Today’s post is part of “Your Green Hour Survival Guide,” a series which I hope will provide you with inspiration to make getting outside every day a habit.
I don’t know about you, but I’m excited that the first official day of summer is just a couple of weeks away. Warmer, longer days make getting our 15 minutes outside almost a no brainer.
In the weeks ahead, I’ll have lots to share to help you get the most of your time outside – including a list of ideas for summer backyard nature fun and tips for staying cool as the temperature rises.
For now, it’s time to make sure the backyard is summer-ready. Here’s what on our to-do list:
- Give the backyard toys a good once over. Are they clean & in good shape? Should some be given away and/or replaced? How about the bikes?
- Seek out shady spaces. Make them as alluring for the kiddos as possible. Add seating, chairs or a fort so kids will want to linger in cool spaces.
- Get ready for water play. We stick with a simple sprinkler attachment for our hose, tons of buckets, spray bottles and sponges. Now’s the time to make sure all of it is accessible.
- Set up for sand (and mud) play. Last year’s backyard beach was a big hit, so we’re planning something similar again this summer. Along with a container for the sand and the sand itself, make sure you’ve got things to bury and something to dig with, too. Add an outdoor mud kitchen if you like!
- Dust off the outdoor tables and chairs. Dining al fresco is a simple way to get outside – especially during the summer. If you have a dedicated space for eating, make sure it’s clean, inviting and ready to go.
- Stockpile on some summer basics. Yes, I mean sunscreen and bug spray. But also sidewalk chalk, bubbles, paints and brushes. Plenty of cold water bottles and popsicles will come in handy, too.
- Think about nighttime nature fun. How about a backyard fire pit? Or flashlights for nighttime walks around the neighborhood? A backyard camp out?
What’s your favorite way to spend time in your backyard during the summer?
Watering plants is a fun way to play with water. :)<br /><br />@Debi, you can use paper cups and Popsicle sticks to make them at home.
@Melissa: Anything to keep kids cool! :)<br /><br />@Ryan: I need to get me some make-your-own popsicle thingys!
We just bought the make-your-own popsicle receptacles at Bed Bath and Beyond. What's better than orange juice popsicles on a hot summer day? Nothing, that's what. 🙂
We totally need to stock up on popsicles! The kids are loving our new water table though. Never thought about getting out sponges for them- FUN!