Last weekend in Michigan, Maria took her 9-year-old son Leo to the park. She expected him to sit in the shade and play on his Switch. But to her surprise, a homemade “treasure map” turned into a 3-hour outdoor adventure—climbing trees, running around, spotting bugs—Leo ended up sweaty and smiling from ear to ear.
Maria shared: “That’s when I realized—it’s not that kids don’t want to move. It’s that we haven’t given them a reason to.”
Why It’s So Important for Kids to Be Active During Summer
During the summer break, many children fall into the habit of spending too much time on screens—TV, tablets, or video games. According to a 2020 study in Pediatrics, kids’ daily screen time increases by over 2 hours during summer compared to the school year. Too little physical activity can affect a child’s growth, eyesight, and emotional health.
The CDC recommends that children aged 6 and up get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day to support heart health, bone development, and emotional well-being (CDC, 2022).
What If We Don’t Have Fancy Equipment or a Big Yard?
Good news—you don’t need expensive gear or a trip to a resort. All you need is a bit of space and some creativity. Even common household items can turn into the tools for an unforgettable summer afternoon.
Here are 5 classic and fun outdoor games perfect for kids aged 6 to 12:
1. DIY Treasure Hunt
How to play: Hide small toys, treats, or items in your yard, park, or neighborhood. Create a simple map or write clues. Kids follow them to discover hidden “treasures.”
Benefits: Builds observation skills, a sense of direction, and encourages teamwork and patience.
2. Balloon Volleyball
How to play: Tie a string between two chairs to act as a net. Use a balloon as the volleyball. Two players try to keep it from touching the ground.
Benefits: Improves balance and reflexes—great for kids who don’t enjoy rough play.
3. Bubble Chase
How to play: Blow bubbles of different sizes and colors. Kids try to catch or pop the bubbles—especially the ones you challenge them to find!
Benefits: A gentle way to boost motor coordination and burn off energy—perfect for younger kids too.
4. Water Relay Race
How to play: Set up two buckets—one full of water and one empty—at opposite ends. Kids use a cup or water gun to move water from one to the other. First team to fill the second bucket wins!
Benefits: Combines running and play, keeps kids cool, and gets everyone laughing.
5. Backyard Obstacle Course
How to play: Use ropes, chairs, boxes, or anything you have to create a path with tasks like “jump over,” “crawl under,” or “zigzag through.” Time the runs to add excitement!
Benefits: Helps with coordination and planning, and lets kids use their imagination when creating the course.
How to Encourage Kids to Join In
Let them take the lead. Involve them in choosing games, drawing maps, or setting up challenges. Kids love being in charge!
Make it fun, not competitive. Focus on fun, not winning. This helps avoid frustration.
Invite friends. Kids are more eager to play when friends join in—plus, it adds a social element.
Parents: The Best Role Models for Play
Research shows that when parents join in outdoor play, kids are more likely to stay active too (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2021). Instead of pushing kids to exercise, why not run, jump, and laugh with them? You’ll build memories and boost their well-being all at once.
