4 years, and, more recently, traveling with her family – from following animal migration routes to Mexico to fishing in Southeast Alaska. Rooted in Maine, she is passionate about immersive education. When not on the road with her family, she is busy organizing educational immersives, from tapping maple trees to tagging Monarchs and facilitating outdoor adventure programs, from hiking to ice fishing. Whether hauling lobster traps or monitoring salamanders, she works to make learning fun, engaging and interactive. She’s excited to share her love for nature, travel, and outdoor adventures with the Run Wild My Child community.

    You can find more from Courtney online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wildmigrationfamily
    Website: Wild Migration
    RWMC posts: Courtney Cronin

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Bubbles with Kids: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Bubbles and More

    Can you think of an activity that captures the attention of children of all ages? Or one that can be a fun energy-burning undertaking, a science experiment, a leisurely way to pass the time, and a neat sensory fun project? Give up? It’s playing with BUBBLES! Creative Team member, full-time traveling mama of two, Katie Fox, shares everything you will ever want to know about exploring bubbles with kids. Scroll down and get the very best bubble recipes, fun bubble activities, and games, silly bubble jokes, how to make different bubble wands, ways to use bubbles for art, and so much more! 

    Exploring bubbles with kids

    You probably already know this, but bubbles are a fun and engaging activity that kids (and adults) love. Watching them float up and away on a breezy day, chasing them in an effort to pop them, and learning that soap causes these delightful floating orbs are all part of childhood.

    Without a doubt, bubbles are fun and exciting. But they are also so much more! Bubbles are an activity that enables science learning, artistic exploration, a lot of movement, and DIY projects. Indeed, there is so much more to bubbles than meets the eye (I don’t recommend getting bubble solution in the eye though, ouch). Below you will find so many different ways to explore bubbles with your children. Let’s get started! 

    Photo Credit: @suzugarintonaru

    Benefits of bubbles

    Yes, bubbles are fun, but they’re also good for you! The act of playing with and exploring bubbles with kids is actually quite beneficial for both a child’s mind and body. Below are just a few ways that playing with bubbles is valuable to you and your children.

    • Gross motor development. Your children are building their gross motor skills as run, jump, balance, skip, chase, reach, crawl, and otherwise engage with the bubbles.
    • Fine motor development. As your littles grab bubble wands or help build their own wands and bubble blowers, they are working on fine motor development.
    • Hand-eye coordination. Following the bubbles and then reaching out and actually popping one is a skill and it takes practice to get it right. Bubbles help children practice hand-eye coordination in a fun pop-tastic way.
    • Sensory exploration. Bubbles offer a chance to explore new sensory input. That’s right, the sticky, slimy, soap-tasting, orbs allow children to explore their senses.
    • Building social skills. If your child has ever popped bubbles with another living creature, it may not have ended well. Children need time and practice to learn to share and popping bubbles offers the perfect practice setting. If a bubble your child is chasing is popped by another child, you can easily redirect them to the many other bubbles floating around. It probably isn’t that easy (and when is it ever?), you can keep at it and know that playing in the same bubble popping zone still provides social skill building – even if it ends in crying.
    Photo Credit: @mistyhofert

    Bubble solution recipes

    There are so many different ways to make bubbles. Obviously, the tried and true method of using plain ol’ dish soap and water is there for a reason. It works, it’s easy, and parents already have those items on hand. But, if you are looking for a different way to make bubbles with your kids, look no further. Here are some of the best bubble solution recipes for making bubbles with kids.

    • Basic bubble recipe: Home Science Tools shares an easy bubble recipe to make with your children. Because it includes glycerin, the bubbles are stronger than simple dish soap and water. 
    • Colorful bubble foam recipe: Instead of making bubbles you can blow, give this amazing foaming bubble recipe from Fun at Home with Kids a try. 
    • Glow in the dark bubble recipe: Looking for a new way to explore bubbles with kids? This glow-in-the-dark bubble recipe from Growing a Jeweled Rose is a perfect way to wow your kids with bubbles in a whole new way. 
    • Colorful bubble recipe: How about colorful bubbles? Use this Mama Plus One recipe for creating bubbles in a variety of colors. You could make black and orange bubbles to enjoy during Halloween or each color of the rainbow and then try to get all seven colors in the air at the same time. 
    • Reusable slime bubble recipe: This is not exactly a bubble, but this slime bubble recipe from Little Bins for Little Hands is fantastic for making large reusable bubbles. 
    • Pre-made bubbles: Don’t want to mess with making your own bubble solution? You can purchase premade bubble solution at nearly any retail store that sells toys. We recommend Bubble Tree Sustainable bubble refills that come in a recyclable box since it cuts out all the plastic that bubble solutions usually come in. Or this giant bubble mix concentrate, which is great for blowing huge bubbles, has less plastic, and allows you to make an enormous amount of bubble solution! 
    Photo Credit: @maryammorrison
    Photo Credit: @thesewildwilliamses

    Bubble activities and games

    Playing with bubbles is a ton of fun. There is no need to go beyond the basics of blowing and chasing, but kids also love variety. So if you want to find new ways to explore bubbles, below are a few great ways to do just that!

    • Create giant bubbles. Making bubbles that are large and in charge is always a hit. Happy Hooligans shares how to make giant bubbles with straws and string.
    • Count how many bubbles you can pop. This is a simple and fun way to add a little something more to chasing bubbles and popping them. Plus, if you have a young child that needs to work on counting, it’s a great way to throw in some learning through play.
    • Blow bubbles using your hands. Don’t have a bubble wand or want to try different ways to blow bubbles? How about using your hands to blow bubbles with this helpful guide from Housing a Forest.
    • Chase all the bubbles. This is a classic and likely completely instinctual activity. If you have older kids, have them help you blow bubbles for the younger kids. Younger kids love chasing bubbles and this activity is likely to keep them occupied for quite a while. There are also automatic bubble blowers, which come highly recommended by parents of kids who can play this game indefinitely.
    • Stand inside a giant bubble. Have you ever stood inside a bubble or wanted to? This article from No Biggie will walk you through how to make a giant bubble you can stand in!
    Photo Credit: @travelling_balloon
    Photo Credit: @karenayon__

    Even more bubble fun and games

    • Blow bubbles with bubble gum. This is a skill most children desire to learn and what better time than now! This is an activity you can practice while out on walks or while on a road trip. Bubble gum totally counts as exploring bubbles.
    • Make scented bubbles. This is a neat way to add another sensory element to exploring bubbles with kids. Add a variety of scents to your bubble fun with this post from Momma’s Fun World.
    • Try to catch the bubbles. This is a classic game and one that is not as easy as it seems. Make sure to dip your hands in the bubble solution to make catching the bubble without popping it easier. You can also make this activity more difficult by using bubble wands, spoons, and other items to try and catch the bubbles.
    • Rainbow bubble snakes. This activity from Housing a Forest looks like a blast and creates a really neat continuous line of bubble foam. This is a perfect activity and could probably even be done indoors (like in the bathtub) on a rainy day.
    • Play bubble hide and seek. This game is played almost exactly like the original, except the person who is it blows bubbles whenever they find a hidden player. The newly found players join the “it” person and also blow bubbles each time they find a hidden player.
    • Freeze a bubble. This is the perfect summer (and maybe even winter) activity to do with kids. It is always fun to explore ice and making a frozen bubble with this Fireflies and Mudpies guide is sure to be a hit. 
    • Take a bubble bath. Can’t get outside? No worries, exploring bubbles can happen in the bathtub too! You can add food coloring to the water to make the experience colorful and even experiment with different types of soaps to see which bubbles are the biggest. If you wanted to take a bubble bath outside, try filling up a kiddie pool and adding some soap. 
    Photo Credit: @theresaspector_photography
    Photo Credit: @bella_rose_visualartist

    Bubble science experiments

    Let’s not forget that adding soap to water and seeing what happens is technically a science experiment! With that in mind, bubbles offer a variety of different science experiments. Not only will your children (and maybe even you) be learning, but you’ll also be engaged in even more bubble fun with your kids.

    • Make a bubble inside a bubble. Steve Spangler Science shares a neat and easy-to-follow tutorial on making a bubble inside a bubble.
    • Create a square bubble. Usually, bubbles are spheres, right? Well, Science Sparks shares how you can make square bubbles and it is worth trying at least once.
    • Test what you can use to blow bubbles. This one is fun and walks you right through the whole making a hypothesis and testing the theory aspects of science. Gather some household items (spatulas, whisks, etc.) and nature items and see which items work best for blowing and making bubbles.
    • Bouncing a bubble. Looking for a little fun, some learning, and a lot of laughs? See if you can bounce a bubble following this Little Bins for Little Hands tutorial.
    • Baking soda and bubbles. See what happens when you mix baking soda and bubbles together with this Imagination Tree tutorial.
    Photo Credit: @tbarfield_nine29photography
    Photo Credit: @christinehosleyphoto

    Make your own bubble wands and blowers

    Using plastic store-bought bubble wands and blowers is great and obviously creates hours of fun. But, trying new things is fun too. Here are a few ways to use items you may have around the house to make your very own bubble wands and blowers.

    • Pool noodle bubble blower. Do you have a pool noodle that has seen better days? Consider cutting it up and using this Cut Out and Keep tutorial for making your own pool noodle bubble blower. 
    • Pipe cleaner bubble wands. If you have some pipe cleaners lying around, consider twisting one end into a circle and leaving the other side straight to make a handle. Bam, you just made a simple and effective bubble blower.
    • Giant bubble wand. Puddle Wonderful Learning shares all about making a giant bubble wand and this DIY project is pretty darn easy too. 
    • Bubble shooter made with straws. Straws are not great for the environment, but we see them every day. If you have some lying around or can collect (and clean) the plastic straws you are given at restaurants, you can create this neat straw bubble shooter from Kids Activity Blog. 
    • Recycled plastic water bottle bubble blower. Here is another way to reuse plastics that are otherwise thrown away. Hello Wonderful walks you through how to make a plastic bottle bubble blower.
    • Repurposed cardboard tube bubble blower. If you have toilet paper tubes or paper towel cardboard tubes lying around, this Happy Hooligans easy tutorial is the perfect way to use cardboard tubes for blowing bubbles with kids. 
    • Bubble snake using a sock. Is that missing sock basket getting full? Need to find a way to repurpose those socks that lost their mate? Babysavers shows you how to make a bubble snake using a sock. 
    • Use a fly swatter. This is a simple option that is perfect for younger kids. The tiny holes in the fly swatter make for a lot of really neat bubbles and the long handle, large bubble surface, and the need to swing the fly swatter to make bubbles make it a fun and easy option.
    Photo Credit: @islaandquill
    Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

    Bubble art for kids

    Bubbles are not only for science and games. In fact, there are even ways to use bubbles to make art. Here are a couple of options for you and your little humans to try.

    • Bubble painting with tempera paint. If you have tempera paint, this Typically Simple bubble painting activity is a great way to use it. 
    • Painting with food coloring and bubbles. This Living Well Mom bubble painting activity uses food coloring in the bubbles for a beautiful outcome. 
    • Use a foaming hand soap pump to paint. Have a foaming soap pump lying around? You will definitely want to give this A Little Pinch of Perfect foaming soap pump bubble painting activity a try. 
    • Making bubble prints. Using a straw, a cup, and some colorful bubbles, try this bubble print art activity from Happiness is Homemade. 
    Photo Credit: @prettybittychaos
    Photo Credit: @ps.myfamily

    Bubble jokes for kids

    We can all use a little more laughter in our lives, right? Without a doubt, one great way to round out any bubble activity with kids than to share some silly jokes with them?!

    Q: Why did the bubbles cross the road?
    A: Their Pop was waiting on the other side.

    Q: What did the bubble say to the North Wind?
    A: Nothing, he was just blown away.

    Q: What’s a bubble’s favorite snack?
    A: A pop-sicle.

    Q: What did the kid bubble say to the dad bubble?
    A: Hey, Pop!

    Q: What do you call James Bond in a bathtub?
    A: Bubble 07.

    Q: What do you call bubble music?
    A: Pop.

    Photo Credit: @feelslikehome.photography

    Bubble books for kids

    If you are like me, books are always something to enjoy with your kids. And when it comes to bubbles, it turns out there are a ton to choose from! Here are a few wonderful options you can share with your kids before, during, and after your bubble fun.

    Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

    How are you exploring bubbles with your kids?

    About the author

    Katie lives in a tiny home on wheels and travels full-time with her two mostly wild children, tech-minded partner, two well-traveled pups, and adopted pet snails. As they wander the North American continent, Katie explores as much as possible, with a particular fondness for the adventures her family enjoys in state and national parks. When not trekking through the outdoors, Katie enjoys baking, homeschooling, consuming mochas from local coffee shops across the continent, practicing her photography skills, and soaking up as much knowledge as she can.

    As an advocate for families exploring the great outdoors, Katie co-founded a Hike it Baby branch in her hometown in Northern California and tries to encourage families to get outside whenever possible. Katie has a Master’s degree in human development from the University of Missouri, Columbia, but her passion is really history and humanities (which is coincidentally what her Bachelor’s degrees are in). She currently volunteers on the Hike it Baby National team as a contributing blogger.

    You can find more from Katie online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @familyinwanderland
    Website: http://www.familyinwanderland.com
    Facebook: @familyinwanderland
    RWMC posts: Katie Fox

  • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    35 Best Swimming Pool Games for Kids (Fun & Easy Ways to Play)

    Beating the heat poolside is an iconic summertime activity. It is also a ton of work! Not only are there a ton of things us parents must remember to bring (towels, snacks, water, sunscreen, endless ideas for pool fun, etc.), but kids are notorious for wanting the one thing we forgot or getting bored long before it is time to leave. Today Wendy Cox, San Diego photographer, gardener, and mom of four, shares 35 pool games for kids that are sure to help make your pool day run smoothly and increase your family’s pool day fun! Save this list for the next time you’re spending the day at the pool, hosting a pool party or hosting a crew at the pool. 

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    35 Best Swimming Pool Games for Kids

    35 pool games for kids

    For most of us, summertime means a lot of time playing at the pool. But have you ever spent hours gathering the floaties, swimsuits, sunscreen, towels, goggles, etc. just to have your kids complain of being cold a few minutes after getting to the pool and ask to leave?  Or maybe you are one of the lucky ones that have a pool at home, but the novelty of it has worn off. Maybe your kids are in the pool all the time asking you to join them but you don’t appreciate getting splashed, kicked, and pushed around while you’re swimming with them.

    Well, I have a solution. Today I’m sharing the best pool games for swimmers of all ages and abilities. These pool games will keep both you and your kids occupied for hours of pool time fun. Just don’t forget that sunscreen!

    (Adult supervision is always recommended when kids are in/around water)

    The best pool games for kids

    1. Secret message
    2. Pool tea party
    3. Obstacle course
    4. Follow the leader
    5. Human raft
    6. Synchronized swimming
    7. Mermaids
    8. Timed dives
    9. Relay races
    10. Diving Olympics
    11. One push across the pool
    12. Sharks and minnows
    13. Pool fishing
    14. Pool noodle surfing
    15. Scuba divers
    16. Marco polo
    17. Raft races
    18. Noodle joust
    19. Number crunch
    20. Chicken fight
    21. Bobbers
    22. Invisible bottle
    23. Tread challenge
    24. Atomic whirlpool
    25. Belly flop contest
    26. Catch it
    27. Duck push
    28. Pool basketball
    29. Freeze tag
    30. HORSE
    31. Water polo
    32. Simon says
    33. Water gun battle
    34. Mr. Shark
    35. Earn your allowance

    1. Secret messages

    This game can be played with anyone that can talk. So, even if you have a non-swimmer (or a weak swimmer) who likes to hang out on the stairs, they can still participate.

    To play: Start by choosing someone to say the message (usually one or two words) and someone to be the guesser. Go underwater at the same time. The messenger says a word loudly underwater. When you get back up the guesser has to say what word they think the person said. Consider choosing a theme, like animals or fruits, to make it a little easier to guess the word.

    underwater games for kids

    2. Pool tea party

    You’ll need goggles and a shallow end for this pool game. Tea party is played at the bottom of the pool with your eyes open. Sometimes we like to hold hands, other times we need our hands to help propel us down to the bottom.

    To play: Take a deep breath and wriggle your body into a crisscross applesauce position at the bottom of the pool. This is the hardest part of the game! Once you get down there, blow bubbles out of your mouth and pretend to sip from your imaginary teacup. The best part is seeing how silly everyone looks as they flail about trying to stay down at the bottom of the pool! After that, repeat until you’re laughing so hard that you can’t hold your breath anymore.

    3. Obstacle course: pool version

    This pool game is perfect for all ages because you can customize the obstacle course to meet the abilities of the players. You can make the course as simple or as complicated as you like, depending on who is playing. Feel free to add in pool floats, pool noodles, hula hoops, or other props as part of this pool game. 

    To play: The hardest part is making up the course, after that, it is all fun! An example of a pool obstacle course looks like this: Slide down the slide. Swim across the pool and touch the number 3. Float on your back for 5 seconds. Do a handstand. Touch the side of the pool with your big toe. Climb up the ladder. Do a cannonball in the deep end. Swim backwards to the shallow end. Spin around 3 times. Do 3 jumping jacks.  

    4. Follow the leader

    Everyone loves following the leader, especially when they get a chance to be the leader! This classic game is perfect for pool-time fun!

    To play: This pool game is similar to the obstacle course described above, but instead of saying what the course will be out loud, the leader does the actions in sequence. The rest of the players try to repeat the same course in the same order. Switch leaders each round and, of course, make sure to let the kids make a course for you!

    playing at the pool with kids

    5. Human raft

    I used to do this with my sisters as a kid and we had so much fun trying to make this work! You will need at least 4 people to make this happen. 

    To play: One person holds the “raft’s” feet. One person holds the “raft” under both armpits. One person is the raft, and this person will be on their back supported by the two others. The fourth person is the passenger and is usually the smallest person. The passenger sits on the stomach of the “raft.” Once you get all the feet and arms in the right place, the two people carrying the “raft” walk in unison to ferry the passenger around the pool.

    While we’re on the topic of games I played with my sisters, these next two were our favorites.

    6. Synchronized swimming

    We spent hours making up elaborate synchronized swimming routines, practicing, and then performing them for our parents or grandparents. This is the perfect game for your little performers. 

    To play: The players all work together to create and learn a swimming routine. You could even put the routine to music. We love this waterproof portable speaker and always have it with us around the pool. Let the kids pick the song. Jump, dance, swim, twirl, and don’t forget to end with a grand finale move. Maybe this will be the jumpstart to your child’s 2028 summer Olympics debut! 

    7. Mermaids

    Since I have all sisters, one of our favorite pool games to play as kids was mermaids. To be all-inclusive we could call it mer-people. This game is best for strong swimmers because you have to swim with your feet together the whole time. Back when I was a kid they didn’t have all the fancy mermaid tails, like they do now, so we had to use our imagination. If you do have a mermaid tail, awesome, use it! If not, imaginations work just fine and are needed for this game anyway.

    To play: Start with a made-up scenario (“Let’s pretend that we’re mermaids and we have to save the treasure chest from a ship before it sinks to the depths of the ocean.”) and run with it. The only rule is that you have to keep your feet together, like how you would swim if you were a real mermaid. 

    8. Timed dives

    Diving toys are one of our favorite things to play games with at the pool because they are easy to carry and fit in a small bag. My kids love to dive for any diving toy and they make for some fun pool games.

    To play: This simple pool game is played by throwing all the dive toys into the water and waiting for them to get to the bottom of the pool, then timing how long it takes your child to gather them all up. If you have a competitive bunch like I do, they will constantly try to beat each other’s time. Sometimes they’ll throw all the dive toys into the deep end of the pool and then work together as a team to see how long it takes (and how many times they have to dive down) to collect everything. 

    diving games for kids

    9. Relay races

    This pool game is best played with a large group of kids because you will want three or more people per team. This game is perfect for pool parties, family get-togethers or times when the entire baseball team is swimming together! 

    To play: All teams start at one side of the pool and have to get to the other side and back in different ways. Swimming underwater, swimming only with your left arm, swimming the backstroke, etc. The first team to complete the relay wins. 

    10. Diving Olympics

    If your group is up for a challenge, this pool game is for you! First, you must be in a pool that’s safe for diving. Next, teach some diving basics. You can learn the basics of diving here.

    To play: After some practice dives, choose judges. Go fancy and have individually laminated pieces of paper with numbers 1 -10 on them for the judges to hold up. This could be done in a big group, if the diver is a good sport and won’t mind being scored, or with a single diver. My oldest son LOVES to play this and asks for tips after each dive. “Mom, did I make a big splash?” “Did I keep my feet together?” “Wow, did you see how good that dive was!” If you have a kid like this that craves feedback and perfection, get out your camera or phone and take some video. 

    teach kids to dive in the pool

    11. One push across the pool

    All credit for this pool game goes to my Uncle Don. I still do this when I go to his pool! This game requires strong legs and strong lungs. My uncle would usually offer a prize to anyone who could make it all the way across, so a little something for anyone who could make it all the way across might be fun.

    To play: The point is to make it all the way across the pool with one push off the side and one breath. In the pool, extend your arms and take a deep breath. Put your face in the water and push off the side of the pool with all your might! Hold your breath until you touch the opposite side or until you have to come up for air. The next person can either try to beat the first player’s effort or beat their last attempt. If you’re in a long pool, bring some sidewalk chalk to mark how far everyone went. 

    12. Sharks and minnows

    Did you ever play this game when you were a kid? It was played a lot at school and was a pool party game staple. It works best with a large group. 

    To play: Start with one person, the shark, in the middle of the pool. Give the shark boundaries that they cannot cross to get the minnows. The rest of the swimmers, the minnows, line up along one side of the pool. When the shark says “GO” all of the minnows have to try to make it to the other side of the pool without getting tagged by the shark. Anyone who is tagged becomes a shark. The last minnow standing becomes the shark for the next game. This classic never gets old!

    13. Pool fishing

    Even the littlest of hands can get into pool games. Little kids love playing this pool fishing game, but the older kids enjoy it as well. Put a net in a kid’s hand, and you’ve got instant entertainment! Add some fun treasures, and it’s a game your kiddos will ask for over and over.

    To play: All you’ll need is at least one net and this fun treasure box of dive toys. Drop or throw the toys/treasures into the water and see if your kiddos can catch them before they hit the bottom of the pool. Your kids will be building their hand-eye coordination without even knowing it.

    floating game in the pool

    14. Raft races

    Who doesn’t love a good race? This swimming pool game has the added fun of pretending your pool float/raft is a racecar. Zrroom! Let’s race!

    To play: Line all the racers up at one end of the pool and choose one person to be the referee. You can have them already on their floats or all in the pool and they have to mount when the whistle blows. Either way, the objective is to see who can get from the starting line to the other end of the pool riding their float first! Anyone that falls off is disqualified. If you have a bunch of kids, you can do this as a relay with teams!

    15. Noodle joust

    This game can be a little intense, so reserve it for your more rough-and-tumble kids. You’ll need 2 players, 2 rafts/floats, and 2 pool noodles for this game. (Or, check out this log raft game with canes.)

    To play: Each player rides their raft (like a horse) in the middle of the pool. They each have a pool noodle and on the count of 3, they joust to see who can knock the other player off their raft first. 

    best pool games for kids

    16. Number crunch

    If you want to add a little math practice to your summer fun, this is the perfect game. It takes a little bit of prep work but can be used all summer long in a variety of ways for kids of all math abilities. Start by using a permanent marker and numbering 25 (or more!) ping pong balls (1-25) and grabbing 2 buckets (or bowls). Then head to the pool!

    To play: Start by dividing the kids into 2 teams and place them (with a bucket) on opposite sides of the pool. Throw all the balls in the pool. Ready, set, go! Everyone jumps in and collects balls to put in their bucket. However, you can only collect one ball at a time. When all the balls are collected, each side adds up their total (older kids can help the younger kids with math) and the highest-scoring team wins! Another way to play this is the put the bucket/bowl on a float in the pool and let each team take a turn trying to shoot the ping pong balls into the floating bucket. The team with the highest score wins. 

    17. Pool noodle surfing

    Our favorite pool game is to “surf” on a pool noodle without falling off. You might think it sounds simple enough, but when the noodle wants to spring to the surface and you’re trying your best to keep it under your feet, it makes for a pretty good challenge.

    To play: The whole point is to try and stand on your pool noodle without falling off. Usually, we try to surf with two feet on the noodle, but if you’re an overachiever you could try it with one foot. Whoever can stay on the noodle the longest wins! 

    games with pool noodles

    18. Catch it!

    There’s something extra fun about combining the thrill of jumping in the pool, with the added excitement of trying to catch something. This game is fun for kids (and adults) of all ages. 

    To play: All you need is some kind of ball to throw and enough room to jump into the pool. One player is the “pitcher” and the other players take turns catching. The first catcher stands at the edge of the pool and the pitcher throws the ball into the air in front of the catcher, who has to jump in and catch it before plunging into the water. You can get creative with this game by having the catcher do a leap or a trick before catching. The catches can get more difficult, which ups the ante! This can also be done off a diving board, which makes it really fun as you can jump higher and farther!

    19. Duck push

    If you’ve got some extra rubber duckies around from bath time, bring them outside to the pool! While rubber ducks make this game super adorable, it can also be done with any number of other items that float (like balls). 

    To play: The players line up and each swimmer starts at one end of the pool with a rubber duck. The object of the game is to get your rubber duck to the other side, without using your hands. Your kids may try blowing on them, pushing them with their forehead or nose, carrying them on their back or head. Let them get creative. Other players can splash water or try to knock another player’s duck off course. The first one to the end of the pool wins! 

    fun things to do at the pool

    20. HORSE

    Take this fun basketball game to the pool! You can play this game with a pool basketball hoop, a bucket, or a round innertube. 

    To play: The first player has to try to make a basket from anywhere in the pool and if they make it, the next player has to repeat the shot exactly how the first person did. If they miss, that person gets a letter (the first letter is H and then you get O, R, S, and E). The game ends when one person spells out the entire word HORSE and loses. 

    21. Scuba divers

    Bring a healthy dose of imagination for this game, but you could also use this as an educational activity to research some marine life. Sometimes my kids use gear like a snorkel, mask, or fins, but those are not necessary.

    To play: First, imagine a scuba diving scenario. It could be searching for a sunken ship, looking for manta rays, or scouting out the Great Barrier Reef. Then gather any pool floats you have. My son prefers an inner tube. Next, sit on the edge of the floatie and fall backward into the water. (Make sure to be far away from the edge of the pool.) If you have goggles or a mask, try to communicate with each other using just your eyes or hand signals, like real scuba divers. Be sure to share all of the interesting specimens you found on your dive.   

    play in the pool with your kids

    22. Invisible bottle

    Did you know that if you fill a clear 2-liter water bottle with pool water, it’ll nearly disappear underwater? Talk about a fun find! Invisible bottle is one of the best swimming pool games for kids. 

    To play: Find a clear plastic 2-liter bottle with a clear or white cap. Fill it with pool water. Have everyone playing stand on the pool deck, turn their backs to the pool, and close their eyes. Throw the bottle into the water. When the bottle sinks, say “GO” and everyone can turn around, jump in and try to find the bottle. The clear bottle will blend in and become almost invisible at the bottom of the pool. The first person to find it wins!

    23. Airball

    Airball is lots of fun and a great game to play with a large group of people or the whole family. We use a beach ball when we play this in the pool. In the house, we use a balloon and call this “keepy-uppy.”

    To play: The goal of this game is to keep the ball in the air! You can pass it to other players or go around in a circle. You just need to keep it from touching the water. Count out loud how many times the ball is hit. When the beach ball touches the water, the round is over and you start a new game! Try to beat your score from the last round. 

    24. Atomic whirlpool

    As a kid, I was absolutely fascinated by the power of water. One of the things we loved doing was to get the water moving in a whirlpool and then fight the current. My kids love it now and it’s a great way to seriously wear them out! The more kids that can play, the better results. The smaller the pool, the better. Or stay in the shallow end of the pool. 

    To play: Everyone starts in a large circle. Begin walking slowly in the circle, all in the same direction. Start walking faster and faster until everyone is running in the water. Continue running until a whirlpool is formed! Your kids may notice that they’re being picked up off the ground of the pool by the force of the water and propelled forward. When the water’s really moving, everyone turns around and tries to run in the opposite direction of the whirlpool for an extra challenge. Laughter and chaos are sure to ensue! 

    25. Belly flop contest

    Everyone loves a good belly flop! This game is sure to bring the laughter and a good way to get everyone (big and little) involved in the action. 

    To play: Let each player take a turn jumping into the pool, showing off their biggest, loudest, most awkward belly flop. The diver who gets the most applause (or laughter) for their belly flop wins! If belly flops aren’t your thing, try cannonballs. Biggest splash wins!

    26. Marco polo

    Marco Polo is a classic pool game that’s been around forever. It’s still just as much fun today for my kids as it was for me as a kid. You can play with any number of players. The more players, the more fun! 

    To play: Marco Polo is basically playing a game of tag in the swimming pool, but the person who’s “it” has to keep their eyes closed! This certainly makes things more fun and challenging. The “it” player calls out “Marco,” and everyone else answers back with “Polo.” The “it” person must listen carefully and then move around the pool and try to tag one of the other players. Once he or she successfully tags a player, the tagged player then becomes “it” for the next round.

    swimming pool and water play games for kids

    27. Chicken fight

    My kids love playing chicken fight in the pool, but we do have some ground rules to make sure no one gets hurt. They have to stay away from the edge of the pool and keep their hands off hair, heads, and necks. You need at least 4 kids to play this game. 

    To play: Divide up into teams of 2 players. One person stands in the water and the other person sits on that person’s shoulders. The water must be shallow enough for the standing player to have their shoulders and head out of the water.  The two top players basically engage in upright wrestling to try to knock the other player off their teammates’ shoulders. Whoever falls into the pool first, loses.

    28. Bobbers

    Bobbers is a bit like “Whack a Mole” and so much fun!

    To play: One player is chosen to be “it” and is given a pool noodle and stationed in the center of the pool. Everyone else is a bobber and lines up in a single file line at one end of the pool. The bobbers have to bob up and down as they make their way to the other end of the pool. The kid who is “it” tries to whack the bobbers with the pool noodle as they bob past him/her at the center of the pool. If you make it past without being whacked, you’re safe. The first person to get hit becomes “it” for the next time. 

    29. Pool basketball

    Team sports in the water are always a bit hit with my competitive kids. We love dividing up and challenging each other to a half-court game of pool basketball!

    To play: Divide into teams and start shooting some hoops. Point values go up the farther from the basket you can get. See who can get the highest score! 

    Ultimate List of Summertime Pool Games for Kids

    30. Freeze tag

    Freeze tag is another absolutely classic summertime pool game. I’ve also heard it called “popsicle tag.” Unless your kids are only playing the shallow end, make sure anyone playing is a stong swimmer and can tread water well. 

    To play: Someone starts off by being “it.” The rest of the kids take off and swim around the pool trying not to get tagged. If/when they do get tagged, they have to stay in one place and tread water or stand with their legs apart. In order to be “unfrozen” another swimmer has to swim under the other swimmer’s legs.

    31. Water polo

    Water polo is a favorite sport in our house. You’ll need 2 small goals to play (one placed at each end) and a ball. Small soccer goals work great for this. 

    To play: Water polo is a lot like ice hockey (or even soccer). The objective is for your team to get the ball into the goal. Divide everyone up into 2 teams and choose a goalie for each team. The goalie guards the net. A few rules to note: (1) players can only hold the ball with one hand and pass above water; (2) you cannot dunk or splash other players; (3) you can’t hold onto the side of the pool to shoot. 

    32. Simon says

    Simon says is another classic childhood game that’s easily adapted for pooltime play. This is one of the simplest games for kids of any age and can easily be adapted for whatever skill level your kids are. Younger kids love this one.

    To play: One person is the leader and calls out the actions. Everyone else must follow the leader and do the action, but only when “Simon says.” For example, Simon says, do a handstand (everyone must do a handstand). Then the leader has to try and get everyone to do an action without saying Simon says. If someone does the action and the leader did not say Simon says, that person is out and the game continues. Other fun pool activities are: do jumping jacks, do a flip, spin around 3 times, underwater tea party, etc.

    33. Water gun battle

    Since you’re already soaking wet, why not have a little fun with water guns! 

    To play: Get a couple of super soakers or foam water cannons and let the fun begin! Divide up into 2 teams, position yourselves at opposite ends of the pool and put a beach ball in the middle of the pool. Using only the spray from your squirt guns, see which team can get the ball into the other side’s territory. 

    underwater diving and swimming games for kids

    34. Mr. Shark

    This is a fun game for little kids. They love the anticipation of it and it’s great for learning numbers and counting. I’ve also heard this pool game called Mr. Fox or What Time is It, Mr. Fox. We always used to play this after swim team and it brings back so many great memories. 

    To play: Designate a player to be “Mr. Shark.” Mr. Shark stands facing away from the shallow end of the pool with all the little fishies in it. The fishies yells, “Mr. Shark, what time is it?” The shark can say whatever time he wants (e.g. 7 o’clock, 2 o’clock) and the little fishies have to take that number of steps toward Mr. Shark. When Mr. Shark can turn and glance where everyone is before turning his back again. Play continues until the fishies are very close to him. At that point when asked, “What time is it,” Mr. Shark yells, “Dinner Time!” and jumps into the pool and tags someone. That person becomes Mr. Shark. 

    35. Earn your allowance

    This game is great for kids who want to practice their diving skills and kids that are learning how to count money. Kids can play this alone or take turns. 

    To play: Simply toss some loose change into the pool and let the coins sink. To make it a bit harder, try spreading the coins out. A child can play alone, simply diving down to collect the change as if hunting for treasure. More than one child can play and compete in this treasure hunt. You can play again and again. Whoever gets the most coins (or the highest value of all the coins added up), wins! 

    Games to play at a pool party

    Pool games for kids

    Save this post for the next time you’re spending the day at the pool or for your next pool party. You’ll be able to provide endless hours of entertainment and always have a great suggestion for a fun summer pool game the minute someone claims they’re bored! 

    And, I hope these pool games inspire YOU to get in that water with your kids! Your kids want time with you, not just time in the pool. Use the pool as an excuse to act like a kid again, minus the part where you avoid putting on sunscreen. Playing these simple water games with your kids will create lifelong memories and you’ll all have a great time together (and isn’t that the whole point?). If you need more ideas to keep cool this summer, check out this post. Happy swimming!

    What are your favorite pool games?

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out-of-doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    100+ Outdoor Summer Activities for Kids

    Welcome to summer! My kids have been out of school for a few weeks now and the novelty of long hot lazy days is starting to wear off. We’ve made our bucket lists for the big things we want to accomplish, but in the meantime, there’s still a lot of downtime around the house. We’re always looking for fun new things to do to keep us active, outdoors and having fun! Collectively, with our contributors and community, we’ve put together this HUGE comprehensive ultimate list of 100+ outdoor summer activities for kids!

    100+ outdoor summer activities for kids

    Summer outdoor activities printable PDF checklist!

    While this post will give you all the details and variations for all 100+ outdoor summer activities for kids, if you want a printable checklist version, CLICK HERE and get a free printable PDF of the list!

    Special thanks to our Instagram community

    These fun activities are guaranteed to keep your kids (and you) entertained, learning, and active while outside this summer! These activities have been tried, tested and kid-approved by our followers, editors, writers, and contributors! Plus, all of the photos in the post of kids outside having fun are from our absolutely amazing Instagram community! A very special thanks to all the mamas that let us feature their beautiful images.

    {Post contains affiliate links}

    best summer activities for kids@jenmarie_anderson

    1. Water balloon fight

    Everyone loves a good water balloon fight! For extra fun, get the whole neighborhood involved. Or make it a game – when you get hit you’re out, until there’s one champion! Or throw them high and practice catching pop flies! Split up into teams and each team is a certain color balloon. We like these balloons that are super easy to fill! Just remember to clean up all your plastic trash afterward!

    2. Outdoor drumline (or band)

    This outdoor summer activity was inspired by watching the drummers at an outdoor music festival last summer. My kids were absolutely mesmerized by the guys playing the drums on buckets, just using sticks and their hands. Find all the buckets (pails, boxes, bowls, pots, etc.) you can, give them a stick and have them create their own beats! (outside, of course, because it’s LOUD!)

    3. Frozen ice dino dig

    Freeze some plastic dinosaurs or other small toys or treasures in a giant block of ice. Give the kids tools to help them chip away at the ice to get to the treasure. This is a great way to stay cool on a hot day!

    4. Have a car wash (or dog wash)

    Get out the hose, buckets and soap and ready for some fun! Use towels or sponges to clean all your family vehicles outside and get your cars nice and shiny! Or wash the kids bikes, wagons or Cozy Coupes! You could even have a dog wash if you run out of vehicles!

    5. Outdoor game night

    Create a family tradition of playing a game outdoors! Whether it’s a traditional board game (like Monopoly or Life), a fun family card game (like Uno or Go Fish) or something a bit more interactive (charades or Pictionary), games are great outdoor summer activities and the perfect way to enjoy an evening outside. This is my personal favorite family game. And if you want extra competition, invite another family over and battle each other!

    outdoor summer activities for kids of all ages@adventures_with_gigi

    6. Fruit picking

    Summer is the peak time to visit a local orchard. Lots of places let kids pick-your-own fruits, veggies and flowers. Our summertime favorite picks are strawberries, blackberries, peaches, tomatoes, herbs, blueberries, zucchini, watermelons and sunflowers.

    7. Find some animals

    Visit a local zoo to learn more about the animals and how they handle the summer heat. Do they have adaptions that help them stay cool? When are they the most active? Or get more interactive and visit a petting zoo, farm, nature center or animal safari center. Here are some great reasons why summer on the farm with animals is so much fun! 

    8. Attend a carnival or fair

    Summer is ripe with fun local carnivals and state/county fairs. Attend one and try out some of the traditional foods (funnel cake and lemon shake-ups) or the crazy food (fried Snickers bars?!). Play some games, ride the rides and have a great day of fun!

    9. Make a fairy house

    Don’t leave your local neighborhood fairies to fend for themselves in this heat. Create magical tiny homes for your fairies out of stones, sticks and other found and recycled materials. Here’s a great tutorial for making fairy houses out of natural materials in your own backyard that will keep your kids entertained for hours. For a little extra magic, add some sparkly gemstones, glitter or twinkle lights. These little paint-your-own fairy doors are adorable!

    10. Play Frisbee or disc golf

    Playing Frisbee is a great alternative to traditional pitch and catch. The flat disc is usually much easier for kids to toss and catch. Throw one around at your local park and see who can throw it the farthest or with the most accuracy. Once you’ve gotten the hang on it, try your luck at disc golf! So much fun for the whole family!

    ultimate list of things to do this summer outside@gabriella.rojas.ray

    11. Play in the rain

    Summer rain showers are perfect for playing in! Light summer drizzles are usually warm and perfect for making fun puddles to splash in! Grab an umbrella or go out in your bathing suit! Here’s a great post filled with fun and creative ways to play OUTSIDE in the rain! 

    12. Identify local birds

    Summer is a great time to get to know the local wildlife and continue your nature study. Help your kids identify the neighborhood birds in your area, by color, size, and song. You can also research what they like to eat, where they live, where they migrate and what kind of nest they build. If you want to get extra crafty, set up a nature window for bird watching.

    13. Make a bug hotel

    Get a headstart on winter by building a protective shelter for your garden bugs. Bug hotels are not only part garden art, but they also provide much-needed protection for bugs and beneficial insects throughout the winter. Set up different protected areas in your hotel with a variety of sticks, pine cones, seed heads, bamboo shoots, and wood shavings.

    14. Play flashlight tag

    Played at night, flashlight tag is a fun game that mixes hide and seek with tag. The person who is “it” waits at home base counting to a high number while everyone else hides. Then, armed with a flashlight, this person searches for the others who may be switching hiding spots. The flashlight must remain on at all times and may not be covered. When “it ” spots someone, s/he must use the flashlight to get a close enough look at the person to identify him or her and call out that person’s name (who then becomes “it”)!

    15. Attend an outdoor concert

    Check your local listing for outdoor concerts, movies or shows. Many local venues such as county parks, museums, pools, and libraries host free events for families in the evenings during summer. Pack a blanket and some snacks and enjoy an evening outdoors enjoying the show!

    100+ outdoor activities for kids@wolvenkinderen

    16. Set up a lemonade stand

    Nothing says childhood like having a lemonade stand. It’s practically a rite of passage! Help your kids make some homemade lemonade, a couple of signs and set up a table for their booth. Not into lemonade? Try homemade popsicles, iced tea, kool-aid or bake cookies/cupcakes and have a bake sale! Your kids will be so excited to see their hard work turn into a few dollars! Who knows, you may even spark a future entrepreneur!

    17. Go for a family bike ride

    Biking with kids is a fun summertime adventure and a great way to get outdoors, explore new areas/trails, create family memories and get in shape. Riding a bike not only improves physical fitness, but it also benefits your child’s learning development and mental health. Plus, biking reduces carbon emissions, eases traffic congestion and eliminates parking problems. If you’re just getting started, we’ve got a great post with lots of tips for biking with kids.

    18. Jump rope

    Childhood jump rope games seem to have become a lost art. I remember playing all kinds of variations of jump ropes games such as helicopter, double-dutch, French skipping, and cat and mouse when I was a kid (a million years ago!). Most jumping games were also set to fun rhymes and songs. Break out the rope jumps this summer, and let’s bring these fun games back! Jumping rope is not only fantastic exercise, but it’s for great hand-eye coordination.

    19. Go on a clean-up hike

    Next time you’re out exploring your favorite local trail (or even going for a walk around your neighborhood), take along a garbage bag and make an effort to clean up any trash or rubbish you find along the way. Chances are, you’ll be (unpleasantly) surprised at just how much trash has been discarded. Set a good example for your kids by cleaning up and explaining to them the importance of taking care of our surroundings and the environment.

    list of outdoor summer activities for kids@pilgrimspassingthru

    20. Plant some veggies

    Whether you’ve got the room in your backyard for an entire garden or just a spot for a pot, plant a few vegetables this summer with the kids. Depending on your zone, you can start with seeds or transplant sprouts. Have the kids help choose a few vegetable plants from a local garden center that they’ll actually enjoy eating. Some of our favorites are sugar snap peas, beets, cherry tomatoes, mint, lettuce, carrots, zucchini, and pumpkins! Here’s a great post with 5 easy vegetables to grow with kids! 

    21. Press flowers

    Flowers are everywhere you look during the summer! Take advantage of the abundance and preserve some for a cold rainy day. Collect flowers on a sunny day when they’re not wet or damp. Place the flowers between sheets of parchment or wax paper and lay a heavy book on top. Let the flowers dry for 7-10 days. Use the flowers for art decorations, cards, journals, luminaries or anything your heart desires! We’ve tried this flower press kit and made beautiful art! And here’s a great post on how to make a pressed wildflower bookmark.

    22. Watch a sunset or sunrise

    If you’re looking for a peaceful way to spend some time outside with your kids, try watching a sunrise or sunset together. This is a great way to have a quiet conversation, tell stories or just enjoy some silence while taking in the beauty of the scene.

    ultimate list of 100+ outdoor activities to do with your kids this summer@susan.grimes

    23. Fly a kite

    Flying a kite is one of those quintessential childhood activities that everyone should try at least once! Grab a kite from a store or try your hand at making your own! Choose a location with a wide open space, like a football field, park or the beach. See how high you can get the kite and who can make it do acrobatic tricks! If you need more inspiration or instruction, here’s a post all about kite flying with kids!

    24. Make pizza on the grill

    If you’ve never tried to make your own pizza on the BBQ grill, what are you waiting for?! Buy some premade pizza dough (or make your own – it’s easy!) and your favorite pizza toppings. Have everything ready to go, then slide the crust on the grill for a few minutes. Flip the whole thing over and then add your pizza toppings while it cooks. Your grill can get much hotter than your oven, so it’ll make your crust extra crispy and delicious! Let the kids help, but definitely with adult supervision. Or try your hand at using an outdoor pizza oven – here’s some info on how to use an outdoor pizza oven, our favorite recipes and tips for cooking pizza outside! 

    25. Make sun prints

    Making nature art using sun print paper is a great way to teach kids about the sun and shadows. It also encourages them to be observant of shapes, patterns and sizes of leaves, plants and natural objects. Plus, you get some really gorgeous art prints out of it that would look so pretty framed or turned into wrapping paper or greeting cards. See our full post on sun prints for more details.

    26. Catch fireflies

    Catching fireflies (or lightning bugs, as we call them) is one of my (and my kids’) favorite things to do in the summer. Once the temperature gets warm enough, twilight is the perfect time to chase after these slow flying bugs. They’re easy enough to catch with your hands, just be careful not to injure them and let them go gently. Check out this post for more information on fireflies, fun facts, firefly jokes, and info on how to save them. 

    Get outside this summer! 100 thing to do outdoors@erincomfortphotography

    27. Play golf (or putt putt or driving range)

    Golf is such a fun outdoor activity for the entire family. My kids are really into golf these days and they can’t seem to get enough. We love going out and playing nine holes as a family at a public course or spending an hour hitting balls at the driving range. If you haven’t tried Top Golf, it’s also been a huge hit! Or mix it up and try your hand at putt putt golf – winner gets to pick dinner! Here’s a great post on everything you need to know to get started playing golf with kids. 

    28. Go on a rainbow walk

    Turn your evening stroll or afternoon hike into a rainbow walk, where kids are tasked with finding one item of every color of the rainbow. Either have them write down the item and corresponding color or take a photo of it with your phone/camera.

    29. Put on a play

    Most kids love performing, so have them put on a show! Help them come up with a story (maybe reenact their favorite movie/book or make something up entirely!), cast the characters, find costumes, rehearse their lines and even create background scenery! Have them set up a theater, advertise the show and sell tickets and popcorn. If you’re lucky, this could take ALL DAY (or longer)! Have them perform their show for the family (or the neighborhood) and be sure to give them a standing ovation!

    30. Build a sandcastle

    Whether you’re on the beach or just playing in a sandbox, building a sand castle is so much fun! You don’t need any fancy equipment to make an amazing sand creation. Just some sand, add water and a few cups and buckets of various sizes. Feel free to add shells, sticks, grass or leaves for decorations. Put those future architectural skills to work! Take your sandcastle building to the next level with these sandcastle building tips for kids from a professional! 

    things to do outside during the summer@thebackwoodsmama

    31. Climb a tree

    Climbing trees is a great way for kids to experience “risky” play, with great rewards. One of my favorite writers, Linda McGurk wrote: “Tree climbing has real benefits for kids – physically, mentally, cognitively and socially. Just think about it. As your child scales the tree he’s building muscle strength, practicing gross motor skills such as balance and improving spatial awareness and proprioception. When he decides which branches are safe to stand on and how high to go, he’s learning how to judge risk and developing critical thinking skills. As he plans his path up through the limbs, he’s gaining decision-making and problem-solving skills, and if things don’t go according to plan, he gains emotional strength and resilience by trying again. When he successfully negotiates the branches, he feels a sense of accomplishment, which in turn boosts his self-confidence.”

    32. Pack a picnic

    Sometimes the smallest things (like a change of scenery) can make all the difference. Try packing a picnic and eating a meal in a whole new location. Choose a park with a fun playground, a picnic table by a lake or the edge of a babbling brook. Spread out a blanket with all the food and let the kids eat as they play with no rushing or nagging at them to sit down and eat. The kids will graze during the time you’re there as they play and explore. And chances are, they’ll eat ALL the food in the car on the way home!

    33. Host a garage sale

    Summer’s a great time to clean out some of the clutter in your home and get rid of some things that you and the kids no longer need or enjoy. Make it a family project to clean out their bedrooms and playroom with them and choose items to contribute to the family yard sale. Give them a percentage of the earnings or let them have the proceeds from particular items they sell. Be sure to have them help with labeling, advertising, and marketing! And let them help with selling, answering customer questions and making change.

    things for kids to do outside during the summer@mommatolittlemen

    34. Hammock naps

    Not sure I have to say anything else about this one. If the thought of napping in a hammock on a warm summer day doesn’t thrill you to the bone, I’m not sure this is the website for you. 😉

    35. Hula hoop

    Like jumping rope, hula hooping seems to be another lost art of childhood. Make sure your kids get the chance to experience the thrills and fun of a hula hoop. Watching kids learn how to hula hoop is absolutely adorable and worth the nominal price of a hoop. Play games, like who can keep it going the longest, who can make it go up and down their body or who can jump through it as it rolls down the sidewalk!

    36. Visit a farmer’s market

    In the summer, local farmer’s markets are teeming with the most amazing produce around. Take your kids and introduce them to the vendors. Let them ask questions about where and how the food was grown. Let them taste free samples of fruits, veggies, and baked goods. And then pick out a few items to take home for dinner! They’ll be more likely to eat the food if they had a say in choosing it. Here are some fun things to do at a farmer’s market and ways for kids to learn and explore while there! 

    100 activities for kids to do during summer break@alwaysfourlove

    37. Pick a wildflower bouquet

    Summertime is the best time for finding and picking wildflowers. Bring a pair of scissors on your walk and snip a few flowers for a bouquet. Wildflowers make beautiful and colorful arrangements. But only take a few and make sure to leave plenty for the bees!

    38. Host your own summer Olympics

    It doesn’t have to be an Olympic year for your kids to enjoy the games. Create your own version of the Olympics by having them compete for the gold in their favorite events. Set up the ping pong table outside, host a diving competition at the pool, try some rhymic gymnastics with ribbons and hoops. Whatever their sport, find a way to recreate it!

    39. Make a concrete stepping stone

    Decorate your garden or walkway with beautiful concrete stepping stones. All you need is a mold, some concrete mix and any decorations you want to use. Try colored stones, shells, glass or beads. They also make stepping stone mosaic kits with all this stuff included, just to make it easier on you.

    40. Set up a bird feeder

    Attract some local birds into your backyard by setting up a bird feeder and/or a bird bath. We’ve got a great post on how to make a few easy bird feeders for kids with items and ingredients you already have at home.

    summer vacation outdoor activities for kids@affairwithworld

    41. Have a stargazing party

    When the heat in the summer is too intense during the day, swap your outdoor time for some evening stargazing. Grab a blanket, an air mattress or fill a kiddie pool with pillows and escape into the darkness to watch as the stars appear. Pull out a telescope and try to identify the stars and constellations you see. Plus, if you can get away from the city lights and noise, that’s even better!

    42. Make an outdoor tic-tac-toe board

    Tic tac toe is one of those games that’s easy enough for preschoolers, yet is still competitive enough to entertain older kids and adults. It teaches kids a lot of valuable skills, like logic, reasoning, creativity, strategy, coordination, visual skills, motor skills, concentration and how to be a good loser. We’ve got a great tutorial on how to make your own DIY tic tac toe rocks and board with kids. Or draw a board with chalk (or in the sand or use sticks) and use rocks or shells as X’s and O’s.

    43. Set up a backyard obstacle course

    Kids love competitive games and obstacle courses are a fun way to get them outdoors and active. Have them help set up an obstacle course in the backyard or at local park. You don’t need much to create a course, just a clever way to get from point A to point Z. Basic skills will be balancing, climbing, jumping, running, crawling and catching. They’ll love the challenge and come up with their own ways to play and challenge each other.

    ultimate list of outdoor activities for kids@miri.andthekids

    44. Build an outdoor fort

    Kids love building forts. Pillow and blanket forts are great for winter, but get out and try your hand at building a fort outdoors or in the woods. Sticks and branches make great walls and can be found relatively easily. Or find a horizontal tree and make a lean-to! There are so many different ways to build a fort – you’re only limited by your imagination.

    45. Read a book outside

    I’m of the opinion that almost everything is better when you’re outside and immersed in nature. That’s definitely true for one of my favorite past times…reading! If your kids are old enough to read on their own, create a comfy and shady spot for them to read outside. If your kids are little, try having storytime outside together and reading to them as they lounge on a blanket or in a hammock.

    46. Look for 4-leaf clovers

    Have you ever found a 4-leaf clover? Lucky you! Give your kids the chance to change their luck by doing a 4-leaf clover hunt. Your chances are actually pretty good for finding one. According to research, there is usually one four-leaf clover for every 10,000 three-leaf shamrocks and around 200 clovers can be found in a 60-square centimeter plot of clover. Therefore, a space of about 1.2 square meters (or 4 square feet) should contain at least 1 four-leaf clover! Here’s a great post with all kinds of tips and advice on how to find more 4-leaf clovers with kids!

    outdoor activities for kids of all ages@threegirlztwirlz

    47. Explore a creek

    Exploring a creek is by far my children’s all-time favorite outdoor activity. If you’re lucky enough to live anywhere close to a creek (and I bet you are!), take your kids to check it out. Creeks provide so many amazing opportunities for exploration, curiosity and imaginative play! We’ve got a great post all about the incredible benefits of exploring creeks with kids.

    48. Visit a new (to you) park/playground

    Checking out a new park allows parents and kids to be adventurous, without needing to leave their own city or spend a lot of time researching or packing for an exotic outing. Most of the parks near us have wooded areas, lakes or ponds, hiking trails and a playground, which is always the most attractive feature for my kids and definitely the first thing they want to check out upon arrival. Pick a park that you’ve never explored and make an adventure out of checking it out! Need some playground games for kids, we’ve got you covered!

    49. Make homemade ice cream or popsicles

    This may be the most delicious activity we recommend and fun for everyone involved. Making your own ice cream or popsicles is easier than you may think. You don’t need fancy machines or ingredients to make the most delish homemade ice cream. Just a few items and some shaking/mixing energy! Making popsicles is even easier, with nothing more involved than throwing a blended concoction in a freezer. We have these popsicle molds and they’re amazing. Check out this fun post for some easy and healthy fruit popsicle recipes for kids.

    Get the kids outside this summer! Ultimate list of outdoor activities@callred25

    50. Decorate the driveway with sidewalk chalk

    Sidewalk chalk is such an easy way to entertain the kids for a few hours. Draw a bunch of boxes and have them draw scenes from their favorite movie or book. Use the chalk to get them to practice their spelling and math skills. See if they can create a mural of their favorite vacation or hike. Have them draw their family! The possibilities are endless.

    51. Set up a butterfly feeding station

    If you’ve got (or want) a lot of butterflies in your area, set up a butterfly feeding station in your yard. All you need is a shallow dish, some sugar water and a few sweet fruit slices. You’ll have to change it out every few days (due to ants and heat), but your butterflies will be eternally grateful! Or grow a butterfly-attracting garden with your kids – we’ll show you how.

    52. Skip stones

    Skipping stones is a childhood favorite activity that my kids love. Head to your closest creek, river or lake and look for the flattest rocks. Show your kids the proper technique and what make the best skipping stones. Then, see who can skip their stones the farthest or have the most skips before dropping below the surface. Turn your activity into a learning experience and talk about the science behind skipping stones and the best way to do it! 

    53. Outdoor movie night

    Watch a family favorite outside on the big screen! Borrow an outdoor movie projector from a friend, rent one, buy one or hire a company and host a movie night in your backyard. Play a kid-friendly movie and invite the neighborhood to watch a movie played on a screen, sheet, or side of the house! Add some popcorn and peanuts, and it’ll be a night your kids will never forget! Here’s everything you need to know to make your outdoor movie night a huge success! 

    outdoor activities and things to do for kids@carlylainephotography

    54. Make giant bubbles

    Making HUGE bubbles was one of my favorite things to do when I was a kid. All you need is some bubble juice (soapy water) and a long piece of string/yarn. Tie the ends together to form a circle and dip in the water. Pull apart and blow air through to create a giant bubble! Have a contest of who can blow the biggest or whose bubble lasts the longest before it pops. Check out this post filled with the best bubble recipes, bubble experiments, games, and more! 

    55. Go on a hike

    Summer is such a wonderful time to go on a family hike, particularly if you have access to woods or a forest. Tall trees provide great coverage from the sun and can keep you from getting too hot while you hike. If it is hot in your area, try hiking first thing in the morning while it’s still cool or later in the evening after the intensity of the sun has died down. Don’t forget your bug spray! We’ve got a great post on how to get started hiking with kids.

    56. Night swim with glow sticks

    If you have access to a pool in the evening, try going for a night swim! Spice it up by adding or wearing glowsticks! You can even do this in one of those little inflatable baby pools in the backyard and it’s just as much fun!

    100 things to do outside during the summer@ausomelyos

    57. Visit a splash pad or waterpark

    Water play is an essential part of any summer experience! Go beyond your traditional sprinkler or hose by visiting a local park splashpad or a water park! There’s something truly magical about water for kids and this a great summertime tradition.

    58. Canoe/kayak/paddleboard

    Going for a boat ride is such a classic summer adventure. If you can, take your kids on a canoe trip, a kayak outing or out paddleboarding. You’ll be pleasantly surprised just how fun and entertaining being on the water can be for everyone. Here’s a super helpful post on how to get started stand-up paddleboarding with kids. 

    list of things to do outside@tiffany_pearl_

    59. Play HORSE

    Basketball is a great way to get kids outside and active! Play a round of HORSE with your kids in your driveway or local basketball court. If your kids are little, give them a bit of an advantage with a lighter ball or lower hoop.

    60. Make sun tea

    My dad used to make the most amazing sun tea every summer. He was an ice tea connoisseur and there’s something pretty special about tea that was bathed in sunlight and infused with the perfect blend of herbs from our garden. Some creative add-ins for your sun tea are peaches, mint, lemons, raspberries, honey, hibiscus, orange peels, pineapple or strawberries!

    61. Drive-in movie theater

    Drive-in movie theaters are getting harder and harder to come by. If you know of one of these gems, make sure to take the kids now, before they’re history. The novelty of watching a movie from the back of your car on a big screen outside under the stars is something that every kid should experience once!

    outdoor activities and nature crafts for kids@florafairweather

    62. Make a flower/leaf/clover crown

    If you’re looking for another activity to do with all those gorgeous summer flowers and green leaves, try making a crown! Clover flowers are perfect for making a simple daisy-chain crown. Or get more elaborate by stringing leaves together. Best of all, add beautiful wildflowers or flowers from your garden to your crown for added color and texture!

    63. Make a nature mandala

    In its simplest form, a mandala is a circular structure with a design that radiates out symmetrically from the center. Making a mandala with kids in nature is a delightful, beautiful and easy activity that you can do almost anywhere and at any time. All you need is a small collection of materials and an imagination. 

    64. Go out for snow cones

    I’ve already suggested making your own ice cream and popsicles, but there’s something about snow cones that’s best to leave to the experts. The perfect shaved ice is not something you can just recreate on a whim – it’s a skill – and definitely worth an outing for the perfect ice and the ultimate ice-to-juice ratio.

    family friendly outdoor activities and ideas@lightandlife.photography

    65. Catch a fish

    Fishing is a great activity that the whole family can enjoy and do nearly anywhere there’s water! If you’ve never fished before, do a little bit of research about what the fish in your area eat and when/where to go. Ask at a fishy friend or at a local bait shop. A lot of state parks will even provide fishing gear for the day for free! Trust me, it doesn’t get much better than seeing your child’s entire face light up when she/he lands a fish! Here’s some advice on how to raise a kid that loves to fish!

    66. Set up a neighborhood kickball game

    This activity is at the very top of my son’s summer bucket list. Kickball is more than a sport to this kid, it’s a way of life! We’re hoping to set up a kickball game that involves all the kids on our street (plus a few neighboring streets) and even a few parents for the ultimate kickball challenge! It’s going to be epic!

    67. Race paper boats

    Having a paper boat race is another really fun outdoor activity to do with your kids. This is a great one for the kids that are into STEM activities. Have them each create their own paper boat (or use natural elements like leaves and sticks) and then race them down a stream or creek.

    68. Decorate your wagon/bike

    Need a simple activity to entertain the kids for a while? Let them decorate their bikes or wagon like a float in a parade! Give them some colored paper, streamers, ribbons, balloons, scarves or whatever else you can find and let their imaginations run wild! Even better, get all the kids on the block to decorate their bikes and wagons and then have a neighborhood parade!

    outdoor family adventures and activities for the summer@har_leenie

    69. Run through the sprinkler

    Who needs a park splash pad when you have a sprinkler at home?! Set up the sprinkler in the yard and let the kids do their thing! They’ll love running through it, standing in it and jumping over the spray. Even better, get your camera out and make sure to snap some awesome sprinkler photos of your little ones!

    70. Start a nature journal

    Have an artistic kid? Try starting a nature journal with your children this summer. There’s an abundance of things to draw in the summer; flowers, animals, insects and plants. Have them look up the name of each of the things they draw and write down any characteristics, stories or thoughts they have while sketching.

    summertime outside for kids@amerryadventure

    71. Backyard camping

    Going on a camping trip is great (and you should definitely do that this summer!), but when you don’t have the time, just set up the tent in the backyard. The kids will love to “pretend” they’re camping. Let them read books, tell stories, play with flashlights/headlamps and have fun! Don’t have a tent? Set up a hammock or throw some sleeping bags on a trampoline! Here are some tips on backyard camping with kids. 

    72. Pay it forward

    Give your kids one of the greatest gifts ever – the gift of giving back! Make sure to pay it forward this summer by doing small acts of kindness anytime you can. Whether that’s putting a quarter in a row of meters, buying a snow cone for the family behind you in line or visiting a local animal shelter and spending time with the animals. Work with your kids to come up with a list of things you could do together to pay if forward. Need inspiration? Here are 20+ outdoor acts of kindness and ways to be kind to nature. 

    73. Make a journey stick

    Journey sticks are a great way to create visual reminders of your adventures. All you need is a perfect-size walking stick, some simple crafting materials (string, ribbon, etc.) and an imagination! We’ve got a great post all about how to make journey sticks with kids by incorporating elements of your hikes, adventures, and outings into beautiful physical storytelling devices.

    outdoor summertime games and activities for kids@sara_mccarty

    74. Have a shaving cream fight

    Pick up a couple of cans of shaving cream and let your kids have fun with it! My two had never really seen or played with shaving cream before this and they were fascinated by it! It’s so soft and squishy and fun to smear all over! If you don’t want to do this outside, stick them in the bathtub!

    75. Check out your local swimming pool

    Cool off on a hot day at your local watering hole (swimming pool). Lots of community pools have awesome water features like slides, lazy rivers, splash areas, wave pools and wading areas for the littlest ones. Make a big splash by trying some of these super fun and creative swimming pools games for kids. 

    76. Set up a slackline

    Slacklining is a perfect way for kids of all ages to hone balancing skills while building core strength and confidence. Slacklining is one of my kids’ favorite backyard activities and I’m blown away by how much time they spend on it daily, balancing, bouncing and playing games. This is a great beginner slackline kit and we’ve got an awesome post on slacklining with kids.

    77. Make slime

    What is it with kids and slime? They absolutely LOVE it! But it’s seriously messy, so summer is the perfect time to make a big batch of slime outside! There are million recipes out there for making any kind of slime your heart desires – fluffy slime, glitter slime, neon slime and even edible slime!

    things to do this summer@barefootphotographycanada

    78. Spot animals in the clouds

    Cloud spotting is a favorite peaceful summertime activity. All you need for this activity is a place to lie down and an unobstructed patch of cloudy sky. See what shapes you can find and make up a story about them. Or play eye-spy and see if others can find what you’ve identified.

    79. Do a neighborhood scavenger hunt

    Scavenger hunts are one of my favorite ways to keep kids entertained and having fun while outdoors. Giving them a list of items or objects to find, gives them a purpose and helps keeps their attention. We put together this super fun printable neighborhood scavenger hunt that’s 4-pages of things kids of any age can find year-round in your own neighborhood.

    80. Attend a baseball game

    Particularly if you’re in the US, nothing says summer quite like baseball season! If you can, attend a baseball game with your kids. Whether it’s a professional MLB game, a minor league team or just your local town’s baseball fields, watching a baseball game is a great way to spend a summer evening. Root root for the home team and enjoy those peanuts and cracker jacks!

    summertime outdoor adventure bucket list for kids@in_thislight

    81. Blow dandelions & make wishes

    As dandelions turn to puffballs, children everywhere rush to pick them so that they can close their eyes, make a wish, and blow the seeds into the air. No one knows for sure how or why people started making wishes on dandelions. In addition to granting wishes, many people believe that dandelion seeds will carry your thoughts and dreams to loved ones when you blow them into the air. Others believe that dandelions may be able to tell you if you’re loved. Legend has it that, if you can blow all the seeds off a dandelion with a single breath, then the person you love will love you back. If seeds remain, then the object of your affection may have reservations about their feelings toward you.

    82. Cook a foil packet dinner

    Cooking dinner on the grill outside is so much for kids. Especially if you get them involved and let them help! Choose a dinner that can be cooked inside a foil packet – usually a piece of meat (fish, chicken or steak) and a few sliced vegetables. Have the kids help shop, chop, assemble, season, and cook the packets – either right on a bonfire or on the grill. Pop the cooked packets on a plate, open to let out the steam, and let them dive in! Bon appetit!

    83. Tie-dye shirts

    You don’t need to go away to summer camp to partake in this fun summertime activity. Tie-dying a t-shirt (or towel, socks or underwear!) is easier than you think. All you need is a few colors of dye, a white article of clothing, and a few rubber bands. No two shirts will be alike and the kids will love wearing their very own creations!

    best outdoor activities for kids this summer@chelseasmithphotography

    84. Watermelon seed spitting contest

    Watermelon is one of those foods that screams summertime! Make the most out of your watermelon eating experience by having a seed spitting contest while you eat your slice! See who’s the most accurate by spitting into a bucket. Or who’s the most powerful by spitting seeds for distance! It’s deliciously messy and gross, so you know the kids will love it!

    85. Paint and hide kindness rocks

    Kindness rocks are catching on like wildfire these days. My kids love finding them when we’re out and about. Join the craze and make some kindness rocks of your own for the kids to leave in some of their favorite outdoor locations. Paint them with bright colors, pretty designs and words of peace, love and hope. Here’s everything you need to get started rock painting kindness rocks with kids. 

    86. Go geocaching

    Geocaching is one of our family’s favorite things to do when out hiking or exploring. You’ll be amazed at just how many geocaches there are out there, hiding in all your favorite places! It’s a blast for kids and totally free! Check out our beginner’s guide to geocaching with kids for everything you need to know to get started!

    87. Sparklers

    Sparklers are such a fun and fascinating experience for kids. There’s something magical about holding sparkling fire in your hand. Wave them around to make shapes or spin them to create a blurred effect. However, safety is always a huge issue with sparklers, so be sure to supervise your kids, help them with lightening them, holding them and disposing of them properly.

    100+ things to do outside this summer@3_littlewonders

    88. Have a bonfire & roast s’mores

    Summertime bonfires are so much fun. Take your bonfire to the next level by roasting s’mores with fancy ingredients, telling ghost stories around the fire and changing the color of the flames! Make sure to check out our post all about how to create a magical bonfire for your kids.

    89. Set up an outdoor bowling lane

    Bowling outside is a super fun summertime activity for kids. All you need is a few plastic pins (or water bottles!), a heavy-ish ball and a flat alley to set everything up (driveway or sidewalk works great). Bonus: teach your kids how to keep score and it’s a game plus a math lesson!

    90. Make wind chimes

    I just adore the sound of windchimes in the summer. And they’re surprisingly easy to make! You can make windchimes out of sticks, shells, old silverware, stones, glass or anything else you can think of! My kids and I made some beautiful windchimes from all the treasures we found on the beach last year (shells, driftwood, chunks of sand dollars, etc.). It’s a visible (and audible) way to remember our trip.

    fun things to do outside this summer@sara_mccarty

    91. Watch a parade

    Summer is a fantastic time to watch a parade! In the US, there are 4th of July parades across the country, which are so much fun to watch. Bring your lawn chairs, a big bottle of water and enjoy the bands, floats and candy!

    92. Treasure hunt with a metal detector

    If your kids are into treasure hunting, try exploring with a metal detector! You may be surprised how many cool things you can find hidden, just beneath your feet. And if you find trash (which happens), this is also a great way to clean up your area! It’s a win for the kids and for the environment!

    93. Raise butterflies from caterpillars

    Watching a tiny caterpillar grow and then turn into a butterfly is truly one of the most spectacular miracles of nature. Give your children a chance to experience this incredible metamorphosis themselves by finding (or purchasing) caterpillars and watching them change. Releasing the butterflies into the wild is a memorable moment they won’t soon forget. See our post on raising butterflies from caterpillars for more info.

    94. Make a sundial

    Making a sundial is a surprisingly easy activity to do with kids. All you need are 12 small items (stones or shells work great) to serve as hour markers and a large stick. Paint the rocks/shells and number them 1-12. Put the stick in the ground upright and use the items to mark where the shadow is at any given hour. Explain to your kids how shadows work with the position of the sun. It may take a little tweaking over a few days to get it just right, but this is a great summertime science lesson!

    100 things to do with your kids outdoors during the summer@kmphotographytn

    95. Take underwater photos

    Underwater photography is all the rage these days! And it’s easy to see why with so many fun and incredible underwater shots! You don’t need a super fancy camera to get these shots either! Use a Go Pro if you have one, an iPhone with a waterproof case or try a disposable underwater camera! Take photos of your kids swimming, playing, and making silly faces underwater. Then let them have a turn taking the photos!

    96. Create a treasure hunt

    Have your kids come up with their very own treasure hunt in your backyard, neighborhood or local park. They’ll need to choose their treasure, figure out how/where to hide it, come up with a map and any clues they want to give. This is a great way for them to work on orienteering, map skills and thinking analytically for clues.

    97. Learn how to play bocce ball

    Bocce ball is a really fun game that the entire family can play, nearly anywhere you’ve got some open grass (there are bocce courts, but that’s not really necessary). The concept of the game is to get your bocce balls the closest to the white ball (which is the target). The four balls closest to the target are scored. Or, you can do like us and just make up your own rules as you go along! Either way, it’s fun!

    98. Set up a course & have a remote control car race

    Test your kids’ creativity and speed by having them create a race track for remote control cars! My kids love the off-roading cars that can go through puddles, off the curbs and through the grass. Their race tracks involve going all around our neighborhood, down the street, around the houses and through a few yards!

    outdoor activities for children @laurakimbrown

    99. Minibeast (bug) hunt

    The insects are definitely out in full force during the summer months. Take advantage of the situation by going on a bug hunt! See how many bugs you can find! Kids love finding worms, caterpillars, ladybugs, grasshoppers, dragonflies, centipedes, butterflies, and fireflies! Take a photo of each or sketch them in your nature journal. If your kids are scared of creepy-crawlies (or you are), here’s some great info on how to get over your fear of nature. 

    100. Explore an area using a map & compass

    Knowing how to read a map is an important skill for all kids to learn. Choose an area that’s unfamiliar to your child, print out (Google maps) or draw a map of the area and teach them how to use the map to get to a certain destination. X marks the spot! Teach them directions and how to use landmarks. If you want to get extra technical, try using a compass to determine your direction. Here are some tips for teaching kids how to read maps. 

    101. Outdoor finger painting

    Summer is a great time to let your kids get messy! (because you can always just hose them off before they come inside!) Try letting your kids do some fun fingerpainting this summer. Use poster board or a giant sheet for a canvas. Or let them paint the sidewalks. Washable paints are non-toxic and come off easily with some water.

    102. Jump on a trampoline

    Trampolines are so much fun for kids, no matter what the season! Take advantage of the summer sun and heat to add some fun to your traditional trampoline jumping. Turn a sprinkler on over the trampoline or add water balloons (or water beads)! Set up twinkle lights in the yard and jump into the evening. Here are 30+ trampoline games and activities for kids to keep them entertained for hours! 

    children outside during the summer@corihenderson

    What’s on your summer outdoor activity list?