---
title: "Get Outside: Budget-Friendly Backyard Fun"
description: There’s plenty of summer weather left to take in. We suggest an afternoon or evening of backyard family fun to create memories that will last a lifetime. Consider these low-cost ways to transform your backyard into fun central.
image: https://blog.ruoff.com/hubfs/shutterstock_595548434.jpg
---
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# Get Outside: Budget-Friendly Backyard Fun
By [Lauren Caggiano](https://blog.ruoff.com/author/lauren-caggiano) on August, 6 2018
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###### Lauren Caggiano
Lauren Caggiano is a Fort Wayne-based copywriter and editor with a nerdy passion for AP Style. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, thrift shopping, fitness and travel. Learn more on her website: www.lovewriteon.com.
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There’s plenty of summer weather left to take in. We suggest an afternoon or evening of backyard family fun to create memories that will last a lifetime. Consider these low-cost ways to transform your backyard into fun central:
##### **FOR TODDLERS:**
**Cool off:** Babies love water. Give them what they want with a hose and [baby pool](http://www.momjunction.com/articles/swimming-pools-for-kids_00396761/#gref)—and let the fun begin! Just make sure the water level is appropriate and you keep a watchful eye on your little one. You might even throw a bath toy or two in to add another dimension of fun.
**Chalk it up:** Got a backyard sidewalk or cement patio? Then you’re set. Chalk drawing is a great way for younger kids to hone their artistic talent without getting too messy. You can find a bucket of chalk at Dollar Stores and other retailers for less than $5. Parents are sure to get their money’s worth.
**Get crafty**: An outdoor picnic table is the perfect alternative to the kitchen table for messy crafts. Think play dough, finger paint and anything glue or glitter.
##### **FOR AGES 4-10:**
**Take your lunch outside:** Who doesn’t love a picnic? Lay down a blanket or beach towel and enjoy a meal together outside. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips and watermelon are ideal foods because they won’t get soggy in heat. Just watch out for ants!
**Look to the stars:** Once day turns into night, the stars really come out. Do some research online to find what [constellations](http://www.astro.wisc.edu/~dolan/constellations/constellationmonth_list.html) are most visible this time of year and turn your gazing into a lesson.
**Explore:** Kids are naturally curious. Feed their sense of wonder with a scavenger hunt. You might include on the list a few common things found outside (like a dandelion) as well as some less obvious ones(like a bird feather). The first one who checks off all the items gets a prize. Maybe a healthy [home-made popsicle](http://www.superhealthykids.com/recipe-category/popsicles-and-frozen-treats/)?
**Have a fight:** The only time you might encourage your kids to fight is when it’s with [water balloons](http://howtoadult.com/fill-water-balloon-2107537.html) or water guns. Buy thicker balloons from the store that won’t easily explode. Attach to the faucet, fill up, twist tie and you’re in business!
##### **FOR AGES 11+**
**Host a neighborhood talent show:** Encourage both children and adults to participate. Your neighbor might be waiting to channel her inner diva or rock star.
**While away a lazy afternoon:** A $25 hammock from a hardware store can provide hours of utility. Make some lemonade and encourage your child to hop on and read the afternoon away.
**Start a garden:** [Gardening provides a deeper connection](https://blog.ruoff.com/companion-planting-in-the-garden) to the earth and our food systems. You might start with a few [low-maintenance varieties](http://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/easy-plants-for-kids-to-grow-pictures) like tomatoes or potatoes. Kids will learn responsibility having to manage such tasks as regular watering.
##### **Backyard fun awaits!**
Encourage kids to ditch the electronics and get outside for some fresh air. Just be sure they put on sunscreen and stay hydrated. Don’t forget to snap a photo or two to capture these memories. They won’t stay little for long!
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