We’re currently navigating day 1467 (or something close) of social distancing. To channel my inner 1980s mom, I’ve been sending my kids outside for hours on end. They need to expend some energy, soak up that precious vitamin D3, and avoid hovering over their busy mother all day long. The best part? Everyone’s mood improves after some time spent outdoors.
You might think that with bikes and balls at their disposal, my kids would never get bored. But surprisingly, repeating the same two activities day after day can become monotonous. It’s time to maximize our social isolation while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Here are nine simple ways to make the most of your backyard or outdoor area with minimal prep:
- Construct with Cardboard
If you’re like us, you’ve probably been receiving a lot more packages lately. To cut down on trips to the store, we’ve accumulated a variety of boxes in our garage. Use packing tape to secure the seams and let the kids create structures like towers or forts. My kids love the grand finale where they unleash their inner karate kid and smash the boxes! Bonus: they can recycle the boxes afterward. - Pitch a Tent or Make One
Last year, my father gave us a massive tent he snagged for a steal. After months in the garage, we finally set it up, and now the kids treat it as their clubhouse for hours. No tent? No problem! Grab some old sheets, tarps, or whatever you have on hand, and help the kids create their own hideaway. They can enjoy snacks, read, or play games inside. - Nature Painting
This activity has been a hit with my kids. Take a stroll around the yard and gather natural items with different textures—think spiky gumballs, acorns, or leaves. Once you have a variety, put some washable paint on a plate. Let the kids dip their finds into the paint and create beautiful art on paper. - Host a Backyard Picnic
We rarely have family picnics because they usually seem like a hassle for me. However, when the food only has to travel from the kitchen to the backyard, it’s a breeze. Keep it simple with snacks or a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. You can even set up a FaceTime lunch with friends while enjoying your outdoor feast. - Invent a Game
My kids are obsessed with four-square, but they’ve added their own rules to make it interesting. We often join in to keep the peace between siblings, acting as referees. Use whatever equipment you have—balls, chalk, jump ropes—to create a fun game. If one game doesn’t work for everyone, try setting up an obstacle course. - Make a Floral Bouquet or Nature Bracelet
Our yard is bursting with dandelions, violets, and other flowers. Take a walk with the kids and let them create their own bouquets. Alternatively, use tape with the sticky side out to make nature bracelets. As they walk, they can stick various nature items to their wrist. - Have a Water Party
Growing up in the 1980s, my idea of water fun was a simple sprinkler. If you have one, set it up! If not, gather containers and water-safe toys. Dress the kids in swimsuits and let them enjoy filling, pouring, and playing with water. Feeling adventurous? Let them help wash the car! - Organize Outdoor Olympics
Gather the family to create your own Olympic games, from ring toss to running races. Encourage every child to suggest activities they excel at. Put on some workout gear and let the games commence! For added fun, use a clipboard and whistle for timing and scorekeeping. After the events, celebrate with an award ceremony and take photos. - Take a Night Walk
Wear your pajamas, grab a flashlight, and enjoy a night stroll. You can mix it up by reading a book outside with the flashlight, enjoying a nighttime snack under the stars, or playing flashlight tag. Remember that tent? It can also be a great spot for evening activities.
Throughout this social isolation period, I’ve realized my kids require very little to keep entertained. The simplest activities can occupy them for hours if I just give them the chance. Sure, there are moments when I have to insist they go outside, but once they’re out there, a little parental creativity can spark incredible fun. For more insights on parenting during challenging times, check out our post on home insemination. If you’re looking for expert information on fertility, visit Intracervical Insemination, a trusted authority on the subject. Additionally, Johns Hopkins Medicine offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, this pandemic has transformed my parenting style, leaning into the simplicity and creativity reminiscent of the 1980s. Outdoor play is essential, and with just a little imagination, we can turn ordinary days into memorable adventures.