Playing at local parks has been a favorite pastime for many years. In 1686, Governor Thomas Dongan of New York granted the Dongan Charter. A portion of this charter stated that vacant areas of land should be cared for, thus creating city parks. Today, municipal parks and gardens total in the thousands all throughout the world.
July 6 is Hop-a-Park Day. This day is designed to get you and your children outside to enjoy local parks and also reap a variety of physical and mental benefits. Here are eight suggestions for keeping your children smiling and having fun while spending the day outside at your local park.
1. Tag
Tag is a favorite game of many children. The rules are simple: One person is "It" and he or she chases the other kids. Once he tags another individual, that person is "It." This game is also a favorite for many parents as it releases much energy that the children store up and provides excellent fitness points.
2. Hot Lava
Hot Lava is a game that uses much imagination and playground equipment. The rules of this game are also easy to understand. Simply get from one end of the playground to the other without touching the ground. The ground is hot lava. If touched, you burn. This game is a fun way for children to utilize the playground and let their imagination soar.
3. Frisbee
This activity is ideal for older children. If your local park has a large open field, take your children and a Frisbee and let them have a good time. If you can gather enough individuals, play a game of ultimate Frisbee, or just throw the Frisbee back and forth to each other.
4. Swings
Spend time on the swings. Push your children on the swings and watch the smiles on their faces. Plus, it is excellent fitness points for you.
5. Red Rover
Red Rover is a favorite childhood game, but it requires a large area for running. Gather your neighborhood kids and begin a large game. The children will enjoy playing with one another, running and spending time outside. Plus, by inviting other neighborhood kids, it is a great way for you to meet and get to know other parents in the neighborhood.
6. Duck, Duck, Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is another outdoor game that requires plenty of room for running. Find an open area and spend time playing this favorite childhood game. Once again, you can gather the neighborhood kids together and enjoy spending time getting to know the other neighborhood parents.
7. Fly Kites
Flying kits is an activity that is ideal for older children. The downside to this activity is the weather conditions need to be just right for the kite to fly. But if you are lucky enough for perfect weather, it is a fun and worthwhile activity that amazes children.
8. Jump rope
Jump rope is an activity that is hard to do indoors. It requires an ample amount of room to jump without hitting something or someone. Take a few jump ropes to the park and let your children jump. This is an excellent exercise for your children. If they participate for an extended period of time, you can be assured they will have a good night's sleep.
Spend a day getting away from the TV, video games, computer screens and more. Let your children enjoy the outdoors and get a few fitness points too as they celebrate Hop A Park Day with you.
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