Going to the park doesn’t just mean sitting in the grass and reading a book— although that’s a great way to enjoy the outdoor facility. Whether you’re going for a picnic or a soccer game, parks have a lot to offer for individuals and families of all ages. Here are three ways to have an enjoyable day at your local park. 

3 Ways to Enjoy a Day at the Park

1. Join a Sports League

Many local parks offer sports leagues so locals can get active and enjoy friendly competition together. From youth T-Ball and baseball to basketball and co-ed softball leagues, there are plenty of options available for both children and adults, ensuring the whole family can find an activity to suit their interests.

2. Set Up a Play Date

Taking kids to the park is a perfect way to get them outside and help them make new friends. Set up a play date where your little ones can enjoy getting to know their peers as they swing, slide, run, and jump. Plus, it’s fun for parents to watch their kids socialize and gain important developmental skills like cooperation and sharing. 

3. Create Friendly Competitions

Take the whole family to the park where you can enjoy fun, active competitions. Create an obstacle course where everyone races from one side of the park to the next by jumping rope, skipping, hula hooping, or balancing an egg on a spoon. Or, try out the three-legged race by gently binding one person’s left leg and another person’s right leg together before sending them laughing across the baseball field. You can even invite other families to join in and make it a neighborhood game.

If your family is looking for a space to try outdoor community activities and meet other local residents, turn to Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department in Pulaski County, AR. With more than a dozen parks to choose from, they offer everything from athletic programs for kids to friendly co-ed leagues for adults. Their parks also offer fitness, aerobics, and aquatic courses to get your family moving. To learn more about the department’s facilities, call (501) 982-4171. For information on their upcoming programs, events, or to register for a sports league, visit their website.