Kids love to be outdoors, or at least they use to. With all of the new gaming stations, the computer, and the television, kids don’t have much enticement to go outside. So their summer hours are wasted away lazing in front of the television or computer. While neither the television nor the computer is bad, they like so many other things should be take in moderation. During the summer the best alternative to being inside is to go outside. So, here are some ideas to help you create a child friendly yard that your kids will want to play in.

Space- Create some play space. If you have all manner of yard and lawn equipment lying about it will be hard for your kids to run and play. So, rearrange things so that there will be plenty of run around area.

Balls- Simple balls can provide hours of fun for kids. Keep a supply of footballs, baseballs, soccer balls, tennis balls, and kick balls in your yard. Given a little of imagination, your kids and their neighbors can have full blown tournaments.

Bubbles- Bubbles are an ideal and cheap source of fun for younger children. They will love to watch the bubbles flying all over the yard and may even try and chase them.

Squirt Guns/Water Balloons- Playing outside can make your kids rather hot, so letting them play with squirt guns and water balloons will not only keep them cool but will also be very entertaining as they run about trying to shoot the others.

Chalk- Sidewalk chalk is like coloring but outside without paper, which can be even more fun that traditional coloring. The chalk will work best if you have a paved driveway or patio.

Trampoline- Trampolines are great for older kids when they want an alternative to staying in side. Note of caution: older children will be tempted to try crazy stunts on the trampoline so be ready for the occasional injury.