Month: October 2021

  • FALL, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, PHOTOGRAPHY

    How to Find Frost Flowers While Hiking

    With summer fading and temperatures dropping as we prepare for the first frost of the year, you may not be super excited about getting outside in chilly weather. However, today’s post just might change your mind as we’re about to introduce you to an amazing phenomenon that only takes place this time of year. Have you ever heard of frost flowers? Today, Midwest mom of two and local STL adventure guru Sara Lesire is here sharing everything you need to know to find frost flowers with your kids while hiking. From what a frost flower is (it might surprise you), to where to find them, when to look, how they’re formed and why they’re so elusive, this post is filled with all kinds of amazing info. Nature is SO neat! 

    how to find frost flowers while hiking with kids

    Fall is frost flower season

    Fall is finally here and the temperatures are starting to drop. This season is a great time to get kids outdoors and hiking due to milder temperatures, beautiful fall colors, and fewer nuisance insects.  Another great advantage to fall hiking is the surprise discovery of frost flowers!

    These elusive cool weather gems provide a wonderful outdoor treasure hunt opportunity for the whole family. Frost flowers are rare and fleeting, but quite the experience to discover. Not only does searching for frost flowers provide a fun way to explore nature, but it also is an opportunity for a science lesson to learn about how they form.

    While you may never have even heard of frost flowers, I will explain the formation process and tips for how to find frost flowers while hiking. 

    What are frost flowers?

    Despite the name, frost flowers aren’t actual flowers at all! Did you see that plot twist coming? These delicate creations are actually composed of thin ribbons of ice that curl into intricate petal shapes.

    They may also be called ice flowers, ribbon ice, or rabbit ice. Stunning and short-lived, frost flowers emerge from the stems of specific plants as the temperatures begin to dip below freezing. Once the sun rises and warms the ice, these fragile ice crystals vanish away quickly. You can’t plant them or grow them, but when the weather is right they appear almost like magic. 

    What is a Frost Flower?

    How frost flowers form

    While it may look like fairies spin these lovely creations overnight, in reality, frost flowers require very specific conditions in order to form. Frost flowers develop when the air temperature drops below freezing, but the ground is still warm. This usually occurs around the first frost of the season when the thermometer drops sharply at night, but the days are still warmer.

    The higher ground temperatures are enough to keep the plants’ root systems active. As water or sap is drawn up into the stems, the cooler night air causes the moisture to freeze. The frozen moisture expands and forces pressure against the stems. This causes small cracks or fissures through the stem surface.

    The moist and warm roots continue to send liquid up through the stem which then pushes out through the cracks in the stem. When this water reaches the colder air, it quickly freezes. As more water continues up the stem, the liquid continues to be forced out through the cracks and freezes upon contact with the air. (You can explain it to kids as similar to pushing toothpaste out of a tube.) This continued liquid to ice cycle creates fragile ribbons of ice that can curl and morph into unusual nature sculptures. 

    Size and shape of frost flowers

    The size of the cracks in the stem and the type of plant determine the shape of the frost flowers. Wider stem cracks will lead to thicker flower petals. Thinner cracks create even more delicate ice crystals that twist and curl. Some stems split completely in a vertical line.

    Just like snowflakes, no two frost flowers will look alike. As the ice ribbons form, they can join into each other to create petals, flowers, and even heart shapes. 

    frost flowers ice ribbons rabbit ice - where and how to find themhow to find frost flowers ice flowers ribbon icehow to find frost flowers

    Which plants create frost flowers?

    Not all plants form frost flowers. According to American Scientist, about 40 different species worldwide are known to develop frost flowers. Scientists are sure exactly why only certain plants form frost flowers, but it may be due to a more active root system or stems that more easily rupture.

    The more common species that lead to frost flowers include dittany, stinkwood, ironweed, crownbeard, frostweek, tickweed, Indian tobacco, and wingstem. You may even see frost flowers in wood, where water vapor is forced through the wood pores. I have also witnessed frost flowers emerging from rocky surfaces under the right conditions. 

    Plants that create frost flowershow to find frost flowers - when and where to look for frost flowersHow to spot frost flowers

    Where to look for frost flowers

    The discovery of frost flowers can be exciting but you have to look in the right place. Frost flowers will only occur in areas where the temperature dips below freezing and the correct plant species grow. In the U.S., they can be found in the Midwest, Northeast, and portions of the South. An internet search may be able to help discover if or where in your area these plants grow.

    Natural areas that are not mowed are a good place to search in these regions.  Many of the plants that produce them grow in more moist or woody areas. I often find them in areas that are mossy, forested, or near a creek. Hilly and shades areas where the temperature is cooler are also good hunting spots. Another common location is a field near the edge of a wooded area. You may have to look closely or peek under fallen leaves to find them. 

    You could try looking while hiking at a local state park or nature preserve to find undisturbed areas. In Missouri for example, I have found them at parks with heavy woods, mossy hills, and streams such as Meramec State Park and Rockwoods Reservation. 

    How to spot frost flowers

    When you first happen to witness frost flowers, they may appear as trash or tissues littering a field or forest floor. Upon closer inspection, they appear as delicate as cotton candy or a spider’s web. Once you are fortunate to find one, keep an eye out and see how many more you can discover. My kids find this process a fun scavenger hunt. 

    how to find frost flowers - what are frost flowershow to find frost flowers in Missouri

    When to look for frost flowers

    The timing of frost flowers is very difficult to predict as proper conditions are very specific such as when catching a rainbow. Typically, frost flowers emerge after the first good frost in fall or early winter. The first hard temperature drop of the season can cause the moist plant stems to rupture and initiate the process of the moisture being forced through the previously cracked stems. This process can continue for days or weeks depending on how the weather cooperates. 

    If the weather continues in an up and down pattern of warm days and cold nights, you can witness frost flowers emerging for a much longer period. While most common in fall, the process can also occur in winter and spring. Once the ground freezes, the process will cease as moisture can no longer move up the stems.

    Early morning frost flowers

    In order to witness the frost flower phenomenon, you need to get an early start to explore. The ice crystals form in freezing overnight hours just like typical ground frost. However, they melt away quickly when the sun begins to shine and warm the ground.

    For the best chance of finding frost flowers, try to time a morning hike for soon after sunrise if you can drag the kids out of bed in time to go searching. If the day stays cool or cloudy, you may even be able to spot frost flowers into the late morning hours. 

    frost flowers - where to find frost flowers in the midwestWhen to go looking for frost flowers

    Preparing to look for frost flowers

    Since frost flowers emerge after a hard drop in temperatures, be prepared with the proper gear and attire for exploring outdoors. A warm hat, gloves, and coat are key for keeping little ears and fingers warm.

    Since the ground will often be frosty and damp, a good pair of water-resistant hiking shoes and wool blend socks can keep toes dry. While the nights and mornings may be cool, the daytime weather can warm quickly as the sun rises. Layers are always a good choice to allow shedding warmer outerwear.  

    Explore responsibly

    Frost flowers are both rare and short-lived. In order to allow others to enjoy the spectacle, please teach children to observe gently. I allow my kids to carefully touch a few in order to understand what they are made of and how they are created. However, we try to avoid damaging them in case other hikers are in the area to view these special ice creations.

    Always respect all rules as far as whether venturing off-trail to explore is allowed. Even with cooler temperatures, please keep an eye out to avoid disturbing nature and wildlife. Make sure you follow (and teach) all Leave No Trace principles. 

    How to find frost flowers when fall hiking hiking with kids

    Have you ever seen a frost flower?

    About the author

    Sara has been married to her high school sweetheart for 17 years and together they have two children. Sara spent many childhood hours outside on her grandparents’ farm and strives for her kids to have similar carefree kid adventures. Based in the St. Louis area, she loves to share on her blog and social media all the scenic and fun places to explore around the St. Louis area and beyond. Hiking is the most popular activity for her whole family followed by hitting up the best local playgrounds. Photography is also a passion of Sara’s and she continues to be amazed at the natural beauty and wonder of God’s creation. When she is not hitting the trail, Sara works as a civil engineer.

    You can find more from Sara online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @midwestnomadfamily
    Facebook: Midwest Nomad Family
    RWMC posts: Sara Lesire

  • CRAFTS, FALL, LESSONS

    Pumpkin Science Experiments for Kids

    Looking for a fun way to utilize those pumpkins from the patch, while teaching kids about science? Look no further! Today, Texas homeschooling mom Lauren Cain is here sharing four amazing pumpkin science experiments for kids. She’ll walk you through how to make pumpkin bubbles, pumpkin slime, pumpkin elephant toothpaste, and how to dissect a pumpkin. Get your little scientists excited for fall and Halloween with these fun experiments. 

    Pumpkin Science Experiments for Kids

    Pumpkin science experiments for kids

    ‘Tis the season of the pumpkin. There are many clues that tell us that Fall is officially here. For some of us, we know that Fall is here because of the change in weather or leaves turning from green to brown. Well, in our house we know that Fall is officially here when we are suddenly surrounded by pumpkin–EVERYTHING.

    There’s something about pumpkins that piques the interest of children and adults alike. They’re just fun. Do you know what else is fun? Easy-to-follow science experiments that you can do with your children.

    So, why not combine the two and try some fun pumpkin science experiments with your kids? This post features simple and low prep pumpkin science experiments that I have done with my children. They absolutely loved it, and I am sure your children will too!

    Pumpkin Bubbles Experiment Kindergarten

    The bubbles, oh the bubbles!

    Who doesn’t love bubbles?! There’s a really interesting science behind the making of bubbles that is fascinating to learn. If you want to turn this activity into a fun lesson I would suggest watching a few YouTube videos on bubble science for kids. My children especially liked Fun with Bubbles by SciShow Kids. Or, you could just get straight to the bubble blowing.

    Did you ever blow bubbles in your drink as a child (even though your parents would constantly ask you to stop)? Well, the pumpkin bubbles experiment is just like that. What’s great about this experiment is that it is very low prep and aside from the pumpkin, you probably already have everything that you need for this activity.

    How to make pumpkin bubbles

    Materials needed are:

    • Pumpkin (smaller pumpkins work best for this activity)
    • 2 tablespoons dish soap (any brand will work)
    • Straw
    • Dash of water

    Put the soap in your hollowed-out pumpkin and add a dash of water. Insert the straw and then let your children blow bubbles until they spill out the top of the pumpkin. 

    Remind your little one to blow OUT and not suck in because a mouth full of soapy water is no fun at all. My son got a small taste of the soapy water and was not pleased.

    Also, note that the quantities of the ingredients aren’t exact. Experiment with less or more soap/water to see if the outcome changes.

    Pumpkin slime

    Ok, I know that slime is like Voldermort ( I mean “He Who Must Not Be Named”) in some households. But, hear me out.  Can it be messy? Yes. Is messy play important to the development of our kids? Also, yes!

    Making slime can be a lot of fun and promotes great sensory learning which is important especially for early learners. This pumpkin slime recipe is made with the fibrous strands and seeds from the pumpkin which gives it a cool textural feel that is unique from the typical slime. So, give it a try!

    Here’s what you need to make pumpkin slime:

    • Pumpkin guts (aka the seeds and such from inside your pumpkin)
    • Clear glue (about two small bottles or 18 oz )
    • Liquid starch (1 cup)
    • Water (1 cup)

    How to make pumpkin slime:

    Scoop out the seeds and fibrous strands from your pumpkin and set them aside. Pour the glue into your empty pumpkin and then add the water. Add the pumpkin guts back to the pumpkin. Carefully, mix them together. Grab your liquid starch and it to the glue and pumpkin mixture slowly.

    At this point, we mixed with our hands because it seemed easier. But, if stirring with a spoon works for you then go for it. Keep stirring or mixing with your hands until the slime begins to come together as one and is not sticking to your hands or spoon. If it is still sticky, add more liquid starch a tablespoon at a time until the right consistency is achieved.

    That’s it! Now you have pumpkin gut slime!

    Pumpkin Slime

    Pumpkin science investigation

    You’ll be hard-pressed to find a child who cannot recognize a pumpkin. However, opening a pumpkin up and discussing the parts of a pumpkin and the pumpkin life cycle make for a fun learning experiment.

    You can take it a step further and have your kid(s) separate the seeds from the fibrous strands and discuss how they are different, but still work together. For this activity, all you will need is a pumpkin (a smaller one may work best for this purpose) and a knife to cut it in half.

    It’s simple, but it is also a very interesting activity and allows kids to have a different perspective and perhaps a new appreciation for the pumpkin.

    Pumpkin Investigation

    Pumpkin elephant toothpaste

    In discussing pumpkin science experiments, this one reigns supreme. We love making elephant toothpaste because it is such a fun high-impact experiment. Doing the experiment in a pumpkin makes an already fun experiment that much more exciting!

    The level of reaction that you will get from the combination of ingredients really depends on the type of hydrogen peroxide. We have done this experiment many times using the typical 3% hydrogen peroxide that you find in stores and the reaction was pretty mild (which is great for younger kids).

    However, with this pumpkin elephant toothpaste, I opted for a higher concentration at 6%. The reaction was bigger than it has been before without being out of control. If you have not tried to make elephant toothpaste before I 100% recommend that you give it a try, it is such a fun experiment!

    Pumpkin Elephant Toothpaste

    Here’s what you will need to make pumpkin elephant toothpaste:

    • Hollowed out pumpkin
    • 1 cup (4 oz) 6% hydrogen peroxide. I used a 20 volume clear developer (liquid) that I purchased from Sally’s Beauty Supply.
    • Food coloring
    • 6 tablespoons of  warm water
    • 2 packets of active yeast
    • ~ 2 tablespoons of dish soap
    • Recycled plastic water bottle, jar, beaker, etc.
    • Funnel
    • Tray
    • Measuring cups and spoons
    • Safety goggles

    How to make your pumpkin erupt

    In your empty pumpkin place your empty bottle, jar, beaker, etc. I actually used a 2 cup measuring cup in our pumpkin, which worked perfectly.
     
    Pour in the hydrogen peroxide. Add the dish soap and several drops of the food coloring of your choice. Pour the yeast in an empty bowl and add the warm water; stir with a fork for about 1 minute or until the yeast has dissolved.
     
    Using a funnel, pour the yeast into the hydrogen peroxide mixture and step back and watch the reaction!
     
    Please note that this reaction may be very hot and can irritant the skin. It’s typically fine to touch after it has had time to cool down, however, to be extra cautious you should steer clear of letting your little ones play with it.pumpkin science STEM experiments for kids

    Pumpkin STEM activity

    While this activity does not call for the use of real pumpkins, it is an engaging themed activity nonetheless. Kids can channel their inner engineer as they build amazing pumpkin structures using two materials: pumpkin candy and toothpicks. That’s it!

    At this time of year, pumpkin candy should not be hard to find. They are semi-soft and definitely related to candy corn. I purchased mine from Sprout’s Farmers Market, but I am sure they are available at other grocery stores as well.

    I love this activity so much because as I mentioned, it is so engaging and encourages focus and creativity. My almost 5 year old spent a solid 30 minutes building his structure and was so proud of the end result. This is a great activity that can be recreated time and time again using different materials. The pumpkin candy can be swapped for marshmallows, candy peanuts, or any other semi-soft material. So, get building!

    Pumpkin STEM Activities

    Don’t just be a pumpkin eater this season!

    There are so many awesome pumpkin science experiments for kids. This is a great time to engage, learn, and have fun with an item that kids may only know as an ingredient for their favorite pie. So, which pumpkin science experiment will you try with your kids?

    About the author

    Lauren is a California native turned Texan, who loves to get out in nature and discover hidden gems all around the Dallas/Fort Worth area. She is a wife and homeschooling mama to three kids who definitely keep her on her toes. She truly believes in the value of homeschooling and that there are learning opportunities available all around us. In addition to homeschooling, Lauren is also an entrepreneur; she’s the co-owner of Crunchy Boutique (a natural-living/eco-friendly boutique). 

    You can find more from Lauren in the following places:
    Instagram: @crunchymamadfw
    Facebook: @crunchymamadfw
    RWMC Posts: Lauren Cain

  • FAVORITE GEAR, GIFT GUIDE, HOLIDAYS

    Best Gifts for Outdoor Moms

    With the holidays coming up, I thought it was time to update our list of what outdoorsy moms really want to receive. Getting my kids and family outside and adventuring is a top priority, so gear and clothing that helps me do that are always at the top of my list. I’m also a big fan of experience gifts, particularly those that involve nature and being outside, learning a new skill, or about nature. We polled our audience and the members of our Creative Team and put together a big giant list of fun outdoor gear and perfect gift ideas for nature and adventure-loving moms and women in your life. 

    {This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. Thank you for supporting a small business.}

    the best gifts for outdoorsy mom - gear, clothing & experiences

     

    Gifts for outdoorsy moms (and other nature-loving women)

    We have been working hard to put together the ultimate gift guide for outdoor moms. Any of these outdoor gifts would make great gifts for that special outdoorsy mom (or stepmom, grandma, aunt, sister, friend, neighbor, etc.) on your list. Moms appreciate thoughtful gifts and useful gifts. The recommendations on this list are both. You can use this list for the best mother’s day gifts ideas, as well as for the holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. 

    We know that sometimes moms are hard to shop for. But, we also know that we tend to put the needs of our kids and others before ourselves, so we don’t always have the nicest outdoor gear for ourselves. Having good quality gear for mom is important, though! Moms deserve to be comfortable and have quality items as much as the kids do. 

    We’ve broken down our gift recommendations into three categories: (1) gear, (2) clothing, (3) experiences. For the gear and clothing, we’ve included links to online shops where you can find these items. However, for the experience gifts, we’ve just included ideas. You’ll have to do some research in your location to find a place, destination, location, shop, outfitter, guide, etc. that offers the specific experience you’re looking for. We’ve included as many things as we could to give you a variety of options. There should be something on this list for nearly any outdoorsy woman that likes to play and explore outside, no matter what her interests are. 

    Some of the recommendations are pricy – we know that. We’re big believers in buying quality gear that will last a very long time. We want you to get lots of use out items so that we keep as much waste out of landfills as possible. Sometimes that means a higher price tag. Please know that many of these items can be found at resale shops or online marketplaces at discount prices.

    best women's gifts for camping, hiking, water sports, and outdoor adventures

    Gear gifts for outdoor moms and outdoorsy women

    Camping Hammock – A hammock makes a great gift – especially if you pair it with a long cozy nap! This double camping hammock is perfect for snuggling up with a kid or loved one. If you don’t want to share, there’s also a single-sized hammock.  Both are easy to pack in a backpack for camping, travel, the beach, or the backyard.

    Stanley Classic Growler – There’s not much that tastes better in life than a cold beer by the campfire. But sometimes that’s hard to transport and keep cold. This stainless steel growler is perfect for the job. I love the handle, the color, and the fact that it can hold a serious amount of beer. Keeps beer cold for 24 hours. Fill it up with mom’s favorite microbrew and pack it for your next camping adventure, picnic, or outdoor date night. Bottoms up!

    GoPro HERO Session – I don’t know a single mom that wouldn’t love a GoPro. The GoPro Hero Session model is small, waterproof, easy to grab and go, durable, and perfect for exploring the great outdoors. It has a super simple one-button video/photo function, which makes it perfect for first-time GoPro users. Takes video, single shots, burst photos, and time-lapse pictures.

    E-bike – This is a bit of a splurge item, but e-bikes are amazing! I’ve made a conscious effort to start biking more around our neighborhood and use my bike when running errands. It’s helped me get more fresh air and exercise and helped cut down on carbon emissions and gas consumption. However, hauling kids (especially as they get older and heavier) is tough with all the hills in our area. This e-bike has been a game-changer. Radio Flyer (yes, the maker of the classic little red wagon) has a new line of e-bikes that are specially designed for families! The Flyer L885 bike is beautiful, high-quality, and lets me easily carry two kids (or a ton of groceries or gear) on the back! The charge holds for 50+ miles and it’s so fun! My kids beg to go for rides every day!

    Camping chairs – I’m on the hunt for the perfect camping chair. I want something relatively lightweight (because I have to carry it to baseball games), sturdy, durable, comfortable and not too big and unwieldy. A cup holder and storage pocket for my phone would also be nice. If you want to go top-of-the-line with a camp chair and aren’t concerned with size or weight or price, choose the Yeti Trailhead Collapsible Camping Chair. However, if the sticker price on that one gives you a heart attack, try the GCI Freestyle Rocker or the Kijaro, which comes in a ton of fun colors (I have this one in yellow). If you’re packing your chair, the REI Flexlite camp chair is great. 

    Kayak – If the mom in your life loves water, a kayak would be an incredibly special gift. Kayaks come in a variety of sizes, weights, and price points, so you may need to do a little research before purchasing. If storage space and transportability are an issue, consider an inflatable kayak or a collapsible kayak. If she wants to take a kid along on adventures, consider a 2-person kayak. 

    SUP – Along the same lines as a kayak, a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is at the top of many of our Creative Team members lists this year. We recommend the inflatable ones from Badfish. The Flyweight SUP is ultra-light and easily packable. Or, the Bote Breeze is another great option that comes highly recommended. 

    Bike rack – A bike rack may not sound like a super exciting gift, but think about all the possibilities and adventures it opens up being to take all your family’s bikes on the road with you! Most bike racks require that you have a hitch installed on your car, so if you don’t have one, that appointment needs to come first. We had one installed at our local U-Haul store. We choose this Yakima full-swing 4-bike mount that swings out so we can still open the back of our minivan without removing the rack and bikes. If you don’t have a hitch, consider a trunk mount bike carrier. 

    Satellite phone – Want to give that mom in your life some peace of mind when she’s out adventuring (solo or with the kids)? A satellite communicator is perfect for any mom that likes adventuring off the beaten path, where service is spotty or non-existent. We recommend the Garmin InReach satellite communicator which has 100% global Iridium satellite coverage and two-way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required). It also has the ability to trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, should you ever need help. 

    Mirrorless camera – A mirrorless camera has been on my wishlist for years! This Canon EOS full-frame body is perfect for the mom that wants to take more/better photos of her kids, but not have to drag super heavy gear around with her on adventures. It’s compatible with all Canon lenses and is a nice upgrade from my current DSLR. 

    Family tent – We recently upgraded our family tent and I’m so impressed with our new tent, I’m recommending it to all of you. We went with the North Face Wawona 6 camping tent and love it. It has a huge vestibule big enough for all our gear and plenty of space inside for our entire family. Another tent for the whole family with great value is the Kelty Discovery 6 tent. 

    best experience gifts, outdoor clothing and gear recommendations for moms

    Packable blankets – We love this fun and colorful packable down blanket from Rumpl. The Rumple blanket is perfect for traveling, camping, picnics, etc. The bright color is fun and it’s so soft! Or this Classic Wool Blanket Rug Throw from the Tartan Blanket Co. is a must-have. It’s the perfect rugged, durable, year-round blanket for everything from picnics to cozying up by the fire. 

    Osprey backpack – For hikers and backpackers, having the right backpack is key. We love Osprey backpacks that are specifically designed for women. If the mom in your life is into overnight backpacking trips, the Osprey Women’s Aura AG 65 Backpack is one of the best backpacks out there with an anti-gravity suspension system that gives outstanding ventilation and comfort.  If you’re shopping for a new mom or have a little tiny one in your family, consider the Osprey Poco Child Carrier backpack, so you can take your kid along on hikes. If you need a good hiking backpack, the Osprey Hikelite is a great choice for day hikes and has a ventilated back panel to keep you from getting sweaty. If you’re in need of a hydration pack, we recommend the Osprey Salida, which comes in a variety of sizes, depending on how much water you’ll need to carry with you. 

    Lamzac the Original Seat – If you really want to up the comfort and relaxation level while out on adventures, how fun is this unique personal inflatable air lounger from Lamzac? It takes three big “gulps” of air to fill and folds flat so it can be easily taken anywhere. Easier to set up than a hammock, perfect for the beach, parks, festivals, camping, picnics, and backyard lounging. 

    TeamFar 12 Ounce Ceramic-Coated Cups – I love this bright, colorful set of 4 ceramic-coated enamel camping cups/travel mugs. Small (easy to pack), with a heat-resistant handle and wide-mouth design. Perfect for coffee, milk, juice, tea, soup, cereal, hot cocoa, beer, or wine!

    Backpacking cooking system – If mom is a backpacker (or wants to be), she’s going to need a good cooking system or camp stove. We recommend the JetBoil Flash cooking system, which is lighting quick, small/packable, and durable. It has an easy push-button igniter and is compatible with a ton of fun accessories. 

    Dry bags – Moms are usually the ones in charge of packing the gear, snacks, camera, and change of clothes for the kids on outdoor adventures. Set her up for success with these awesome dry bags, so everything on the trip stays high and dry. This dry bag pack comes with 3 in a set of various sizes and is perfect for any adventure. 

    Stasher bags – While we’re on the subject of cooking and bags, don’t forget about Stasher bags. These reusable bags are perfect for packing snacks and eliminating food waste. They’re a bit pricy, which sometimes keeps moms from buying them for themselves, but they make for really thoughtful and useful gifts. 

    Wagon – And speaking of hauling all the gear for the kids, whether it’s a trip to the beach or down to the ball fields, a portable/collapsible wagon to haul all the gear is a great gift idea. This heavy-duty wagon is great for the garden or camping. Wheelz makes the best carts for the beach and battling the sand. This sports wagon is perfect for baseball or soccer moms. 

    Simms waders – Fishing moms are going to love this gift! Give her a pair of high-quality waders so she can get in the water, too. In our opinion, Simms makes the absolute best waders out there for women. And don’t forget to add the wading boots and a fly rod (this set comes with fly rod, reel, and fishing line) to round out the ultimate fishing gift package! 

    Waterproof speaker – Bring your tunes with you (or your podcast or your audiobook) when you’re outside enjoying your adventures. We love the JBL Flip 5 portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker. We take ours everywhere with us. It’s recharge and very durable (trust me, it’s been dropped many many times with three kids). 

    Yeti cooler – I’m a bit obsessed with my Yeti Hopper cooler. I take it with me everywhere! While smaller and lighter than most Yeti coolers, it’s still a bit big for carrying around, but I keep it stocked in the car and filled with snacks and drinks. We also take it with us to baseball games, picnics, and BBQs. 

    Clothing gifts for outdoor moms

    Wool base layers – We are all slightly obsessed with merino wool layers. They are warm, super-soft, and naturally odor-resistant, which makes them the perfect base layer for outdoor adventuring in colder weather. We highly recommend merino wool for kids, but mom deserves to be warm, too! We recommend Kari Traa base layers, which are 100% merino wool. 

    Vivobarefoot shoes – Vivobarefoot is one of our all-time favorite shoe companies because they understand the importance of connecting with nature. They pride themselves on their sustainability efforts and lead the way in creating shoes that last with as little environmental impact as possible. My all-time favorite shoe is their Ultra Bloom lightweight amphibious summer footwear. I personally own these shoes in multiple colors and wear them almost exclusively from April through October. You can usually find them in the Revivo resale shop (where Vivo reconditions and regenerates footwear to keep them out of landfills). 

    Patagonia coat or jacket – The outdoorsy mom in your life deserves an amazing winter coat. Hands-down, Patagonia makes the best, most comfortable, and stylish outdoor gear for women on the market. This is a company I personally and professionally admire and look up to for its ethics and commitment to the environment and sustainability. The Nano Puff is perfect for fall and layering. The Down Sweater Hoody is great for active on-the-go moms. The 3-in-1 parka is the ultimate winter coat. And the Torrentshell rain jacket will make any mom excited about playing in the rain. 

    Gloves – The ultimate ideal winter gloves would not only be insulated, waterproof and windproof, but they’d also be tech compatible so you can still use a touchscreen device without having to take off your gloves. We found a few options at different price points that worked for all these requirements – Outdoor Research Melody Sensor Gloves, Koxly 3M Insulated Gloves, The North Face Etip Gloves, and OZERO Thermal Gloves. 

    Chaco Women’s Outcross Evo Mary Jane – I own these shoes and they’re a favorite. Classic Chaco sandals are great for summer days on the river/lake or at the farm. This waterproof shoe is perfect for hiking/creeking because it feels like a tennis shoe and will keep sand and small rocks out. 

    Hiking pants – A good hiking pant is a must for the active mom that spends a lot of time on the trails. We love Title Nine hiking pants. They come in a variety of styles and colors, for women of all shapes and sizes. Title Nine is a women-owned US-based company that makes amazing clothing for women only. Their clothing is high quality, durable, fashionable, and ethical. 

    Wool socks – If you’re adventuring outside and your feet are cold, you’re going to be miserable. Get mom some nice wool socks for all those wintertime outdoor explorations with the kids. Smartwool makes great hiking socks. As does Darn Tough. 

    Hiking boots – All outdoor lovers need a good pair of hiking boots. There are so many amazing brands out there and this is a bit of a personal choice. If you already know what style and colors she likes, go with that. If you’re looking for a new pair, our team members recommend the following: Teva, Columbia, Keen, Merrell. 

    Vuyori shorts and pants – The Vuyori performance joggers are the most comfortable pants I’ve ever owned. They’re a little pricy, but they’re like wearing butter. They also make a pair of shorts (the Halo performance shorts) that will change your life. Perfect for those of us that usually despise wearing shorts.  

    best experience gifts for outdoorsy mom

    Experience gifts for outdoorsy moms

    If the outdoorsy mom in your life has all the clothing/gear she needs, or is more interested in getting experiences than stuff, don’t worry! We’ve got a huge list of outdoor activity ideas, adventures, lessons, and experiences that should help inspire you to find a thoughtful gift that she’s interested in. Experiences make for amazing and unique gifts that can be tailed to any interest, whether that’s adventuring, reading, gardening, photography, or anything else. Because so many of these are based on where you’ll be doing the activity, we’re not including links, just a list of ideas to get you starting thinking about an adventure you could gift. The best part about having the right gear and clothing is being able to put it to good use – these ideas will help you do just that! 

    • National parks pass 
    • RV rental – check out Outdoorsy.com
    • Beach picnic – there are lots of local companies that will set up (and then clean up) a fully catered picnic on the beach for you
    • Farm-to-table dinner experience
    • Horseback riding adventure
    • Overnight biking trip
    • Paddling adventure
    • Rock climbing lessons/passes
    • Ice fishing excursion
    • Photography course (HelloStoryteller has some great online courses…and a few with us where we pair lessons with outdoor activities for kids)
    • “Mom & Me” photo session with a local photographer
    • Garden center gift certificate
    • Foraging excursion with a local guide
    • Fly fishing casting lessons
    • Airbnb gift certificate for a unique stay (treehouse, cabin, tiny home, etc.)
    • Ski school lesson
    • Pontoon boat rental (or houseboat, ski boat, fishing boat)
    • Campground reservations (or plan a camping trip)
    • Hang gliding lesson
    • Plein air art studio session
    • Pottery making class
    • Gift card to local outdoor adventure store
    • Sailing lessons
    • Gardening class (or Master Gardener class if you’ve really got a green thumb)
    • Ice skate rink rentals
    • Safari
    • Surfing lessons
    • Organized night hike
    • Outdoor cooking class
    • Yoga retreat
    • Cross country ski rentals

    awesome gifts for active and adventurous women and moms

    Mix and match gift packages

    Want to go above and beyond? Package a piece of gear or clothing together with an outdoor adventure for a winning combination! For example, pair the beach wagon with a weekend getaway to the beach. Combine the hammock, tent, thermos, and backpack with a campground reservation. Pair the kayak and dry bags with a paddling excursion. Or do just about anything and get it all on video with that awesome GoPro! Outdoorsy gifts are amazing, especially when paired with an adventure!

    Hey moms, what’s on your holiday wishlist?

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, CRAFTS, GOOD FOR NATURE, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, URBAN NATURE

    How to Build a Bat House with Kids

    October is the perfect time of year to think about bats! If your kids are curious about bats and would love to learn more about these fascinating (and really beneficial) creatures, this post is for you! Today, Lissy Perna, Massachusetts mom of two and founder of Get Outside Cape Cod, is here to discuss all things BAT! Lissy walks us through the benefits and importance of bats and provides step-by-step instructions on how to build a bat house with kids. This hands-on DIY is easier to do than you might think! She also includes additional bat resources, bat book recommendations for kids, and some really interesting bat facts. 

    How to build a bat house with kids

    Have you ever thought about building a bat house with your kids, but you weren’t sure if it would be too much work? Well, I want you to know that you can totally do it! Building a bat house is an easy project that can be done in an afternoon. The shallow design of a bat box is perfect for bats because they like cramped, dark spaces for nesting. Get your kids involved in the planning and the work. Kids can help with picking the location, measuring the wood, cutting the pieces, driving nails, and decorating the bat house. Follow these steps while including your kids, and you’ll not only have built a bat house but will have formed a lasting memory together too!

    Benefits of bats

    Bats get a bad rap, as they are often associated with Halloween, vampires, and even the most recent pandemic. But, bats are crucial to their ecosystems and are generally not harmful or dangerous to humans. Here are some of the many valuable aspects of bats that you might not have been aware of.

    Bats that consume insects provide a critical amount of pest control – $3.7 billion worth in the United States alone each year. And, in a bittersweet way, these bats become sustenance for larger predators such as hawks, raccoons, and snakes. (Did anyone else start to sing “The Circle of Life” from the Lion King?)

    When you think of pollinators, bats probably aren’t the first creature that comes to mind. Bees, butterflies, or birds might top your list. But, some bats, like the Mexican long-tongued bat, are perfectly adapted to pollinate the agave plant in the Southwestern US. Sweet!

    Bat guano is rich in nutrients. Did you know that bat excrement (or bat droppings), also known as guano, is high in nitrogen and can be used as organic fertilizer? It’s more effective than cow manure, so moo-ve over heifers, we have a new way to fertilize our gardens.

    Flying bat in the evening skyPhoto credit: Stephen Ghio            

    What do bats eat?

    Bats eat various things, like fruit, nectar, pollen, and insects. Some even drink blood! However, out of 1400 species of bats, only 3 are vampire bats species that survive by consuming blood.

    Did you know that bats are the prime pollinator for the agave plant, an ingredient in tequila? So the next time you’re drinking a margarita, make a toast to a bat!

    The bat populations in our area in Massachusetts are all insectivores, meaning they only feed on insects. In just one hour, a single little brown bat can eat up to 1,000 insects. A nursing mother bat can eat up to 4,000 insects in one night; isn’t that wild?

    More amazing bat facts for kids

    Let’s face it, bats are pretty interesting creatures. Here are ten more facts about our winged friends that I thought were unusual that might interest your kids:

    • Bats are the only mammal that can truly fly.
    • The oldest living bat on record was found in Siberia; it lived to be 41 years old!
    • Bats have lived on earth for over 50 million years, and the oldest fossil was found in Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park.
    • The saying “blind as a bat” doesn’t hold much weight, as bats can actually see. Some bats that eat fruit rely almost entirely on their vision to find their food.
    • The largest known colony of bats is in Texas at the Bracken Bat Cave. There are more than 20 million bats living together!
    • Bats are a symbol of happiness in Japan.
    • Bat excrement or guano was used to make gun powder during the Civil War.
    • There is species of bat in West Africa that live in spider webs!
    • Bats’ echolocation is so precise that it can detect an object as thin as human hair.
    • The smallest known bat is Kitti’s Hog-nose bat also known as the Bumblebee Bat because it only weighs 2 grams.

    Now that you’ve learned so much about these truly magnificent mammals and the critical role they play in our ecosystem, are you ready to build your bat house? Great! Just hang in there because I have all the information you need up next.

    Flying batPhoto credit: Adam Olliver

    Bat house design

    Typically, bat house design is pretty straightforward. Bat houses are usually in the shape of a narrow flat box, with an opening at the bottom for the bats to fly in and out of. The goal for bat house design is to make a bat house that mimics the space between tree bark and a tree trunk. The space inside a bat house should be very narrow, unlike a birdhouse, which would house a round nest. Bats like tight spaces. They also like warm spaces when raising their young. The open bottom designs allow the bats easy entrance/exit. 

    Gathering materials to build your bat house

    First, you will need to gather all materials to build the bat house with your kids.

    Tools needed:

    • Hammer
    • (24) 2-inch nails, aka “6-penny nails”, or galvanized screws
    • Circular saw
    • Compound miter saw
    • Power drill
    • Tape measure
    • Pencil for marking measurements and straight edge
    • Safety goggles
    • (2) 3″ exterior screws for mounting
    • Paint and paintbrush (optional)
    • Plastic mesh netting and staple gun (optional)
    • Wood boards (preferably cedar boards)

    Pieces of wood cut into the following sizes:

    You’ll need to cut 6 separate pieces of wood to assemble the house. Measuring the boards is a great project for kids. I’ve included the dimensions for a basic bat house below, but you can certainly make a bigger bat house if you’d like; adjust the sizes accordingly. 

    • Front panel – 18.25″x12″x1″
    • Sides (2) – 22″x4″x.1″, make 30-degree cuts on one end of each
    • Back panel – 25″x 12″x1″
    • Roof – 16.5″x7″x1″, you can make a 30-degree angle on the roof if you choose to, not necessary
    • Predator Buffer – 12″x 1.5″x 1″

    Also, cedar is generally recommended but tends to be expensive. We chose to build with rough-sawn native white pine from a local mill, as it was less costly and has worked fine in bat boxes that we have made in the past. Whichever wood you decide to use, remember that it must not be treated with any chemicals, as they can be harmful to the bats. Purchasing an 8-foot by 1-foot plank of wood from a lumberyard should give you enough material to build your entire bat house.

    Drill, saw, hammer, nails, staple gunWood pieces needed to build bat house

    How to assemble a bat house

    Create kerfs in the wood

    The first step in assembling your bat house is to make sure that the interior sections of the house are not planed or smooth. As you can see on our back piece, we created multiple horizontal lines with the saw. These “kerfs” were a quarter-inch deep and made with the compound miter saw. (This step would most likely be a job for an older child, but using power tools can be an empowering skill to learn!)

    These kerfs make it easier for the bats to hang when sleeping upside down in the house. Another option is to use plastic netting and staple it onto the interior of the bat house. Carefully trim any excess edges to avoid injuring the bats while inside the house. Bat houses should not contain fabric or plastic mesh. 

    Keep the predators out

    Next, nail the predator buffer to the bottom of the inside of the front piece. This piece of wood is vital to prevent predators from climbing inside the bat house and create a safe home for the bats. However, the small opening is still big enough for the bats to squeeze through. The gap at the bottom should be three-quarters to one inch.

    Nailing this piece of wood is a great way for the kids to get involved in building the bat house. You can help stabilize the pieces using wood glue, but that’s not necessary. Kids can use a hammer to pound in a few nails, and it’s great for hand-eye coordination! Pro-tip: Holding the hammer farther down on the grip, away from the head, will give you more force and more “BANG” for your buck.

    Hammering on predator buffer

    Add the sides to the bat house

    Next, use the power drill to start the holes in the sides of the house. We made three evenly spaced pilot holes along the edge. Pre-drilled holes made it easier for the kids to bang in the nails. These side pieces then get nailed to the back of the bat house.Drilling holes in side piece of bat houseNailing in side piece of bat house

    Add the front and landing areas

    The next steps are to slide the front piece into place and add the landing area. A little gap along the upper edge is a good thing – it’s necessary for ventilation. Use three more nails on each side. The overhang on the bottom is called the “landing area” this is where the bats land and climb up inside the house. A four-inch landing zone is sufficient for the bats to perch and climb comfortably.

    Attach roof and mount

    The last piece to attach is the roof. We used four nails after pre-drilling holes.

    Finally, drill a hole in the bottom center of the back piece & the top center of the roof for the exterior screws to mount to the side of a building or the side of a house. 

    Done building the bat house!

    And with that last step, you just built your very own bat house with your kids! Pat yourself on the bat- I mean, back. Great work!

    Decorating your bat house

    While it’s not necessary to paint your bat house, paint color can affect the inside temperature, which in turn can either attract or repel bats. You should either paint your bat house a light color or dark color depending on the temperature where you live. Here is a trusty map I found from Bat Conservation and Management that will guide you to what color you should paint your bat house based on your location if you decide to paint. Colder climates need darker colors to absorb warmth. 

    When painting your bat house, the most important rule is to choose non-toxic water or oil-based paint that will withstand natural elements such as snow and rain. You can use a drop cloth or old sheet to protect any surfaces from paint splatter. Remember to let the paint dry fully before hanging your house! 

    We decided not to paint our bat house and hung it up as-is. However, we did make another one and added a bat stencil to the front. The little brown bat stencil was initially drawn by my younger brother about twenty-five years ago when he first made a bat house with my dad. Can you believe my dad still had the stencil in his barn? This project ended up being incredibly special because my kids got to make this house with my dad and me, and he passed some of his carpentry skills on to them!

    Finished bat house with bat stencil

    bat stencil

    Where to hang a bat house

    Choosing a place to attach your bat house is very important and depends on whether bats will decide to move into your newly constructed dwelling. There are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing the best location and mounting your bat house.

    • The bat house should face south or south-east and get 6-8 hours of sun per day.
    • Mounting the house at least 12 to 20 feet from the ground is ideal.
    • The bat house should be away from bright lights.
    • Trees are not the best option for mounting a bat house because they are usually too shaded and predators can more easily access the house.
    • A fresh water source should be within a quarter-mile from where you place your bat house.
    • Multiple bat houses can be grouped side-by-side on a home or building or back-to-back on a pole mount.

    These seem like many requirements, but they are just general guidelines for the most successful bat houses. The goal is to do your best. If you only have a tree to mount it on, then try that. Or, if you don’t have a water source nearby, it’s still worth it to build a bat house!

    Attracting bats to your bat house

    Another thing to mention is building and hanging a homemade bat house does not guarantee that bats will decide to move in. Many factors are beyond your control that will determine whether or not you have a successful bat house. Some factors include predators nearby, other established roosts in the area, temperature and location of your bat house, etc. Ninety percent of bat houses become occupied by local bats within two years of installation, so practice patience. Hopefully, you will see some bat action sooner rather than later.

    Hanging the bat house

    “When day fades away, bats come out to play”

    Best times to look for bats

    If you want to look for bats in your backyard or a local park, choose a clear dry evening. Bats mainly come out at about dusk to feed, so find out when the sun sets and head out around that time. Where we live in New England, Spring, Summer, and early Fall are the best seasons to look for these flying mammals, as they hibernate during the colder months.

    When we set out to look for bats in our yard, we lay blankets on the lawn and ensured all outdoor lights were off. Then, staring up into the sky as the sunlight slowly fades away, we keep our eyes peeled for any movement above the trees. There’s certainly no shortage of mosquitos, so we hope the bats will soon follow. 

    SWOOP! We saw our first bat! It was a flash of jagged flight, looking almost uncoordinated, but we knew better. These winged mammals are precise hunters and we had front-row seats.

    My kids are always so excited to count bats. They love pointing at the sky and yelling out – “There’s one!” “I see another!” “Did you see those big brown bats, Mommy?!” It’s awesome. I try to capture photos of these insectivores, but they are too fast. As a result, only blurs of black in the early night sky showed up on my screen. The memory of this experience, however, is clear as a bell.

    Looking for bats at dusk in the back yard

    Become a bat-tivist (bat-activist)

    Now that you’ve built a sturdy bat house to help support the bats in your neighborhood, there are other ways that you can help protect and support bat populations.

    • Keep those dead trees up on your property! If they aren’t going to be a safety hazard, let them stay. Their natural cavities create the perfect habitat for bats, as well as many other creatures.
    • Refrain from using dangerous pesticides, as these can unintentionally harm bats and other animals. There are all kinds of natural alternatives that are safer for the animals and our planet, too.
    • Keep domesticated cats indoors, as they are dangerous to bats. House cats kill over 250,000 bats each year. Also, bat rehabilitators report that about one-third of injured bats are due to house cat attacks.
    • Share your knowledge! Tell your friends that you know how to build a bat house and how beneficial these winged animals are.

    Learning about bats

    Effortless options for a bat house build

    Here are some alternatives for certified bat house kits for kids. They come with pre-measured and cut wood pieces that are easy to assemble, creating safe and attractive homes for bats without needing to use power tools. 

    Reading about bats

    Bat book recommendations for kids

    If you’d like to read more about these marvelous flying mammals that will hopefully soon be living in your bat house, here are some beautiful books that you can find at your local library or book store. Who knows, maybe you’ll have a bat-tivist on your hands in the future!

    Learn more about bats

    If you (or your kids) are super interested in learning more about bats, check out Bat Conservation International. Their website is filled with amazing bat-tastic information including the latest bat news, bat facts, bat conservation efforts, and how you can help the cause. They also have free plans for building a bat house. 

    Are you ready to build a bat house with your kids?

    Lissy Perna

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • FALL, GARDENING, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Tips for Fall Gardening with Kids

    Have you ever been the recipient of a giant zucchini or bowl of tomatoes from a friend’s garden? Have you received those tasty veggies and thought, “I wish I would have planted a garden.” I’m here to tell you that it’s not too late to start! Fall is typically thought of as the harvest season, but it’s also a good time to get some seeds planted that you can harvest before winter. Wendy Cox, California mom and gardening teacher is here to help us get started with gardening this fall. These tips will break it down for you in easy-to-implement action items that you can do with your kids. So, grab your gardening gloves, your kids, and let’s get to planting that fall garden!

    Gardening in all shapes and sizes

    One of my favorite things about gardening is that it can usually be done anywhere, with whatever you have available. There are so many different ways to have a garden! You might have an in-ground garden in the backyard, raised beds in a community garden, pots/containers sitting on a windowsill, or maybe you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse. All of these are great choices and there’s no one right way to garden. Don’t feel that you need to have acres and acres of land to be a gardener. Even containers on your patio can produce more than you might think during the fall season. 

    How to prep your soil for a fall garden

    The first thing you need to do to get ready for planting a fall garden is to get your soil ready. You’ll want to start with good soil so that your plants have what they need to grow strong. For a raised bed or in-ground garden, you’ll want to amend your soil. To amend soil means to improve it with additional materials. Soil amendments improve the physical nature of your soil. They reduce compaction, aerating the soil to allow water and nutrients to more easily move through it and reach plant roots. Some soil amendments also add nutrients to the soil, help retain moisture and help maintain the correct pH balance. Examples of soil amendments are potting soil, compost, peat moss, etc. 

    In San Diego, the city dump sells a truck bed full of compost for $12 and it’s AMAZING! I mix the compost into my existing garden soil and have had great success with it. If you are planting in pots or other containers, don’t scrimp on the potting soil. You get what you pay for in this situation. Go to your local nursery and ask them what brand of potting soil they recommend for vegetables. In my experience, employees at local nurseries are quite knowledgeable or can at least direct you to someone who has answers. That hasn’t been the case for me at bigger chain stores. If you end up there, look for a potting soil specifically made for container vegetable gardening. 

    Planting your fall garden

    Now you’re sitting there looking at your beautiful, possibly smelly soil, and wondering what to plant. My number one recommendation is radishes. Radishes are so much fun to grow with kids! They sprout in 3 – 6 days. This is perfect for little ones who lose interest in things very easily. Every day after it sprouts you will notice a little bit of growth in the radish. Some varieties of radishes are even ready to harvest in just 21 days!

    Here are a couple of the varieties I planted with my kids this fall. Don’t they look like something fun to eat?

    Cool-season vegetables for fall gardening

    Here’s a list of fall/cool-season vegetables that do well in a fall garden:

    • lettuces
    • beets
    • kale
    • broccoli
    • carrots
    • spinach
    • peas
    • turnips
    • parsnips
    • onions
    • mustard greens
    • endive
    • arugula
    • bok choy
    • cabbage
    • cauliflower
    • Brussel sprouts
    • rhubarb
    • celery
    • radishes

    Peas are definitely favorites with my kids. We planted three different varieties of peas in our fall garden this year. One variety has an edible pod, one snow pea variety, and one with purple pods.

    Get to know your growing zone

    I live in San Diego, California, USA. We have a very mild climate. When it hits 65 degrees Fahrenheit I’m probably going to bring out my down jacket. You might live somewhere where even 50 degrees means shorts and a t-shirt. You and I won’t have the same success growing the same plants.

    The climate you live in will determine what plants you will be most successful at growing right now. This is something known as a growing zone, planting zone, or hardiness zone. If you live in the United States you can find the zone you live in by your zip code. If you live outside the US, you can find your zone as well. Once you know your zone you can get a list of specified plants that will thrive in your climate. Choosing plants that grow well in your planting zone will set you up for gardening success. 

    How to pick seeds for your fall garden

    I love picking out my seeds for my garden. I order my seeds from a company called Baker Creek Seeds. This company has a large selection of heirloom seeds. The term “heirloom” is usually applied to fruit, flower, or vegetable varieties that were being grown before World War II. Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated, meaning that, unlike hybrids, seeds you collect from one year will produce plants with most of the characteristics of the parent plant. And that’s key to their survival. Many heirloom varieties were preserved by home gardeners who saved seeds from their family gardens from year to year. 

    It’s also fun to plant new varieties of common veggies because they look and taste a little different. My kids get so excited when they pull a purple carrot out of the ground! The photos above show the seeds that we planted this fall. Pumpkins aren’t really considered a cool-weather crop, but all of my previous attempts with pumpkins this year were sabotaged by pests. I threw a few pumpkin seeds in the ground hoping I might have something to show by Thanksgiving!

    Sometimes gardening is just trial and error friends. You never know what will happen (grow or fail) year over year. A fall garden doesn’t need to be perfect. Never take it too seriously! Let your kids get involved in the process of picking out seeds to plant. They’ll be more excited about growing fruits and veggies if they were part of the process. 

    Getting started now with your fall garden

    Are you feeling inspired to get your fall garden started, yet? Great! Don’t worry about having everything ready right away. To get started, you just need a few small paper cups, soil, and seeds! 

    You can get your seeds started growing long before your garden space or beds are ready for the plants. Last fall, I didn’t have my raised beds ready to plant just yet but I really wanted to get my seeds going. I poked a hole in some Dixie cups and started germinating some sugar snap peas.

    Putting the cups in a plastic or cardboard container will help keep the soil in the cups moist. I wouldn’t recommend doing this with any root vegetables, but lettuces or peas grow well when started in smaller containers. You can even put them indoors for a couple of weeks if you have to.

    The garden classroom

    One of my favorite shirts is from Nature Supply Co and it says, “Not all classrooms have four walls.” Gardens are proof of that and can serve as amazing classrooms! Your kids will learn not only the life cycle of plants and the cyclical nature of the seasons, but also important life skills. Kids need patience when waiting for seeds to sprout or for a vegetable to mature. They learn vigilance by going to the garden daily and checking for pests. Their self-control increases by not watering the soaking wet soil even though watering is so much fun.

    They will get outside, see the sun coming up in the east and setting in the west as they work in the garden this fall. They will pay attention to shadows and sunshine and rainy days, but only if you give them the opportunity. A garden is a beautiful way to reconnect together over a common project. 

    Tell me and I will forget. Show me and I may remember. Involve me and I will understand.” Confucius

    Involve your kids

    You’ve probably heard the quote by Confucius above. That holds true in the fall garden. You could make your soil rich and beautiful on your own, choose and purchase all the seeds, set up timed irrigation, and just let your kids help plant the seeds. This would still be a good experience, but imagine how much more meaningful that garden would be if you involved your children in all aspects of the planning. Planning! There’s a life skill I forgot to mention.

    Let them find the volume of the raised bed. Ask them to calculate how many bags of garden soil and compost you will need to fill those beds. Let them get their hands dirty mixing the soil. Browse the seed catalog together and let them choose what they want to plant. Read the back of the seed packet with them and figure out together if you have enough space to plant an entire packet of radish seeds. Buy a special gardening notebook and keep track of the days you planted. Then research together when you can expect your harvest. Gosh, the possibilities here are endless! 

    Even the smallest kids can get involved in gardening

    Think your kids are too young to garden? There are chores for all ages when it comes to fall gardening! My youngest isn’t super young anymore, but he does love to bring his spray bottle out to the garden and water for me. Even a toddler can manage a small spray bottle. Just plan on changing clothes afterward, if you need to! If your kids are anything like mine, they won’t stay dry for long. And if you have cats, they’ll find somewhere to hide pretty quickly.

    Additional benefits of gardening for kids

    I could go on and on about the benefits of gardening with your kids. We didn’t even talk about the whole nutrition aspect, learning about where food comes from, or the positive impact playing in the dirt has on a child. Cornell University has a wealth of information detailing what researchers have found in relation to kids and gardening. Statistics are great and all, but on a personal level I have found that being in the garden provides me with a great way to spend quality time with my kids. We do taste tests, find bugs, get dirty, and have a lot of fun.

    There’s no time like the present to start something new, so get growing!
    What will you plant in your garden this fall?

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out-of-doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as a garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • GOOD FOR NATURE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Garbage Collecting, Recycling, and Sustainability for Kids

    Teaching our kids about the importance of taking care of our planet is one of the most important things we can do as parents. It can be scary to think of the state of the planet that we’re leaving to them. But there are lots of ways to get them involved, to lead by example, and to help them understand the importance of their actions. Today, Tine Voeten, Belgian mom of two, is here sharing tips for garage collecting, recycling, and sustainability for kids. She’s included two fun hands-on science experiments to teach kids about weather and the effects of climate change, as well as ways to get kids involved in recycling, and crafty ways to reuse waste. 

    Garbage collection

    Talking to children about the environment

    What crazy summer weather we all had, don’t you agree? All over the world, we have seen the results of climate change in the form of wildfires, record heat waves, drought, mudslides, and more. Environmental activism and climate change are quite heavy topics for kids. Nevertheless, raising awareness about our planet and what’s happening to nature is important for children.

    And while these conversations are important and can sound intimidating, they don’t have to be dull and serious. There are plenty of ways to make learning about our planet (and all the ways we can help it) easy for kids to understand. Today, we’re going to discuss how you can make climate change, recycling, and garbage collection fun topics to talk about with your kids. 

    Talk to your kids about recycling 

    One of the easiest and most entertaining ways is to bring up conversations around climate change and how our behavior influences nature is by talking about recycling (and by the act of recycling). Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. Recycling is important because it prevents further pollution and reduces the need to harvest new raw materials. Recycling can make a huge difference to our environment, our quality of life, and our future. It also saves energy and money, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, and allows products to be used to their fullest extent.

    Small actions make a big impact

    The first place to start is in your own home. Small changes in our everyday life can make a big impact. There are a wide range of materials that can be recycled through your curbside recycling program. These consist of obvious materials, including paper and glass, as well as less obvious materials, including most forms of metal, and even food. Knowing and understanding what can be recycled in your area, as well as properly sorting your recyclables is important in ensuring that the items in your recycling bin actually make it to your local recycling center, don’t slow down or burden the system, and in time, actually get turned into something new. 

    Just because you’re starting small doesn’t mean that your efforts are useless. Your actions will change more than you think. But, also try to think big with your kids. Look for ways to get them involved in the process and take ownership over their eco-friendly actions. One way to do this is to go on a garbage collection mission with the kids! Outdoor clean-up projects are the perfect way to talk to your kids about the importance of recycling, how imperative it is to live by “leave no trace” rules, and spend time outside together. 

    Waste picking with kids

    10 facts on recycling and waste

    Before we get to the fun part of garbage collection with kids we should talk about what effect mankind already has on the climate. Here are 10 facts on recycling and waste that you can use to teach kids about the importance of reducing our footprint and making sustainable changes.

    • One-third of the produced food is thrown in the garbage
    • A variety of raw materials including paper, plastic, metal, glass, electronics, and textiles can be recycled
    • Aluminum can be recycled forever without any loss of quality
    • If you throw away your aluminum cans, they can stay in that can form for up to 500 years or more
    • Half a million trees have to be cut down just to produce the Sunday newspaper each week
    • Every minute forests the size of 20 football fields are cut down
    • The average family uses 6 trees worth of paper each year
    • Glass can be recycled over and over again
    • Our plastic waste created a gigantic ‘plastic soup’ in the Pacific Ocean that’s 1.6 million square kilometers (which is twice the size of Texas)
    • More than 1,200 species of fish and sea mammals are impacted by plastic, through ingestion or entanglement (both which can make them sick or kill them)

    Garbage collection with kids

    Inspiring change through hands-on learning

    Giving them facts and info about our planet and consumption is one thing, but how do we inspire our littles ones to take action that will help make a difference? How can we teach them about taking care of our planet in a tangible way that will produce real results for the right reason? 

    We can start by showing them exactly how the climate works and what our effects are on the environment. Kids learn best by doing, by playing, by being a part of the action. Science experiments are one way that we like to teach our daughters about the world around us. Below, I’ll walk you through two cool experiments you can do with your kids at home to produce a cloud and demonstrate the effects of global warming on the ice caps.  Both these experiments are interactive and creative ways to teach kids about weather and climate with hands-on science experiments. 

    Garbage collection with kids

    Experiment 1 – Creating clouds

    Our first hands-on science experiment is to create clouds! Most kids are disappointed when they realize that clouds aren’t made of cotton candy or pillow-fluff like they’re often depicted in cartoons. Unfortunately, you can’t sit on a cloud! Clouds are made of cold water vapor that is condensed into droplets of water around dust particles. This super fun and simple science experiment will help teach your kids about the physical changes and reactions that happen as clouds form within the atmosphere. 

    All you need is:

    • Glass pot or another open container (we used a vase) 
    • Warm water
    • A match
    • A cold plate or lid to close the pot

    Instructions:

    1. Pour a layer of warm water into the glass container and stir
    2. Light a match, blow it out and quickly drop it in the water
    3. Cover with a cold plate (We used a metal lid we put in the freezer. A plate with ice will also do the trick)
    4. Watch as a cloud of water vapor is produced in the container! You can remove the plate on top to see the result even better.

    But what happens here?

    Water vapor blends with soot/dust particles coming from the match. When these particles reach the cold surface on top, it cools down and condensates and forms a cloud. The same process happens outside in real life. The only difference is that the particles mixed in the vapor can consist of anything – dust, smog, pollution, etc. are all picked up.

    This is the perfect experiment to show our children how clouds are created and formed. Don’t forget to highlight the difference between weather and climate. Weather is what we see when we get out of the house, very locally. This can change every day, and if you are lucky (as in Central-Europe) it changes every hour of the day. Our climate though is based on averages, taken over years and years and measured over bigger surfaces. 

    Garbage collection with kids

    Experiment 2 – Melting ice caps

    We’ve seen how water can be transformed from a liquid to a gas (above), now, let’s consider what happens when it’s changed from a solid (ice) to a liquid. At the North and South pole of our planet are expansive sheets of ice. This ice can have a significant impact on our entire planet’s climate. If the temperature of the air and water gets warm enough, the ice melts. And as the ice melts, water absorbs warmth from the sun (which white ice would’ve reflected back into space). The water warms, contributing to the increasing temperature of our planet. In addition, this melted freshwater can also change ocean currents, affect conditions for wildlife, and potentially contribute to extreme weather conditions. This melting ice caps experiment is easy to do, and helps demonstrate what climate change and global warming can do to our polar ice caps.

    All you need is:

    • A transparent container
    • An object to use as a piece of land in the box
    • Water
    • Ice

    Instructions:

    1. Place the ‘land’ in the box and add with some water, so that the land is not covered. 
    2. Put some ice on top of the land.
    3. Check the level of the water in the box and note how much land is not covered.
    4. Wait until the ice melts.
    5. Investigate how the water level has changed. Observe whether the water level is higher or lower. Is more land covered with water now?

    What happens here?

    The melting ice represents the ice that is melting in the arctic region (parts of Russia, parts of Alaska, Northern parts of Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Greenland, and the Arctic Ocean). It shows the impact of the level of seawater and coast communities.

    When you explain this experiment and its effects to your children, you can refer to the first experiment where warm water forms a cloud. The warmer the earth is getting, the more ice will melt, which will impact the level of the seawater.

    Warning: Don’t expect great enthusiasm immediately with this experiment. It takes some time before the ice cubes melt, as you can see in the picture below. 

    Garbage collection with kids

    Recycling and sorting waste

    Now that we know some of the science related to our planet and climate, it’s time to put that knowledge to good use with some tangible action to make a difference! Let’s start with recycling!

    The first part of recycling is to sort your waste. Separating waste in a proper and correct way is the most basic thing you could do in order to preserve the environment.  Knowing what can be recycled and what can’t in your city is essential to improving the operations of your local recycling facility, as well as ensuring that items that cannot be recycled curbside are being taken to the right place to be recycled. It may seem like a trivial thing, but this simple task actually has a significant impact on our planet.

    Categories of waste and recyclables

    Knowing what can and cannot be recycled in your area is one of the smartest things you can do to ensure that you are diverting as much of your waste from landfills as possible, while avoiding recycling contamination through proper separation. Here are the different categories of waste. Some of these categories can be recycled and others cannot.

    • Organic waste: food waste, grass, leaves, eggshells, coffee grinds, tea bags
    • Glass: white and colored glass 
    • Plastic/metal: plastic bottles, plastic packages, jars, cans
    • Paper: cardboard, paper bags, paper cups, paper
    • Toxic waste: printer ink, lightbulb, batteries, electronic waste
    • Residue: whatever doesn’t fit the others, such as used diapers, animal waste.  

    Garbage collection with kids

    What can (and cannot) be recycled?

    Recyclable items:

    • Paper including newspapers, magazines, and mixed paper
    • Cardboard
    • Glass bottles and jars
    • Rigid plastic products
    • Metal containers, including tin, aluminum, and steel cans

    Non-recyclable items:

    • Greasy paper, such as oil-soaked paper plates and pizza boxes
    • Used paper towels, tissues, and diapers
    • Broken ceramics, light bulbs, and mirrors
    • Film plastics, such as plastic bags, shrink wrap, and bubble wrap
    • Styrofoam, otherwise known as expanded polystyrene
    • Electronic waste (e-waste)
    • Construction and demolition debris, such as concrete and drywall
    • Carrier stock; the paper packaging around packs of drink cans

    Garbage collection with kids

    Getting kids involved in recycling and sorting waste

    If you separate your waste in a proper way, you can help avoid 80% of your waste from going to landfill. And this is a great place where you can get the kids involved. Give them each some chores so they can help you separate waste properly to ensure that it gets recycled.

    For example, one week, give one child the responsibility for paper waste and give another child the responsibility for organic waste. The child responsible for organic waste can use food scraps and such to add to the compost pile. We have our own compost pile and we use it to fertilize our plants in spring. The child in charge of paper waste can make sure that paper makes its way into the proper bin. That child can be in charge of disposing of (and eventually eliminating)  items such as mail, newspapers and magazines, drawings, cardboard boxes, etc. Rotate the following week. 

    Garbage collection and clean up projects with kids

    Another fantastic way to get the kids directly involved in helping out our planet is going hiking with one mission: garbage collection with kids. We bought ourselves a few waste sticks and some gloves and set out on our mission – to fill our garbage bag with waste.

    When collecting litter and trash with kids, it’s important to be safe. While the areas next to roads or highways are often some of the most polluted areas, they’re often not safe for cleaning up with little kids. Save this project for a time you can go out without the little ones in tow. 

    Instead, take the kids hiking in a forest or to a local park or nearby pond/creek. These places are much more kid-friendly and you can almost always find something to pick up (unfortunately). Collect as much trash as you can and at the end of the day, your kids will feel proud of their work and the difference they ade. The next time you go out they will be more aware of what they find along the way.

    A lot of schools organize events where they focus on garbage more and go picking in groups. These are fun, but cleaning up shouldn’t be limited to organized events. We want to make cleaning up after ourselves (and others) a habit in our children. 

    Garbage collection with kidsGarbage collection with kids

    Getting crafty with garbage

    Another way to extend the life out of items before throwing them away or recycling them is by using them in craft projects. You can create so many cool things with objects you usually throw away without even thinking twice.

    Items such as bottles, bottlecaps, rolls of toilet paper, acorns, leaves, ice cream sticks, and can tabs can all become useful in new ways. You can create a sensory game for little ones. Or let your kids create a masterpiece with these simple but beautiful tools.

    It’s amazing how happy those little ones are with their original artistic creations. From now on our kids never want us to waste another thing anymore. Even small paper wraps get reused and turned into something beautiful in this house! There is nothing the children cannot design, as long as you let them use their creativity. And the world is a better place because of this! 

    Garbage collection with kidscreative kids by recyclingGarbage collection with kidsGarbage collection with kidsArt by recycling with kids

    Making the world a better place

    It’s never too early to start talking about sustainability with your children. Adults don’t give kids enough credit – they understand more than we often realize. The more time we spend discussing these issues and leading by example, the more our children will learn. Then we’ll have a whole generation of environmental thinkers and activists coming up after us. 

    We also know there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to climate awareness, waste reduction, and recycling, amongst other environmental issues. Sustainability is a lifelong journey and one that we need to get our kids involved in. Sometimes the best way to start is, to begin with really small, manageable goals. One thing at a time. Take your time and continue your journey by making the next best choice. If you’d like some additional help with making small (but very important and impactful) eco-friendly changes in your house and life, check out our Earth Day Action Guide. 

    How do you get your kids involved in recycling and sustainability?

    About the author

    Tine is a natural-born adventurer from Belgium. She met her husband, soulmate, and the father of her two girls while working and living in the Dominican Republic. Nine years ago they moved back to Europe and are still exploring European grounds. Her happy place is wherever her kids are, but she spices up life by discovering unknown places, planning new adventures, and going outdoors as much as possible. Having kids added a big value to her life, because seeing life through the eyes of her little ones lifted it to a completely different dimension. Their family goal is to travel the world, living a location-independent lifestyle. The family is now working on a couple of projects to make this dream happen! In the meantime, they keep on exploring and Tine keeps on writing and inspiring other families to explore just like them. 

    You can find more from Tine online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @kidsdelmundo
    RWMC posts: Tine Voeten
    Website: http://www.kidsdelmundo.com

  • FALL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Exercising Outdoors with Kids

    Exercising is one of those things you either love or hate. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, we probably can all agree that exercise and being active is essential to living a healthy life. With that in mind, the question that arises is, “how can we pass this healthy habit down to our kids?” Today, Zenovia Stephens, founder of Black Kids Adventures, Inc. and Alabama mom of 3, shares tips on exercising outdoors with kids and how it can help them adopt a lifelong love of moving their bodies. 

    exercising outside with kids

    Why exercise is important 

    According to the Oxford dictionary, exercise is “an activity requiring physical effort to sustain or improve health and fitness.” Although not mentioned in the definition, exercise has also been proven to improve mental health by helping you sleep better, induce happy moods, and decrease stress. Developing a regular exercise routine is crucial to overall health and wellbeing. 

    Kids need exercise and physical activity, too. Maybe now more than ever before. With the increasing amount of time that kids spend on screens or sitting still in school, kids today can really benefit from spending time being active. Regular physical activity can help children and adolescents improve cardiorespiratory fitness, build strong bones and muscles, control weight, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. 

    In March 2020 the American Academy of Pediatrics released a report with specific recommendations for exercise:

    • Infants: physical movement several times a day through interactive floor-based play.

    • Kids age 3 to 5: three hours or more of physical activity every day.

    • Kids 6 to 17 years old: 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily.

    playground workout area

    Go outside and exercise 

    Outside is where the magic happens! When you decide to take your workouts outside and into nature, it’s like giving your activities a power-up. You not only get the benefits above from the physical exercise but there are so many added health benefits of being outdoors. Research shows that exercising outdoors is a natural mood booster, feels easier, is more fun, is good for your vision, boosts your immunity, and increases your creativity. 

    Getting the kids involved in outdoor exercise

    Exercising and physical activity have always been a priority for myself and my own physical and mental health. My husband and I both ran track in college and running has been a big part of our lives. Throughout my parenting journey, I’ve enjoyed finding new ways for my family to connect and spend time together. Just like adults, kids need to decompress from long days, busy days, or overstimulating days. Kids need space to run around, physical activity, and fresh air.

    I’ve found exercising outdoors with kids as a family to be an excellent way for everyone to tune out the noise of the day and find balance. Working out together as a family is a great way to feel better and get healthier. 

    But, these family workouts are about more than just exercising; they’re also about building and strengthening your family muscle. If that’s weak, nothing else matters. Exercising outdoors as a family is a great way to reconnect and build healthy habits for your kids. 

    exercise outside

    Make outdoor exercise fun for kids

    It’s important to keep outdoor exercise and physical activity enjoyable for the kids. You want to create a positive experience that your kids will keep up long after leaving the nest. I suggest getting creative and even letting the kids help plan a few workouts or have some input. My boys always find inspiration from shows like American Ninja Warrior and, more recently, the Olympics. If you keep in mind that exercise doesn’t have to be a chore or boring, you’re already halfway there!  

    running with kids

    Tips for starting a family outdoor exercise routine

    Creating a family exercise routine can be very easy and done by almost anyone. All you need to do to get started is come up with a plan for what activities and exercises you’ll do (and where), then put it on the schedule and commit. There is no right or wrong way to do this. Do what works best for your family. There’s so much freedom and creativity to do whatever makes sense for your family that you may be surprised by just how easy it is to turn outdoor activities into exercise. 

    1. Schedule it

    The first thing you should do is decide which days your family will exercise and write it on a calendar. Make sure the calendar is in a central location so that everyone can see it and know what’s coming up. This helps get your kids mentally prepared for the activity and keeps you all accountable. You’re much less likely to skip a workout if it’s on the calendar for everyone to see!

    2. Let the kids get themselves ready

    After a few weeks of participating in the activity, they should start to know what to expect and how to get themselves prepared and ready on their own. I like to see how they handle getting ready independently – it helps foster their independence and makes my life easier. When kids know their schedules, it helps them learn responsibility in being prepared. So, if they see “park workout” on Wednesday, they know to come home that day and get dressed for the park after school. It works, and they usually are very proud to say “I got ready all by myself!”  

    family race

    3. Decide what exercises to do

    There are many ways to exercise outdoors with your kids; the sky is really the limit as almost any activity can become exercise. I always start with what I know my whole family will enjoy and build from there. We’re pretty competitive, so what works for us is turning things into a competition. 

    You know your kids best, so start with their interests and incorporate those into outdoor physical activities. If you have a kid who loves playing with sidewalk chalk, you can all design your own family obstacle course with chalk and then complete it a set number of times. Maybe your kids are into dancing; grab a speaker and have a dance-off outside. Super hot day? Head to the pool and have races on who can swim the fastest. The key is to make sure that you get your heart rates up in whatever you choose to use to exercise. 

    4. Let your surroundings help choose your activity

    Sometimes we base our exercises on where we are or what we have available. We like to use things we already have at home or other free resources, such as playgrounds. My family used to own a personal trampoline, so we would take turns seeing who could jump the longest for years. We even got the neighbor to join us one time! It was some of the most fun I’ve ever had exercising with my kids. Use what you have and take advantage of public green spaces. You don’t need any fancy equipment or gear to be active. 

    family fun run

    Outdoor exercise ideas with kids

    1. Ladder drills 

    Ladders are typically used to help athletes gain more speed, agility, and quick feet. They also make for a fun tool to get kids happy about moving their bodies. 

    Lay a ladder down flat and take turns doing high knees, quick feet, and running through the ladder. Have one family member time and see if you can improve each round. For more ideas on how to incorporate a ladder into your outdoor exercise routine, check out these agility ladder drills. 

    2. Playground turned fitness center

    A trip to the park can easily turn into a chance to get a workout in and have some fun! Playgrounds are an excellent area to use for exercising. Some are even equipped with outdoor fitness machines or stations, taking the guesswork out for you. If they are, please make sure to follow the instructions and supervise children on the equipment. 

    For those that are just playgrounds, get creative! Use the monkey bars to work on lowering yourself to the ground slowly and in control. Find the bridge and do planks or pushups while maintaining balance. The stairs are great for calf raises or even box jumps, if not too high. 

    For less traditional exercises, use the playground as a ready-made obstacle course. This is our favorite way to work out at the park as a family. The possibilities are endless, and while the kids might more content to play here, I’m sure they’ll eventually join in the workout. 

    3. Family relays at the track 

    A standard track is 400 meters and is easily broken up for a family relay race. Let the kids find a nice stick to use as a baton and have everyone stand around the track. You can either stand at the 100-meter mark or let everyone pick their own spot on the track and begin. The second way will be more challenging because some members will have to run longer than others. The first person (holding the baton) runs as fast as they can to the next person. They pass the baton and start running to the next person until the whole family runs (or makes it all the way around the track). Keep a record of how long each race takes and try to beat your time the next round. 

    You can also have a parent vs. child race, which is always more fun when done on a track. 

    4. Fun runs 

    Typically during fall and spring, you can find a lot of organizations hosting fun runs. They are usually 5k (3.1 miles), 10k (6.2 miles), but some are longer and some have a shorter version for small kids (1-mile). Some races are themed (some even encourage costumes) and some are for a cause, but they’re all excellent, non-competitive ways to exercise a family.

    These events tend to have many people cheering everyone on, and kids love taking to a running course with family by their side. You can go at your own pace, as fast or slow as your family wants. Some will even let you push strollers or bring your dog to run with you! 

    Local running stores are excellent resources to help gather information on upcoming family runs. 

    kids color run

    Creating healthy habits

     

    No matter how your family decides to exercise together, getting out and getting it done is most important. Taking your workouts outside and getting your kids involved is a great way to connect as a family in a healthy and productive way. Exercising today will set the stage for healthy habits tomorrow. You’re also showing your kids how to schedule and prioritize physical and mental health. 

    What’s your family’s favorite way to exercise outdoors? 

    About the author

    Zenovia is an outdoor enthusiast, freelance travel and adventure blogger, wife, and mom to three young boys (ages 8, 5  & 2). Originally from Chicago, Zenovia and her family live in Huntsville, Alabama, and spend many of their days exploring and learning about the area. She is the Founder and CEO of Black Kids Adventures, Inc, a non-profit organization that focuses on getting Black and Brown families to spend time together exploring and enjoying nature. Zenovia is a Visit North Alabama Ambassador, 2021 Land Trust of North Alabama Board Member, YMCA Board Member, WildKind Ambassador and a monthly contributor for We are Huntsville and Huntsville’s CVB. You can follow along with her mom and family adventures and find inspiration for your own family adventures at Black Adventure Crew.

    You can find Zenovia online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @blackadventurecrew
    Facebook: @blackadventurecrew
    Website: Black Kids Adventures
    RWMC posts: Backyard Movie Night

  • FALL, FARM, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, RECIPES

    Tips for Apple Picking with Kids

    Apple picking in the fall is a time-honored tradition for our family. Each year during apple picking season, we head out to our local u-pick apple orchard and stock up on this delicious treat. The kids love the hay rides to the field and running through the rows of apple trees to find the best fruit. I love making a huge vat of apple sauce and how it fills my whole house with the sweet scent of fall (and a touch of cinnamon). Today, Meghan Garriott, Illinois mom of three, shares all the best apple picking tips for kids, plus a few favorite kid-friendly apple recipes so you can put your pickings to good use. So, get on board the apple wagon, and let’s get picking! 

    Tips for apple picking with kids and kid-friendly apple recipes and crafts

    Apple season

    Nothing says Fall quite like Apples. Their colors, smell, flavors, and orchard experiences are Autumnal staples. They have all the reds, greens, and golds of the changing fall leaves.  The smell and taste of caramel apples and apple pies brings me right back to the happy Autumns of childhood.

    Harvest for these favorite fruits spans the whole fall season from August to November giving everyone plenty of time to enjoy the season. Today we are talking about all things APPLE and the many ways you can enjoy them with your kids!

    Benefits of apples

    An apple a day keeps the doctor away. We’ve probably all heard this saying, right? They may not be a cure-all but apples do have many health benefits in addition to being a delicious treat for all ages. Apples are are a great source of fiber and vitamin C. The fiber in apple skins helps to feed the good gut bacteria as well as keeping things moving through the digestive tract as they are supposed to. An apple a day was linked to 28% decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. So while it is a sweet snack, at only 90 calories, it’s one you can feel good about eating and feeding to the whole family. 
    Two boys with bags of apples in front of an apple tree

    Types of apples 

    There are so many types of apples. They vary greatly in their season availability and their taste. Below are some of the most popular varieties, what they are best used for, and when they are in season. Apple season runs from August to November for reference. 

    • Gala – Early picking season. sweet flavor. Good for salads, snacking, and freezing.
    • Red Delicious – Mid to late season picking season. Mild flavor. Good for snacking.
    • Granny Smith – Mid to late picking season. Tart flavor. Good for baking and snacking.
    • Fuji – Midseason picking. Very sweet. Good for snacking and salads.
    • Honeycrisp – Early picking season. Juicy and sweet flavor. Good dessert apple.
    • Macintosh -Mid picking season. Sweet and tart. Good for baking and snacking.
    • Jonagold – Late picking season. Sweet and tart. Good for snacking salads and sauces.
    • Pink lady – Late season picking. Sweet with some tart. Good for baking and applesauce.
    • Ambrosia – Mid picking season. Sweet and Crisp. Good for baking and snacking.
    • Golden Delicious – Mid picking season. Mellow and sweet. Good for snacking, salads and baking.

    Child laying on ground under Apple rainbow

    U-pick apple farms and orchards

    Picking your own apples either at the store or at a local apple orchard is a great family activity. Visiting your local u-pick orchard it’s a great way to support local businesses and shop small. Our local orchard Okaw Valley Orchard grows a wide variety of apples and fresh fruit and veggies, and also carries many products from many other local businesses as well. Letting children pick out their own food items from the farm market can help children try new healthy foods or encourage picky eaters to give things a try. 

    No matter where you live (in the US), there’s a good chance that you have a local apple orchard or pick your own farm nearby. Apples are grown all across the US and are usually available starting late summer through the fall (late October or early November). U-pick orchards are also everywhere. To find an orchard or u-pick farm near you, check out pickyourown.org and search by your state and region. 
    Two children picking app,es

    What to know before you go apple picking

    Before heading out to the orchard be sure to check out the orchard’s website, Facebook page or other social media channels. Different types of apples have varying seasons. Know what’s ripe in your area (and how you’ll use it), so you know what to pick (and how much). If you are in search of a certain variety it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for when they will be available. The orchard may also have specific times or dates for picking your own apples.  Many orchards host school tours and events. Checking their website or social media can help you plan your trip on a less busy day, and ensure you get all the products you are after.

    You’ll also want to know if there’s an admission fee to pick apples, the price (per pound) of apples, whether they take credit cards, what’s available in the farm store, etc. 

    Two boys picking apples

    Apple picking with kids

    Apple picking with kids is a fun and easy outdoor fall activity for the whole family. Every year we make it a point to make a day trip to go pick apples and it’s become a family tradition that we all look forward to. Apple picking is easy enough for little kids (although, they may need some help reaching the high ones) and still fun and enjoyable for older kids (and adults). Apples are available around us from late August through early November, which means we could even go a few times a season in order to get the best varieties for our treats (see below) in a wide variety of weather. Our local apple orchard has a ton of fun activities for the kids that keep us busy all day. 

    What to pack for apple picking with kids

    The good part about apple picking is that you don’t really need any special gear or items. If you have a long drive, pack accordingly for your car ride (toys, entertainment, water, and lots of snacks). Depending on the weather, you may need layers, sunscreen, bug spray, a raincoat, boots, or a jacket. We always pack a change of clothes (because you just never know with kids) to keep in the car. And maybe bring along some cash and/or change for any events, rides, activities at the orchard. 

    For the most part, the only thing you need to pick apples is a container to hold them. Most u-pick farms will provide bags, baskets, or buckets for holding your apple haul. However, check to make sure before heading out the door.

    Finally, don’t forget to bring along a camera! Apple orchards make beautiful backdrops for pretty family photos. 

    Boy in blue shirt picking apple

    How to pick and choose your apples

    When it comes to picking your own apples right off the tree, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure you get the best apples and to ensure the tree is unharmed so we have apples for years to come.  Kids tend to want to just pull the apple down until it comes off. Unfortunately, this method can damage or break branches on the apple tree. To pick effectively without damaging the tree remind kids to “twist, then pull upward”. This helps to loosen the stem and preserve the tree branches.  

    Before twisting and pulling check the apple to make sure there are no openings in the skin and give it a little squeeze before picking to make sure it is firm and not squishy. Little ones might be tempted to fill their bags with apples from the easy-to-reach ground so you may want to double-check them to make sure they are free of soft spots. 

    If you plan to do some baking keep an eye out for “seconds specials”. Seconds are apples that may not look great on the outside but are perfectly fine to eat. These ripe apples are best for baking, where their skin imperfections will go unnoticed. 

    Exploring an apple orchard with kids

    Most orchards have more to do than just picking apples, which is great because kids can sometimes be over the picking part quickly. Local apple orchards can offer a wide variety of games and activities, such as hayrides, bonfires, tractor rides, corn maze, pumpkin cannons, pig races, train rides, cider mill tours, pony rides, live music, pumpkin patch, scenic wagon ride, a petting zoo full of farm animals, farm stand, beer garden, wine tasting, food trucks, bounce houses, carnival rides, face painting, and more! The food is usually delicious too – bratwurst and burgers, funnel cakes, ice cream, apple cider doughnuts, and fresh apple cider, of course! 

    Our local orchard has a playground outside and a lot of products to browse through on the inside at the market. Many of these products are made with or pair perfectly with apples like bbq sauce, cinnamon apple jellies, and ciders.  Our favorite thing to get inside our local orchard store is cider slushies and cider donuts! Local orchards are also a great place to start some of your holiday shopping with small gifts like soaps, home goods, and delicious canned goods. 
    Boy looking at apples in store Two boys drinking apple cider slushees

    Kid-friendly apple recipes 

    Visiting the orchard is fun but let’s be honest, the best part is eating! Apples can be sweet, savory, and even spicy. They can be used in so many different dishes. Here are a few recipes that kids will love to help out with and eat!

    Sweet apple treats

    Apple chips– Thinly slice a cored apple. Place slices on parchment paper. Sprinkle slices with cinnamon. Place slices in the oven at 200 degrees cooking low and slow for about 2-3 hours until they are nice and crisp. As an added bonus the house will smell delicious as these cook! 

    Apple roll-ups– Using pre-made crescent roll dough sprinkle each dough slice with some cinnamon and sugar. Place one apple slice in the middle of the dough then roll up and bake as directed on the packaging. These make great afternoon snacks!

    Apple nachos– These are very customizable and fun to make. Use apple slices as you would chips in traditional nachos. Then cover the slices with all your favorite toppings, we used peanut butter, chocolate, chocolate chips, and marshmallows. Nuts and caramel would be delicious toppings as well. 

    Apple donut rings– Core and slice apples crossways. Decorate slices using peanut butter, Nutella or marshmallow cream for the “donut icing”. Then have fun with the toppings using chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. The “icing” can be difficult for little fingers to spread so it worked best for us if the adults did the spreading and the kids did the decorating. 

    Apple butter– Check out this post on a fun family tradition of making a huge vat of homemade open-fire apple butter outside with the whole family! Apples, red hots, and even some silver dollars make this a really special recipe! Pair with biscuits for cleaning the pot!

    Two boys making apple nachosChild decorating apple slices

    Savory apple recipes for kids

    Turkey apple grilled cheese sandwiches– Spice up the traditional grilled cheese with some deli turkey, cheddar cheese, and some thin-sliced apples. To apple it up even more add some apple butter. Then prepare just like you would traditional grilled cheese. If you happen to have a panini press that would work as well!

    Apple beer bread– This apple beer bread is the perfect combination of apples, honey-wheat, and cinnamon. Plus, it only takes 5 minutes to prepare, so you can enjoy it soon without the long wait. Try it warm with a slathering of butter (or spiced butter!). 

    Apple and pork breakfast sausage– In a bowl combine ground pork, shredded apple, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Form the mixture into small sausage patties. Cook the patties in a skillet for about five minutes per side until golden brown

    Apple crafts for kids

    If eating apples is just not going to happen, don’t worry! Apples can also be used to feed wildlife and for kid crafts. 

    Apple stamping– Cut an apple in half, paint the cut side and use it as a stamp to get a perfect apple-shaped silhouette. Stamp on a paper tree or fill a paper basket with stamped apples while learning about apples at home without going to the store or orchard. 

    Apple suncatcher– Use construction to cut out a large apple outline. In the center of the outline, use contact paper and colored tissue paper to decorate the apple. Hang on windows to let the sun illuminate the tissue paper. This is a fun way to decorate for fall. 

    Apple bird feeder– This is a great way to use apples that may have imperfections or soft spots and aren’t going to get eaten. Cut the apple in half. Hollow out the center of the apple. Fill with peanut butter then coat with birdseed. Then hang in a tree for birds, and probably squirrels, to enjoy. Check out this post for even more fun and simple bird feeders you can make with kids.
    Boy holding apple bird feeder

    A favorite fruit 

    Apple picking is one of those wonderful fall activities that’s fun for the whole family and is sure to be a great time! Hitting the orchards is one of our family’s favorite fall traditions and a fun way to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather and fresh air. Apples are a favorite fruit for kids and adults alike, and for good reason. With all of their uses and their many varieties, they can easily please a wide range of people. There is no shortage of fun and delicious things to do with apples. So get out to your local orchard and start picking today!

    About the author

    Meghan is a country living, mom of 2 boys in rural central Illinois (with a baby girl on the way). She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion to capture her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.

    You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghangarriott
    RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FALL, GOOD FOR NATURE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Tips for Hunting with Kids

    Are you a hunter? Is hunting something that you’d like to teach to your children? While not for everyone, hunting can be a great way to spend quality time together outside with your children. Hunting teaches children about determination, ethics, responsibility, self-reliance, patience, and respect. It’s also a way for kids to gain an understanding of the food cycle and the importance of our environment and conservation. Today, Oklahoma dad of two, Jared Ryan is here sharing some tips to help you instill a love of hunting in your children and how to make sure you have a “successful” hunt together.

    Tips for how to get started hunting with kids

    Hunting season is upon us

    Every year when fall rolls around and the air begins to get crisp, many of us start to get excited about what all this season has to offer. For some people, it’s “pumpkin spice and everything nice.” But for me? It’s hunting. 

    Deer hunting. Duck hunting. Dove hunting. Pheasant and quail. Turkey. 

    It’s watching beautiful sunrises from a duck blind. Or watching deer graze on the winter wheat. It’s listening to nature’s sounds of life echoing through the woods while sitting in a tree stand. Hunting on a cold fall morning is a time of consciousness, of serenity. It’s a time where I’m completely immersed in nature, surrounded by quiet beauty. 

    So, when my kids started wanting to tag-a-long with me on my hunting outings, there was no way I would deprive them of this! 

    How to introduce your kids to hunting

    If hunting is a part of your life, odds are that you plan to introduce your kids to hunting (if you haven’t already done so). And odds are that you have a pretty good idea of how you want to approach it. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of their first hunting experience with you – their first hunting trip or their first deer season. Maybe you have favorite memories of your first turkey hunt or deer camp trip. Or maybe your kids have been going hunting with you for a while, but are ready to move to the next level.

    This is where I have been the last few years. Excited about introducing my children to a lifelong passion of mine. Excited to teach them the right way to hunt, create memories together and cultivate a passion for the sport of hunting. For me, it’s a way to pass down something I love and teach the next generation life skills and valuable life lessons. 

    And while I am definitely not a professional hunter, I have lots of memories of what (and how) my parents introduced me to hunting. And now I have a long list of what (and how) I will do to pass my love for this outdoor activity along to my own children. I’m hoping this post will help give you a place to begin if you’d like to introduce hunting to your children.  

    Safety first – hunter safety and education

    Regardless of the kids’ ages and abilities, you want to start with safety. Hunter safety and hunter education are serious topics and not to be underestimated. Kids that will be hunting or around firearms should be taught the proper way to handle them, store them, and use them. Most states offer hunters’ safety courses and youth hunting educational classes through their conservation departments. They’re usually for kids age 10 and up and required for anyone hunting on their own. Some schools teach hunter safety as part of their curriculum in/around the 5th grade. Courses can be taken online or in person.

    Hunters’ safety and education are lifelong skills that aren’t just taught once and disregarded. They’re to be reinforced and reiterated every single time you hunt. As the parent, you are the model and the gatekeeper. It’s a big responsibility. You need to know all the rules and safety precautions and practice them the right way every time. Little eyes are always watching. 

    teaching kids about conservation and food cycle with hunting

    Start small

    First-time hunters need to start out small. The right gear is important, both for safety and to help build confidence and control. My dad started me out hunting with a kids’ recurve bow. Once I had demonstrated that I could follow directions and use the bow in a safe and proper manner, it was followed up shortly with a Daisy Red Ryder air rifle. These are a great way to safely introduce your young hunter to a bow and rifle. Along with taking a Hunter Safety Course and certification, these rifles are a great way for you to show young kids how to safely handle a firearm.

    My son did really well starting with a junior compound bow and the air rifle. If you have an older kid or preteen, or if you have graduated your little one through the introductory air rifle, keep easing them into the larger arms. A single-shot .410 gauge shotgun or a youth .22 caliber rifle are a great way to practice their aim and to get them familiar with the bigger “bang” of the gunpowder. 

    kids kids proper gun handling and hunter safety

    Teach children to respect the animal

    It’s also very important for me to instill a deep respect for the animal you’re hunting in my children. From a decently early age of three and four, my kids have watched me clean my game. This has not only allowed me to teach them where our meat comes from, but also that it was a once-living animal that is providing us with meat. This allows them to make the connection between the animal they saw and the meat on their dinner table. If you eat meat, it came from an animal (whether you saw it or not). It’s vital to me that they understand. 

    As an animal-loving kid, respect for the harvest was something that sank in early for me. Possibly because my mother had a strict rule; “if you kill it, you eat it.” No questions asked, no if/ands/buts. Animals are respected and the meat is not wasted. 

    Since we ended up having to eat game that would normally only be seen on the Clampetts’ table, she taught us to be mindful of what we were taking. We didn’t have the urge to fire at any random animal, just what we had set out to hunt for that morning.  This may have become the topic of good banter among my siblings and I, but in reality, it really did stick with us. I still remember when I harvested my first deer at eight years old, placing my hand on the chest of the downed doe and feeling the warmth of the animal. Without knowing why, I thanked it. A simple “thank you.”  I still do this as an adult and have passed it on to my kids. We give thanks to the animal and for its life and for the nutrition it will provide us.

    teaching kids to respect the animal - hunting with kids

    Give children your old game calls

    Allowing my kids to trot around the house blowing on a duck call or chattering a turkey box call may have been the best way to get them interested in hunting with me. They obviously didn’t have a clue what they were doing at first, but to them, it all sounded right. And that was perfect.

    Teaching them how to actually use the call instead of just using it as a trumpet came later and was far easier since they had already been trying to mimic my sound. Anytime we were out in nature on a walk, hike, or bike ride and could hear natural animal sounds, I’d stop and make them listen. Then we’d be able to go home and use the calls to mimic the sounds. Being able to use a call is a fun skill for new hunters. 

    duck hunting with kids

    Having a successful hunt

    When I take my kids on hunting with me, I leave all of my expectations at the cabin. Hunting with little kids can be hard and is usually not very successful (in the traditional sense). We may not come home with any meat. Kids are loud and squirmy and curious and ask a lot of questions. None of these things usually lead to wild animals showing up right in front of you. So, to keep yourself from getting frustrated with them or disappointed in the hunt, you may need to reframe your expectations regarding what a “successful hunt” means to you.

    To me, a successful hunt with kids is just spending time with them in the great outdoors, teaching them, preparing them. It’s about the journey, not the destination. 

    I want our hunting experiences to be theirs, not mine. So, essentially, I’m tagging along with them rather than the reverse. Mostly, because I am aware that while I have my way, style, and method of hunting, it’s not the only way and it may not be the best way. I want my young hunters to start figuring out what works and does not work for them. They have to figure things out. The less managing and direction from me at this point, the more their minds are thinking, connecting the dots, and problem-solving.  

    This is how I approach introducing my kids to any of my interests. I let them make it theirs, too. I think giving them their own interests is the best thing I can do for them.

    Set their expectations

    With all the variables that come with the many types of hunting, planning is key. I think it’s really important to set my kids’ expectations before the hunt so they know exactly what to expect and what will happen. First-time hunters may be really disappointed to learn that it’s not as quick or easy as it might seem. Talking to them about our plans as we pack and get prepared is all part of the adventure. I like to mentally prepare them for withstanding the cold temperatures. I remind them that they’ll need to be very patient and quiet and still. We discuss our plan for what to do if we see an animal and what we’ll do after the animal is harvested.

    Along with the many conversations leading up to the day of our hunt, I like to have a little pre-hunt huddle with my kid(s) before heading out to the duck blind or deer stand for a hunt. We go over our plan and our hunting strategy. We talk about the animal we’re hunting, where they live, how to call or hunt them, what they eat, what they look like, how to spot them, etc. Questions are asked, input is provided, suggestions are considered. It’s a group effort and they’re highly involved.

    Let them have fun

    Normally, I get wrapped up in the details of my hunts. I love the details, from scent-blockers, to fancy calls, to the perfect camouflage pattern on my clothing. But, when I hunt with my kids, this stuff tends to slide a little. I mean normally, I refuse to carry any snacks or liquids with me, let alone goldfish crackers and apple juice! Afraid of any excess noise, smell, rustling, or whatever else. But if my kids want to bring them along, then so be it. As long as they enjoy their hunt, that’s what’s important. Because if they hate it and never want to go with me again, I’ve ruined the experience. I don’t want that to happen. 

    Kids have to be allowed to have fun on the hunt, or they won’t want to go back. Be prepared for this. Let them bring along some things to keep them entertained and occupied in the downtime (and there will be a lot of downtime). Crayons and paper, books, cards, action figures, dolls, fidget toys…maybe even (dare I say) an electronic device or video games. If they’re bored with that, ask them leading questions (what would be your dream vacation?) or play games (would your rather). Or you could always look around at your surroundings and take in the nature around you (count the trees, listen to how many different birds you can hear, etc.). 

    Enjoy the moments

    Sincerely, my most fruitful hunts have been the ones with my kids. Listening to their imaginations run wild while discussing what sounds are coming from the woods is my absolute favorite. Or watching their eyes light up when a deer walks into our field. At the end of the day, all of us parents are just grabbing at these moments to connect and converse with our children before they grow up. Just trying to know who they truly are and living in complete awe that we get the privilege of raising these amazing people. These are the important things in life.

    Sometimes though, deeper than the conversations is the silence. Hunting provides moments of complete quiet, where you can sit with each other and just be present. You can hear nature all around. It’s magic. 

    Make sure they’re ready

    With little kids, they came along with me on the hunt, but they didn’t ever do the actual “hunting” or shooting. They observed. As kids get older, they can become more involved and even do some of the actual hunting. But they need to be ready, physically (strong enough to hold the gun properly and has practiced/trained), mentally (follow all proper hunter safety), and emotionally (they have the emotional capacity to be ok taking the life of an animal). It might take years of just tagging along on hunts before a kid is ready to do the real work of hunting. And that’s ok. Take your time. 

    And even if your child was fully prepared and ready for the hunt, they may still have conflicting emotions about taking the life of an animal afterward. Acknowledge their feelings. Let them know it’s ok to be sad. Don’t shame them or ignore their feelings. Use it as a teaching moment for empathy and continue the conversation through conservation and how the animal will nourish. 

    The joy of the hunt

    If you get a chance to take your kid on an evening hunt, stick around afterward for the encore. Whenever you have packed your firearms or bows away, take a few minutes to just sit back and watch the ducks pour in over your blind as they come in to roost for the evening, or the coveys of quail fluttering in the sunset. This will be a memory your children carry with them forever and will most certainly gain you a lifelong hunting partner. Because hunting is just nearly as much about the stories and the moments, as it is the harvest. 

    About the author

    Jared Ryan is a husband to a talented and beautiful wife, Kristen also a father of two fun-loving and adventurous kiddos. He enjoys leading family adventures to both near and far destinations. Whether it is hiking, camping, climbing, bike riding, or playing in the backyard, he loves it all. He instills in his family the importance of nature and all the benefits it can bring to one’s life. Jared is a GIS analyst by trade, so he is naturally drawn to creating maps and all things trail-related, whether it is creating new trails, recording family hikes, or teaching his kids land navigation, he loves to tie in his own work with family adventures.

    You can find Jared online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @bikeshikesbiners
    RWMC posts: 
    Beginner’s Guide to Mountain Biking with Kids
    Winter Car Camping
    Roosevelt Walks 
    Trail Building with Kids

    Image credits: @kristcx and @sara_mccarty

  • FALL, GOOD FOR NATURE, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, SUMMER, WINTER

    How to Have Adventure Days with Kids

    Connecting with our children isn’t always easy. Finding the time for special adventure outings can be even more of a challenge. Life is busy and, as we all know, life with children is even busier. But, what if we told you that elaborate adventures aren’t necessary? Getting outside with your kids doesn’t have to be a challenge. You just need some simple ideas and an adventurous mindset! Today, Angie Mahlke, photographer and Minnesota mom of three, shares all about how to begin and plan simple, connection-building adventure days with kids. Get ready to turn your simple outings into big adventures! 

    how to adventure with kids

    Adventure days with kids

    When I became a professional stay-at-home-mom over a decade ago, I didn’t realize the job position really translated to Chief Entertainment Coordinator. We’ve all heard the dreaded “I’m bored” whine enough times to evoke a Pavlovian response to the statement. Over the years I’ve created tricks out of necessity to survive the long days. One of them is to take a seemingly mundane activity and wrap it up in a pretty package presented as an Adventure Day. Today, I am going to share this mom hack with you to get you outside adventuring with your children.

    adventuring with kids

    How our adventure days started

    What sprouted out of COVID restrictions turned into a new beloved tradition. Because things were canceled or changed to accommodate safety concerns, my daughter and I found ourselves bored at home. A lot. There was no more storytime at the library or mommy and me classes at the school. No more dressing up in leotards and tutus for dance class. No museums to explore, shopping trips, or indoor activities. 

    What we did have was the great outdoors. 

    We decided to embrace it. I started by making a comprehensive list on my phone of all the free or relatively inexpensive outdoor things to do in our area. Some were big, some were small. Some were locations and others were activities. I included places nearby and a few that were a bit farther out. Lots and lots of opens.

    I decided we would cycle through them to entertain ourselves. Each day that we needed an activity, we’d pick one from the list. I called them Adventure Days. 

    (I also instituted Adventure Days this summer when all my children were home from school. Summer days have the potential to feel long and tedious without new and fun things to explore.)

    hiking with kids

    Creating adventure days with kids

    The activities themselves are rarely anything overly special or glamorous. But by simply giving it a special title of “Adventure Days,” the outing suddenly seems more exciting. My kids may not get all that excited about going on a hike. But, tell them we’re going on a grand ADVENTURE and they’re all in! 

    Plus, the label is also a cue to me that I should be fully present. On Adventure Days, I put the phone away. Work gets paused. They get my attention. I truly exist in the moment with my children, which means more to them than I ever expected. 

    If I had to wager a bet, I’d say the Adventure Days with my kids became more special because of the undivided attention that was given to them, not so much the activity we are doing together. Kids crave attention from their parents and being fully present for our adventures made them ten times as special for all of us. 

    catching frogsexploring dandelion field

    Simple and intentional activities

    So what do these outings look like? Simple. They look simple.

    We often think our adventures must be grand affairs. I know I’m guilty of this. An outing doesn’t have to be EPIC to be an adventure. It is something I’ve had to train my brain to relearn. We worry our children will be bored unless it’s expensive and extensive. But that’s so not true. I promise.

    Small things can make a big impact. Especially when they’re done with love and intention. The whole “less is more” mindset is accurate when planning daily or weekly activities with your children. A lot of it lies in the presentation and the delivery.

    If you’re attentive and enjoying the experience, your child will follow your lead. (Did you hear that…YOU have to be having fun.) I know it’s a taller order than that. We’re busy and distracted as we juggle all the things. I’m right there with you.

    I can say, though, I am grateful for those few hours during our Adventure Days when I sign off and truly tune into the present moment. It takes some practice. Give yourself grace for the times you’re distracted. Children innately know how to have fun. Adults need to relearn it sometimes.

    blowing dandelion wishespicking dandelion bouquet

    Adventure day activities

    Here are some simple ideas to illustrate the simplicity and connection building of Adventure Days with kids:

    • Bike rides into town to buy a treat at the gas station and play at the nearby playground.
    • Throwing rocks into the river.
    • Filling a bucket with nature treasures (rocks, leaves, flowers, pinecones, etc.).
    • Hiking a new trail.
    • Exploring a new park or playground and creating a park tour guidebook together.
    • Riding bikes or walking to a dinner or lunch date.
    • Enjoying warm tea or hot chocolate and a book while on a hike.
    • Taking the dog to the dog park.
    • Ice cream dates.
    • Picking wildflowers.
    • Finding a tree to climb. 

    picking wildflowersscooter rides on bike pathsplashing in puddlesriding scooter

    Low maintenance, low-cost activities mean a lot

    Your adventures don’t have to cost a lot of money (or any money), don’t need a lot of planning, and don’t require any fancy gear. Some of our favorite Adventure Days are the ones that came up naturally when I said YES to adventure and exploration.

    An Adventure Day that sticks out in my mind is a scooter ride along a Mississippi bike path one spring day. We discovered puddles along the way and stopped often for my daughter to splash with her new rain boots. She also befriended many dogs that day. 

    The outing cost zero dollars. The bike path was close to home. It was convenient and free and simple. But, it was so much fun! It just took both of us saying yes to adventure and making the time to get outside. 

    exploring nature

    How to have successful adventure days

    Your Adventure Days will be more successful if you typically keep them small and simple. They’re easier to manage and less stressful. This often means staying close to home and choosing free activities.

    It’s important to keep realistic expectations. Oftentimes we are disappointed when plans don’t go as anticipated. We all know children are infamous for throwing wrenches in plans. Keep an open mind and be ready to veer when necessary.

    A lot of factors can determine the day’s outcome: weather, moods, temperaments, hunger, health, etc. Prepare for as many scenarios as possible to keep the day on track. Here are a couple of ideas that may help your Adventure Day be successful:

    • Bring snacks. Lots and lots of snacks.
    • Wear appropriate clothing.
    • Dressing in layers is always a good idea.
    • Bring extra clothing if your activity is messy or maybe always have spare clothing since children enjoy full sensory exploration.
    • Plan the outing for a time of day where your children are ready to play versus when they’re hungry and tired.
    • Put your phone down/away. 
    • Say yes to things you maybe usually don’t say yet to on Adventure Days (e.g. puddle jumping, getting dirty, ice cream, etc.).

    winter walk with dogwinter hike

    How to prepare for adventure

    Another tip I’ve learned over the years is to prep as much as you can the night before. Set out clothes. Pack up snacks. Get water bottles ready. Also, don’t forget to talk to your children about your plans. I find things run smoother when my kids know what to expect. Then remind them again in the car or on the walk to your destination.

    Most importantly: let it be fun!

    This seems so simple, yet it’s the hardest one for me. When the whining and bickering set in, an alarm in my brain automatically blares at me to jump ship. We can’t control every scenario in every situation. Kids are hard-wired to react to unpleasantries (hunger, irritability, bugs, weather, etc.). Sometimes all it takes is a moment to hit the hypothetical reset button to reframe the activity in a way that everyone can enjoy.

    And sometimes things will go wrong. You’ll get lost, you’ll forget something, you’ll get somewhere only to find it closed. Don’t worry about it! Sometimes, those misadventures are the ones that make the best stories and memories! Try to turn it into a positive experience and you’ll be laughing about it for years! 

    fall corn maze

    When to spice things up

    I’ve been preaching simple, but some days can be grand! Throw in a more elaborate one from time to time. Mixing in some extraordinary with the ordinary can spice it up every so often.

    Travel a little further from home once a month, once a season, or however often you feel is manageable. Research nearby cities for free or cheap things to do. Explore new parks, find nature centers, check out orchards or new hikes.

    We give these Adventure Days a special title of Field Trip. They are typically educational in nature, so the title is appropriate.

    The small zoo near us is a favorite. It’s an hour away (but, as a bonus, it’s free!). The drive adds a level of anticipation that makes it feel bigger than it truly is.

    Occasionally, changing your scenery is key. A playground 45 minutes away is more exciting than the playground two blocks from your house that you frequent regularly. The hiking trail you visit sporadically is bound to entertain your children longer than the one you walk often. A new (to them) creek may provide hours of entertainment as they explore. 

    exploring wooded area

    How to get started with adventure days

    Now that you’ve heard the benefits of Adventure Days, how can you get started?

    • Create a running list of possible things to do in your area. Continue to jot ideas down as you discover or think of them. Make sure there’s a little bit of something for everyone and a wide variety of big and small, near and far. 
    • Scour your area for things to do near you. Facebook community groups are a great resource. Your local library may have programs or information on area activities. Don’t discount word of mouth. Ask other families where they like to adventure. 
    • Explore. Sometimes you wander upon hidden gems, like trails or creeks or a neighborhood playground you never knew existed. When you’re driving, take note of “brown signs” in your area, which usually denote unique hidden-gem destinations. 

    building snowmanpicking tulips

    Incorporating the seasons

    It’s also fun to incorporate the seasons into your Adventure Days. Find a hiking trail or park that has obvious seasonal changes. Make it a point to return to that spot season-after-season and note the differences each time you visit. How have things changed? Every outing is an opportunity for learning.

    You can also use the seasons to brainstorm ideas. Each season has its own built-in activities. Find an epic sledding hill in the winter. Go berry picking in the spring. Discover a small town festival in the summer. Visit a pumpkin patch in the fall. 

    fall leaf fight

    Creating multiple activities from one

    Want in on a little secret? You can stretch one activity into multiple ones. Want to find out how? Here are a few examples.

    Go on a leaf hunt in the fall to find as many different colors and kinds of leaves as you can. You can collect the leaves to use for other purposes later, like a leaf crown or a leaf collage. One of our favorites is to make leaf monsters by gluing leaves onto a piece of paper, adding googly eyes, and drawing arms and legs. This is a great way to turn one activity into several.

    Another example of creating multiple activities from one is with rocks. One day go on an adventure to find unique rocks. Then another day you can set up a painting station on your driveway and decorate them however you want. Create rock animals or transform them into pretty flowers—you name it! Then yet another day, set out in your neighborhood to hide the rocks for others to discover.

    Hit up a farm or orchard to pick fruit, veggies, or wildflowers. Once you’re home, turn the fruits and veggies into tasty treats together. Or make little bouquets, corsages, or bookmarks with the flowers. 

    Can you think of any other activities that can be multiplied into more fun for later?

    adventuring in wooded area

    Adventure Day ideas

    If you’re stuck thinking of Adventure Day ideas, I created a list to get you started. I have them organized by categories: your simple, everyday ones; seasonal; and the grander affairs I like to call Field Trips.

    Simple

    • Skipping rocks
    • Scavenger hunt
    • Nature bingo
    • Neighborhood bike ride
    • Parking lot scooter races
    • Homemade obstacle courses
    • Hiking trails
    • Stick fort building
    • Rock hunting
    • Floor is lava at random locations
    • Kite flying
    • Informal sports games (tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball, etc)
    • Dog park
    • New playgrounds

    Seasonal

    Field trips

    • State park
    • Nature center
    • Zoo
    • Farmer’s markets
    • Museum
    • Botanical garden
    • Golfing (mini golf, disc golf)
    • County fair
    • Festivals

    Don’t forget to include your children while brainstorming. Sometimes they come up with the best ideas! Now get outside and start adventuring with your children!

    rocking throwing in river

    Who do you think will enjoy the Adventure Days more, you or your children?

    Angie Mahlke

    About the author

    Angie is a wife and stay-at-home-mom of three wild hyenas. She resides in rural Minnesota, where there are more cows and cornfields than people. She is an introvert with a creative itch that needs to be scratched, whether it is photographing her children in their daily lives or coming up with fun ways to explore nature in their backyard. Messy hair, dirty faces, mismatched clothing, wild and free children—all these things fuel her creativity and the desire to preserve these fleeting moments. Angie and her family can be found camping, biking, and sitting around a campfire during the summer months and sledding and ice fishing in a million layers during the winter.

    You can find Angie online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @angie_mahlke
    RWMC posts: Angie Mahlke