It’s so important for all of us to make space for a little play in our lives! According to a report from Gwen Dwar P.H.D., play can improve memory, help with the growth of your cerebral cortex and brain cells, improve attention span and academic focus, improve problem-solving skills and imagination — and more.
And where better to engage in play than at the park! Indoor and outdoor park activities are a great way to get moving and have fun. But in our current climate, it can feel hard to visit your favorite local spots or enjoy everything the park has to offer.
That’s where we come in. Let us help you discover new ways to play, inside or out. You don’t have to go far to have fun — or even leave your house.
Keep reading to discover five park activities you can do at home, at the park, indoors, or in the backyard!
A Great Way to Play #1 — Sports!
Sports are a great way to engage in play, whether you’re at home or the park. All you need are a few fun supplies and a little creative spirit.
Set up trashcans in the driveway or lawn to create goalposts and play a match of soccer. Grab a baseball mitt and practice your pitching. Or, if you’re on your own for the day, hit a few forearms and backhands against your garage or the side of your house to sharpen your tennis skills.
A Great Way to Play #2 — Walking & Hiking!
Sometimes the idea of hiking gets a little romanticized. As a result, you might think you can only hit the trails if you live in a vast, roaming landscape out West. Well, we have good news!
You can always get out a go for a walk around the neighborhood or your local community. And chances are, no matter where you live, you’re most likely close to a state or city park — which nearly always have fun trails to explore.
But, if that’s just not an option for your current situation, then don’t forget — even your home can become a far-off adventure with just a little imagination. Have fun with it!
A Great Way to Play #3 — Playgrounds!
Most community parks have jungle gyms, monkey bars, slides — you name it. And even the more stripped-down playgrounds typically have swings or balance beams. So, engage your inner ninja warrior and test your wits on your local “course.”
A Great Way to Play #4 — Scavenger Hunts!
Nothing ignites imagination more than a fun scavenger hunt. And whether you’re at home or the park, inside or out, you can always put together an exciting “x” marks the spot for you and your friends or family.
Make it a challenge and stick with it! It’s great for your brain and body.
A Great Way to Play #5 — Picnics!
Get those creative muscles cooking! And learn how to plan a picnic. Picnics are a great way to play whether you’re sitting on the carpet in your living room or fifteen minutes away on a picnic bench. Either way is just right.
Prepare your most rustic, ingredients (whether that be full-blown charcuterie or a simple smattering of cheese and bologna).
Enjoy Park Activities Wherever You Are!
You can be anywhere and at any age to enjoy park activities. And whether you want to explore a playground, go on a scavenger hunt, play sports, hike, or even lay a picnic — today is the right day to start. Engage in play and have fun.
To learn more everyday tips, check out the rest of our site for all the latest!
