But sometimes, finding outside activities for kids can be challenging.
Letting kids experience a bit of boredom can be beneficial for kids since it can push kids to think creatively.
But there moments when our children will come to us claiming they can’t find “anything to do”. It’s in those moments that having a list of outdoor activities kids can choose from can be handy.
Fun outside activities kids can do by themselves in the summer
The majority of the fun outdoor activities on this list are designed to only use common items found in most family homes. They’re also activities that older kids ages 6+ should generally be able to do independently, with minimal help or guidance from you.
Click on the links below to see suggestions, resources, and ideas for each activity.
Play freeze tag, red light green light, or red rover
Tired of hearing your kids say “There’s nothing to do!”? These printable 101+ Boredom Buster Cards can help. Each card contains a suggested activity kids ages 6+ can do with little or no guidance from you. And they use materials found in most family homes. Click here to learn more and get your own.
65 Indoor Activities Kids Can Do Independently This Summer
10 Free and Cheap Things to do in The Summer as a Family
50+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids to do in The Summer
What to Do When Kids Say “I’m Bored!” This Summer
60 of the Best Outdoor Toys to Get Kids (and Keep Them!) Outside
What to do next…
1. Subscribe to Self-Sufficient Kids’ email list.
Like what you read here and want to learn more? Every Thursday I’ll send you one parentingtip about raising self-sufficient kids and creating the peaceful relationship you yearn to have with your child. Click here to sign up.
2. Take one of my quizzes!
Find out if you’re raising a self-sufficient kid (click here) or if you’re doing too much for your kids (click here). At the end of each quiz, you’ll be asked to provide your email address to see the results.
3. Get your kids started on chores.
Learn how to get your child started on chores (& keep them motivated + avoid power struggles) by enrolling in my Get Your Kids Successfully Started on Chores course. Click here to learn more and sign up.
About Kerry Flatley
Hi! I’m Kerry, the mother of two girls and a certified parent educator. I believe it is possible for parents to have a supportive, loving, and warm relationship with their kids while raising them to be independent and ultimately self-sufficient. Over the years, I’ve read numerous books and articles that support this belief and I’ve put these ideas into practice with my own kids. Read more about me and Self-Sufficient Kids here.
Tug of War. Organize children into two groups. Each team attempts to pull a long rope towards them from each end. This game teaches the players much about team spirit and effort because all team members draw the rope together on each end.
40 percent overall indicated that going to the beach was a favorite. Other activities selected included exploring nature (36 percent); attending festivals (30 percent); going to the pool (28 percent); camping (20 percent); working out (16 percent); boating/water activities (16 percent); and playing sports (11 percent).
Shade windows and walls using external coverings, like blinds, awnings or large potted plants. Plant deciduous trees that cast shade over your home in summer, but still let the sun shine through in winter.
Scrabble and Boggle are family favorites that everyone can play together around the dining room table. Hangman and I Spy are great for learning new words to add to their vocabulary. If you want to teach your child a foreign language, Bingo is a great option.
Children as young as age two can start to play independently, but they might not play as long as an older child. Two-year-olds can concentrate for about 5-6 minutes, while three-year-olds might be able to play for up to 8 minutes. As they turn four and five, they can play for about 10 minutes.
Some strategies teachers can use to create independent learning include cooperative learning, role-play, debate, virtual lessons, peer teaching, and student choice.
Start by giving them more control in their routines. Instead of setting out their toys yourself, have them do it. Instead of determining what activities they'll do today, give them choices. Simple tasks that they can do on their own will open the door to being more independent during their playtime.
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, running, swimming, and cycling. However, exercising during summertime heat can also pose a risk to your health if you're not careful. High temperatures and humidity levels can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
Address: Suite 447 3463 Marybelle Circles, New Marlin, AL 20765
Phone: +5816749283868
Job: Sales Executive
Hobby: Air sports, Sand art, Electronics, LARPing, Baseball, Book restoration, Puzzles
Introduction: My name is Jerrold Considine, I am a combative, cheerful, encouraging, happy, enthusiastic, funny, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
