Summer Family Activities
Summer is the wonderful time of the year when the weather is beautiful and all we want to do is get out and play. If we, as adults, are wishing to be outside, just imagine how our kids are feeling.
The summer is their time to just be a kid – no homework, no schedule and all fun! As much as the kids want to get outside, though, they also want to be able to spend it with their families. This season is a perfect time to interact with our children, be present and instill an active spirit in them to last a lifetime.
There are many ways to get outside and be active, here are a few ideas:
- Be a kid again: Take your kids to a local park and start a game of kickball, ultimate frisbee, or basketball. Your kids will love it, and you will be spending family time being active.
- Hit the path: If you’re looking for a different way to get out of the house, hit the trail. There are many great bike and hiking paths around to choose from. They are free of charge and you can go as far as your legs can take you.
- Take a dip: Take a trip to a local lake. They’re a great way to cool down in the summer heat and are free. Canoeing and kayaking are a great workout and lots of fun, too. Just remember to wear the life jackets!
- Hit the courts: Recreational sports are always a great option, as well. There are many sports to choose from that will get the heart pumping, such as volleyball, softball, or tennis.
Why Exercise Outdoors?
There are many reasons to get outside this summer, the simplest of which is just to get some fresh air. Staying cooped up inside all day is not what most families want to be doing when the weather is so beautiful. There are a few more reasons to get your family outside to exercise, which include:
- Getting a free dose of Vitamin D: Spending time in the sun is one of the easiest and best ways to receive the recommended amount of Vitamin D.
- Exercising your mind: When you exercise outdoors, your mind becomes aware of the changing terrain and your mind has to focus differently than it would on a flat gym floor.
- Boost your self-esteem: Spendingjust five minutes a day outdoors can improve mental health and boost your mood. No matter what you decide to do, get up, get out and get active!
Know When to Stay Indoors
Although the summer weather is what many look forward to all year, sometimes it can be a better idea to stay inside. When the heat of the day is at its highest, sometimes it is safer, especially for young children and older adults, to stay inside, as they can overheat easily. If you are unsure of whether the heat is too much for your family, consult this chart (PDF) to determine the risk of exercising in the heat and humidity.
The most important part of the summer months is to spend time with the family. Take advantage of the free time your kids now have and spend as much of it together as possible. These are some of the moments your kids will remember years down the road, so make them memorable!