It’s summertime again, and your kids are inside playing video games. While there is nothing wrong with video games, it is also important for growing children to play outside. Not only does outside play give kids much-needed exercise and healthy sunlight, it is also an opportunity for the whole family to have fun together.
But with the allure of air conditioning and fun video games, how can you get your kids to enjoy some time outside? One strategy is to set up your backyard for optimal fun for your family so that activities will be readily available. The following are a few tips on how to design your backyard for family fun this summer.
Build a Treehouse
Kids absolutely love tree houses. A tree house is like a secret fort for a child. They love to spend time in these spaces, and their imaginations run wild with ideas.
If you have a large tree in your backyard, then you may consider building a treehouse for your kids. There are simple designs as well as complicated tree house kits with many features. Even if you do not have a big tree, there are standalone fort options you can build for your children as well.
Add Some Swings
Every school playground has a swing set, so why shouldn’t your backyard? Children love swinging. Swinging back and forth gives kids a nice, cool breeze as well as some healthy exercise.
There are a couple of directions you can go with your backyard swings depending on your space availability and budget. You can purchase a standalone aluminum swing set online or from many department stores. Alternatively, if you have a big tree, then you can hang a swing yourself from one of its branches. Just make sure to check that the branch is alive and can hold the weight.
Install a Swimming Pool
Summer is hot, so why don’t you beat the heat with your own swimming pool? Your kids can play games and exercise for hours each day in a pool. A swimming pool is also a great way for a family to have fun outside together.
There are a variety of options for putting in a swimming pool. On the less expensive side, you can purchase an above-ground option that can be installed temporarily. If you have a higher budget, then you may consider an in-ground pool that can be installed by contractors. A swimming pool might especially be a great option if you live in a dry place. Especially if you live in dry cities like Las Vegas, you can easily find swimming pool contractors Las Vegas to help you with your pool installation.
Put in a Sandbox
Sandcastles aren’t just for the beach! Your kids can have fun building sand castles in your backyard this summer with a sandbox. A sandbox along with a couple shovels and buckets can provide hours of fun for your children.
There are a couple of options for installing a sandbox in your backyard. Some stores offer kits and above-ground sandboxes that are easy and simple to install. Alternatively, there are do-it-yourself plans for putting in a sandbox in your backyard.
Have Fun with a Slip ‘N Slide
Slip ‘n slides are a classic way for kids to have fun and cool off in the summer. These fun slides provide ample exercise and hours of excitement. You may even consider joining in the fun by going sliding yourself!
Slip ‘n slides are fairly simple and easy to install. Many stores will carry different types of slip ‘n slides in the summer that can be easily placed out in your backyard. Conversely, you can build your own slip ‘n slide with a tarp, some soap, and a few other supplies.
Summer should be a time that the whole family has fun doing activities outside. One way to make this a reality is to design your backyard to be ready for fun. Use these ideas to help you set up your backyard for family fun this summer.
Author: Damien Justus
