Pool noodle games.
So many things can be done with pool noodles, and they are typically inexpensive, especially at the end of the summer.
They can be formed into circles with the ends secured with strong tape. Place a few on the ground to create a mini obstacle course where the kids jump into the pool noodle hoops, just like athletes do — but much easier than using tires.
These pool noodle circles can also be hung from tree branches for another fun toss game where the kiddos try to get a football or beanbag through the hoop. Just like the other toss games, try different distances or award different prizes for a specific color of hoop.
Cut a pool noodle in half lengthwise and place on an incline in the yard to make a great track for rolling small cars or golf balls. Two kids can start at the same time and see whose ball gets to the bottom first.
Or cut the noodles across into shorter pieces and place them in a big laundry basket to make a fun game for the little ones. They can stack the noodle pieces to see how high they can go before toppling, or the pieces can be strung on a piece of rope or thin PVC pipe – it’s easy and fun and small children can practice hand-eye coordination.
Most of these games can also be played with hula hoops also purchased at the dollar store, or you can hold a hula hooping contest to see who can keep it going the longest with a prize awarded to the winner.