Summer Fun is Outdoor Fun! Current conditions may have altered our normal schedules, but they also make us anxious to get outside. Here are some fun ways to gather with your grandchildren and enjoy some outdoor activities (and some indoor ones for those rainy days). You and they may even learn a thing or two, as well! Always remember to abide by health and safety recommendations.

Biking and Hiking
These are two simple activities that require little equipment and keep you moving. Look for open trails, parks, and even railroad tracks!

Water Sports
Fishing is as old as fish themselves. A quiet spot and some simple bait and tackle are just the thing for a lazy day and a good talk!
Boating, canoeing, and rafting are good ways to see the scenery and have some adventures!
Feed the ducks, swans, geese, and whatever other waterfowl live in your area. Be sure to first check to see what is safe for your feathered friends!

Birdwatching
No matter where you live, there are no doubt some species of bird in your neighborhood (or within a short walk or drive). Get out your binoculars, a bird book, maybe a smartphone for online research, and look to the trees. Oh yes, don't forget your camera!

Nature Walk
Birds, bees, bugs, and other critters are all over. Find a nice field or park or forest, dress appropriately, bring the binoculars, bug repellent, camera, and a notebook, and see what you can see!

Picnic
Simple enough. A nice place to spread your blanket, maybe a park with benches, or a familiar back yard, some yummy food, and the grandkids. What can be simpler yet grander?

Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts work well indoors and outdoors (but outdoors is more fun!). Make a list of simple items like birds, bugs, rocks, leaves, maybe certain buildings and monuments, and write and draw them on a sheet of paper. Check them off as you find them!

Arts and Crafts
Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment when making something useful!
Build a kite
Build a bird house or feeder
Make a pillow or blanket for a needy person
Make a family quilt out of bits of cloth that mean something special
Make your own pillow or cushion
Remember tie-dyed shirts? They're back!
How about the ancient art of paper-folding, called origami? Make decorative figures to decorate your room or bring cheer to someone?
Now may be the time to stencil your walls or create a "living" stencil by using finger paints on little hands to create memorable images on poster board.
Build a model airplane or car from a kit or find a pattern for balsa wood airplanes or paper kites, boomerangs, etc. Then get out there and play!

Food
There are online recipes for making ice cream, popsicles, and other treats. Perfect for that picnic!

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