Family Fun in the Sun

It’s the season your kids have been waiting for, so how will you maximize the long lazy days of summer with your family? Celebrate the carefree season to its fullest with these outdoor activities and adventures your whole family will enjoy.

BACK TO NATURE

Trailblazing – Head to a local, state, or national park and make a day of nature hiking. Before you go, make a list of things for your family to find and identify. Carry a backpack with binoculars, sunscreen, visors or sunglasses, and plenty of water and snacks. 

Ride ‘em, cowboy – You don’t have to be a horse owner to enjoy the pleasure of riding one of these majestic beings. Visit your nearby horse rental stables and catch the sunset on horseback. For a stable near you, visit http://www.horserentals.com/index.html. 

Z is for zoo – Check out animals at one of the many zoos that have created natural, spacious settings. Check the schedule for animal presentations, and don’t miss the petting zoo.

The strawberry patch – Head to the strawberry patch for a day of fruit-filled fun. 

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

Wet your whistle….and more – Cool off at a water park. Before you go, ask about age and height requirements and what activities are available for the younger set. 

A trip downstream – Look for canoe rentals on a clear river. Carry belongings such as your wallet, keys, and snacks in a waterproof bag that floats. Give kids plenty of opportunities to paddle and steer.

Backyard water blast – Fill water balloons and play a game of catch. Or hook up the sprinklers for a refreshing game of tag. Fill up the squirt guns and super soakers, and then take a break in a wading pool. 

Putt around the lake – You don’t have to live on a lake or own a boat. Contact nearby marinas, lakeside stores, and resorts to find out where you can rent a pontoon or motorboat for a cruise.

YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Under the stars – Camp out in your backyard. Build a bonfire (if it’s permitted in your area), roast marshmallows and gaze at the stars. 

Croquet champs – Set up this outdoor game and hold a croquet match. Give handicaps to each family member based on their most recent scores for a game, so it’s fair to everyone.

Up, up and away – Make the most of the breeze and fly a kite.

Green thumbs – Make summer gardening a family affair. If you’re getting a late start, look for starter plants that have already sprouted. Work together to get the garden ready and plant it. Then give each person his or her own responsibility for keeping it up.

Swiss family, who? – Younger kids will thrill at building a treehouse or fort. Older kids will look forward to a covered hangout, such as a gazebo, for visiting with friends. 

OUT AND ABOUT

Dancin’ in the street – Summer abounds with fairs and festivals. Enjoy live music, new foods, magic acts, kid game zones, arts and crafts and more. 

Batter up – Family fun centers offer a variety of recreation. Get ready to practice your batting swing, speed around the racetrack, bump another boat, or have some wacky golfing fun.

Recycled treasures – Spend the day rummaging for treasures. This is an excellent way for kids to get the most out of their limited earnings, teach them the importance of recycling and how to get the best value for their money.

Summer sights – Places and things to see during the summer are abundant, from checking out the big city with its tall skyscrapers, old architecture, and murals and art displays.

Performing arts in the park – Unwind listening to a summer concert in the park or taking in a movie under the stars. 

Big wheels and small – Paved trails are popping up everywhere: in parks, along riverbanks, and through many towns. 

Coasters, cars, and Ferris wheels – A trip to a theme park can be the highlight of the season. 

Park play – Take your kids for a picnic and an afternoon at the park. Scout your area for an updated park with a large, enclosed playground. Bring along a playmate for your child, and they’ll be content for some time. 

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com