Those trying to figure out what to do with the kids this summer while avoiding a drain the wallet and gas tank should consider a “staycation” in Brentwood, home to 56 parks, most of which feature at least a playground and green space. Some parks, such as Blue Goose Park and Rainbow’s End Park, boast water features that provide a free and fun way for kids to dodge summer’s sizzle.

If water’s not their thing, check out the dog park at King Park, dig up an archeological find in the sand box at Kaleidoscope Park or shoot hoops at Balfour-Guthrie Park.

If all those options make it hard to know where to start, use the Playspace Finder Web site – www.playspacefinder.kaboom.org – sponsored by KaBOOM! Simply type in your city or ZIP code and locate the parks and play spaces in your vicinity. The searchable map allows you to click on a specific park to get details, including equipment and amenities, view photos and read ratings posted by other users.

The City of Brentwood continuously updates the Playspace Finder Web site as part of its status as a Playful City USA. Playful City USA is a national recognition program that honors communities across the country for taking action locally to build an infrastructure that promotes, creates and sustains an abundance of time and space for play for all children. Playful City USA is sponsored by KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America.

Brentwood is one of 93 communities honored in 2009 for its commitment to play and will host the city’s third annual Playbor Day this Labor Day, Sept. 6, featuring free play activities at Veterans Park for kids of all ages.

For additional information on Brentwood parks and play spaces, call 925-516-5444.