Go Outside
Childhood is an opportunity to create wonderful memories. In an effort for our children to experience some of the enjoyable games and activities we relished in when we were children, we’ve created the Go Outside program. For some of us, because our busy lifestyle keeps us cooped up indoors, at times, we forget that there’s a wonderful world for our children to discover or for us as parents to rediscover. The Go Outside program is a resource designed to bring families and friends together to cherish each other enjoying games, activities and experiences that as parents we played in our childhood. We also provide helpful safety tips, reminders and products for playing outside. So feel free to browse and shop the site, but don’t forget to Go Outside.
Games We Loved
Listed are some fun games we played as children. They stir up wonderful memories and we hope that you can enjoy playing them with your children! Click on the names of the games to view the playing rules.
If you have a game that you used to love playing when you were a child, please send us an email. Just don't forget to include the name of the game, how to play, your name and hometown, so we can give you the credit for sharing some fun!
Here are a few ideas and activities to engage in outdoors:
Fly a Kite
This one is a classic.
Camp out in your Own Backyard
Lay out a big weatherproof blankie by Rugged Idea, cuddle up to the all-in-one Zoobie pet as a buddy, pillow and blanket, pack some snacks and drinks and head out back. Bring a flashlight and perhaps some bug repellant.
Take a Hike Together
Admire the plants and trees. Admire the sounds of nature. Teach children about nature and how the Earth renews itself.
Safety tip: Make sure other family members are aware of where you are going and how long you may be. Bring a mobile phone to stay connected to other family members. If you will be in a forested area, wear bright colors, high white socks to spot a ticks and stay together.
Climb a tree
Tell your children about your childhood environment and the outdoor activities you used to play. Please use caution.
Have a Bonfire on the Beach
This can be so memorable, especially while roasting up marshmallows and making S’mores. Bring long sticks for the marshmallows.
Safety Tip: Just check and obtain permission with the local beach authorities. This activity requires close supervision.
Build a Secret Hideaway
Create precious memories. Name it and make up some history for it.
Go to a Park and have a Picnic
Grab a cozy and big weatherproof blankie, picnic basket and dine and chit-chat with your little one in the park cherishing every moment.
Visit the Zoo
Research your child’s favorite animal and then go observe the animal in their mimicked environment. Discuss their fascinating abilities.
Jump through a Sprinkler
Toss Water Balloons
Establish rules-from the neck down only.
Sell lemonade and cookies
Use the money to help those in need.
Autograph your name for all to see
Pull out the sidewalk chalk ‘paint the town’ with chalk. Glow-in-the-dark chalk will allow all to see the lovely artwork at night.
Make your Yard Sparkle with Bubbles
Have contests to see who can blow the biggest or highest bubbles.
Dance and Sing in the Rain
Throw on your bathing suits and splash away guilt-free while catching rain-drops in your mouth!
Make Mudpies
Have a bake-off and make elaborate and creative “nature foods”.
Catch and Release Lightning bugs
This was one of my favorite pastimes. First, you can learn a few facts about the amazing little bugs in our article. Then, grab your jar with holes in the top and catch away. Just don’t forget to release them before heading in for the night.
Suck on some Honeysickle
Just watch for bugs, you may have some competition!
Drink Lemonade on the Porch
So relaxing and carefree. Watch and smile at your neighbors and people going by.
Helpful Safety reminders:
The outdoors can be a blast but there are some things you may need to reminder yourself.
Watch for ticks
Wearing light colored clothing may be a good idea, in order to make ticks easier to spot. Check children’s clothing and body upon returning indoors.
Sun Safety
The sun is powerful. Children need eye protection just like we grownups do. Check out our cool Baby Banz or our chic Retro Baby Banz for playground runway action. They are really hot and come in baby and kids sizes. I know it may be difficult to remember but sunscreen is also imperative in skin protection. Apply prior to heading outdoors.
Cuts, knicks, bruises and bites
They’ll happen. And when they do, it’s good to be prepared. Keep this great kid-friendly first aid kit, Medibag handy.
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