As the weather gets milder, we want to be outdoors as much as possible. Sometimes it can be hard to encourage kids to get off their devices to go outside and have some good old fashioned fun in the yard. The best way to do this is to make it fun for all the family by making games that everyone can be included in. For example you can make glow in the dark bowling with water bottles and glowsticks or you could have hopscotch. They are also great ideas if you are looking for fun activities for an outdoor birthday party too. You can make your own games or purchase outdoor versions of your favorite games online. So check out these ideas for inspiration!
Hopscotch is a great game for encouraging kids to be active while helping improve balance, coordination, and number recognition. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be customized with bright colors and creative designs!
Supplies
- A flat outdoor surface (grass, pavement, or a designated play area)
- Exterior chalk, spray paint, or outdoor paint (if painting on pavement)
- Measuring tape or stencil (for even squares)
- Paintbrushes or rollers (if using paint)
- A small rock or beanbag (for playing)
Instructions
Draw a hopscotch pattern using chalk or tape. If you’re painting, use special tape or stencils to make neat lines.
Add Colors!
Paint each square a different color to make the game look fun.
Wait for the paint to dry, then use black or white paint to add numbers.
Let It Dry & Have Fun!
When the paint is dry, take off the tape and try playing the game!
Use a small rock or beanbag to mark where you jump, and have fun!
Re-purpose plastic bottles into bowling pins to make a fun game for all the family.
Supplies
- 6-10 empty plastic bottles (same size for consistency)
- Paint, stickers, or colored tape (to decorate)
- Sand, water, or rice (to weigh down the bottles slightly)
- Tennis ball, foam ball, or any soft ball (as the bowling ball)
Instructions
Decorate the bottles with paint, stickers, or tape. You can also number them to make different scoring options. Find a flat surface like a grassy area, driveway, or patio. Set up the bottles in a triangle shape, with one in the front, two behind it, and so on. Draw a line a few feet away from the bottles to mark the starting point. Take turns rolling a tennis ball towards the bottles. Keep track of how many you knock over and keep score, just like in real bowling! You can continue playing in rounds or even challenge your friends to a tournament.
These DIY football goal posts are an awesome way to get kids (and adults!) outside for some friendly competition. With just a few PVC pipes, buckets, cement, and paint, you can create a fun football challenge right at home!
Supplies
- PVC pipes
- PVC connectors (T-joints & elbows)
- 2 buckets (for the base)
- Quick-set cement
- Yellow spray paint (for an authentic goal post look)
- Football (mini or regular size)
Instructions
Cut three pieces of PVC for each goal post:
1 long vertical piece (about 3 feet for a kid-friendly size or taller for adults)
2 shorter horizontal pieces (about 1 foot each)
Use T-joints to attach the horizontal pieces to the top of the vertical pipe.
Add elbow connectors to the ends of the horizontal pieces to create the “U” shape.
Fill each bucket halfway with quick-set cement.
Place the PVC pipe base in the center and hold it straight.
Let the cement dry completely (follow package instructions for drying time).
Step 3: Paint the Goal Posts
Once the cement is dry, spray paint the entire PVC structure yellow to resemble real football goal posts.
Let the paint dry before playing.
Place the goal posts about 10-15 feet apart for a challenge.
Players take turns throwing a football through the posts to score points!
Adjust difficulty by changing the throwing distance.
