Summer is upon us, and it is the perfect time for families to engage in healthy summer activities that get them outside, active, and spending quality time together. Here at Montes Medical Group, we love sharing safe & healthy ways loved ones can enjoy the warm weather during the summer months. With children out of school, families have more flexibility when it comes to exploring their communities and partaking in activities they may not be able to during the school year.
Fortunately, families in Southern California have excellent weather and beautiful natural surroundings to enjoy during the summer. Environments like this can make it easier to get children active for the recommended sixty minutes of daily physical activity. There are many options to keep families busy, reduce screen time, and build positive memories together.
So, what are some fun and healthy summer activities for families? Keep reading to learn more!
Try Out Gardening
Gardening can be a wonderful way for families to connect with nature, loved ones, and community members during the summer months. Children can learn about healthy foods and ways to grow their own fruits and vegetables. Gardening is also one of the best healthy summer activities that includes lots of bending, lifting, and digging.
Families can try gardening at home or even at community gardens close to where they live. These gardens may have individual plots for families to rent, while others have communal areas where everyone works together. Community gardens can also offer special programs or activities during the summer, such as educational workshops and nature scavenger hunts.
A great supplement to gardening is a visit to the local farmers’ market. Kids can learn about healthy eating, meet real farmers, and pick out fruits and vegetables they may be curious about. Try out new recipes with any fruits and produce purchased at the market once you get home.
Explore Local Parks, Hiking Trails, and Museums
We are lucky to live in areas with plenty of beautiful parks, hiking trails, and museums. The summer months are a great time for families to take advantage of these local offerings and explore them together. Museums can be highly educational for children in a fun and engaging way. They also provide a great indoor activity option on very hot days.
When venturing outdoors, it’s a good idea to wear hats, bring lots of water, and apply quality sunscreen. Hiking outside of peak sunshine hours (morning or late afternoon) can also be a great way to stay cool while still enjoying the outdoors. To avoid excessive strain on family members, make sure to choose options that are accessible and easy to traverse for everyone going. Click here to read another blog in which we highlight local trails and parks in and around Whittier, California.
Bring on the Water Activities
Summer is the best time of the year to enjoy water activities as a family. There are plenty of swimming pools, beaches, and parks to explore for people looking to cool off on hot days. Families should always ensure sun and water safety for loved ones by using sunscreen and ensuring children are in and around levels of water that are safe for them. It’s also essential to provide shade whenever possible, drink plenty of water, and have snacks on hand.
If any family member can’t swim properly, the summer months can also be a great time to sign up for swim lessons to build confidence in the water and reduce the risk of accidental drowning. Be on the lookout for lifeguards when participating in public water spaces such as local beaches or community pools.
Take Time to Relax and Unplug
Families can take advantage of the summer months to try to relax and unplug from their devices on occasion. For example, “Tech-Free Tuesdays” could be one day of the week in which everyone disconnects from their screens and instead focuses on activities such as board games, reading, cooking, going for a neighborhood walk, or simply taking a nap. Families can also visit their local library and sign up for summer reading challenges that are available.
Taking some time to relax can help with self-reflection and make it easier for families to figure out their priorities together. Journaling can be a great way to do this, and helpful for kids looking to wrap up their thoughts on school and life before a new school year begins in the fall.
Make Time for Friends & Family
The summer months are a wonderful time to reconnect with friends and family. Encourage children to spend time with their friends and set up play dates whenever possible. Families can also invite loved ones over for summer barbeques or pool parties to catch up and spend quality time together.
Families can also travel to places near and far with their loved ones. Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive and involve faraway destinations. Explore your cities and states, try new cafes and restaurants, or even take a staycation. Doing something new together is a great way for families to bond and build positive memories over the summer months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are so many great ways for families to have a fun by engaging in healthy summer activities. Explore your local cities and try to experience something new with your loved ones. Stay safe in the sun and make sure to account for water safety when visiting beaches, pools, and parks. Make some time to relax and unplug from digital screens, opting instead to play games or read a good book. Finally, carve out some time to catch up with loved ones and spend some time enjoying a good meal together.
Here at Montes Medical Group, we wish you all a safe, fun, and healthy summer!