Since the days when your child was fascinated by leaves, rocks, and caterpillars, technology has introduced countless new ways to spend time together. However, it has become increasingly difficult to detach children from these screens and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Put down your phone and embark in some outdoor activities for children. Watch the squirrels in the trees together, have a game of catch, or enjoy some fresh air making s’mores around a campfire!
Outdoor Activities For Children
Although technology has always been a part of our lives, many children are spending ineffective amounts of time in front of the screen or playing on the phone. Here at Wake Forest Pediatrics, we want to encourage children to use their imaginations, explore, and play outside. That’s why we have put together a list of seven outdoor activities for children that are sure to bring the fun!
1. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a great and fun way to get your child outdoors and build special memories. A nature scavenger hunt involves having your child search for items and follow clues to find hidden objects. These objects can be strategically placed, or you can use things already in nature, like rocks, plants, or flowers. Outdoor scavenger hunts help to engage your child’s senses and ignite creativity.
2. Water Balloon Toss
Activities for children, such as a water balloon toss, is great for a warm summer day— not to mention a crowd pleaser. Everyone loves a water fight, particularly when you add some water balloons to the mix. This game is always a hit with the kids and provides hours of fun, physical activity, and giggles.
3. Bike Ride
Riding bikes is not only one of the best outdoor activities for children, but it also helps exercise their cardiovascular muscles and improve coordination and balance. Riding a bike is pure, simple, and free fun that the whole family can enjoy. Keep in mind that during outdoor activities for children, like riding bikes, your kid should always be equipped with a helmet and other necessary safety equipment.
4. Tie Dye Party
Have you ever heard the saying “happiness is homemade?” Well, that certainly rings true with this activity for children! Grab some blank white t-shirts, rubber bands, and a tie-dye kit, and your child will be entertained for hours! Once this activity is done, your child will proudly sport their homemade creation.
5. Campfire And S’Mores
It’s no secret why s’mores are a crowd favorite; they’re fun and delicious! Not to mention, these snacks only require 3 ingredients, graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. To make it a party, invite over some friends and enjoy the fire’s warmth and great company!
6. Kite Flying
Kite flying may seem out of date, but it can help to develop hand-eye coordination, all while teaching simple physics. If you’re looking to get even more fun out of it, you and your child can even DIY your own kite. Once you have your kite, head to an open field or the beach, let your kite fly, and watch the excitement beam from your child.
7. Beach Day
If you’re looking for some activities for children that you can enjoy too, then a beach day is for you. To make this a successful day, ensure you pack snacks, water, sunscreen, sand pails, shovels, an umbrella, and anything else you think will enhance the day’s fun! There is nothing quite like spending a day with your child on the sand and near the sea.
Outdoor activities for children are not only fun but great for their physical and mental development. Wake Forest Pediatrics strives to improve patient care by strengthening the patient-doctor relationship, providing open communication, and working as a team for a comprehensive approach to medical care. Are you looking for more ways to engage your child and encourage outdoor play? To talk to our team, call our Wake Forest office at 919-556-4779 or our Knightdale office at 919-266-5059 or make an appointment.
