With video games, Internet access and television, it’s often difficult for parents to compete for their children’s attention. What’s worse is that many kids have forgotten what it’s like to play simple “low-tech” games, such as hopscotch or hide-and-seek.
With a little persistence and creativity, however, you can find plenty of fun activities to try with your children.
Feel the Beat. Let your child turn on their favorite music and dance together. Or make musical instruments out of household items, such as an ice-cream-tub drum or a tin-pie-plate tambourine.
See the Sites. Play tourist for a day in your own hometown. Visit historic sites, check out a new playground or hike local trails.
Revisit Retro Games. Introduce your kids to old-fashioned favorites, such as capture the flag, kick the can or freeze tag. And don’t forget rainy-day games, such as musical chairs and duck, duck, goose.
Keep It Simple. Activities don’t have to be elaborate or expensive. Run through the sprinklers in your bathing suits, jump rope together, play catch or toss a Frisbee. It’s good for your kids to see you don’t have to spend money to have fun.
Try Something New. Have you always wanted to learn to play tennis or try your hand at karate? Sign up for classes with your kids to build common interests—and great memories.
Team Up With Friends. Organize a neighborhood scavenger hunt, set up an obstacle course in your backyard or have a hula hoop contest with friends.