I was that mom who had NO plans to allow my children ever to play with toy guns. I’d been a teacher, and it was easy to say ” No guns at school.” It’s harder to say it at home, not because I don’t have resolve, but it was clear that when I said ” No, guns are bad.” he was hearing ” No, and you should be ashamed for asking.” Pretend play isn’t real. I Lay down ground rules and stick to them. For my family, that means only shooting outside.
One of the things I like to do with my kids and their Nerf blasters is target practice; it is a great outside activity. Not so they are more accurate when we have battles in the backyard but because it’s a wonderful exercise in concentration.
I provided my son with the materials, and he set up the activity. Here is what he did, and how you can do it too.
Gather your materials. You will need some lightweight plastic containers, some pylons ( little traffic cones), some water, and a loaded Nerf type blaster.
Pour the water into the plastic containers.
Balance them on the cones. This took concentration too! 
Step back and take aim! I loved how carefully he was aiming and the adjustments he made when he missed.
Shoot the water off and watch it splash!
After all the targets are hit, refill and take aim.
Catherine says
This looks like so much fun. We have no yard, so I love summer activities that don’t require a lot of space (or water, seeing as how we are also in a drought).
Allison McDonald says
Yes it uses very little water!
Sarah says
Fantastic idea. My boys will love it. Thanks for the idea.
Melani says
where did you find small traffic cones?
Allison McDonald says
They are from Melissa and Doug here is link ( affiliate) http://amzn.to/1QZJ8Gx
Rhonda Franz says
Ok, this looks positively fabulous. I might have to let the boys get some Nerf guns now.
Kevin says
Lost me at “guns are bad”. Amazes me that every Mother in the country doesn’t desire her daughter learn safe, proper firearms handling, and then make sure the daughter gets a concealed weapons permit so that they can have a chance to protect themselves against violent crime.
And sons also, for that matter.
What better way for a father to protect his family than with a firearm?
Allison McDonald says
Kevin,
We are going to have to agree to disagree. I am 39 years old, I’ve never held a gun and do not feel as though I am missing anything. Unlike you I feel less safe with a firearm in my home, which is why I don’t have one, nor will I ever.
Brooke says
Really???
Why even comment. This is a fun activity for kids not an anti gun public service announcement.
Ashley @ Forgetful Momma says
I love this idea! Definitely need to do this with my girls.