Your kids are home for the summer, and you may have signed them up for a camp or two, but how do you keep them active when you’re all together again? Here are a few of our outdoor ideas while staying cool.
We’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below!
1. Cool down at a splash pad or wading pool.
In Vancouver, Maple Grove and New Brighton are two popular wading pools, and Prince Edward Park splash pad is a favourite. Find out where else you can cool down in Vancouver HERE.
2. Splash around in your own backyard.
Take it one step further and turn your backyard into a playground (size doesn’t matter). Bubbles and chalk encourage creativity and fun for all ages. We recommend Crayola chalk, as this company is known for toxin-free supplies for kids. Cones (yes, orange pylons), rings and balls are easy manipulative for kids to create games and obstacle courses. Canadian Tire has an extensive selection of outdoor play options. A water table or (unicorn) sprinkler keeps little ones occupied, while they cool down.
3. Hopscotch your day away.
Forget the rules of Hopscotch? Get a refresher HERE. We recommend Crayola chalk as Crayola’s products are known to be toxin-free.
4. Ice cream, you scream, we all want ice cream!
Make your favorite ice cream shop the destination, and scoot, walk, or bike to get there. Get every one involved in the exercise so they all enjoy the reward! If you’re worried about kid complaints, try these activities along the way: sing songs, count steps (or flowers or colour cars) or play “I spy”. These shops in Vancouver all have delicious vegan ice cream options: Earnest Ice Cream – Rain or Shine – Yum Sweet Shop
5. Take a hike… literally.
The forest is a natural shade away from the hot sun and boasts cooler temperatures too. Go for a walk and count trees, hikers or dogs in the trails! Our favourite forest hikes in the Lower Mainland are Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Capilano River Regional Park, and Lynn Canyon Park.