Summer fun with a child doesn’t take a lot of equipment … it just takes you!

No kid should spend the summer inside.  Mentors can help with fun outside activities!  But there are some important guidelines to follow to help keep your summer fun safe.

• Drink plenty of water.  On those days when the thermometer tops 80 degrees, you just can’t take too many water breaks.
  
• Pace yourself.  When you’re having fun with a child or teen, it’s easy to forget how tired you’re getting or how much the sun may be taking its toll on both of you.  Alternate “fast paced” and slower activities … your body will thank you!
  
• Don’t forget the sunscreen.  Take the time to apply some on yourself, and make sure your child or teen companion is protected, too.

Got your sunscreen on?  Ready with the cool shades?  Here are some fun activities for a hot day — or any day.  They’re all favorite “city games” that don’t take much special equipment, and can be played with as few as two people, or in small teams, and are guaranteed to spark some sweet summer smiles.

• Got a broomstick and a ball … or half a ball?   Introduce a child or teen to stickball, a fun summer game that can be played anywhere.  Check out http://www.streetplay.com/stickball/.
  
• What takes even less equipment than stickball?   Stoopball, a traditional city game that can be played one-on-one, or in teams.  Visit http://www.streetplay.com/thegames/stoopb01.htm.
  
• Don’t have a ball?   You can still have a ball!  Pitching pennies is a game that really lets you put in your two cents.  Toss a penny toward a wall … whoever is closer to the wall, wins.  Sounds simple?  Try it with the young person in your life!

What were some of your favorite games?  Share them with a young person this summer … and create some wonderful hot weather memories for both of you.