Kids in Phoenix, Arizona can choose from a wide range of fun, healthy activities. For example, they can hike up a mountain, hit a ball, jump in a pool or take a stroll around the zoo. These activities can help keep your kids physically active and off the couch throughout most of the year.
Hiking
Your family can get a good view of Phoenix's desert landscape by spending a day on a hiking trail. Two prime areas for hiking are Camelback Mountain and South Mountain. There are hiking trails on these mountains that range from easy to very difficult. Make sure you know the length and difficulty of a trail before you take your family out on it. Your kids can also ride horses on some of the trails at South Mountain.
Sports
There are plenty of opportunities for children to play sports in Phoenix. The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department sponsors youth programs including baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball and tennis. These programs offer your children the opportunity to learn a sport and meet other children. Parents are encouraged to volunteer to help coach a team.
Zoo
If your children like animals, then the place to visit is the Phoenix Zoo, which features more than 1,300 animals. Your children will get plenty of exercise by walking up and down hills as they learn about the animals. The Monkey Village, where you can walk among squirrel monkeys in their habitat, is a highlight to a visit to the zoo. Your kids can also interact with animals at the petting zoo, they can feed a giraffe and they can ride on a camel all in the same day.
Cooling Off
If your kids want to cool off in Phoenix's hot climate, they can take a swim in one of the city's 20 public pools. A Phoenix family of four can get a season pass to the pools for $75 (as of August 2010). Swim lessons are also offered at the pools. Another place your kids can cool off is at the Arcadia Ice Arena. Your children can also learn how to skate and play hockey at the arena.
Considerations
The sun is shining most of the time in Phoenix and temperatures reach over 100 F in the summer. If your kids check out some of the outdoor activities in Phoenix, make sure they put on sunscreen. In addition, make sure they drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
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