We’re in the midst of summer and in our family we love visiting the community pool and beach, buying fresh produce at our local organic farm and bringing kayaks out on a nearby lake.
Summer in the Pacific Northwest is beautiful and we try to get outside as often as possible. This summer, let’s do a health challenge together — as a family. Keep in mind, health is not just physical, so let’s focus on all areas of healthy living.
John tells us, "Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul" (3 John 1:2).
Here is a 25-day summer health challenge for the whole family!
- Get a new family devotional to read together — take turns reading scripture out loud.
- Do a water drinking challenge together — it’s always great to drink more water.
- Have a water gun fight.
- Get a great night’s sleep.
- Host a “No Complaint” day — no one can complain all day.
- Check in with your kids daily. See how they are doing, what they are into and what they are thinking about.
- Plant a vegetable or herb garden — kids love gardening; you can start small.
- Visit the local library and pick out books to read.
- Make a large fruit salad together.
- Have a water balloon fight.
- Play with bubbles — see how many you can pop.
- Use a fitness app together as a family.
- Commit to hugging each other at least once every day.
- Make a family prayer jar and add to it all summer — see what prayers have been answered.
- Have a large salad bar for dinner. Let everyone pick out ingredients and help cut.
- Take a family walk.
- Host Thankful Thursdays where everyone shares what they’re thankful for with no repeats.
- Learn a new sport — like pickleball or spikeball.
- Let the kids choose a healthy dinner recipe they’ll cook — if they cook, offer to clean up.
- Do an outdoor service project together — sandwiches for the homeless, yard work for an elderly neighbor, etc.
- Train for a 5K walk or run together.
- Visit a local splash pad or public park.
- Try new fruits and vegetables. Make rating cards and see what new ones you like.
- Set 30 minutes per day for no technology. Instead, read, write, draw, do puzzles, paint, etc.
- Set “play dates” for the whole family. Go visit friends or meet them at a local park, lake or beach.
What would you add to this Summer Challenge list? Head to the #NWAdventists website or social media channels to comment and share.
Proverbs 17:22 tells us, "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Be joyful together this summer as a family! God wants to bless you abundantly. He is so crazy in love with you! And remember, when you’re outside, wear sunscreen and pack your water.
