Ten outdoor activities for a hot summer's day
Summer is upon us and, although your child may be jumping for joy, you may be filled with a slight sense of dread, wondering how on earth you're going to fill the next two months.
Do not despair; help is at hand. We've come up with ten great ways for you and your child to spend a hot summer's day.
1) Take a trip to the local swimming pool. Most children love water and the earlier you get them used to it, the better! Keep a close eye on your child at all times, though, even if he is a strong swimmer. Read our feature on Water Safety for more information.
2) Take your child to a safari park or zoo. This isn't just a fun day out, it has educational benefits too, as your child will learn about different types of animals. Some zoos also have a petting area where your child will be able to stroke farmyard animals like sheep, goats and horses (just make sure your little one remembers to wash his hands after!).
3) Have a picnic in the park. This is a simple and cheap way to spend a summer's day, but it's great fun and a good chance for the family to spend some good old-fashioned quality time together. Get your child to help make the picnic food; he can help with the sandwiches and you can make biscuits together, using cookie cutters to create fun shapes. The hard part will be trying not to eat them all before you get to the park!
4) Visit the local playground. Invite your child's friends along to turn it into a really fun expedition. They will love being pushed on the swings, playing on the climbing frame and generally enjoying the fresh air. Be sure to apply lots of sunscreen to young children; read our features on Sun Safety and Buying Sun Protection for your child for more information.
5) Plan a treasure hunt! Choose a theme, such as pirates or fairies, and pick a range of relevant items. The hunt might take place in your garden or in the local park (if it's in the latter, to ensure your child's safety it's probably best that he 'hunts' with other family members. Read Taking your child out in public to learn more on keeping your child safe). Hide the 'treasure' and give a list with clues on it to each team member. If you've hidden 'treasure' underneath a garden chair, for example, you might put 'You sit on this' as a clue.
6) If you're lucky enough to live near a theme park or adventure playground, visiting either of these can make for a great day trip (although they can be expensive, so an outing like this would be a special treat. Look for special offers in newspapers and magazines).
7) Buy a family-size paddling pool, put on your swimming cossies and have a splash around! (Remember never to leave your little one unattended in the pool). Alternatively, get the sprinkler or garden hose out and cool down that way.
8) Teach your child a bit about nature; put some sun lotion and a sunhat on him, pack a bag filled with paper and pens, go to the local park and get drawing! You'll be surprised by how much there is for your child to draw, whether it be flowers, trees, the park cafe or maybe even a deer!
9) Make ice lollies! These are healthier than they sound as you can make them simply by pouring diluted fruit juice into ice lolly shapes and then freezing. These will help keep your child hydrated in hot weather.
10) For a really special treat, go on a family expedition to the seaside. Even if it's not quite warm enough for your child to swim in the sea, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on the beach. Buy your child a bucket and spade, awarding prizes for the best sandcastle, collect shells and pretty stones or get active and kick a football around or play with a frisbee.
The information on this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Published: July 2008
Related Articles
Last Modified: 24/07/2008
Related Chat
You'll need to be logged in to post new Comments and Answers or to Chat.
Login or
Register