Simple Ways to Get Outside and Play After School

After a long day at school, it’s so important to find ways to get outside. Going outside is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day away from home. Not to mention, getting some sun is healthy for you and your family. Play is disappearing at home, in school and in communities. 70% of moms played outside when they were kids, but only 31% of their kids play outside today. Check out these tips for simple ways to get outside after school.

Chalk Coloring

One of our favorites around here is coloring with chalk. It’s amazing how enjoyable it is to just sit down on the sidewalk and enjoy chalk coloring together. My boys love this and I love to watch their creativity poke through. When you don’t really have a lot of energy and want to spend time with your kiddos, this is the way to do it.

Duck Duck Goose

I may be old fashioned but one of my preferred games to play with my boys outside is duck duck goose. You simply sit in a circle and one person walks around calling everyone a duck. Once the person tags another person and calls them a “goose”—they frantically fight for the previous person’s seat. Such a simple game that you can play with kids of all ages.

Lay Out a Blanket

Sometimes you don’t want to do anything but lounge around. Turn off the TV and head outside to get in a little play after school. One of our favorite things to do is lay out a blanket, bring out some toys and books and just relax. You can even deem one of your blankets an outside blanket.

Don’t forget snacks! We love CLIF Kid products for an after school snack. CLIF Kid is dedicated to reclaiming play. They’re encouraging boys and girls everywhere to get back outside, push their boundaries and feed their adventures. CLIF Kid® makes nutritious snacks from organic ingredients that are specially-crafted for kids’ developing taste buds and active lives. The boys especially love the Chocolate Chip CLIF Kid Zbars! Check out this video from CLIF Kid.

Hopscotch

Are you looking for a way to have fun with your kiddos, get outside, and get active? Hopscotch is a fun game for all to play. My husband even joins in on the fun with this one. You can make your own hopscotch game with some chalk and a sidewalk or blacktop, super fun for everyone.

Blow Bubbles

Somehow bubbles get lost in the fun but this is a simple way to get outside. You can even buy those bubble machines that blows bubbles automatically for you. Try it, your kids will have a sensational time! For the younger crowd, blowing bubbles always means chasing bubbles! So much fun!

I can bet that you will also have an unforgettable time blowing bubbles with the family.

Take a Walk around the Block

Going outside and spending time together after school doesn’t have to be complicated. Put the little ones in a stroller and let the bigger ones ride their bikes. This is an epic way to exercise and it is also very simple.