HRM Parent Blog

Keeping the kids active during the summer is so important for their health and well-being, not to mention the fact that it’ll help them sleep better at night!  Just remember, it’s doesn’t always have to be structured or scheduled and can be as easy as a run around in the backyard.  Here’s 10 great ideas to keep the family moving this summer:

1. Make a splash – set up the sprinkler or head to the splash pad at the Westmount playground for some water play.  Guaranteed to keep the kids running around for hours.

2. Tennis anyone?  Even if your kids don’t know how to play – grab a spot at your local tennis court and have fun hitting the balls around.  Little kids can even get involved by running around to collect all the balls.

3. Hopscotch, Simon Says, Red Rover – bringing back any memories? Dust off some of the classics and get the whole family playing.

4. Walk the Dog.  Rover needs the exercise too so bring him, and the whole family to your nearest park for a walk that will keep everyone moving.

5. Run!  You can’t beat a family run, but it’s even more unique when it’s on the bridge!  Join in the 17th Annual MACPASS Miles Race across the bridge this weekend. The kids will be talking about it for weeks!

6. Gardening can be a family affair with little kids in charge of pulling up the weeds and older kids helping to mow. Even just having fun digging in the soil will keep them active. 

7. Hello Hula.  Warning – this one may cause uncontrollable laughter. Pick-up a few hula hoops and see who can keep it up the longest.   So fun.

8. Get your wheels on.  A bike, scooter, rollerblade or skateboard are all great ways to get out and get active.   Let everyone pick something different with the only rule that it has to be on wheels.

9. Hoop-la…not only does it help with their hand-eye coordination but shooting hoops is a great way to keep your kids’ heart rate up.

10. Playgrounds are always great for keeping kids active – but dial it up a notch and try to visit 3 in one day.  Then you can cross #37 off our Summer Challenge list!