Summer Fun In Your Own Back Yard

Sometimes its the simple things in life that are best. Kids remember a book better when it's read as a family. They enjoy vacation more if mom and dad are laughing and having fun instead of stressed about the next best thing to see and do. It's true about your own back yard too. While many times we go to great pains to save up for the latest and best back yard set, kids enjoy four boards thrown together with a blanket over it that they made better.

Here is a simple activity that you can do in your back yard that will not only keep your kids brains going this summer but is easy for anyone. It's called What is in a Square Foot?


Here is what you need:

• 4 Pieces of 12 inch string for each person
• 1 Ruler for each person
• Magnifying Glass per person
• Pencil and paper

Mark off a square foot by laying down your string in a square pattern. Use your ruler and magnifying glass to measure and see all the interesting things in your square foot. Draw and write about each item you found.
Many times you will find all sorts of bugs, mini plants, small pieces of trash or toys. When your done compare notes. Did anyone find something unusual? Did they find a lot?

It's a simple little activity, but opens the door to so much more. Take time this summer to enjoy your kids and nature.