Can we reminisce on our childhoods for a second?
I loved spending all day outside, from dusk to dawn, playing with the other kids in my neighborhood. I remember being in the front yard climbing a tree and swinging from a rope tied around a branch. I would be over in the neighbor’s yard and my mom would have to holler out that dinner was ready and I would come scurrying in so I could eat and get back to playing. When I was told it was time to come inside and get ready for bed, I would beg for more time to play. Nowadays as a summer nanny, all the kids I watch is play on their iPads, iPhones, or watch the television. I have to bribe the children to get outside and running around. It’s upsetting to see that kids today do not understand that there is a whole world outside that allows for endless fun, which does not involve technology. Sure in this day in age technology has taken over the world but I think that it is so important that children exposed to the world without it. My fondest childhood memories are from the summertime, running around barefoot, and having endless amounts of energy to run around for hours. So, whether you are trying to get the kids you babysit to play outside or just want to relive the glory days of having carefree summers, here are 13 games that are a blast from the past and need to be shared with the younger generations to keep them away from screens and outside in the yard, keeping traditions alive.
1. Capture the Flag
Two bandanas, two teams, and your sneaky game face is all you need to enjoy this game for hours and hours.
2. First Bounce Fly
When it comes to first bounce fly you have to be a little aggressive when trying to snag the ball out of air or off the first bounce. Keep your eye on the prize (or ball in this case).
3. Ghost in the Graveyard
A little creepy but a whole lot of fun!
4. Kick the Can
Save your soup can from lunch for a pick up game in the evening.
5. Spud
I hope everyone remembers how to count. If not, we are in trouble. Throw the ball straight in the air and run away as far as you can for safety.
6. Leap Frog
Children have huge imaginations and this game would be a huge hit if they love animals. Who doesn't like to act like a frog?!
7. Hopscotch
Getting out the sidewalk chalk to doodle? Doodle a hopscotch and kill two birds with one stone!
8. Double Dutch
It's time to go back into the archives of your brain and dig up those catchy jump rope songs.
9. Red Rover
Red rover, red rover send the kids on outside!
10. Sharks and Minnows
Children love to have control and power so when they are a shark tagging out the minnows, of course they will enjoy themselves.
11. Four Square
The original game of Gaga. The original is always better anyway.
12. Sardines
Kids love hide and seek so shake things up with a game of sardines.
13. Stuck in the Mud
Freeze tag. Not literal mud. No one wants to deal with that mess.
In conclusion, adults are kids at heart. These games from our childhood are perfect for all ages and can entertain everyone for hours throughout the year and especially in the summer when the kids have nothing else to do but sit around. Change the children's focus from the technology that is inside to the physical activity and fun that is waiting outside!
