Page 4 All About Kids • Thursday , May 9 , 2024
Outdoor activities ideal for summertime
Summer can be a magical season full of fresh air , warm days and nights , blooming flowers , and plenty of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors . There are so many ways to fill summer days , and people are urged to maximize time spent outdoors during this time of year . Since the sun ’ s rays can be particularly harmful between the hours of 10 a . m . and 3 p . m ., protective clothing and sunscreen is recommended during this time ; otherwise , people can engage in outdoor activities during times when the sun is less potent .
Those seeking some summertime recreation inspiration can consider these activities .
• Family bike ride : Explore trails or bike paths in the area in advance , and then prepare bikes for an excursion . Bicycle riding is a great cardiovascular activity that people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy . Try flat paths for beginners , and then build up the length and intensity of rides as experience is gained .
• Day at the beach : Some attest there is no more perfect place than the beach on a summer day . The waves lapping the sand , the birds calling in the air , and the sounds of children ’ s laughter and sunbathers ’ chatter all combine to create a relaxing seaside symphony . According to WebMD , the negative ions given off by the ocean can improve mood and add to the calming effect the beach provides .
• Backyard obstacle course : Construct an obstacle course in the backyard that everyone can try . It can include having to jump through tires ; climb a jungle gym ; run through a sprinkler ; and crawl under a low-hung clothesline . Family members can compete to see who can finish the course in the least amount of time .
• Walk a boardwalk : Those lucky to live near a coast can spend an afternoon or evening strolling the boardwalk , enjoying the various fare and fun activities offered . Many boardwalks have games of chance and small rides for kids . Adults may enjoy the restaurants , bars and shops . Of course , no trip to a boardwalk is complete without coming home with some saltwater taffy .
• Hike : In a survey of Americans 18 and older conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association , nearly 50 percent said going for a walk or hike was their favorite outdoor summer activity . Hiking requires very little to get started and can produce numerous opportunities to witness nature and get some exercise .
There ’ s no limit to the ways people can enjoy the great outdoors when the weather warms up .
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AT RIGHT : Those seeking some summertime recreation inspiration can consider these activities . monticellotimes . com