There are lots of opportunities for outdoor play in summer. Outdoor active play supports healthy development – and it’s fun! Learn about the benefits of active play in Let’s Be Active!, a Family Literacy Week backgrounder.

Summer Outdoor Play Activities

Find ideas for summer outdoor play in:

• 5 fun activities that can help build your child’s bike-riding skills
• 9 low-cost sports: Keep your kids moving without breaking the bank
• 10 Fun Bubble Activities for Kids
• The Best Outdoor Water Activities to Keep Your Kids Cool This Summer
• Outdoor Family Games that Everyone Will Want to Play

Need more ideas? Visit the Outdoor Play Canada Adventure Calendar, for a new idea every day.

Outdoor Play Canada also offers The Active Toy Guide, a free online gift-giving guide filled with ideas for toys to keep kids of all ages moving. Toys are organized into 9 categories: Classics, Family Game Time, Imagine It, Let’s Play Ball, Outdoor Fun, Physical Literacy Picks, Stocking Stuffers, Sweet Rides, and Yard Games.

Encouraging Outdoor Play

What about children who don’t want to play outside?

Find tips for encouraging outdoor play and overcoming other obstacles in Why outdoor play is more important than ever.

For older children, find ideas in 7 ways to inspire your tween to get outside and active this summer.

Safety Tips

While outdoor risky play has lots of benefits and is encouraged, adults are responsible for protecting children from hazards.

Hydration is important. Dehydration is more likely in hot summer months.

Find more tips in:

• Keep children cool! Protecting your child from extreme heat
• Sun safety tips for parents

Have fun outdoors this summer!