Planning Back Yard Fun

Sand Play: Shovels, pails, sifters, rakes, water jugs and various size and shaped containers.

Toys: Balls, parachute, hula hoops and frisbees are toys that never go out of style.

Garden center: Dirt, shovels, watering tins, seeds, and gloves The children can plant fruit, vegetables or flowers. Add a compost bin to open up the curiosity in the young children. Make a sundial or rain gauge to foster scientific experience.

Nature center: Have table where you can regularly place items right from mother nature's back yard. Rocks, leaves, shells, nuts, pine-cones, nuts, branches, are just to name a few. Have a shaded and grass covered area for relaxing and quiet play.

Table center: To use as a picnic area for eating meals or snacks. Use the tables as an art corner. Why not take your art's and crafts outdoor? Painting, drawing, collage making, cutting and gluing outdoors. Playdough and reading time can also be enjoyed here.

Swings and Climbing Structure: The number of structures depends on three things. The first is the numbers of children you have the more you'll need structures. The space available will also determine the number of structures you'll have. The third will be quantity and quality of your other centers. If you set out various and interesting centers , the children will be busy in other places.

A little planning will keep the children busy, have fun all while getting a little fresh air.

Editor's note: The centers can also be used during the winter. More physical play will take place to keep warm mostly the garden and eating centers would not be a good idea.

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