The last few weeks have been all about Nature Study and Outdoor Learning here at My Homeschool with a View. We know all of the benefits of incorporating nature study and outdoor learning, but what do we do to get kids outside if they are less than enthusiastic about it?
I have one child that loves being outdoors and will spend all day every day outside. My other one would rather sit inside working on some sort of coding masterpiece or blogging project. But both kids have developed an appreciation for nature and outdoor time.
This post contains affiliate links and My Homeschool with a View, LLC participates in the Amazon Associates program. If you make a qualifying purchase through our links, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you . Thank you for supporting this site! You can read my affiliate and advertising disclosure here.
Digital Competition for Kids’ Attention
In today’s digital age, it can be a challenge to get kids to step away from their screens and embrace the great outdoors. With so many distractions vying for their attention indoors, it’s no wonder that many children are reluctant to explore nature. However, spending time outside has numerous benefits for kids, including improved physical health, enhanced creativity, and reduced stress levels. So, if you’re struggling to get your little ones and not-so-little ones out into the fresh air, here are ten easy ways to make outdoor time fun and enticing, even for the most reluctant adventurers.
Make Getting Kids Outside a Family Affair
Kids often mimic the behavior of their parents, so if you demonstrate a love for outdoor activities, they’re more likely to follow suit. Plan regular family outings to parks, beaches, or hiking trails, and engage in activities like picnics, bike rides, or nature scavenger hunts. Spending quality time together outdoors can create lasting memories and foster a sense of appreciation for nature.
We started this when my kids were pretty young. They could dig holes in the backyard, go fishing, and we would take them on hikes. Yes, hiking sometimes looked like piggybacking them down a trail, but they enjoyed their time outdoors because we were together and we made it enjoyable.
Even to this day, my kids understand that if we are traveling somewhere, there will probably be some outdoor activities involved.
Create a Backyard Oasis
Oasis might be a bit dramatic, but you get the point. You don’t need to venture far to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play. Transform your backyard into a haven for exploration and discovery by adding a swing set, sandbox, or inflatable pool. Give young kids an area to dig in the dirt or build forts. This doesn’t make for a Pinterest worthy backyard, but it sure is fun.
Planting a small garden can help kids connect with where their food comes from. And bonus, growing different foods can help get your picky eaters interested in a bigger variety of choices.
Organize a Nature Group
Encourage outdoor play by arranging playdates with friends in a nearby park or playground, or by starting a nature group. Kids are more likely to engage in outdoorl activity when they have peers to play with, and the open space of a park provides endless opportunities for imaginative games and adventures.
Incorporate Nature into Learning
Take advantage of outdoor settings to make learning more interactive and engaging. Whether it’s practicing math skills with sidewalk chalk, identifying different bird species on a nature walk, or conducting simple science experiments in the backyard, incorporating nature into educational activities can make learning fun and memorable.
Get Kids Outside with Sports and Games
Introducing your kids to outdoor sports and games can help them develop physical skills while having fun in the fresh air. Consider activities like soccer, basketball, frisbee, or even a game of tag. Keep it lighthearted and focused on enjoyment rather than competition to encourage participation.
Plan Appealing Outdoor Adventures
When I say appealing, I mean appealing to the kids. A seven night camping trip may sound fun to mom and dad, but you can’t always expect your kids to take interest in the things you enjoy. Meet them where they are at and make activities appealing to them.
Sometimes a fun snack or treat can go a long way to get your kids interested in being outdoors. The first time we took our kids fishing, they were probably around four and two, they spent most of their time munching on chips that they wouldn’t normally get at home. Did they fish? Not really, but they enjoyed being outside and building warm-fuzzy memories will keep them going back outdoors.
You can also spice up outdoor outings by planning exciting adventures that appeal to your child’s interests. Whether it’s a trip to a nearby zoo, botanical garden, or nature reserve, exposing kids to new environments and experiences can ignite their curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
Embrace Seasonal Activities
Each season offers its own unique opportunities for outdoor exploration. In the winter, build snowmen, go sledding, or have a snowball fight. In the spring, fly kites, explore puddles, or go on a wildflower hike. Embracing seasonal activities keeps outdoor time fresh and exciting year-round.
Invest in Outdoor Gear
Equip your kids with the right gear to make outdoor adventures more comfortable and enjoyable. Invest in sturdy hiking shoes, rain jackets, and sunglasses to ensure they’re prepared for any outdoor activity. Having the right gear can make all the difference in encouraging kids to spend more time outside.
Foster a Sense of Wonder
Encourage curiosity and wonder by exposing your kids to the beauty and magic of the natural world. Point out interesting plants, animals, and geological features during outdoor outings, and encourage them to ask questions and explore their surroundings with a sense of wonder and awe.
Lead by Example
Ultimately, the best way to instill a love for the outdoors in your kids is by leading by example. Show enthusiasm for outdoor activities, be willing to try new things, and prioritize spending time in nature as a family. Your passion and positivity will inspire your children to embrace the wonders of the great outdoors.