Back Yard Fun - Part 1

Well, summer is almost here and it is time to get ready for those hot, humid days. Absolutely nothing is better than a backyard, a blow up wading pool, a sprinkler and children splashing and laughing all day long in their swimsuits.

The summer months brings with them a carefree, more relaxed atmosphere to the day. Children may linger a little longer in their PJ’s or may stay up a little later with the late sunset. Whether you are home during the day or coming home after a day at work and child care for your children, there is still time for some fun outdoor play and learning.

The next few posts by me will have some simple ideas for fun outdoor activities and a chance to make some wonderful summertime memories with your family.

My first lesson is BE PREPARED!!!!

This week, before everyone is out of school for the summer, take a trip to your local Dollar Store.

Purchase one or two large plastic tubs or laundry baskets.

Fill the tub with:

• Spray bottles
• Large paint brushes
• Small paint brushes
• Buckets with handles
• Water color paints
• Sidewalk chalk
• Bubbles and bubble wands (fly swatter , plastic strawberry carton, pipe cleaners twisted in shapes) These all make fun wands for bubbles but you can purchase a large assortment of them at the dollar store.
• Shaving cream
• Towels
• Shower curtain
• Play dough
• Soap and shampoo for outside bath time
• Small shovels

-If a Sand and Water Table is not available, use a large storage bin for water play and another one for sand or dirt play.

-Small plastic or rubber dog/cat squeak toys

Take your time browsing through the store and look for items that will use all of their senses;

1. Seeing
2. Touching
3. Smelling
4. Tasting
5. Hearing

Organize it in the bin or a couple of bins and hide everything until your summer officially begins.

When school is out pull out the baskets and LET THE FUN BEGIN!!!!!!!

Stay tuned for some ideas to use these items and let Summertime Backyard Fun Begin!

Linked at ABC & 123 and Childhood 101