Love grows here —with kids and pets.
LIFE + CULTURE
A RANCH WHERE EVERY RIDE BUILDS CONFIDENCE AND CHANGES LIVES
LOCAL SERVICES
TEXAS PHOTOGRAPHER TRANSFORMS PORTRAITS INTO TOOLS FOR SELFWORTH AND BELONGING.
Cherishing Every Day with Our Wonderful Kids and Beloved Pets
Childhood is made up of a thousand tiny, beautiful moments. One day, they’re chasing butterflies in the backyard. The next, they’re racing toward independence with surprising confidence. In the blink of an eye, those baby teeth fall out, stuffed animals get tucked away, and imagination begins to evolve into identity.
This issue is a love letter to those fleeting, formative years—and the people (and pets!) who help make them unforgettable.
At Hopper Ranch in Aubrey, Texas, we met a community where children build confidence one hoofbeat at a time. With patient instructors and gentle horses, kids learn more than just how to ride. They discover trust, empathy, and the courage to connect—with animals, peers, and themselves. Whether it’s their first time grooming a horse or the moment they realize a 1,200-pound animal listens to them , these are milestones that stick.
And in a world increasingly filtered through screens, we’re also reminded of the quiet power of seeing ourselves reflected—literally. At Growing Sprouts Photography, every portrait session is designed to be more than just a pretty picture. Whether dressed in a twirling gown or dreaming up pirate adventures, children are seen, celebrated, and affirmed. When their portraits are printed and proudly displayed at home, those images become daily messages: You belong here. You matter.
That’s the heartbeat of this issue. Whether through riding boots or glittering crowns, muddy paws or framed portraits, we’re exploring how visibility, connection, and unconditional love shape a child’s self-worth.
We believe childhood should be documented, displayed, and deeply felt—not just for nostalgia’s sake, but because those visible reminders help kids grow into confident, compassionate adults. And pets, with their patient eyes and loyal hearts, are often the unsung heroes in that journey.
So here’s to the magic of muddy shoes, horse nuzzles, belly laughs, and wild imaginations. May we capture it, honor it, and surround our children with the proof that they are loved beyond measure.
ALEXIS JACKSON, PUBLISHER @LAKESIDECITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexis Jackson | alexis.jackson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Clareece Montero | clareece.montero@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Jason Laumer | jason.laumer@citylifestyle.com
Tina Laumer | tina.laumer@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Shannon Spake | shannon.spake@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Amber McMahan amber@growingsproutsphotography.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Where
Nestled in Aubrey, Texas, Hopper Ranch nurtures confidence, empathy, and lasting friendships through hands-on horse experiences. This welcoming ranch empowers children to connect with nature, animals, and community, creating lifelong memories and meaningful growth.
Clean Fuel. Clean Air. Clean Earth.
Community Waste Disposal is proud to have introduced compressed natural gas (CNG) waste disposal trucks to the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. CNG vehicles run more quietly and produce fewer emissions than diesel trucks, creating cleaner skies and more peaceful neighborhoods for everyone to enjoy!
AUGUST 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cottonwood Park is officially open! Come visit, explore, and make new memories right here in the heart of Little Elm. 2: What a fantastic ribbon cutting celebration for Lakeside Bar & Grill! We’re thrilled to officially welcome them to the Little Elm community. 3: Celebrated the ribbon cutting for Margarita Hut "To-Go" 10-Year Anniversary in Little Elm—cheers to success! 4: Downtown Aubrey is transforming—sidewalks, parks, and businesses thriving. Shop, dine, and support local charm! 5: Check out Fruit Jar Junction Farmers Market in Aubrey, TX, every first Saturday monthly! 6: Aubrey MDD is happy to welcome Honey Hive Salon at 901 Hwy. 377. 7: Check out Fruit Jar Junction Farmers Market in Aubrey, TX, every first Saturday monthly!
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LITTLE ELM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CITY OF AUBREY
CITY OF AUBREY
LITTLE ELM PARKS AND RECREATION
LITTLE ELM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AUBREY MUNICIPAL
business monthly
Huffines Subaru Corinth
At Huffines Subaru Corinth, we believe that caring for our community means standing with those who need it most. That’s why we’re proud to support Subaru Loves to Care, an initiative dedicated to bringing hope and compassion to patients and families affected by cancer.
Through our partnership with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, we’re helping spread awareness, fund research, and uplift lives — because love is more than a word, it’s action. Join us in showing that love truly cares.
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Bloomfield Homes
Bloomfield Homes is known for innovative designs, strong architectural appeal, and "all included" standard features. A hands-on, detailed, custom-builder approach combined with years of volume-builder knowledge and experience allows Bloomfield Homes to provide buyers beautiful homes at an exceptional value. Visit www.bloomfieldhomes.com to see the newest-available homes.
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Mustang Special Utility District
Since 1966, Mustang Special Utility District has relentlessly provided reliable water and wastewater services to our valuable customers. As we continue to grow, we aspire to lead in innovation, stewardship, collaboration, and excellent customer service.
We invite you to learn more about our services, conservation efforts, and community involvement by visiting www.mustangwater.com. For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact our PR Manager, Tiereny J. White at twhite@ mustangwater.com—we’d love to connect and strengthen our community together.
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Photography by Huffines Subaru
Photography by Bloomfield Homes
Photography by Mustang Special Utility District
RANCH HOPPER
Where kids build confidence, compassion, and connection through horseback adventures
Nestled in the serene countryside of Aubrey, Texas, Hopper Ranch has become a cherished destination for families seeking enriching, hands-on experiences with horses. Founded in 1999 by Merry Hopper and her family, the ranch began as a passion project dedicated to breeding barrel racing horses for their daughter, Courtney. Over two decades later, Hopper Ranch has evolved into a thriving community hub, celebrated for helping children develop confidence, empathy, and lasting friendships.
Sarah Klatt, an experienced instructor at Hopper Ranch for six years, has witnessed firsthand how horses positively impact children. “We offer the chance for kids to just be around horses,” Klatt shares. For many young visitors—about 70%—Hopper Ranch
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER MCMAHAN
The transformative power of horseback riding at Hopper Ranch extends well beyond basic riding skills. According to Klatt, mastering control of a 1,200-pound animal fosters extraordinary confidence in young riders. Additionally, the comprehensive horse care lessons teach responsibility, empathy, and respect, skills that effortlessly translate into everyday life. Hopper Ranch emphasizes horsemanship deeply, encouraging children to understand horses’ needs, body language, and care routines, from grooming and feeding to recognizing subtle emotional cues in their animal companions.
provides their first encounter with these gentle giants. Recognizing initial hesitation, Merry Hopper and her team thoughtfully ease children into interactions by starting every lesson with grooming and saddling, allowing each child to form a trusting relationship from the ground up.
“Mary takes it down to their level,” explains Klatt. “Children quickly realize the horse isn’t going to move or approach until they’re ready. That moment builds immediate trust and comfort.” This patient approach significantly reduces fear, empowering children to confidently engage with animals much larger than themselves.
that financial or equipment barriers do not hinder children’s exposure to the benefits of horse interaction.
Hopper Ranch also actively gives back to the Aubrey community, regularly participating in local events such as Brockett Elementary’s Fall Festival and Aubrey’s Peanut Festival. These community engagements often serve as children’s first horse experiences, sparking interest and curiosity. Additionally, the ranch hosts an annual Community Christmas event, drawing families together for horseback rides, crafts, festive games, holiday cheer, and even surprise visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event
Unlike many ranches, Hopper Ranch maintains an accessible, welcoming atmosphere. Lessons are scheduled weekly without requiring long-term commitments, offering flexibility to busy families. Special gear, like cowboy boots, is not mandatory, further lowering the barrier of entry. “We simply ask that kids wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing,” Klatt advises. This inclusive approach makes it easier for families of varying backgrounds to participate, ensuring
sees enthusiastic participation from local volunteers, highlighting the community-driven spirit of Hopper Ranch.
Reflecting on the ranch’s organic growth, Merry Hopper notes, “This was never our original intention. Life works in unexpected ways, and now I can’t imagine anything else.” Indeed, the ranch’s evolution from a family passion project into a vibrant community asset highlights the enduring power of genuine passion coupled with community involvement.
One particularly heartwarming aspect of Hopper Ranch is its role as a connector among children, animals, and the outdoors. In today’s technology-driven world, the ranch offers a rare opportunity for kids to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. As Klatt describes, “The horses serve as a liaison, helping shy or hesitant children socialize more comfortably.” Friendships forged at Hopper Ranch often extend beyond its borders, building lasting connections and community bonds. Parents frequently share how their children come home more confident, communicative, and excited to return—evidence of the powerful impact these experiences have beyond the ranch gates.
Through patient instruction, genuine care, meaningful experiences, and a strong community presence, Merry Hopper and her dedicated team have created a sanctuary where young riders discover not only the joy of horses but the profound impact of empathy, responsibility, and friendship. For more information or to schedule a lesson, visit hopperranch.com.
YOU ARE SEEN
The Emotional Impact of Displaying Your Child’s Portrait
ARTICLE BY AMBER MCMAHAN, GROWING SPROUTS OWNER
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
AMBER MCMAHAN
Childhood happens fast. One moment, they’re pretending to be a superhero, and the next, they’re walking into middle school. As parents, we do our best to capture it all—the milestones, the giggles, the missing teeth, and the wild hair days. But capturing the moment isn’t enough. What we choose to do with those memories matters just as much.
“Framed portraits aren’t just decoration—they’re daily reminders that your child is seen, celebrated, and free to dream.”
At Growing Sprouts Photography, we believe framed photographs on your wall aren’t just decorations. They’re affirmations! They help shape your child’s identity, build their confidence, and remind them every day that they are a valued and important part of your family.
And when those portraits reflect their imagination and sense of wonder—whether they’re wearing a sparkling couture gown, dressed as a pirate, or twirling in a field— they do even more. They don’t just freeze time; they tell your child, you are seen, celebrated, and free to dream.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF VISIBILITY
Multiple studies have shown that when children see themselves represented visually in their homes, they feel a greater sense of self-worth and emotional security. Being featured in family portraits or imagination-filled images displayed in the home gives a child a silent, but constant, message: “You belong here. You matter.”
Children, especially in their elementary and preteen years, benefit deeply from that visual connection to their family. It creates a sense of emotional grounding and personal identity. Seeing themselves reflected in a positive, intentional way each day helps reinforce that they are not only loved, but celebrated.
At Growing Sprouts, we offer more than just traditional portraits—we create unforgettable experiences. Our Dream Dress Sessions feature stunning couture gowns from Bentley and Lace, transforming children and moms into the princesses and queens they’ve always dreamed of being. For those with wild imaginations and big dreams, our Imagination Sessions open the door to magical worlds—where kids can become astronauts, pirates, mermaid princesses, or anything else they can dream up.
These aren’t just photo sessions. They’re moments of confidence, creativity, and empowerment frozen in time.
WHY PRINTS ARE MORE POWERFUL THAN SCREENS
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to believe that snapping a photo on your phone is enough. But while thousands of images may be stored in our cameras, very few become a visible part of our lives. Children may know we’re taking pictures, but they don’t often see or interact with them after the moment passes.
Printed photos, on the other hand, live where life happens—in the kitchen, the hallway, the bedroom. They offer a daily, tangible reminder of special moments and cherished relationships. The physical presence of printed portraits brings a warmth and a weight that digital images simply can’t replicate. They stay in view, in memory, and in the heart.
A 2022 Chatbooks and HP study of over 15,000 parents found that printed photos increased emotional connection within families and helped children feel more secure and confident. The study also indicated that physical photos spark storytelling and strengthen memory retention.
THE RESEARCH BEHIND THE WALLS
In addition to the HP/Chatbooks study, older but still relevant research from Tulane University showed that children who took and displayed printed photos of themselves over five weeks experienced a 37% increase in self-esteem.
One of our very own Texas-based photographers, Me Ra Koh of FIORIA Photography, was recently awarded a grant to further her photography/psychology research. She is studying how seeing printed portraits of your best self displayed on the walls can not only improve emotional health but may have medical benefits for adults dealing with depression and trauma. Her research bridges the worlds of photography, psychology, and healing—reminding us that visual affirmation is powerful at every age.
Studies like these reinforce what many parents feel instinctively—our children benefit from being visually and emotionally reminded that they are loved and that they belong.
“When children see themselves in printed portraits at home, it boosts their confidence, affirms their identity, and quietly tells them: you belong, you matter, and you are deeply loved.”
Resources:
• HP/Chatbooks Study: https://www.chatbooks. com/blog/why-printed-photos-matter
• David Krauss commentary: Summarized in Design Aglow: The Importance of Displaying Family Photographs
• Tulane University Polaroid Study: Referenced in photographic therapy articles (e.g., Judy Weiser, PhotoTherapy.com)
• Me Ra Koh: www.fioria.us
THE GROWING SPROUTS PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE
At Growing Sprouts Photography, we don’t just create pretty pictures. We create artwork that is designed to hang in your home—and in your child’s heart. Our sessions are designed to make kids feel
confident, empowered, and joyful. Whether it’s a classic family portrait or a one-of-a-kind fairytale session, we craft each image with intention.
From Dream Dress Sessions in designer gowns to custom Imagination Sessions where your child’s dreams take flight, our portraits are about more than what they look like. They capture who they are becoming.
We then help you turn those images into heirloom-quality prints and wall art—pieces that last for generations and inspire your child every time they walk past.
WHAT FAMILIES SEE AND FEEL
Parents often tell us that their children begin to carry themselves a little taller after their photo goes up on the wall. Some children pause and smile
“Let your walls speak louder than words— showing your child every day that their magic, joy, and dreams matter.”
every time they pass by their picture. Others share stories with visitors about the moment the photo was taken. These are more than just sweet reactions—they’re signs that the child is internalizing the message that they are loved, valued, and worthy of being celebrated.
MAKE YOUR WALLS REFLECT WHAT MATTERS MOST
You don’t need perfect walls or elaborate décor to create a meaningful home. What matters is what your children see when they look around. Their framed portraits—captured in love and displayed with intention—can become daily reminders of who they are and how deeply they are cared for. If your walls don’t yet reflect the faces and moments that matter most to you, it’s
never too late to start. Your child deserves to be seen. Let your home tell their story.
At Growing Sprouts Photography, we’re honored to help families capture those stories and turn them into beautiful, lasting reminders of what matters most.
Your child’s imagination is already soaring—let’s capture it before the moment passes. Whether you’re ready for a Dream Dress Session in a Bentley and Lace gown or want to explore an Imagination Session that celebrates your child’s biggest dreams, we’re here to help you create magic.
Visit www.GrowingSproutsPhotography.com to book your session or design consultation today. Because your walls shouldn’t just be pretty—they should be powerful
Amber McMahan, Owner of Growing Sprouts Photography
Cambridge Crossing
The Parks
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
CONTINUED >
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Steps:
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BIRTHDAY PARTY DIY DOG
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
DIY PARTY FAVORS FOR DOGS
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
TREAT STATION FOR OWNERS
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
HOW TO MAKE A DOG BIRTHDAY CAKE
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
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Lakeside City Lifestyle
Your story is waiting. Explore open markets nationwide.
Published by Alexis Loved by Lakeside
AUGUST 2ND
Fruit Jar Junction Farmers Market
305 S Main St, Aubrey, TX 76227 | 9:00 AM
This market is made up of farmers, ranchers, growers, handmade items like arts, crafts, and homemade food items. No resale items or MLM vendors. All Texas Cottage Food vendors will be in compliance with Texas laws for your safety. Join us every first Saturday of the month (Weather Permitting) 9am-1pm during our season that runs April through November.
AUGUST 9TH
Lights, Camera, Lawn: Minions!
303 Main St, Little Elm, TX 75068 | 7:00 PM
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS AUGUST 2025 Want
Join us at The Lawn™ on Saturday, August 9, at 7 p.m. to watch Minions! Packed with action, mischief, and mayhem, this hilarious prequel reveals how the Minions found their calling… and nearly took over the world.
AUGUST 9TH
Cross Roads Summer Community Market
7901 Fishtrap Rd, Cross Roads, TX 76227 | 8:00 AM
Come support local vendors at the Summer Community Market from 8am-11am! Local farmers, artisans, bakers, and more bring their best just for you!
AUGUST 10TH
Krugerville Farmers Market Back to School
5200 Hwy 377, Krugerville, TX | 10:00 AM
Kick off the school year at the Krugerville Farmers Market Back to School Market! Join us for a fun-filled day as we celebrate the start of a new school year with: Free haircuts for kids. A special raffle just for teachers. A school supply drive to support local students Plus 30+ vendors, live music, treats, handmade goods, and more!
AUGUST 23RD
Farmers Market at The Lawn™
125 Main St, Little Elm, Texas 75058 | 10:00 AM
Join us for Farmers Market at The Lawn™ featuring Four Seasons Markets! Stroll The Lawn™ and shop from a variety of vendors.
AUGUST 24TH
AirPlant Wall at Fortunata Winery
2297 FM-2931, Providence Village | 2:00 PM
Get ready for the ultimate Sunday Funday with our hands-on AirPlant Wall Workshop! Let your creativity bloom as our talented design instructor guides you step-by-step through building your own one-of-a-kind botanical masterpiece. Design it your way or follow along. It’s totally up to you. This project is perfect for your home, office, or as a thoughtful gift. Purchase tickets at https:// www.plantandsip.com/product /08-24-2025-2-p-m-AirPlant-Wall-atFortunata-Winery-Aubrey-TX
UNPLUG HAVE FUN! &
ARTICLE BY PAM REID
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summertime is the best time for kids to disconnect and enjoy being outdoors.
Long, long ago, in a time before technology, children entertained themselves and played endlessly with nothing more than ... wait for it ... their imagination. They played outdoors for hours with friends, balls, jump ropes, buckets, chalk, bicycles, you name it! The level of creativity saw no limits in the minds of these children. While some families have plans for getaway vacations, there are those planning to stay home and scrambling for things their children can do. We’d like to share some ideas that don’t include technology or cost a boatload of money for that matter. The benefits of spending time outdoors and unplugged outweigh complaints about temperature or those annoying creepy crawlers. The added bonus is that many outdoor games secretly teach life skills. Technology is used only to confirm game rules.
Ready or not, it’s time to play! A day - or two or three - full of outdoor games will invoke a trip down memory lane for some adults, or a “this is great” thought for others. In either case, playing these games has tremendous benefits - young people can fully embrace human connection, get a break from the instant gratification associated with technical devices and social media, and enjoy some good wholesome, age-appropriate fun. Many adults admit they played many of their favorite childhood games well into their teen years, and still others say they relish in a good game of dodgeball or tug of war today. This list is not all-inclusive, but it certainly gets the games started!
CHILDHOOD GAMES
TUG OF WAR - contest between two teams at opposite ends of a rope; each team trying to drag the other across a center line.
SACK RACE - stand in your sack, hold on to the top of your sack and hop as fast as you can to the finish line!
FREEZE TAG - each player freezes when tagged and can be unfrozen only by a player who is not yet frozen. Game ends when all players are frozen.
RED LIGHT GREEN LIGHT - shout “green light” and all players run towards you, shout “yellow light” and they are allowed to walk, but when “red light” is shouted, they must stop and freeze. If player moves at “red light”, they go back to start line.
MUSICAL CHAIRS - walk to music around a group of chairs containing one chair fewer than number of players, and rush to sit down when music stops. The player left standing in each round is eliminated.
KICK THE CAN - find players in their hiding spots and put them in “jail”. Once a player is “jailed” the only way to be freed is for another player to beat the “IT” person to the can and kick it.
DODGEBALL - team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoid being hit themselves. Consider water balloons instead of balls on a hot day.
There are more great outdoor games. Get unplugged and get outside!
