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Elevate Outdoor Fun with These Must-Have Items for Families
- beyondthescreenfam
- May 15
- 5 min read
I get it... getting kids excited about outdoor activities can sometimes feel like a challenge. Fortunately, the great outdoors offers a wealth of opportunities for families to bond, create memories, and enjoy the fresh air. Imagine the joy on your children's faces as they engage with simple yet thrilling outdoor items that transform a regular day into an unforgettable adventure.
And while I usually don't make suggestions for things you need to purchase, I thought you might like to see a few items we enjoy on repeat. Every item listed here is one that can be used over and over for repeat adventures and fun.
**Please note that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn from qualifying purchases with my links.
The Power of Outdoor Play
Outdoor play is crucial for children’s physical and mental well-being. Research shows that kids who play outside regularly exhibit improvements in concentration and creativity. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children's time in nature boosts their health and happiness. Engaging with the right outdoor tools and toys not only sparks imagination but also cultivates a sense of adventure.
Transforming a typical outing into an extraordinary adventure can be as simple as adding fun toys and games. Whether it’s a day at the park, a beach trip, or a gathering in your backyard, the right items can elevate the experience and create lasting family memories. Let’s explore how to infuse your family adventures with joy.
Bubble Machines: A Fountain of Joy
Why You'll Love It:
Picture this: Within seconds of turning it on, your backyard fills with shimmering bubbles as your children run and leap to pop them. It turns an ordinary day into one filled with laughter and movement.
Bubbles captivate children like no other. A bubble machine can produce continuous streams of bubbles, creating a magical atmosphere. For less than $30, you can purchase a bubble machine that delights kids of all ages.
We've tried a million bubble machines and my own children LOVE when they are fun creatures instead of just a normal bubble maker. This one has been our favorite and lasted well through the kiddos trying to move it all the time.
Recommended Item: Bubble Machine
Water Balloons: Splash into Fun
Why You'll Love It:
As summer rolls in, nothing tops the excitement of a water balloon fight. But let’s face it, traditional throwing with regular balloons can be a bit messy. Enter reusable water balloons!
These are great for both outside and indoor play (think bathtub). And the best part? No more hours tying water balloons up and making your fingers raw!
Recommended Item: Water Balloons
Nature Scavenger Hunts: Adventure Awaits
Why You'll Love It:
A nature scavenger hunt brings an extra level of adventure to outdoor fun. This engaging activity motivates kids to explore their environment and discover new things.
Start by making a simple checklist featuring items like acorns, specific leaves, or colorful flowers. You can even download our printable template that keeps everyone eager to participate. A scavenger hunt not only fosters curiosity but also enhances observational skills and creativity. Make sure you have a clipboard for your scavengar hunt, and then reuse that same clipboard for a million other activities.
Recommended Item: Clipboards
Picnic Essentials: Elevate Outdoor Dining
Why You'll Love It:
What’s better than enjoying a meal outdoors on a beautiful day? Setting up a picnic with the right essentials can make it all the more enjoyable. Aim for a cozy, durable picnic blanket to create a comfortable dining area.
Consider packing easy-to-carry items like portable utensil sets, colorful snack containers, and an insulated cooler to keep your favorite drinks refreshing. A picnic encourages storytelling, games, and relaxation while you soak up the sun.
A good picnic cooler is an essential to me, but I don't like to spend a ton! That's why I love BeeGreen because it's a great cooler and I can use it for pinics or other times I need to keep stuff cool.
Recommended Item: Insulated Picnic Cooler Bag
Portable Hammocks: Relax and Unwind
Why You'll Love It:
A portable hammock is the epitome of relaxation, offering a perfect place to unwind while surrounded by nature. With easy setup, these hammocks can be used for lounging, reading, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.
Families can take turns resting while others play, ensuring everyone gets a mix of activity and relaxation time. Whether hanging between two trees at a park or in your own backyard, a hammock is a fantastic addition to your outdoor experience.
And if you're like me... you don't want to have to find trees to set it up and so one with a stand is essential!
Recommended Item: Portable Hammock
Frisbees and Flying Discs: A Classic Game Redefined
Why You'll Love It:
Frisbees are a beloved classic for outdoor play. Ideal for all ages, these flying discs can be used for casual throws or competitive games. To make it more exciting, try incorporating tricks like mid-air catches or even twilight games with glow-in-the-dark versions, which add a unique twist to evening play.
They are lightweight, easy to toss, and offer hours of fun on the lawn or at the beach. And while my littlest kiddo cannot operate one yet, he still throws it an attempt to figure it out.
Recommended Item: Glow-in-the-Dark Frisbee
Gardening Kits: Nourish Nature and Curiosity
Why You'll Love It:
Gardening is an engaging way to connect kids with nature. With specially designed gardening kits for children, you can introduce them to planting, watering, and nurturing plants. These kits often come with seed packets, cheerful tools, and easy instructions.
Not only do kids learn about responsibility through caring for their plants, but they also develop an appreciation for the environment. Watching their creations grow fosters both pride and joy, making it a wonderful family project.
And if your kids are anything like mine, they like to have their own tools and gloves are a MUST.
Recommended Item: Children's Gardening Kit
Unplug and Explore Together
Getting outside and connecting with nature requires a bit of planning and the right tools. By adding engaging outdoor items to your family outings, you can create fun-filled experiences that encourage laughter, adventure, and togetherness.
From bubble machines to creative scavenger hunts, these essential items help foster a love for the outdoors in both children and adults. So gather your family, pack your gear, and get ready for wonderful outdoor adventures that create cherished memories.
Happy exploring!
Want fun activities to accompany items like this? Make sure you sign up for one of our activity essential kits!
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