Tips for getting out more in nature with the kids in 2021
Is one of your resolutions this year to spend more time outdoors with the kids?
If it’s not then it should be! Many of us have felt the benefits of spending time outdoors in natural environments during this year but knowing the benefits doesn’t mean it’s easy to make it happen on a regular basis. Here are some of our tips to spending more time outdoors with your family.
1. Let your child take the lead
I often ask kids that come to my holiday clubs if they go out in nature as a family and what I often hear back is that they do but ‘always go on boring walks…’. Kids generally don't like 'going on a walk'. Kids love going on an ADVENTURE!
Let your child take the lead and they will inevitably take you somewhere you've never explored before (but be careful not to get lost!). It's so rare that kids get to be in control so they will relish the opportunity.
2. Go prepared
Young children love collecting things so take a bag or bucket for your child to collect nature treasures :-)
Take some nature ID guides with you to see what you can spot. Our Earthwise activity boxes have monthly ID guides and nature bingo sheets to help with your adventures. You’ll be amazed by how much your children will learn through their natural curiosity.
An empty homous pot makes a great container for viewing mini-beasts you find. If you have a magnifying pot even better!
If it's a cold day, take a flask of hot choc with you - it will help warm everyone up and give an extra energy boost on wintery days!
3. Find somewhere new to explore
If you’re keen to find somewhere new to explore then have a go at finding your local woodlands on the Woodland Trust website.
I recommend buying an OS map of your local area, taking a compass and having a go at orienteering with the kids!
4. Get yourselves some proper waterproofs!
Let’s face it, Britain is not blessed with the driest of weather but don’t let a bit of rain put you off going out - get well kitted up and embrace the elements! Wet and uncomfortable = grumpy children. Proper waterproofs (not just showerproof) are easy to come by second hand and Lidl also sell great waterproofs for kids at an affordable price (and no Lidl are not paying me to say that!).
Rainy days are also a rich sensory experience for young children with all of the sounds of raindrops on the leaves and smells from the wet earth. Enjoy it.
So often parents that attend our groups have their child fully kitted up but forget about themselves... Make sure you're warm and dry too!
Happy exploring!
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If you’re interested in monthly nature activities and explorer guides for your child(ren) then take a look at our Earthwise boxes and receive 25% off your first box with code FIRSTBOX25.