2020 brought some interesting challenges. Everyone had to adjust to the "new normal" of home-centered living and curbside pickups. This shift, however, left some kids with little to do and many hours of free time.
Luckily, 2020 also brought with it a high level of problem-solving, creativity, and a renewed interest in creating fun spaces at home. There are hundreds of ideas for creating that new outdoor or indoor attraction on any kind of budget. But those new additions have to be safe as well.
Some of the bigger additions may require an extra level of protection. That's why trampolines and home insurance are a match made in heaven.
Outdoor Fun
With warmer weather just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about what the kids will be doing to get outside. Some big gatherings and travel plans are still on hold, so it's time to focus on the backyard. There are plenty of opportunities to create new and exciting spaces for the kids to explore. Even if you think you have a small backyard, you can make it something extra special with a big impact.
Lounging and Relaxing
If you're looking for a place for the kids to relax and just enjoy being outside, then a lounge area might be the way to go. These areas can be tailored to fit any kind of budget or aesthetic. For something a little more extravagant, you might try a hanging daybed to swing in the cool summer breeze. For something a little more practical, try a kiddie pool filled with comfy pillows and cozy blankets.
Treehouses are also a great option for outside play spaces if you have the trees. These treetop zones can take any space and provide endless fun for kiddos of any age. Just remember to consider the size and health of your trees before diving into this one.
Summer nights are a great time for families and friends to hang out. Is there a better way to spend a (socially distanced) night outside than with a backyard movie?
All you need is a smartphone projector and a few pieces of poster board from the dollar store and you have your own drive-in movie. Make the next movie night a neighborhood event and keep the backyard fun going all summer long.
Crafts and Games
Lawn games are another great addition to any backyard. You can purchase or construct almost any game right in your backyard. There are more traditional options like horseshoes, cornhole, volleyball, or even badminton.
Other more out-of-the-box options are making an appearance in backyards as well. Lifesize versions of Scrabble, Jenga, checkers and chess, and even Yahtzee can be DIYed at home or purchased online. These are great ways to take the fun of family game night outside and into the summer sun.
For younger kiddos and toddlers there are options, too. An outdoor chalkboard is an easy afternoon project to create and will keep the kids entertained for weeks. You can also add a "busy cart" to the chalkboard area. Fill the cart with chalk, bubbles, books, and jump ropes so the kids have lots of options.
Dirt and Imagination
Getting messy is a byproduct of imaginative play, and there are lots of ways to create those kinds of spaces in the backyard. Take the classic sandbox up a notch with a tent. The tent can be the traditional camping tent for coverage and ease zipper access or something more simple.
Or you can add a little twist to the sandbox idea and create a gravel pit. Fill a large container with rocks and toy trucks or construction vehicles and let the kids loose. You can also expand the gravel pit by creating a natural roadway for those toy trucks with garden pavers. Kids can create city adventures again and again with this setup.
For a little more mess, create a water table. With a few pieces of PVC pipe or lumber and an old sink or plastic containers, kids can splash and play even on the hottest days.
All that water will inevitably lead to mud puddles in the yard. The mess doesn't have to stop the fun, though. Create a "mud kitchen" with pots, pans, and mixing bowls. The kids will love creating new "dishes" to share with all their friends.
Get Moving
There are tons of creative ways to keep kids moving during playtime. Try something fun and exciting like a backyard tightrope. With a few pieces of rope and some ingenuity, the kids will be walking the tightrope in no time.
You can also take an old favorite like hopscotch and give it a permanent place in your backyard playground. Grab some garden pavers, paint them bright colors, and let the kids hopscotch to their heart's content.
Backyard obstacle courses are always a big crowd pleaser, and the options are endless. Try creating your own personal obstacle course using things like balance beams, old tree stumps, and even old tires. Kids will love jumping, running, and crawling through the different obstacles you create.
Bigger Attractions
If your backyard has the space, try creating a mini water park. This doesn't have to be daunting or overly expensive, either. Grab a few Slip n' Slides or set up the hose and a sprinkler or two. Kids will enjoy the chance to cool off as the weather heats up.
Don't forget the always popular trampoline. This is a great option to help kids burn off the last bit of energy as the sun sets. A trampoline also gives you more bang for your buck because it can be used long after summer has left.
Indoor Fun
Whether it's a rainy day or another round of quarantine, there are times when the kids have to stay inside. But that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. There are a ton of great ways to keep kids active and having fun even inside.
Old-School Classics
There are some truly classic indoor games that a lot of parents will remember playing. It's time to bring back the blanket forts and furniture obstacle courses. Even games like "the floor is lava" and "don't let the balloon touch the floor" will give kids hours of fun.
Bring the Outside Indoors
Many people have been taking those bigger outdoor attractions and bringing them inside. If you have the know-how and the basement space then you might be interested in an indoor rock wall. The kids can get out all their energy without leaving the house.
Maybe you have multiple levels in your home. Some people add a slide to their staircases as just another way to get down the stairs in the morning.
These options may seem unattainable, but keep them in mind especially if you find yourself building your own home. Add in that rock wall or stair slide and have a great space for the kids the day you move in.
Safety First -- and a Note About Home Insurance
It's all fun and games, but everyone wants the kids to be safe. It's important to check your homeowners policy after adding some of the bigger activities. Things like trampolines are great backyard additions, but they do present an element of possible injury and liability.
Trampolines can and will affect your coverage and policy. Remember to double-check so everyone and everything is covered this summer. Before you dive into the latest play trends, review a guide on home insurance to make sure you aren't surprised by anything.
About The Author : Laura Gunn is an insurance expert who researches and writes for the insurance comparison site, TheTruthAboutInsurance.com. She is a mom to two active young boys and is passionate about all things playtime.
