It’s summer! Ok, we admit, it feels pretty much the same as the last few months. But honest, summer is here, and with it comes the need to change the pace a little for your stay-at-home kids.

One of the hot trends of late is looking back to move forward. There has been a real upswing in the appeal, and the playing of, old-school games and activities many of us enjoyed as kids in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.

If you want to introduce your home-bound kids to some new summer activities, here are some classics to consider.

Let’s start with some outdoor fun for fresh air and sunshine.

• HOPSCOTCH
  Find some sidewalk chalk, draw out a hopscotch grid, grab a rock and you’re pretty much set. Need a refresher on how to play? Here’s a great link to learn the basic rules and discover several variations on this fun outdoor activity.
• JUMP-ROPE
  Hoping your little ones will work off that excess energy? Then this one’s for you. Jumping rope is a lot of fun, terrific exercise and great for one to four people. Here is a basic beginners video on teaching children how to get started.
• BADMINTON
  From the casual batting of a shuttle back and forth, to cut throat smashes between competitive siblings, Badminton is a summertime classic. Easy to learn, easy to play and something the entire family can enjoy. How serious do some Badminton players get? Check out this video of the longest rally ever played in a men’s single match!

Too hot to head outside? Here are some indoor family game classics making a comeback.

• CLUE
  The ultimate WHODUNNIT mystery game and fun for the entire family. Players move from room to room in a mansion to solve the mystery of: who done it, with what, and where? Always a fan favorite, it also gets high marks for teaching children deductive logic skills.  Love CLUE? Then check out these unusual facts about the game here.
• MONOPOLY
  Have some time to kill? Here’s the perfect game. It’s impossible to not include this classic in our list…it’s just too iconic and continues to enjoy huge popularity. Need proof? With over 1,100 official versions of the game, from Disney Villains Monopoly to The Walking Dead Monopoly, there’s one for everybody. Before your next game, check out these 11 tips on how to win the game.
• CHARADES
  Board games are great, but sometimes a good old-fashioned game of charades is just the right way to let loose. After all, charades is an entertaining game for all ages, plus it can be played any time, any place. You can even host a virtual game night with friends and family who live far away. Check out this site for 150 out-of-the-box ideas for family fun night charades.

Family game time together can be relaxing, fun and a great bonding opportunity. Make this summer special by finding new ways to keep it fun for all. Stay well.