Summer is here! Introduce your kids to good old-fashioned "fun".

In Canada we are so lucky to have four distinct seasons – each with its own set of fun, family activities. Now that summer is here, we can put on a hat, slap on some sunscreen and head outside for some serious, old-fashioned fun in the sun!

It's no secret that many kids today spend their down time passively in front of a computer screen or video game and that's what they consider "fun". As parents, we know that we also had "fun" without those distractions and back when televisions didn't have 900 stations! Why not think back to what you did as a kid and try some of these activities with your children?

Scavenger Hunt – Invite some friends along and take the kids on an exciting scavenger hunt. Working in groups with at least one adult, have the kids follow clues to find obscure or funny objects right in your own neighbourhood. End it with refreshments and a prize for the winning team that finds the most items on their list.

Picnic in the park – Pack up an old-fashioned wicker basket with traditional picnic fare, spread out a blanket and enjoy! Remember to keep all meat, dairy and perishable items cold with freezer packs and insulated bags.

Go to a drive-in movie – Put the kids into their pajamas, pack up some snacks and head over to the local drive-in for an adventure the kids are sure to remember!

Get lost! (right in your own neighbourhood!) – Walk to the end of your street and then have one of your children flip a coin. If it lands on heads, turn right. If it lands on tails, turn left. Do this every time you come to a corner and see where it takes you!

Summertime means family time and there's no better way to enjoy it than with good, old-fashioned fun! So, turn off the TV, say goodbye to the computer and pack away the video games for a while ... there's much more fun outside the "box"!

General References:
http://www.familieswithpurpose.com
http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/familyfun_2.htm#family_walk