The following post originally appeared on Simple Kids in May 2010.

Here in the Midwest, the warmer days are being ushered in with the return of bikes, trikes, skateboards, and wagons rolling down the sidewalks in my neighborhood.  While we have been experiencing our fair share of rainy days this Spring, when the sun is shining my children and I want to be outside as much as we can.

In addition to riding bikes and wagon rides, my kids enjoy simple outdoors pleasures like blowing bubbles and drawing with sidewalk chalk.

My family has happily discovered that some of the things we enjoy doing inside take on a new dimension of fun when moved outside.

Our favorite Indoor/Outdoors Activities:

Eating

Lunch is twice as nice when served outdoors as a picnic.  Pack up some of your child’s favorite portable lunch food, snacks, or finger foods, an old blanket you don’t mind getting a little dirty, and pick a spot to set up the scene. Even peanut butter and jelly seems special when served outdoors and your kids will be delighted!

If you don’t have a picnic basket, Muffin Tin Meals lend themselves especially well to outdoor dining – just pull out your muffin tin, fill each cup with something to eat, and carry the tin outside along with some drinks. There’s no need to worry about plates or silverware – just let everyone nibble from the tin. You’re all set for some picnic fun!

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The following post is by contributor Catherine Way of Adventures With Kids.

Summer is a wonderful time to get outdoors and active with your family.  My family loves to go out in the early evening, as it starts to get cooler, and kick the football or play a game or two.  And if there are any friends around, they join in – the more, the merrier.

These games are fun for everyone, require minimal equipment and can be played in your backyard or a nearby park.

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