Having an activity to do outdoors is not only important for a child's physical health, staying occupied in a fun environment is beneficial also for their mental health. Having said this, keeping children entertained can always be a challenge. Let's dive into how we can help you keep the kids fit and healthy outdoors this summer.
What motivates kids in sport?
Figuring out how to encourage kids outdoors is half the battle. Before we get into some activity suggestions, let's try to narrow down some factors together.
Age- Ensuring we are choosing an activity suitable for our child's age is key to keeping them engaged. Without this, we run the risk of boredom and frustration while exercising.
Opportunity- Having access to sports or fitness equipment gives children the chance to get outdoors and keep active. As parents, it's important to ensure that we surround kids with plenty of opportunities to get outside by having equipment, or going to some activities that make exercise easy, like joining a sports team for example.
FUN!- The most important thing to consider is that they are having fun! This is the most effective way to keep our activity levels high and consistent throughout the sunny months! Let’s take a look at how we can achieve that.
What are some outdoor activities for families?
Trampolines
Trampolines have become increasingly popular as an addition to any back garden in the summertime. Trampolines are an incredibly engaging and fun way for kids to get outdoors and active, while also being provided with entertainment. In recent years, we have been faced with kids wanting to spend more time indoors, and less time taking part in outdoor activities. Aside from the fresh air benefits, a trampoline will allow your children to develop new skills, coordination and confidence that can be taken into many other sports!
Paddle boards
Purchasing a paddle board for the kids gives the perfect opportunity to go on an adventure in the sun! Paddle boarding involves a mixture between sitting, kneeling, or standing on a board and using a paddle to travel through the water! This is usually an activity that kids won’t tend to experience on a day to day basis, so providing some diversity is sure to keep the focus high! Similar to trampolining, this is a pastime that will improve balance, and coordination, while also offering the chance to visit different locations such as the sea or lakes. Our Hit Fitness Paddle boards some in different sizes to accommodate everyone!
Basketball
A huge sport we recommend to keep the kids busy is basketball. Having a basketball hoop in the back garden will not only keep your kids entertained, but it also allows for them to socialise with friends at home. A big aspect of basketball is teamwork.This can help with building patience and team work with others. An easy addition to your back garden that we would recommend is the Hit Sport 10ft Premium Adjustable Basketball Hoop. Smaller accessories such as basketballs are portable and can be taken with you easily.
Games Tables
A major family favourite to have at home is a games table! Having a central piece of entertainment to share amongst the family provides you with quality time together.
- A pool table can provide hours of entertainment for the whole family. You can play different variations of pool games.
- A foosball table is another classic game table that is great for families. It's a fast-paced game that requires teamwork.
- A table tennis table is a fun and exciting game that can be enjoyed by all ages. It's a great way to pass time and test your speed.
- A multi-game table is a versatile option that allows you to play a variety of games, including pool, foosball, air hockey, table tennis and more.
Goal posts
Another great addition to the back garden is goal posts for the football lovers. No need to wait to go down to the football club when we can get some practice in from the garden. From matches to penalties, this is a favourite for the football kids. Our recommendation would be The Samba Match Goal Post. It’s made with weatherproof uPVC and has an essential locking system. It is a premium quality goalpost with an extended run back and one of our top sellers.
Badminton
Badminton is a sport that is relatively easy to learn. Kids can quickly pick up the basic skills required to play the game, such as hitting the shuttlecock and serving. Badminton is a social sport that allows kids to interact with other children. It is a great way for kids to make new friends and build relationships. It is also a relatively inexpensive sport to play, as all you need is a racket and a shuttlecock. This makes it accessible to kids all children.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy for kids to get caught up indoors while off school. Having easily accessed activities will be sure to keep them fit and healthy. Lastly, don’t forget about the value in smaller accessories. Outdoor accessories such as the Franklin Range might be a good place to start! Items such as Tag Belts, Badminton Rackets, and Baseball Bats will be sure to provide the family entertainment for all ages that you’re looking for during the summer season.
