Summer is officially here. I’ve seen sunburned noses everywhere, I almost broke a sweat on the way out to my car at 7:00 AM, and our Sunday morning crowd is missing the boat owners. Summer can be a tough time for ministry. Attendance is sporadic due to vacations, camps, and sunny weather. However, summer can also be a great time to focus on relationships and challenge girls to deepen their relationships with the Lord.
Over the next couple of weeks we’re going to highlight some great ideas for cheap summer event ideas that will help your girls build relationships as well as some great ideas for challenging your girls to use their summer free time to grow in their relationship with God.This time, we’re going to focus on the classic summer field day event. It might seem simple, but some of the most fun summer events I’ve had with my girls involved games common to elementary school field days. Here are a few of the most fun games we’ve tried:
Water relays. Relays are great. Water in summer is refreshing. Combine the two, and you’ve got a recipe for a great summer game. Here’s a link to a few of my favorites. Not only will the girls have fun, but a strategically contstructed team roster can help newer girls connect.
Slip N Slide. If you’ve got a slightly sloped back yard to use, a slip n slide can create hours of fun. You can either buy a slip n slide or make your own. Just make sure you’ve got plenty of water and you clear the path to ensure girls don’t run into anything as they’re sliding.
Water fight. There really is nothing like a big water fight on a hot day. Have the girls bring their own water balloons, buckets, and squirt guns or provide a few for each girl. If you’re feeling a little non-traditional, start with a shaving cream fight and end with a water fight to clean up.
Recess games. The old standard kickball, soccer, or football are fun, but can be made even more fun with a twist to the rules. Try playing kickball with a giant beach ball, three-legged soccer, or flag football with a soaked sponge.
When playing water games, make sure the girls know to wear a swimsuit underneath clothes they don’t mind getting wet. Make sure girls bring towels, provide plenty of water for playing and drinking, and pray for sunny weather. Be creative and don’t be afraid to make up your own games and rules. Enjoy the outdoors and watch for more ideas for summer ministry over the next couple of weeks!