Outdoor Activities

Creative ways to play right in your own backyard.

These outdoor toys are designed to get kids moving -- really moving.

Educational opportunities abound in nature, from the magical transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly to the roar of the ocean tucked inside a seashell. An appreciation of nature helps kids understand that they're part of a larger universe and that all living things serve a purpose, says Susan Buttross, M.D., chief of child development and behavioral pediatrics at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, in Jackson. Try these ten fun family activities to spark your child's interest in the natural world and to build his imagination, inquisitiveness, and compassion.

Looking for some fun outdoor activities for you and your family? Be sure to try these simple, imaginative, and fun activities!

Free (and almost-free) activities to keep kids active all season long.

20 great games to cure cabin fever.

... of activities to delight toddlers and preschoolers. All you need are a few simple, inexpensive supplies. A bag... eyeballs (aka peeled grapes) at the local haunted house? This activity offers the same thrills without...

Toss out the junk food and start making snack time fun again! Check out these 20 kid-friendly ingredients that make great snacks, plus an easy recipe for each one.

... out these great resources for more great family activities:...

When Parents set out to find the top zoos in the country, we identified 50 where kids can pet and often feed the wildlife. Then we narrowed it down to these leaders of the pack that your little tyke will love.

Whether you're at the doctor's office, the airport, or the post office, waiting is never pleasant. But when you're accompanied by your small child, it can be positively harrowing. As long as you're not afraid to be a little goofy, these simple games can help you head off disaster and have some fun too.

Find out what skills you can expect your child to master at 2, 3, and 4 years old.

Bunny cupcakes, Easter-egg cookies, and other delicious desserts to celebrate spring.

... activities with the kids that will create special memories. Geocaching is a real-world outdoor treasure hunt... social development, and create strong relational bonds. Here are 10 new ideas for outdoor and indoor... and outdoor stores rent out kayaks or canoes by the hour or day. Your local park may also have paddleboats...

Time to hit the pool! Make sure you keep your little ones safe -- memorize the following essential swim-smart tips from Safe Kids USA.

Watch for these milestones to occur between 18-24 months.

Want a delicious meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen and a long list of ingredients? Then these family-friendly dinner recipes are just for you.

What kid doesn't love to eat with his hands? Give him a break from utensils, and serve up these easy, yummy bites for dinner.

Trust us -- we know these top tips work! We tapped the experts -- Parents.com readers, who swear by each and every one.

Tired of nagging your child to do the right thing? Skip the lecture! Instead, add these super-fun ways to teach honesty, responsibility, compassion, patience, and more to your parenthood playbook. (We promise she won't even notice the lesson.)

Enjoy this sparkly melody while looking at stars in the night sky.

Every moment together counts, so make the most of family time with these perfect ideas.

Your toddler is 3 and ready for more independence. Take a look at what this exciting year will bring and how to prepare for what's next.

Our age-by-age guide to water lessons, games, and safety.

The smart parent's guide to coping with your kid's fits.