Fun, breezy activities to enjoy with kids as summer approaches

MANILA, Philippines — These days, kids’ idea of fun activities is to sit in a corner, zone other people out, and engage in mobile battles.

They get so engrossed with their gadgets, most especially their mobile phone, and click away until their fingers hurt from repeated action, their neck and arms stiffen, and their eyes get strained. Well, it’s this generation’s idea of fun, and it’s important to let them have their share of what they think is fun.

But it is equally important for parents to remove them from their virtual world from time to time and make them — coerce them, if you must — pursue other activities, more physical activities that will get their sedentary bodies moving and their cognitive skills working. Playing outdoors and being one with nature, for one, can give their physical and mental growth a much-needed boost. After all, there’s nothing like bonding with siblings and neighborhood friends, running around and hopping at times, but laughing out loud all the time.

So, gather the kids, escape the house on long weekends, appreciate the garden on regular weekends, and try one of these fun, bonding activities that you can enjoy with your kids:

Having a plan can be helpful when you take your child outside to play. A scavenger hunt is a perfect engaging activity that teaches kids to use their senses in new ways and keeps them mindfully occupied. This is something you can do outside your home or in nearby parks. Incorporate what your kids are interested in, such as characters from their favorite TV series, to keep them hooked. Ensure your kids’ safety by checking around the vicinity and playing only in places that are well-kept, clean and fenced-in. Don’t forget to take extra precautions and use safety equipment such as helmets and protective gear.

This activity doesn’t require a big garden for you to make it happen. Give your kids an easy introduction to nature by getting them involved in gardening from a young age. They’ll be physically and mentally exhausted in a healthy way, thanks to the meditative nature of this activity. While it's fun to get your hands dirty from time to time, remember to practice garden safety and proper hygiene, like washing