Paint the Town (Sidewalk) Wet: Paint the town—or maybe just your driveway—with sidewalk chalk or a paintbrush dipped in a pail of water. Don’t just send the kids out to express their artistic side, but join in the fun. Dip feet in the water and make patterns of wet footprints. Look at the differences in size of footprints. See how long it takes the sun to dry them. Mark the changing shadows. Let your child take the lead in creating pictures and games.
 

Chase fireflies: Fireflies or lightening bugs still seem magical as they twinkle in the summer twilight. Gentle hands are needed to capture one to watch it glow for a few moments. Then, release it and chase after another. An application of mosquito repellent is a good idea before evening outdoor activities at this time of year.
 

Water balloon or squirt gun games: The best thing about hot days is the opportunity they provide for getting wet. Balloons filled with water or squirt guns can add lots of wet fun to traditional games like tag, dodge ball, hide ‘n’ seek. Some common sense ground rules like wearing shoes and no face shots can keep these games safe and fun for everyone.
 

Go for an off-road bike ride on the Katy Trail or other paved bikeway in a community park or neighborhood. These smooth, fairly level trailways make good training ground for novice cyclers, with scenery interesting enough for more experienced riders too. Some adults supervision is advisable; helmets are essential.

Water parks provide lots of cool fun (pun definitely intended!) slides, fountains, and tubing on a man-made river are examples of some of the wet fun these attractions offer. Unlike traditional swimming pools, water skills are not necessary. All you need are a bathing suit and a desire to join in the action. Kids of this age don’t require as close supervision as younger ones, but do still need an adult to check in with occasionally.
 

Play ball! Whether the game is baseball, football, soccer, basketball, or one the kids make up themselves, playing ball is fun and active. When kids play on their own, they also learn how to set and enforce rules, and the meaning of fair play. Tennis, volleyball, croquet, foursquare, kickball—there is sure to be a ball game for all.

Show off swimming skills in a neighborhood or community pool. Play games like Marco Polo, water volleyball, keep away, raft races. See who can hold their breath longest under water. Try handstands, forward and backward rolls.
 

Take a walk on the wild side by taking a hike. Trails for varying skill levels abound in county, state and national parks. State and national parks often have printed information about trail length and difficulty. Speaking with a ranger or other staff member often yields great tips like where wildlife has been seen recently, or good places along the trail to stop for a snack. Always carry water, first aid kit, snack, and working flashlight. Tell someone where you are going and, most importantly, stay on the trail.

Paddle your own canoe or rent one to float one of the beautiful streams that flow through our state. Some paddlers like to just float along, while others want the challenge of rocks and riffs to navigate. Check with park or outfitter personnel about streams that fit your skill level. Always wear a life jacket and plenty of sunscreen.
 

Play is good for every age. Games like horseshoes, washer toss, and Frisbee golf require simple equipment and a little bit of eye-hand coordination. They involve some movement without being strenuous, and are really more about fun than fitness. And who couldn’t use more fun?