Timed Scavenger Hunt - Set a time limit to find all of the objects on a list of items found in nature. Whoever has the most items when the clock runs out wins. Older children can even coordinate the scavenger hunt.

Lightning bug hunt - Catch as many lightning bugs in a jar as you can, and see who can capture the most. Make sure you set the bugs free again!

Sponge race - Each participant in this race needs a sponge and two buckets, one filled with water, and the other empty. Participants run from the empty bucket to the full bucket across the yard, filling the sponge and returning to the empty bucket to squeeze the water into it. The first person to fill the empty bucket to the designated line wins.

Shoebox shoe relays - Take two shoeboxes and tape the lids to them. Cut an opening in each lid that’s big enough for your foot to slip into. The first participant will put on the shoebox shoes and walk as fast as he or she can to the next player, who will then put on the shoes and continue the race. Repeat until all the participants have gotten a turn. Time the group and then tell them to try again to see if they can beat their original time.

Wash the car - How fast can you wash your car? Set a goal and race together to the deadline, giving your arm muscles some good exercise. Teens who are becoming new drivers can try speed-washing on their own to earn privileges for taking out the family car.

Field sports - Activities such as handball, kickball, baseball, and flag football require a larger outdoor space and group of players. You’ll need the right athletic balls and materials to mark bases or lines on the grass.

Net sports - Tennis requires a flat court, but you can set up outdoor volleyball or badminton in the grass. Each sport requires a net, and you’ll also need racquets and birdies or a volleyball. Badminton nets are hung right above the ground, while standard volleyball nets are about seven feet high. Two to four people can play each sport, although larger teams are usually more fun for volleyball. Volleyball is always more fun at the beach, but you might find volleyball courts at a public swimming pool in your area.

Frisbee games - Ultimate Frisbee is fun for all ages and is more active and competitive than simple catch. You can also try a simple form of Frisbee or disc golf by placing baskets in different parts of the yard and trying to land the Frisbee inside.

Solitary exercise - Practice jumping rope or Hula-Hooping, both of which are excellent forms of exercise if done regularly.

Group games - Try some variations on classics: freeze or flashlight tag, Simon Says with balls or other items, and water bottle bowling in the yard.