We are just about to tip over to summer. That means there is significantly more time for outdoor play at the end of the day.
In my house growing up we came home from school, got a snack, did homework and hit the door, coming home only for dinner. Which, as the days lengthened, was wolfed down so we could head back outside again before the requisite bath and bed.
Too much pressure and the temptation of technology is keeping today’s kids from taking advantage of this extra light and the fun that comes with it.
Here are some ideas to rekindle interest in spring outdoor time:
* Plant zinnias: zinnias are pretty good at satisfying that instant gratification need. Plant them just 1/4” deep and in just a few days leaves will sprout. In just a couple of weeks their bright and happy flowers will satisfy any new (or seasoned!) gardener.
* Ride a bike.
* Tag games. Need ideas? These are amazing!
* Hopping games: draw chalk circles on the side walk. Hop on them and name the color. Or put a number, letter or shape inside the spots and hop on them naming number, letter or shape.
* Wash the car.
* How about a nature scavenger hunt where you make a list of all the nature you can find in the neighborhood like: pinecone, pink flower, yellow flower, pine straw, black rock, clover, giant leaf, a stick shaped like a letter, etc.
* Flashlight walk at night: can you spot chipmunks, lizards or even bats with the beam of your light?
* Lie in the backyard and look at stars. What do you see?
* Make bubbles from scratch. How about this recipe for giant bubbles!
And always, always take advantage of playgrounds!
Have fun!
