6 Ways to Make Your Backyard Awesome This Summer
Summertime is known for being fun. Whether it’s vacations, trips to the pool, or long days and late evenings at the park, your kids probably enjoy summertime in a way that’s different than the rest of the year. If you’ve got little ones and you’re looking to create a low-key summer that checks all the boxes, consider investing in your own backyard rather than in passes to amusement parks or summer attractions. Check out the tips below for making your backyard the place to be this summer.

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Clear out the clutter
The first step to making your backyard summer-ready is to clear out the clutter. If you want your kids to run and play in the yard then they need room to run and play. Consider clearing out extra brush, hauling away unused or old play equipment, and invest in some space making landscaping and your kids will love the space you create.
Make water available
Nothing says summer like water play. When it comes to making your backyard fun, access to water is a must. Whether you choose a water table, a sprinkler, or a good old-fashioned hose, your kids will love having access to something fun to help them cool down.
Bring on some award-winning toys
Instead of filling your yard with too many toys that don’t get used, consider investing in fewer, better quality toys. ASTRA award winners like the Ambosstoys Ride Along are sure to be crowd pleasers, as are any toys that can be used in multiple ways or that let your kiddos use their imaginations.
Take everyday activities outside
Instead of eating breakfast inside and then heading outside for fun, consider taking every-day activities like meals, arts and crafts, and reading time outdoors. With just a picnic table or a blanket spread on the grass, your kids will have space to enjoy the outdoors no matter what sort of activities they enjoy.
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Create a fort
The best forts can be anything your child imagines it to be. Instead of buying a pre-made pirate ship or princess castle, consider building or buying a much simpler structure that can be dressed up as anything your kids imagine it to be. Feel intimidated by the thought of creating a permanent structure? Consider tossing your kids some sheets, helping them collect some sticks, and letting them build a fort anew each day.
Spend time enjoying it
One key to backyard success is making sure that you actually spend time enjoying the backyard oasis you’ve worked to create. Not only will your kids need to learn to play outside and use their imaginations if they’re used to a different sort of play but they’ll also need plenty of time to explore, create, and discover. Resist the urge to overschedule your kids with out-of-the-home activities and, instead, head into the backyard and stay there as long as possible.
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