8 Games For The Summer

Games for the summer are a set of simple activities, but capable of bringing a lot of fun to the family. Therefore, it is highly recommended to enjoy them on more than one occasion during this time of year.

Summer is one of the most anticipated seasons of the year for children. With the arrival of school vacations and free time, many recognize this period as the best opportunity to do activities full of fun.

Both parents and children are encouraged to spend more time outdoors, especially in places like the countryside and the beach. These settings, as well as the swimming pools, are perfect for different experiences from the rest of the year.

However, leaving aside the chosen place, there is a wide variety of games that can be put into practice in any space  since, as this article published in the Journal of the Canary Islands of Pediatrics points out , the game brings numerous benefits to children. Thus, some invite several friends to gather, while others are perfect for testing individual skills.

We have compiled 8 very interesting options for you to carry out during the summer. Which one do you think you’re going to have the most fun with?

1. Gymkanas, excellent games for the summer

The gymkanas are a favorite for summer games. It is a type of activity that brings together several children in an open space, in which they can find a series of tests that they must pass, alone or as a team, depending on the theme.

The type of tests and the difficulty of each one can vary depending on the age of the children and the possibilities offered by the place where it is played.

All kinds of tests can be included, although the ideal thing is that they do not take too long in a single one so that, thus, they can complete the rest. The gymkanas can also be thematic, therefore, they are a good opportunity to play with costumes.

2. Water balloon piñata

Among the most entertaining summer games for the little ones is the piñata with water balloons in the pool. Several balloons are filled with room temperature water  and tied together at one point.

Then the children will have to line up and wait their turn to try to break as many balloons as possible with a stick. The child who manages to pop the largest number of balloons will win.

3. Dunk balls

This activity tests each child’s individual skills. The idea is to score balls as many times as possible.

The game requires several buckets hung from trees or a high surface. The balls can be made of rubber or plastic. Likewise, several levels of difficulties can be done, taking into account the age of the little ones, the size of the balls and the distance.

4. Bowling

The classic game of bowling does not go out of style. Both adults and children can have a good time putting their ball skills to the test. Don’t have professional bowling pins? No matter! With several empty water bottles and a small ball you can recreate this activity.

5. Water glass racing

This is another of the funniest summer games. It’s perfect for keeping kids active at this time of year. They love to play with water and also feel challenged.

The activity consists of racing with glasses of water, in order to reach the goal without spilling the liquid. The child who manages to arrive with the most water will win.

6. Long jumps

If the little ones want to put their skills to the test, long jumps are good entertainment. It is one of the most attractive summer games because it allows children to spread out without the need for elaborate assembly. And, in a way, it is very good because it invites self-improvement.

To do this, you just have to paint a line on the floor. Then the child has to jump as much as he can. The one who manages to go the furthest wins.

7. The treasure hunt

Of the games for the summer perhaps this is the one that takes the most time, because it requires advance planning. However, it is very fun and entertaining, especially since the little ones will have to spend a lot of time looking for the hidden treasure.

The game consists of hiding a series of objects on the beach, the field or anywhere. A search map is prepared and several stations with clues are made.

8. Water Balloon War

Is it too hot to go outside to play? It’s time for a water balloon fight! Again, the water  will make this moment a refreshing and fun-filled experience for everyone.

The balloons can be of different sizes. So, the ideal is to prepare several buckets full of small balloons so that the activity lasts longer.

When it comes to games for the summer …

It is important to apply sunscreen to children before starting to play to avoid sunburn. And, if they are in contact with water or sweat a lot, it is convenient to stop the games for a moment and replicate the protector. Thus, they can play fully protected. All of this is evidenced in this study published in Acta pediátrica de México .

Now, when it comes to outdoor activities in summer, it is best to play in areas near a water source and a shady place to be able to take the respective breaks. Don’t forget to bring enough water so that no one gets dehydrated.

Try the games that we have recommended or invent your own. What really counts is spending quality time with your family. Let’s have fun!