Ask Anissa: What are some Fun Summer Activities for Kids to play outside?

Question: My kids love playing outside, but often find themselves running out of things to do, especially during the summer. I really want to be prepared with new things to have them actively doing. What are some fun activities for kids to play outside? Mary E., Salinas, CA

Answer: Mary, I am not sure of your age, but, if you are like me and many of the other readers you probably played many different outdoor games as a child. There are even games we played indoors that can be taken outdoors. I like to get ideas from as many sources as possible, and it just so happens that Better Homes and Gardens, has come up with a list of activities like Red Rover, Red Rover, and Kick the Can and many others. Not only do they have a list, but they have info on each of the games. For those of us who don't remember all the rules or all of the words to the songs, this is a great resource! Remember that there are many things that we typically do inside that we can do outside. One of my kids favorite things to do during the summer is to play with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, kiddie pools or the hose, water balloons, playing house or store outside, having a lemonade stand and gardening. Check out Better Home & Garden's list, and feel free to share other things that you may have found!