Are you at that point in the summer where you’re in desperate need of entertainment for your kids? You’re not alone! The trick, of course, is nailing entertainment without having to resort to loud colors and toys that scream KID ZONE and turn your backyard into a Chuck-E-Cheese. So, how do you keep it fun, but still stylish? Read on - I’ve got a few go-tos to make an at-home oasis you’ll never want to leave.

Xo,

Laura

OUTDOOR MOVIE SCREENS

Movie nights are a million times more fun when you can break out of the ordinary and do something unique. After all, that’s why nights out to the movie theater are such a hot ticket item for kids. Since we’re all going to be watching new releases from home for some time, though, why not take full advantage of it? Setting up an outdoor theater is pretty straightforward - all you need is a projector (that’s the big ticket item, but there are plenty that are affordable online), a screen (save money on this one and tie up a white sheet), and a boat load of comfy pillows, chairs, and lounge spots, and you’re all set! Just pop in a classic Jurassic Park or Goonies and you’re all set to have an unforgettable experience under the stars.

S’MORES SETUPS

What kid wouldn’t go wild for a sugar setup like this one?! While s’mores, of course, can be set up old school (I’m talking straight from the package and balanced on your lap), there’s something really special and fun about making the whole roasting experience a full-on extravaganza. Take a cue from the wedding industry on this one - by simply popping all of your ingredients on a simple serving platter (if you’ve got a tiered display, that’s even better), your family can easily build their own s’mores however they like and your yard will look fit for a party.

YARD GAMES

Skip the bulky plastic games and go for sleek and beautiful wooden yard games that the whole family can enjoy. I especially love things like giant Jenga sets or tic tac toe and cornhole setups - they blend right in with your backyard setup, and as a bonus, you can use them at future (post-pandemic) gatherings since they’re kid and adult-friendly. It’s a win-win!

LIGHTS

Adding a few layers of string lights or lanterns works double duty in your backyard. Not only does it make it feel like a total magical getaway (perfect for dinners on the deck or watching the sunset), but it also helps to light up the yard so the kids can play well into the night (assuming we can all give them a “special” late bedtime now and again - it’s summer after all!). 

POOL

If you don’t have the space for a full-fledged inground or above-ground pool, you can absolutely still enjoy those same benefits! Unlike those unsightly plastic kiddie pools of decades past, nowadays you can find adorable patterned inflatable pools that can easily fit several people. Or, if you’re a DIY adventurer, create your own mini pool deck that wraps around a stock tank pool - it takes some carpentry know-how, but it is totally possible (and oh-so-chic)!