It’s easy for all of us—kids and adults alike—to be sucked into the trap of digital devices. For your orthopedic and overall health, say no to the screen and fill your leisure hours with these family-friendly physical activities and brain-healthy games. (Did you know that too much time spent playing games, watching YouTube, or watching television can be detrimental to kids’ cognitive and social development?)
Instead of screens, try these summer activities and make some great memories in the process.
For Nice Days Out of the House:
- Beach day, community pool, or splash pad visit
- Parks and playgrounds
- Outdoor concerts, parades, and other kid-friendly community events
- Play a family or neighborhood baseball game or kickball game
- Tennis or basketball at local courts
- Bookstore or library visit for kid’s story time or just to browse books
For Nice Days at Home:
- Water Olympics games
- Sprinkler & kiddie pool
- Water gun fights
- Bike rides
- Chalk on the sidewalk or driveway
- Blowing bubbles
- “Minute to win it” games
- Tree, flower, or bug identification in your yard (use a field manual and see what they can discover!), and scavenger hunts
- Kiddie Bike Wash (just like a car wash!)
- DIY car wash
- Lemonade Stand
For Rainy Days at Home:
- Board game showdown
- Painting, beading, friendship bracelet-making
- Make slime and experiment with the recipe
- Play instruments and put on a concert
- Cook or bake together
- Play school (and get some bonus school skills with age-appropriate work thrown in)
- Put on a play or talent show
- Reading. Get into some of the quality children’s book series and have weeks of good reading, like The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter, or Amelia Bedelia
Chore Options:
- Weeding
- Watering plants
- Dusting
- Emptying garbage
- Folding laundry
- Sweeping or mopping
Bottom line is this: get creative and get moving. Every little bit helps!
