The days of social distancing and spending more time at home is the ideal time to rediscover the joys around your own home. Because summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, look no farther than your backyard for the simplest of summer pleasures.

 

Stargaze in your backyard

On a clear night, carry blankets outside and lie on the grass—even more fun if you have a telescope. How many constellations can you identify?

Build a bonfire or campfire

But only if it’s safe and with adult supervision. Or simply toast marshmallows over your grill to make s’ mores.

 

Grow some veggies

If you don’t have a garden space, plant some peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables in flower beds or pots.

 

Plan a photo scavenger hunt

Make a list of items your family or friends can find outside, like “something red” or “three types of flowers.” Whoever snaps photos of the most items on the list wins!

Play water balloon baseball

Have fun trying to hit a wobbly water balloon with a plastic bat. Your yard will be littered with broken balloon pieces afterward, so entice your crew to clean up by offering a popsicle or other frozen treat to all helpers.

Go camping

Camping in your own backyard is a fun, adventurous way to spend the night. Unroll your sleeping bag and fall asleep to the sound of crickets.

Host an outdoor movie night

Rent or borrow a movie projector, pop some popcorn, and break out those inflatable mattresses and pool floats for seating. A white sheet can serve as the screen.

Build your own disc-golf course

In this game, players take turns throwing Frisbees at various targets. Layout a course around the lawn by marking trees and large rocks in chalk (or use chairs, buckets, or baskets). Then designate a “par” for the number of throws players have to hit each target. Keep a tally as you do in golf.

Update your porch or patio

Freshen up your outdoor spaces with pretty plants, patterned pillows, and comfortable outdoor furniture or a new swing.

 

Hang string lights

Add some twinkle to your outdoor space by hanging string lights on your front porch or deck.

 

Sources: www.countryliving.com, www.womansday.com