Once upon a time, kids used to get home from school and get changed to go outside and play. Now, what with all the technology available it is far more common for kids to plonk down in front of the TV or with a device to play a game or watch a show.

While it is no problem to spend some time on a smartphone or tablet, there are enduring problems with health and obesity which threaten your kids unless they are moving consistently. So, in an effort to provide you with options for your kids to play outdoors, we have come up with some of our best backyard sports and activities.

Tee-Ball

Tee-ball is the kid version of baseball and can be a wonderful activity, especially if they have lots of energy to burn. As a popular non-contact sport, Tee-ball differs from baseball as there are no pitchers. Instead, the batter hits the ball from a stationary tee – a stand used to support a stationary ball.  Tee-ball is a fantastic introduction to ‘batter’ sports. As your child gets order, they can then progress to softball or baseball.

Physical Benefits

Your kids will benefit from increased hand eye coordination and will get much needed exercise from fielding or running between bases.

Social Benefits

Teamwork, learning how to be a good winner (and a good loser), sportsmanship, sharing.

Soccer

All you need for a quick game of soccer is a soccer ball, and some willing players. You can set up a goal post or even just kick the soccer ball against a garage wall or flat surface for some practice. Kids will enjoy the competitiveness and will love running around with their friends or siblings.

Physical Benefits

Great for exercise and cardiovascular health, as well as hand eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Social Benefits

Soccer is great for improving teamwork skills and will give your kids more confidence with ball handling.

Bike Riding

Hopping on the bike and going for a ride is a wonderful way to explore your neighbourhood and to get some incidental exercise. If you establish these kinds of habits and behaviours early on with your kids, they are more likely to carry on these types of active pursuits later in life. If your kids are old enough to cycle on their own, then set them an activity path to follow for more fun in their riding. If your kids are not confident on the road, make sure you go with them and stick to bike paths.

Physical Benefits

The benefits are numerous! Leg strength, cardiovascular health, coordination, balance.

Social Benefits

Your kids will feel free and will gain an awareness of how cycling is a great activity (and mode of transport) because it does not impact on the environment!

Trampolining

One of the most awesome ways to get your exercise is by bouncing on a trampoline! Keep your kids safe and give them an excellent way to keep fit with a trampoline like the ones from Vuly. This type of trampoline has netted walls and safe invisible springs, so your kids are never going to get trapped fingers or other injuries from the material of the trampoline.

Physical Benefits

Give your kids the joy of balance, agility, coordination, balance and cardiovascular health with a trampoline.

Social Benefits

Kids will feel free and confident when they are bouncing on a trampoline, and you will be able to bond with them as they play.

Please note: As we are still in Phase 2 (“Safe Transition”) of COVID-19, do ensure that the group size limit of 5 is observed. Distancing should still be maintained outside the play area.

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