As a grandparent, it can sometimes be challenging to find things to do with your grandkids. Sure, you both like to spend time with each other, but finding things that everyone enjoys can be a struggle, especially if you want to be more active and do something outdoors.
Fortunately for you, this article will go over how grandparents and children can have fun outside together. We know that not all these suggestions will hit home for you, but we’re sure that at least one of them will. At the very least, we hope to spark some ideas for both of you to try out. So, get out there and have a blast with your grandchildren outside!
Play Games Around the House
Let’s start this list off with something simple: finding a game or two to play around the house. Most young kids love to play sports in the backyard. Depending on what it is, we know it might be difficult for you to keep up with them, but a simple game of catch or passing a soccer ball around will be a lot of fun for both of you. If you want to slow things down a bit, lawn games are perfect. A game of bag-o is quite a leisurely pastime, and it can be a lot of fun for both parties involved.
If you’ve been outside for a while with them, don’t be afraid to take a break and watch them play for a bit. Kids love having an audience for the weird things they like to do. Maybe they’ll put on a show for you or show you how fast they can ride their bike. If you’re a little worried that they might hurt themselves, maybe convince them to ride their ride-on toy car; they’re much safer but equally as fun. Plus, if their ride-on toy car is anything like the luxury electric cars for kids that we sell, they’ll come with a remote that will give you the ability to stop your grandchild from accidentally riding out into the street.
Go for a Walk
Once you’re ready to break away from the house for a bit, you can start by going on a walk with your grandkids. This is an excellent way to get in a bit of exercise together while also having a chance to talk to them.
Of course, depending on how long your walk is, some younger kids might have trouble keeping up. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring something for them to ride on. A wagon that you can pull around or a ride-on toy car are both great choices.
Take a Trip To the Playground
While on your walk, you could possibly stop by a playground and let them run around for a bit. It will allow you to rest and watch your grandchildren play. You obviously don’t have to sit there the whole time, though. You can be there to catch them when they reach the bottom of a fast slide or push them on the swings. The playground is a fun time for everyone involved.
Visit the Local Zoo
Not everything you do has to be done in the same vicinity of where you live. You and the grandkids can hop in the car and drive somewhere to broaden your opportunities. One of the best places you can go together is a nearby zoo. Kids love seeing animals and usually have a few favorites that they have to visit every time they go. Not only is the zoo fun, but it’s also educational. Be sure to take the time to read about the animals to learn more about them.
If you don’t have an actual zoo close to where you live, you could always opt to go to a petting zoo. This will allow your grandkids to explore a whole different group of animals.
Track Down Some Bugs or Other Small Animals
If either of those zoo options went over well, your grandkids might have a lot of fun searching for bugs or small animals out in the wild. Making a trip to a local forest preserve is a fun adventure. Make sure that your grandkids know not to get too close to the animals. Everyone needs to have a “look, don’t touch” mentality. You’re simply there to observe and explore.
Make Plans for a Camping Trip
During this trip, you might discover that your grandchildren have a real knack for the outdoors. If that’s the case, there’s no better way to explore that passion than to plan a camping trip. Camping will open them up to so many new possibilities. They can learn how to start a controlled fire, fish in the lake, or possibly even hunt if they’re old enough and have an interest.
If your grandkids are still pretty young, you’ll want to stick to campgrounds and spend the night in a cabin or RV so they can get used to the idea of sleeping out in the wilderness. However, if they have previous camping experience, you can try real camping in a tent under the stars.
Play in the Snow or Go To the Beach
For our final tip on how grandparents and children can have fun outside together, we wanted to focus on activities you can do depending on the weather. Winter is quickly approaching, especially if you live up north, so if you’re going to do things outside, you and the grandkids will have to bundle up. Once you do, you can make a trip to a sledding hill, go ice skating, or even build a snowman together.
If you live too far south for snow and it’s still nice out, it might not be too late to plan a fun day at the beach. Working on sandcastles together or going for a swim are both great ways to have some fun while taking in the sunshine. No matter the weather, there will always be a way to go outside and spend time together.