A DIY Backyard Obstacle Course Is the Perfect Summer Afternoon Activity

The last step of the obstacle course is great if you have a pool. If not, you can skip this step or invent another challenge with an inflatable pool, a sprinkler, or any other water element. Using goggles and an optional kickboard, I had the kids swim across the pool until the end and come back — and they're done!

Want to repeat it? Time your kids and see how quickly they can finish, then challenge them to beat their time on the next round.