Kid’s Corner: Fun, Affordable Ways to Keep Kids Active This Summer

by Lindsay Noelle, Make It Fun Mom

Summer 2025

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, stay active, and make unforgettable memories with your kids. The long days and warm weather provide an ideal backdrop for fun, physical activities that can benefit the whole family. Best of all, many of these ideas require little to no cost and can be done right in your backyard or local park. Let’s dive into some creative ways to keep your kids moving and laughing this summer!

Sprinkler Obstacle Course

When temperatures soar, nothing beats the refreshing fun of water play. Why not take it up a notch by creating a sprinkler obstacle course? Gather a few household items like hula hoops, pool noodles, and cones. Arrange them in a course around your yard with a sprinkler in the center. Kids can jump, crawl, and zigzag their way through the obstacles while dodging sprays of water. You can even add challenges like balancing a ball on a spoon or hopping on one foot. The best part? Everyone stays cool while getting in some exercise.

Sponge Dodgeball

Transform a classic game into a summer favorite with sponge dodgeball! Instead of traditional balls, use large, soft sponges soaked in water. The rules are simple: just like regular dodgeball, players throw the sponges to tag each other out. This version is safe, fun, and a great way to cool off. You can make it even more exciting by adding a “splash zone” where players can refill their sponges in a bucket of water. This game is sure to become a backyard hit and guarantees lots of laughter.

Create an Adventure Map

Turn your neighborhood or downtown area into a thrilling adventure with a homemade map. Encourage your kids to design their own map featuring local parks, walking trails, historical landmarks, or even a favorite ice cream shop. Use fun themes like pirates searching for treasure or explorers discovering new lands. Once the map is ready, set out on a family expedition to check off each spot. Not only does this activity promote walking and exploring, but it also fosters creativity and planning skills.

Backyard Camping with Flashlight Tag

You don’t need to travel far to experience the joys of camping. Set up a tent in your backyard, gather some sleeping bags, and roast marshmallows over a portable fire pit or grill. Once the sun sets, bring out the flashlights for an exhilarating game of flashlight tag. This classic game encourages running, hiding, and sneaky moves, all under the cover of darkness. Plus, the whole family can bond while sharing stories and stargazing after the game.

Daily Step Challenges

A little friendly competition can go a long way in motivating kids to stay active. Affordable step counters designed for children are widely available and make it easy to track daily movement. Set a daily step goal and let the games begin! Kids can compete against each other or even challenge you to see who can take the most steps in a day. You can mix it up by adding themed challenges, like “Who can walk like a robot the longest?” or “Let’s see who can march around the house without stopping.” This activity not only encourages physical fitness but also teaches goal-setting and perseverance.

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Take advantage of local parks, trails, or even your backyard with a nature scavenger hunt. Create a list of items to find, such as a bird’s feather, a uniquely shaped rock, or a specific type of flower. Equip the kids with small buckets or bags for their treasures and head out to explore. For an added twist, include movement-based challenges like hopping to the next tree or doing five jumping jacks after finding each item. This activity combines physical activity with an appreciation for nature.

DIY Sports Tournaments

Organize a mini sports tournament featuring activities like kickball, soccer, or relay races. Use what you have at home: a beach ball can substitute for a soccer ball, and pool noodles make excellent bats. Divide into teams and keep score, or simply play for fun. You can even create a makeshift “medal ceremony” with homemade trophies or ribbons to celebrate everyone’s efforts. This activity promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, and plenty of physical activity.

Dance Party!

Sometimes, all you need to get moving is a great playlist. Clear some space in the living room or head outside for a family dance party. Let each family member pick their favorite song and take turns showing off their best moves. You can also turn it into a dance-off or freeze dance competition. Dancing is not only a fantastic cardio workout but also a great way to express creativity and let loose.

Balloon Tennis

Balloon tennis is a simple yet highly entertaining activity that requires only a few materials. Use paper plates and popsicle sticks to create rackets, and blow up a balloon as the ball. Set up a “net” using a piece of string or tape, and let the games begin! Kids can play one-on-one or team up for doubles. The lightweight balloon makes it easy for kids of all ages to join in the fun while improving hand-eye coordination.

Sidewalk Chalk Fitness Circuit

Transform your driveway or sidewalk into a colorful fitness circuit using chalk. Draw stations with simple instructions like “Do 10 jumping jacks,” “Hop on one foot,” or “Spin around three times.” Kids can follow the circuit at their own pace or race against each other. Let them come up with their own ideas for stations to keep things fresh and exciting. This activity provides a great mix of creativity and exercise.

Keeping It Fun and Flexible

The key to keeping kids active is making movement feel like play, not a chore. Let them take the lead in choosing or modifying activities to suit their interests. Celebrate their efforts and join in the fun whenever possible. By incorporating physical activity into everyday play, you’re not only helping them stay healthy but also creating cherished family memories. So, grab your sprinklers, sponges, and flashlights, and get ready for a summer full of smiles, laughter and plenty of movement!

About the Author:

Lindsay Noelle is a marketer, storyteller, and mom passionate about helping families create joyful, active, and healthy lives together. As the founder of Make It Fun Mom, she shares creative ideas and inspiration for parents looking to make the most of family time. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, CBS News, and Fox News, reaching families across the country. Discover more tips and activities for a fun and healthy family life at MakeItFunMom.com.

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