Kid-Friendly Summer Activities That Support Healthy Development

As summer kicks off in Edmonton, parents are looking for kid-friendly summer activities that are fun, engaging, and also support their child’s physical and cognitive development. At Forward Physiotherapy & Wellness, we understand how important movement is for growing bodies. In this blog, our team shares simple activity ideas that help your child stay active, build coordination, and avoid screen-time overload.

Why Movement Matters in Summer

Physical activity in childhood is directly linked to:

• Better gross motor skills

• Stronger balance and coordination

• Reduced risk of injury

• Improved mental health and self-regulation

• Healthy sleep patterns

Summer offers the perfect opportunity for open-ended play and outdoor exploration—critical for muscle development and movement learning.

1. Nature Walk Obstacle Course (Ages 2–10)

Turn your local park or trail into a mini obstacle course:

• Step over logs

• Balance on curbs or beams

• Crawl under tree branches

• Hop on marked spots with sidewalk chalk

Encourages: balance, coordination, sensory exploration, imaginative play.

🧠 Pro tip: Let your child create the route to build planning skills and confidence!

2. Backyard Animal Yoga

Use animal-themed yoga poses like:

• Downward Dog (hamstring stretch)

• Bear Crawl (core strength)

• Flamingo Stand (balance)

Have your child hold each pose for 10–20 seconds or turn it into a memory matching game.

Promotes: core stability, focus, strength, and flexibility.

3. Water Balloon Relay (Ages 4+)

Instead of just tossing water balloons, set up a relay:

• Carry balloons with a spoon

• Crawl under a pool noodle holding your balloon

• Balance one on your head across a short distance

Great for: dynamic balance, motor planning, and family fun!

4. Park Hopping Playground Challenge

Edmonton has many beautiful community playgrounds. Challenge your child to:

• Climb different types of ladders

• Jump from one platform to another

• Cross monkey bars or hanging ropes

Targets: upper body strength, grip, spatial awareness, and courage.

📍 Top Edmonton Playgrounds to Try:

• Castle Downs Park

• Hudson Park

• Rapperswill Spray Park

5. Sidewalk Chalk Hopscotch + Patterns

Draw simple mazes, zigzags, or number sequences and have kids:

• Walk backward or sideways

• Jump (with two feet or one!)

• Toss beanbags and follow patterns

Improves: coordination, proprioception, and visual-motor integration.

Bonus Tip: Make Movement Part of Routine

Not every summer day needs to be structured. Encourage:

• Biking to the library or grocery store

• Nature scavenger hunts or bug hunts 

• Obstacle courses with cushions or cones

• Dance parties after dinner

When to Seek Help

Consult your doctor if your child:

• Avoids running or jumping

• Falls frequently or seems uncoordinated

• Is delayed in any motor milestones

• Complains of growing pains or tight muscles (Book a Physiotherapy Session)