Backyard Idea: The Summer Fun Station

child playing on floor — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Set up this simple, budget-friendly system on a covered porch or patio or tuck it into a garage. It'll help you have the best summer yet.

1 of 7

Kid sitting in front of yellow shelf full of bins and stuff — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Set Up the Base

An old shelving or storage unit or (as we used) a thrift store baker's rack can be spruced up for duty with a fresh coat of paint. We applied rust-resistant spray paint, a good choice for outdoor use.

Go Play Outside: Great Outdoor Games

2 of 7

Green bucket labeled "SPORTS" — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Divide & Label

Make it easy to find supplies for different activities by storing them in labeled bins. Go for sturdy containers that can stand up to a little weather. We used rubber tubs, customized with chalkboard tape (available at craft stores). Tubs, $2.49 to $31.99, tubtrugs.com

8 Ways to Safely Play in the Driveway

3 of 7

Stack of colorful labeled fruit crates — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Divide & Label

Make it easy to find supplies for different activities by storing them in labeled bins. Go for sturdy containers that can stand up to a little weather. We used fruit crates, sanded and coated with acrylic paint to protect fingers from splinters.

4 of 7

White-and-blue can with plant inside — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Grow Some Friends

For a learning element, let kids choose some "pet plants" at the garden center. Have them pot them up in painted cans (for safety, cover any sharp edges with duct tape), and set them in the sun whenever they play.

5 of 7

Blue cooler labeled "COOL" next to chair with ukulele in it — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Add Refreshments

Stock a small cooler with ice, drinks, and snacks each morning. We tagged this unit with acrylic paint and stencils.

Ideas to Make Any Sports Season Fun

6 of 7

Yellow tray of rocks with flip-flops over it and sprayer hose under it — Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Photograph by Sabrina Helas

Keep Tootsies Tidy

Playing outside, little feet get grimy. Set this foot-washing station—a plastic basket filled with smooth rocks—in a spot with good drainage, close to your home's door, to keep dirt from coming inside. Kids stand in the basket and hose their toes; the dirt drains away through the rocks while the station stays clean. Keep a towel nearby for drying.

7 of 7