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10 creative outdoor activities to keep kids moving at home

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Young boys (3 yrs and 6yrs) in capes playing in backyard
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With the recent school closures extended across the country, both parents and kids are dealing with a new reality that involves staying at home for weeks to come.

While it can be tempting to let the kids settle down in front of the TV or computer for hours at a time now that they’re not at school, it’s also important to encourage physical activity too. Not only does it help improve fitness and encourage a stronger heart, bones and healthier muscles, but it also helps kids improve their concentration and lower stress levels.

ALSO SEE: A beginner's guide to starting a garden: Everything you need

Unfortunately, according to a 2018 Participaction study, only 39 per cent of 5 to 17 year olds in Canada are reaching their recommended levels of 60 minutes of physical daily activity. There are plenty of creative and fun ways to get kids moving though, and now that the weather is slowly warming up it’s the ideal time to get outdoors.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best outdoor games to get kids and adults alike moving.

89mm Bocce with Carrying Case

89mm Bocce with Carrying Case. Image via Wayfair.
89mm Bocce with Carrying Case. Image via Wayfair.

With zero setup time and an included carrying case, this classic lawn game is sure to fire up some friendly competition.

SHOP IT: Wayfair, $70 (originally $127)

Ninja Line 30 ft. Intro Kit with 7 Hanging Obstacles

Ninja Line 30 ft. Intro Kit with 7 Hanging Obstacles. Image via Indigo.
Ninja Line 30 ft. Intro Kit with 7 Hanging Obstacles. Image via Indigo.

Turn your backyard into a swinging obstacle course with this challenging take on traditional monkey bars.

SHOP IT: Indigo, $120

3-in-1 Tailgate Ladder Ball Set

3-in-1 Tailgate Ladder Ball Set. Image via Wayfair.
3-in-1 Tailgate Ladder Ball Set. Image via Wayfair.

For kids who easily lose interest, this set includes three games (cornhole, washer toss and ladderball) for triple the fun.

SHOP IT: Wayfair, $75

Roll With It! Giant Inflatable Colorful Rolling Wheel

Roll With It! Giant Inflatable Colorful Rolling Wheel. Image via HearthSong.
Roll With It! Giant Inflatable Colorful Rolling Wheel. Image via HearthSong.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a lot of outdoor space, let your kids make the most of it with this fun inflatable wheel.

SHOP IT: HearthSong, $140 ($99 USD)

Eastpoint Good 4-Player Croquet Set

Eastpoint Good 4-Player Croquet Set. Image via Canadian Tire.
Eastpoint Good 4-Player Croquet Set. Image via Canadian Tire.

Another classic lawn game, this croquet set for four comes with everything your family needs to enjoy an afternoon of fun.

SHOP IT: Canadian Tire, $35

Skywalker Trampolines 48-Inch Classic Trampoline Mini Bouncer

Skywalker Trampolines 48-Inch Classic Trampoline Mini Bouncer. Image via Hudson's Bay.
Skywalker Trampolines 48-Inch Classic Trampoline Mini Bouncer. Image via Hudson's Bay.

If you’re looking to make the most of a small outdoor space, this miniature trampoline is ideal for keeping kids active without the need for a large yard.

SHOP IT: Hudson’s Bay, $125

Flexi Fort

Flexi Fort. Image via Indigo.
Flexi Fort. Image via Indigo.

Encourage their creativity and engineering skills with this indoor/outdoor build your own fort kit that can be customized into any shape imaginable.

SHOP IT: Indigo, $57

Kids Bowling Set

Kids Bowling Set. Image via Etsy.
Kids Bowling Set. Image via Etsy.

Just because you can’t make it out to the bowling alley, doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a game at home.

SHOP IT: Etsy, $35

Little Tikes Pogo-It

Little Tikes Pogo-It. Image via Toys R Us.
Little Tikes Pogo-It. Image via Toys R Us.

Kids can work on their balance and coordination with this hands-free bouncer that comes complete with lights, music, and sounds for hours of active fun.

SHOP IT: Toys R Us, $60

Classic Aluminum YBike Explorer Pedal Go Kart

Classic Aluminum YBike Explorer Pedal Go Kart. Image via HearthSong.
Classic Aluminum YBike Explorer Pedal Go Kart. Image via HearthSong.

For a fun alternative to a regular bicycle, this pedal-powered go kart gives kids a full-body workout using their arms and legs to steer.

SHOP IT: HearthSong, $340 ($239 USD)

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