The best part about being a kid? Playing outside! Spending quality time outdoors is essential for children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Outdoor play helps kids develop motor skills, creativity, and social interaction while providing a healthy break from screens. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure, a creative DIY project, or an active game, here are 15 fun outdoor activities for kids to keep them entertained and engaged!
Adventure & exploration outdoor activities for kids
There are fun ways to exercise, whether you are an adult or a child! Though, with screens being a huge priority in children’s lives, this list will give a lot of different options for your child to get creative and energized outdoors!
Nature scavenger hunt
A nature scavenger hunt is a great way to engage kids in exploring their surroundings. Create a list of items like leaves, rocks, or insects and have them search for each one. This activity enhances observational skills and appreciation for nature.
Backyard camping
Transform your backyard into a camping experience by setting up a tent, roasting marshmallows, and telling stories under the stars. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to camping in a safe and familiar environment.
Image: Camp Cardinal RV Resort
DIY bird feeder craft
Teach kids about local wildlife by making a simple bird feeder. Use pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed to create a feeder that attracts birds to your yard. This activity helps kids learn about different bird species while engaging in hands-on fun.
Rock painting and nature art
All you need is a set of paint and paintbrushes and some rocks from your backyard. This is an easy and cost-effective way for kids to explore their creativity while spending some time in nature.
Gardening
Gardening teaches kids responsibility and patience. Let them plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables and take care of their small garden. Watching their plants grow is a rewarding experience that creates a connection to nature.
Outdoor Science Experiments
Who says science can’t be taught outdoors? With easy experiments like creating a baking soda volcano, seeing how leaves float, or how ants carry supplies to their homes, kids can learn so much!
Creative & DIY fun outdoor activities for kids
Sidewalk chalk art challenge
Give kids some sidewalk chalk and let their imaginations run wild. Set up a fun challenge like drawing a themed mural or creating a hopscotch grid to make it more interesting!
DIY outdoor obstacle course
Create an obstacle course using household items like cones, ropes, and hoops. Kids can jump, crawl, and run through the course, improving their coordination and physical fitness.
Image: Hands on as we grow
Bubble making & giant bubbles
Mix up a homemade bubble solution and let kids have fun making giant bubbles using string and sticks. Watching huge bubbles float through the air is mesmerizing and joyful.
Water painting on pavement
All you need is a bucket of water and paintbrushes. Let kids “paint” on the pavement and watch as their artwork disappears in the sun, allowing for endless creative play.
Mud kitchen play
With old pots, spoons, and containers, kids can mix and “bake” using mud, water, and other elements found in the forest, backyard, beach, and more!
Active & sports outside activities for kids
Water balloon volleyball
Fill balloons with water and have kids play a volleyball-style game by tossing them back and forth using towels. It’s a fun way to cool off on hot days.
Classic tag with a twist (freeze tag & shadow tag)
Give the traditional tag a fresh spin by playing freeze tag (where players freeze when tagged) or shadow tag (where kids have to step on someone’s shadow to tag them).
Sack race and relay games
Use old pillowcases or burlap sacks for a classic sack race. Add relay games like spoon-and-egg races or three-legged races for extra fun.
Balloon tennis
Make a simple tennis game using balloons and fly swatters or paper plate paddles. It’s a safe and fun way for younger kids to enjoy a tennis-like experience.
Glow stick night games
Once the sun sets, give kids glow sticks for a round of hide-and-seek, tag, or ring toss. Playing in the dark with glowing accessories adds an extra layer of excitement.
Encouraging outdoor activities for kids regularly
Now that you have all of the ideas to make it happen, the next step is making a routine so your kids never skip out! To make outdoor play a regular habit, consider setting a daily or weekly routine for outside activities for your kids. A mix of structured games and free play gives kids a balance of guided fun and creative exploration. It can even be simpler, like a walk in the park or playing in the backyard! With these 15 fun outdoor activities for kids, they’ll never run out of ways to stay entertained!