8 fun garden activities for children this summer (that cost next to nothing)

We’re almost halfway through the summer holidays, and perhaps you’ve noticed it too: the first days out are behind us, we’ve been to the swimming pool plenty of times, and the dreaded question ‘What shall we do today?’ is echoing through the house more and more often.

But fear not: for anyone feeling a bit at a loss about what to come up with next, we’ve rounded up the best days out in this blog!

And the best bit of all? You don’t have to travel far at all: the best summer memories are often made right at home.

Welcome to the Costa del Back Garden. With these 8 simple ideas, you can transform your garden into a place full of adventure, creativity and relaxation. These eight activities cost next to nothing, but are guaranteed to provide hours of fun and memories that will last a long time.

 

1. Make a water slide in the garden

One of the best summer activities for children? A homemade water slide.

Lay a sturdy plastic sheet on the lawn, wet it with the garden hose and, if you like, add a little washing-up liquid for extra sliding fun. Ideal for hot summer’s days when a bit of a cool-down is more than welcome.

 

2. Organise a giant bubble-blowing competition

Blowing bubbles remains a classic, but why not take it a step further?

Make your own large bubble ring using string and sticks, or use a ready-made large ring. Challenge everyone to create the biggest or longest-lasting bubble. A simple activity that continues to fascinate young and old alike.

3. 3. Organise a treasure hunt in the garden 

Hide little surprises amongst the plants, under flower pots or behind a tree, and create a fun treasure hunt with clues.

Adapt the tasks to suit the children’s ages and make the hunt as easy or as challenging as you like!

3-44. Set up an open-air cinema 

Why watch a film indoors when you can watch it outdoors?

Hang up a white sheet, set up a projector (or keep it simple and just use your laptop) and make yourselves comfortable with blankets, cushions and a bowl of popcorn. That way, you’ll create a real cinema experience in your own garden.

 

5. Go camping in your own back garden

You don’t always have to go to a campsite to go camping.

Pitch a tent in the garden, eat together outdoors, tell exciting stories and spend a night sleeping under the stars. For children, it feels like a great adventure, whilst you still have all the comforts – or your bed – of home close by.

6. Paint stones as garden decorations 

Go out together to look for nice flat stones and let the children paint them with flowers, animals or cheerful figures.

The little works of art can then be given a nice spot amongst the plants or along a garden path. That way, summer will remain visible in the garden for a long time to come.

 

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7. Organise an ice cream tasting session 

Buy different flavours of ice cream or make your own water-based ice lollies together.

Let everyone have a taste and award points for flavour, colour and originality. Who will discover or create this summer’s favourite ice cream flavour?

8. Stargaze together

Round off a warm summer’s day with a blanket on the grass.

Look for constellations, count shooting stars and enjoy the peace and quiet. This activity may seem incredibly simple, but this unassuming moment might just create the most beautiful memories.

 

Why a lovely garden makes all the difference

Whether you’re building a water slide, going camping or playing for hours on end, a comfortable garden makes everything just that bit more fun.

A soft and clean surface ensures that children can play without a care in the world. Say goodbye to mud and bare patches, and keep only the romping, laughter and enjoyment with Resigrass artificial grass: a garden is much more than just a patch of green. It’s the place where families spend time together, where children play carefree and where the most wonderful summer memories are made.

So… head outside, turn your back garden into your very own ‘Costa del Back Garden’ and make the most of the rest of the summer holidays!