In our family, we really prioritize creating experiences over accumulating things, and we love spending time outdoors. I’ve always wanted our home to be the go-to hangout spot for our kids and their friends. Now that they’re older, this wish has come true, with over 20 kids sometimes playing at our place.
I absolutely enjoy it, and with summer approaching, I’ve realized it’s important to have lots of options for outdoor play. Our backyard is a work in progress but has turned into a popular hangout spot in the neighborhood, keeping all the kids active. My four-year-old calls it “epic,” so I think we’re on the right track!
After brainstorming ideas, we found more than a dozen ways to make our backyard even more fun. Some of the best things in life are free, but a little equipment can really enhance the fun. Here are some of the items that have made a lasting impact in our backyard.
Last Christmas, we got our kids a trampoline, and it’s become the centerpiece of the yard. While trampolines can be a topic of debate due to safety, I’m a fan because they’re great for exercise and improving lymphatic flow and bone strength. Our trampoline has a net for safety, both around the top and bottom, and we monitor the number of kids jumping at once.
The Slackline is another big hit. It’s like a mix between a balance beam and a trampoline, helping with balance and patience. We started with a training line, letting the kids work up to walking without holding on.
For an extra challenge, the Ninjaline is the older kids’ favorite, inspired by American Ninja Warrior. It’s a hanging rope line with various challenges like rings and bars. I haven’t mastered it yet, but my kids have!
Our treehouse has been the main focus for years. The kids love climbing, camping, and creating games in it, and it includes a climbing wall we built using inexpensive rock-climbing holds mounted on boards.
We also have a hanging tent that was passed on to us. It’s a portable “treehouse” that can be moved around the yard, perfect when trees aren’t big enough for a permanent structure.
Another favorite is our swing, which supports up to 600 lbs. It’s a source of endless fun for kids and their friends—and even adults too!
While it might be a bit controversial, our zipline is a huge hit. It stretches from the treehouse to a tree and just requires a hill and sturdy trees to install.
Gardening provides countless hours of entertainment and learning for the kids. It’s a great way to spend time as a family and teach them about where food comes from.
For shade and creative play, we have burlap tents. They’re a family project and can be moved around, durable enough to handle lots of playtime. The kids even painted them!
Beyond equipment, we’ve discovered some backyard games that have been worth the investment.
Activities like biking, hopscotch with sidewalk chalk, and jump rope are timeless and bring back childhood memories. They’re not only fun but also great for exercise and creativity.
Kids love games like tetherball, swingball, and cornhole, which are safe and entertaining for both children and adults. Capture the Flag is another classic with some glow-in-the-dark twists for nighttime play.
When the sun sets, laser tag becomes a favorite activity. It’s hard to resist joining in the fun!
Simple materials and a little creativity are all it takes for kids to enjoy activities like building forts. It’s an essential part of childhood that fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
Games like “Reverse Tag,” where everyone eventually joins the chaser, are also popular in our neighborhood.
Creating a fun backyard doesn’t mean turning it into a theme park. What’s important is giving kids the chance to enjoy unstructured outdoor play. If they say they’re bored, it’s okay—boredom is just a step toward creativity. Encourage them to find something new to do on their own.
Ultimately, it’s about ensuring kids spend time active, in the sun and fresh air. No matter what your backyard has, it’ll bring joy, relaxation, and better sleep for the kids.
Here’s to a wonderful summer! What are your plans for keeping the kids creative and playful this summer?
