Summer is right around the corner and it’s always been important to me that we as a family spend time together during the summer months to help us grow together as a family while sharing experiences that can last a lifetime. Over the past several years my family has been spending a large amount of our summer seasons at our local park. Usually, we sit around one of the public BBQ pits while catching up with each other. This time has always allowed all the grandkids to get together and bring friends, opening up the opportunity for them to grow and build friendships with one another—a topic that the grandparents all started discussing amongst each other.

After much discussion we wanted to bring something with us to keep them busy. With some searching, we decided to get them the 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition. A few things that stood out to us had to be how easy it was to set up, as well as its compact size. When assembled, it takes up 12×12 feet and has height-adjustable poles. The poles adjust to 5, 6, and 7 feet in height, allowing 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition to be available to a larger group of kids. Because, of course, the whole point is so they can get up and interact with each other, offering them a place where they can build communication skills with exercise.

The 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition was made to fit in your driveway or yard. We’ve had it out for a few backyard get-togethers with the neighbors and their kids. With two people assembling the 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition it takes roughly 5 minutes. So assembly and tear down are quite simple and fast. It’s been a great conversation starter when someone sees the kids playing, and lots of fun for the kids while playing! The rules vary for both competitive and non-competitive play. In competitive play you’ll keep track of points, while in non-competitive play, you can simply continue to rotate in and out of the game until everyone has decided it’s time to stop.

Steve Otey, a Junior High Pastor, developed the game 9 Square in the Air in 2010 during his own youth ministry in St. Louis, Missouri. Steve wanted a way the youth could interact with one another. He combined both 9 square on the ground with volleyball to create 9 Square in the Air! Since its creation, 9 Square in the Air has been used by over 1,000,000 youth all across America and in dozens of other countries, helping groups accomplish what Steve dreamed about: bringing people together so they can grow with one another.

I think over the years it has become increasingly important to get our children back outside with all the technology that overwhelms our everyday lives now. I think it is important that we educate our children on the importance of exercise and social interaction. 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition has been a simple and fun way to get the kids outside all spring. I’m hoping to keep 4 Square in the Air up all summer long, allowing them plenty of time to meet new people and build new friendships.

If this sounds like something you want for your children or grandchildren, I have some wonderful news for you. The people over at 9 Square in the Air have partnered with us for a giveaway to bring the joy and fun that 4 Square in the Air: Home Edition has to offer your neighborhood. The giveaway will give 2 of our readers the chance to win their very own 4 Square in the Air. Click on the “ENTER GIVEAWAY!” below for an easy entry. Thank you for being here, and until next time!