
Keeping Kids Entertained During Games
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
You wake up early on the morning of the big game to make sure the entire family is packed, fed, dressed and ready to go for the day. Most of the day will be spent at the ballpark for an exciting tournament, and your team is ready to play. You mentally go through your checklist of essential items like drinks, snacks, cleats and other sports gear. Suddenly you realize you haven’t packed any entertainment for the smallest but biggest fan – the younger sibling.
Younger siblings need something to do all day at the ballpark between moments of cheering for the team.

1. Sidewalk Chalk
Classic sidewalk chalk can be a lifesaver. It’s washable, inexpensive and can be left at the park for other kids to use. Children will spend hours creating masterpieces on the sidewalk near the bleachers. Grab chalk in your team’s colors and let them create something to inspire the players. If you didn’t pack any chalk, stop by Rouses Market in Gulf Shores to stock up on that and other art-making products.
2. Sports Gear
Pack a football, softball, baseball or soccer ball and let the little ones start their own game off the field. They can play catch with one another, make teams or set up a goal for hours of fun. Running low on sports equipment? Academy Sports + Outdoors has you covered. Whatever sport your little one is interested in playing, they will have gear for you.

3. Board Games
Spread out a blanket on the grass and lay out several board games for the little ones to play. Invite the kids sitting next to you to get on “board,” too. Providing a variety of games will have their brains working and little hands moving all day long. For a wide selection of games and toys, stop by Tanger Outlets to stock up on game-worthy fun.
4. Keep Score
While this option may not be recommended for the official game, having your little one “help” keep score will keep their attention on the game while also allowing them to practice writing their numbers. Pack them an “official scorebook,” aka notebook, and have them help you keep track of who is winning the game. This also makes them feel like they are a part of the big day. Bonus points if they doodle around the score chart or write their team’s name on the top of the page.

5. Create Signs
Pack large pieces of paper or poster board and team-colored crayons and markers and let the young ones draw signs to help cheer on their favorite players. They may even want to glue on paint stirrers to act as handles for their signs. Having them excited about the game makes the day more fun for everyone. Bonus: The players on the field LOVE to see the crowd cheering them on.
Now that your little one is entertained and having a blast with their activities, you can relax and cheer your team on for the big WIN! Go team!