Month: February 2023

BEACH, CRAFTS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Seashell Crafts for Kids
- February 24, 2023
Seashells are nature’s treasures, and they’re so much fun to use in crafts and projects. Today, Lea Reynolds, Florida mom of two, is here sharing three fun and easy seashell crafts for kids. Not only will hunting for seashells get your kids outside and on the beach for hours, but the colorful shells will help inspire their creativity and make beautiful natural additions to your home decor and gifts.

Seashell crafts for kids

Florida is known for its warm and sunny weather, but did you know that it also experiences mild winters? While the temperatures may not reach the freezing point, the cooler weather and shorter days provide a perfect opportunity to enjoy making crafts. One of our favorite things to do is combine our love of the beach, with crafting.

Crafting with seashells is an activity that not only gets us outside, but lets us be creative, as well. Here in Florida, shells are abundant on the beaches, so there’s no shortage of supplies. Today, I’m going to walk you through my best tips for finding great seashells and guide you through the process of making simple and fun seashell crafts with your kids.

Shelling with kids

First things first, you need to set off and find as many seashells as you can! Whether you have easy access to a beach all the time, or you’re visiting the beach on vacation, shelling is an engaging experience for parents and kids of all ages. It’s a free and fun way to spend a few hours outside! My kids love finding different shapes, sizes and colors of seashells. When the water is too cold to swim in, and the sky is cloudy, you can always spend your time at the beach seashell hunting! Grab a bucket or a sustainable ocean-friendly bag, your trusty bait net, and let’s hunt!

Tips for finding and collecting seashells

Finding seashells is often a matter of being on the beach at the right time. The best time, in general, is about an hour before or after low tide. High tide will bring those beautiful shells inland. As the tide recedes, you’ll be able to see the treasures the tide left behind. And if the tides are low early in the morning, this is even better! This is great for families, as little kids are often up early, and it’s a great excuse to get out of the house right away! We like to have breakfast on the beach in the morning, before the crowds arrive and we have the place to ourselves.

Shelling is especially good after strong winds or storms. Low spring tides during full moon or new moon periods can also bring in great shells. Here in Florida, any strong tides or Gulf storms can also bring plentiful shells to the Gulf area beaches. Most of the time, the best sea shells are found in or below the wrack line (where the debris can be found from the high tide the night before). If you venture up too high, you may find older sun-bleached shells (which can be beautiful). But, the bright colorful newer shells that just washed up the night before will be down closer to the waterline.

Know the regulations

Be sure to check local laws and regulations to know the rules in your area regarding sea shell collecting. Some beaches allow shelling, and some don’t. If your child finds a shell that still has an animal living inside — gastropod, bivalve, or otherwise — tell them to leave it alone. In many places, including Florida, it is illegal to take a live creature from its natural habitat. If keeping empty shells is allowed, be sure to check to make sure they’re empty. Also, never take live sand dollars from the beach.

Cleaning and storing seashells

Once your child has found enough shells for your projects and crafts, you’ll want to properly clean them to bring out their full natural beauty. First, soak the seashells in plain warm water to remove any dirt, debris, and smell. Change out the water daily for a few hours or up to a week to fully clean your shells. You can use an old toothbrush to remove grit from the ridges and cracks if necessary.

We do not recommend using bleach. Bleach will ruin the color and vibrancy of your shell, and the shells will have a bleach/chlorine smell.

After your shells have soaked, you’ll need to thoroughly dry them. If your shells have particularly rough edges, you can smooth them down with sandpaper. And if you really want to bring out the color and brilliance of your shells, rub a small amount of mineral oil on a paper towel and buff the shells until they shine. This will ensure your shells look beautiful in any setting and last a lifetime.

Seashell wind chimes
Wind chimes made from shells are not only beautiful to look at, but they are an excellent way to bring a touch of nature into your home. Wind chimes are an easy seashell craft idea that can be made with a variety of materials, including driftwood, seashells, sea glass, bells, beads, etc..

Creating a wind chime made from materials you find at the beach is a fun and simple project that can be completed in a few hours. This is a great craft to make with kids that love sound and movement to commemorate your beach days. The resulting wind chime will be a beautiful and unique decoration that you can enjoy for years to come.

This section will guide you through the process of creating your own unique wind chime from natural materials. This is the perfect seashell craft for older kids.

Shell windchime materials:

Driftwood

Seashells

String (we used natural sisal, as it gives it a beachier look)

Hot glue gun

Scissors

Ruler or measuring tape

Drill (if you want to drill holes in your shells)

Optional: colorful beads, sea glass, shark’s teeth, etc.

Shell windchime instructions:

Collect driftwood and seashells of various sizes and shapes.

Cut strings to varying lengths, depending on the size and shape of the driftwood and seashells. We alternated the length of our strings.

Choose your seashells. You can get as creative as you want. We decided we wanted it to look cohesive, so we chose multiple shells that matched and alternated them.

Sand your driftwood (optional) for a beachier look. If you don’t have a sander, you can use a knife to shave the top layer of wood off.

Drill small holes into each end of the driftwood.

Thread string through holes and tie a knot at each end. You can create this piece as long or as short as you want. This will be the part that you hang.

Now to decorating! We chose to drill a small hole into each shell and thread the string through. The easiest way to do this is to apply hot glue to the back of each seashell and glue it to the string. You can leave as much space between each shell as you would like.

Repeat steps 6 and 7 with the remaining seashells and strings, spacing them evenly along the driftwood.

Use hot glue to secure the knots and any loose strings.

Hang the wind chime in a location where it will receive gentle breezes, such as a porch or tree branch.

Tips for making wind chimes with kids:

Experiment with different lengths and combinations of string and shells to create a unique and personalized wind chime.

If you have trouble finding driftwood, you can use other types of wood, such as bamboo or branches.

To make your wind chime extra special, you can paint or decorate the driftwood or shells before assembling.
Seashell identification cards

Seashells are fascinating natural wonders that have captivated people for centuries. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and each one has a unique story to tell. To help children and students learn about these fascinating creations, educational cards made about seashells can be a valuable tool. This section of the article will guide you through the process of creating your own set of seashell identification cards.

Seashell educational cards are a great way to help children and students learn about these fascinating creatures and the important role they play in our ecosystem. The process of creating the cards is simple, yet educational and fun, and the end result is a valuable tool for learning and discovery. So go ahead and make your own set of seashell identification cards today!

Seashell identification card materials:

Various seashell specimens

Heavy cardstock or cardboard (we used an old shoe box)

Ruler or measuring tape

Scissors

Markers or colored pencils

Hot glue gun

Seashell identification card instructions:

Collect a variety of seashell specimens. Make sure to choose shells that are different in size, shape, and color.

Cut heavy cardstock or paper into 3 x 5-inch rectangles (this is the perfect size for little hands to hold). You can make as many cards as you have shells.

Write the name of the seashell on the front of the card, along with any other information you wish to include, such as the location where it was found, its scientific name, or interesting facts about the species.

On the back of the card, write more in-depth information about the seashell, including its habitat, diet, and behavior.

Hot glue your seashell to the cardstock.

Organize them in a binder or box for easy access.

Tips for creating shell identification cards:

Use a local field guide for shells, a local shelling website, or a shelling app to identify the shells you find. Let the kids help with this!

You can also include images or diagrams of the seashell’s anatomy or life cycle to enhance the educational value of the cards. You can print these off the internet or draw them yourself.

To make the cards more durable, you can laminate them or cover them with clear contact paper.

Consider adding quizzes or games to the cards to encourage students to actively engage with the information and retain it better. You could even turn this into a memory-matching game.

Seashell picture frames
Decorating picture frames with seashells is a fun and easy way to add a touch of the beach to your home decor. This project is perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their frames and create a unique piece of home decor. They make the perfect gift too!

Adding seashells to picture frames is a simple and creative project that can add a touch of the beach to any room in your home. Whether you use a single frame or multiple frames, this project is a great way to display your favorite memories while bringing the beauty of the ocean into your home. We created these as Christmas gifts for families this past holiday, and our families loved them. Nothing feels more personable than a personalized, DIY gift.

Materials for seashell picture frames:

Picture frame(s)

Seashells (in a variety of sizes and shapes)

Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks

Scissors or wire cutters

Optional: decorative ribbon, beads, or other embellishments

Shell photo frame instructions:

Choose your frame. Select a picture frame that fits the style of your home decor and the size of the photo you want to display. You can use a single frame or multiple frames for a more dramatic display.

Gather your seashells. Collect a variety of seashells from your local beach or craft store. You can choose shells that are similar in size and color to create a cohesive look, or a random assortment of different colors, styles, and sizes to create an eclectic look.

Prepare the frame. Remove the glass, picture, and backing from the frame. Clean the frame thoroughly to remove any dirt or dust. If desired, wrap the frame with decorative ribbon or paint it with acrylic paints to match the seashells you have chosen.

Attach the seashells. Begin by hot gluing the largest shells first, starting at one corner and working your way around the frame. Make sure to apply enough hot glue to securely hold each shell in place.

Embellish. Fill in the gaps as you add more shells, fill in any gaps with small shells or embellishments of your choice. You can also mix and match different sizes and shapes of shells for a more interesting and unique design. We added some awesome shark teeth, sea glass, and coral to ours.

Finishing touches. When all the gaps are filled and you are happy with the overall look of your frame, it’s time to add any final embellishments, such as decorative ribbon or beads.

Reassemble the frame. Replace the glass, picture, and backing into the frame, making sure to secure it tightly in place.

And that’s it! Your seashell-decorated picture frame is now ready to display. These make great gifts for grandparents and teachers. You can also use this technique to decorate other items, such as mirrors or picture frames made from other materials, such as wood or metal. The possibilities are endless!

Mermaid crown and seashell necklace
A seashell crown or seashell necklace is a beautiful and unique accessory that can be worn on special occasions or simply as a fun, summery addition to an outfit. Creating a crown or neclace using seashells is a simple craft and a creative project that can be completed in just a few hours and with a few basic materials.

Shell crown and shell necklace materials:

Seashells

Hot glue gun

Scissors

String, floral wire, pipe cleaners, or headband

Shell crown/shell necklace instructions:

Gather your seashells. Collect a variety of seashells from your local beach or craft store. Make sure to choose shells that are similar in size and color to create a cohesive look.

Prepare your base. If using a headband, wrap it with ribbon to match your seashells and hot glue it in place. If using a wire wreath form, bend the wire into a circular shape to fit your head comfortably and cut off any excess wire.

Attach the seashells. Begin by hot gluing the largest shells first, starting at the front and working your way around to the back. Make sure to apply enough hot glue to securely hold each shell in place.

Fill in the gaps. As you add more shells, fill in any gaps with smaller shells or embellishments of your choice. You can also mix and match different sizes and shapes of shells for a more interesting and unique design.

Finishing touches. When all the gaps are filled, and you are happy with the overall look of your crown, it’s time to add any final embellishments such as decorative ribbons or beads.

And that’s it! Your seashell crown is now ready to wear. You can personalize it further by adding feathers, beads, or even artificial flowers to match your outfit or occasion. Making a seashell crown is a fun and creative project that can be done by anyone, regardless of skill level. Seashell necklaces or a crown are a great way to bring a touch of the beach to any outfit, making you feel like a true mermaid or Aquaboy!

Seashell crafts for kids

There are countless crafts you can make with your kids using seashells. You can paint them, make personalized greeting cards with them, glue them to cups and make pencil holders or plant pots, even make one-of-a-kind jewelry! They provide hours of engagement, creativity, and hands-on learning for kids! We hope this post has inspired you to get out to a beach near you to look for shells and crate some beautiful art. Happy seashell crafting!
Have you ever made any crafts with seashells?

About the author

Lea is a mom of two adventurous kids and wife to her surfer husband Brandon. She is an Army veteran, Registered Nurse, photographer, and small business owner. Lea has lived in Hawaii, New Mexico, and now resides in Florida, where she and her family are enjoying endless ocean adventures. She has traveled to Costa Rica, South Korea, and many states across the US. Lea and her family love to surf, fish, hike, skate, and travel to new places. She is passionate about teaching her kids about nature and protecting our planet.

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @oceanmamalea
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds
FAMILY TRAVEL, INFORMATION, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK
Best Parks in San Diego
- February 22, 2023
Being active outdoors doesn’t have to be complicated or require a lot of gear or planning – it can be as easy as exploring a local park or playground with your kids. Checking out a new park allows parents and kids to be adventurous, without needing to leave the city or spend a lot of time searching or packing for an exotic outing. San Diego is known for its perfect weather and gorgeous beaches, but it’s also home to some of the most amazing parks, playgrounds, and green spaces. Local San Diego mom of four, Wendy Cox, is here sharing the best parks and playgrounds for kids in San Diego, California.

Best parks and playgrounds in San Diego

San Diego really is my favorite city. One of the reasons I love San Diego so much is because it has some of the best parks, playgrounds, and outdoor public spaces for kids and families. As a San Diego resident for over 20 years (13 of those as a mom), I can’t even tell you how many hours I have spent at the lovely parks in and around San Diego.

Park time was especially important when my kids were little, and we lived in an apartment. During those early days of motherhood, I had two rambunctious little boys that needed time outside to burn some energy. Now we have 4 older kiddos, but we still frequent many of the best parks in San Diego.

There are two types of public parks in San Diego: city parks and county parks. The city parks typically have less acreage than county parks, are free, and there are many more city parks than county parks. Whether you’re here on vacation, new to the city, or a long-time resident looking for a new place to explore, here is my list of the 10 best parks in San Diego.

Best city parks in San Diego

1. Maruta Gardner

We call this the “pink park” because, you guessed it, a lot of the structure of this park is pink! Maruta Gardner is a fairly new park and was built in the last few years. Because it’s so new and so much fun, you will likely never have the park all to yourself. There are so many different things to play on here that it can accommodate a lot of people without seeming too crowded.

The main feature of this San Diego park is a giant pink slide. It’s wide enough to fit several kids (or adults!), side by side, and it has a definite spring to it. You’ll see kids slide, jump, run, and bounce down this amazing piece of equipment. Getting to the top of the slide is quite the adventure, as well. A wave-shaped climbing structure is how you gain access to the summit of the slide.

In addition to the giant pink slide, Maruta Gardner also has built-in hammocks and spinning toys. The smaller playground for younger kids, a saucer swing, and a four-person teeter-totter with seats are also fun. What more could the kids want?

Adults will be happy to know that this park is conveniently located near a variety of shops and restaurants. It’s the closest city park to Belmont Park, a permanent outdoor carnival of sorts featuring the Giant Dipper roller coaster and other carnival-type attractions. Maruta Gardner is right on the bay. It’s across the street from Mission Beach, and has built-in cement seating with umbrellas for shade.

2. Old Poway Park

About 30 minutes east of downtown San Diego is Old Poway Park, also known as “The City in the Country.” This park makes it to the top 10 best because it’s like going back in time. They really live up to the “Old” in their name. The park has a Heritage Museum, the Nelson House depicting life back in the early 20th century, and our favorite- the Poway Midland Railroad. For a few dollars, you and your kids can take a ride around the park on this full-sized, vintage railroad. Your budding engineers will be over the moon as they circle the park on the train.

If you happen to be in the area over Christmas, you won’t want to miss Christmas in the Park. Santa will arrive on the train, and the park will be all decked in lights. It’s a magical experience! During the other months, you can find a farmer’s market every Saturday morning. The Hamburger Factory restaurant is also open year-round.

Across the street from the train depot is a small but fun playground, softball fields, and a little pond. You’ll feel like you stepped back in time when you’re at Old Poway Park.

3. Liberty Station

San Diego has a rich military history, which is reflected in various ways at the parks of Liberty Station. The land that Liberty Station sits on used to be the Naval Training Center. Then it was moved to the new location nearby. As you walk around Liberty Station, you will notice a plethora of flags, plaques, and other military items. There is even a 2/3 scale destroyer ship called the Recruit that you can walk around.

If you have a little one that enjoys airplanes, this park is for you. It’s directly in the flight path of the San Diego International Airport, and every few minutes, you will see and hear, a plane overhead quite close.

Liberty Station has two playgrounds next to each other, separated by the bathrooms. One playground is for the younger crowd, and the other is for older kids. It’s nice to have the separation if you have kids similar in age. If you have more than one child and think they might want to be at different playgrounds, I would consider bringing along a second set of hands in case you need to split up. This park has an extensive bike path meandering along the water. We taught three of our kids how to ride a bike here because it’s very flat and has a lot of long, straight cement paths. There are also cement picnic tables near the playground.

When you’re done riding bikes and playing on the playground, there are many other options for things to do outside nearby. You could play some basketball at the basketball courts, or fly a kite on the large grassy areas. It’s usually windy at Liberty Station, so you will probably have success with a kite. You’ll want to make sure you have a jacket, though, because the wind can be a bit chilly coming off the water.

Another great advantage of Liberty Station is all of the amazing shopping and dining just a few minutes walk away. The Public Market has a variety of phenomenal food choices, and you’ll want to stop at Moniker General for a cup of coffee and do a little shopping as well.

4. Fanuel Street Park

If you’re looking for a quiet, tucked-away park, Fanuel Street is the best spot for you. Located in the Pacific Beach area of San Diego, Fanuel Street is the perfect stop along a long bike/jogging path. You’re sure to see bikers, walkers, rollerbladers, runners, and even roller skaters. If you brought bikes or scooters, this is a great place to use them.

In the summertime, Fanuel Street Park is a great alternative to the beach. There are no waves because the park is on the bay side, and there are significantly fewer people here than at the beach. It’s a good spot to let the kids cool off in the water. Fanuel Street is also an easy spot to launch a paddle board or kayak from. The water is calm, and the views are spectacular.

Another draw of Fanuel Street Park is the large grassy area near the bathrooms. We like to bring a soccer ball or the RC car here because there is a lot of space to kick a ball and drive the car.

One unique aspect of this park is the small pod of cement dolphins set in the sand near the playground. I can’t even count the hours my kids have played on these dolphins! They’re a nice little San Diego touch that you don’t find at a lot of playgrounds. The one drawback to this park is that the parking is limited. Other than that you’re going to love it!

5. Moonlight State Beach Park

There are various beaches around San Diego that also have parks and playgrounds, but Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas pretty much has it all. From a snack bar to boogie board rentals, you won’t find yourself wanting for anything.

The playground at Moonlight is fun, but there is so much more to do here than just slide on the slides. There are volleyball courts, fire pits, outdoor showers, large bathrooms, palm cabana umbrellas, beach access, a shop with beach rentals, a snack bar, and lifeguards on duty.

This beach park has a large dedicated parking lot and street parking. The lot is situated above the beach, so the view while you look for a parking spot will be priceless. You’ll notice as you walk to the beach that you’re admiring the grand Pacific Ocean. The waves here are not small and there can be currents/rip tides. Make your beach day a success with these tips.

6. Tecolote Shores

Quite possibly the newest park in San Diego is Tecolote Shores. Any San Diegan with kids was anticipating the opening of this park, and it finally happened late last year.

Tecolote Shores is a great place to be if you have kids that span the ages. Half of the park is more like an outdoor gym, with stationary bikes and machines for resistance training. The other half of the park is a large playground with slides, swings, and these cute spinning egg chairs. Dividing the two parts of the park is a covered area with picnic tables.

The ground here is that squishy playground material, which makes it great for when someone takes a spill because it isn’t as abrasive as cement. There is also a good-sized sand pit, so don’t leave the bag of sand toys in the car!

Our favorite part of Tecolote Shores park is the climbing rope. There is actually a bell you can ring at the top of the rope, and the kids get so much satisfaction from being able to ring the bell! It also affords an opportunity for some teamwork. 🙂

The playground at Tecolote Shores is surrounded by large fields of grass, and is located right along Mission Bay. The jogging path here is about 3 miles one way, so if you’re training for a race, this is a great spot. The only downside is that the bathrooms are not that close. It will take you several minutes to walk to the nearest bathroom, or maybe even more if your toddlers are as distracted as mine were!

7. Coronado Tidelands Park

If you’re looking for a park with great views of the city, go no further than Tidelands Park in Coronado. It’s located on Coronado Island, a man-made island accessible by the iconic Coronado Bridge.

My favorite part of this park is its accessibility. The newer part of the playground has an ADA-accessible ramp. The ramp leads to a “boat” that can also accommodate a wheelchair. My boys loved playing on that boat!

The playground and great views aren’t the only great things about this park. It also has bathrooms near the playground and a large grassy area. The grassy area is perfect for a game of tag! There are also baseball fields and a bike path. Head north on the bike path and you’ll end up at Ferry Landing. Here there are shops, restaurants, and a ferry that can take you downtown.

Best county parks in San Diego

8. Felicita County Park

This 346-acre park is located in the eastern part of San Diego County. Because of its distance from downtown, Felicita Park has a completely different feel than the busier city parks. The trails here are dirt, and Felicita Creek runs year-round through the park. Apart from the ocean, you don’t see much water flowing in San Diego. This creek is a novelty to us San Diegans!

The fee to park here is $3. Gates to the park open at 9:30 am and close at sunset. Park rangers enforce these times, so you’ll need to make sure you’re wrapping up and heading out at the appropriate time.

The oak trees growing here are very mature and provide ample shade. Even though it gets warmer in East County, you can find a lot of places in Felicita Park that are shaded.

While the over 1.5 miles of hiking trails here are dirt paths, there are two playground areas with paved sidewalks perfect for scooters or other wheeled adventures. The playgrounds have shade sails up too, so if you’re visiting in the hotter months the slide shouldn’t burn your legs on the way down!

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Felicita Park was once a large Kumeyaay Indian village. Today there is a small museum relating the history of the park, as well as a TRACK trail scavenger hunt. The TRACK trail website has a variety of activities to do along the trail, and when you log the information onto the website, your kids can win prizes for the time they spent at the park.

9. San Dieguito County Park

Heading up the coast from downtown San Diego and a little bit inland, you will find the beautiful, 100-acre San Dieguito County Park. There are two main parts of this park, an upper and a lower section, connected by a series of trails and an area known as Activity Hill. Activity Hill has viewing platforms where you can see the ocean, rope bridges, and audio panels that teach you about the wildlife and history of the park, and two TRACK trails.

If you enter at the upper park entrance, there is some free off-street parking, or you can pay $3 to park anywhere inside the park. The upper park has five different playgrounds, each a little different from the other. The two closest to the entrance are fairly small, so if you’re looking for a peaceful experience, you might want to start here. The two newer playgrounds just up the hill are typically busier, but all of these playground areas have bathrooms close by.

The lower park doesn’t have playgrounds, but it does have large expanses of grassy areas that are wonderful for picnicking. It also has a butterfly garden and lots of great climbing trees!

10. Santee Lakes

It’s hard to categorize Santee Lakes as a park because it is so much more, but I couldn’t leave it off the list. Santee Lakes has a campground, a small splash pad, multiple playgrounds, 5 lakes, fishing, ducks to feed, and our favorite- paddle boats!

I also love that there are so many picnic areas surrounded by mature trees to enjoy. Many of the picnic areas also have a built-in barbeque so you can enjoy a warm meal outside.

The entrance fee here is $7 per vehicle, so it’s somewhere that you would want to plan to spend the day. With so many activities, it’s not difficult to find a variety of things to do while you’re here. And if you’re into fishing or your kiddos want to try fishing for the first time, this is a great place to start. The lakes are stocked with fish year-round.

Santee Lakes is a series of 7 man-made lakes that were built with the purpose of highlighting what can be done with recycled water. Every day 2 million gallons are water are recycled to create what you see in the lakes. About 230 species of birds either reside at the lakes or make a short stop here during the colder months, making this an excellent place for birdwatching!

Best San Diego parks and playgrounds

All of these parks are within about 30 minutes of each other. That’s one of the things I love so much about San Diego. There is so much variety within just a few miles, and never a lack of somewhere new to explore. I’ve lived here for over twenty years and am still discovering new parks, hiking trails, gardens, tidepools, beaches, etc.

These ten parks are just a tiny percentage of the many outdoor spaces in San Diego that are fun and family-friendly. San Diego can be an expensive place to be in, so if you’re on a budget, any one of these parks will suit your wallet just fine.

Next time you’re in San Diego and find yourself needing some outside time with wide open spaces, I hope you end up at one of these ten best parks.

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
BIKE, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Mountain Biking Basics & the Best Mountain Bikes for Kids
- February 15, 2023
Mountain biking is a great way to get kids outside, active, and taking healthy risks. Mountain biking has become a very popular sport, which can be done nearly anywhere. Today, Michelle Garret, California mom and founder of Wonder Club Explorers, is here with all the basic info you need to know to get started mountain biking with your kids. Her family recently spent some time with the experts at SkyPark Bike Park and is sharing all the wisdom she learned about the fundamentals of mountain biking and recommendations for the best mountain bikes for kids.

Best mountain bikes for kids

Let’s cut to the chase…if you’re here for our recommendations, here they are! We’ve chosen four bike manufacturers known for making quality kids mountain bikes. We’ve also provided all the info you need to know about mountain biking with kids below!
The thrill of the ride

There’s something about the thrill of zooming downhill. Maybe it’s the wind in your face, the butterflies in your stomach, or (as they say in the movies), the need for speed! You can come across this sensation on a good rollercoaster, skiing down a mountain, or in all sorts of aerial sports. For the rest of us, kids included, mountain biking is a great sport and pastime for experiencing all the fun of the downhill. Read along as we take you through the paces of mountain biking 101 and share with you the best mountain bikes for kids.

We recently ventured to SkyPark in Lake Arrowhead, California, to learn everything we needed to know about mountain biking and cruise some of the best mountain biking trails in all of Southern California. At SkyPark, the staff was courteous, patient, and friendly. Their bike shop was fully stocked with bikes for rent and for sale, which was fantastic for anyone in the market to buy mountain bikes for kids. Fully outfitted and ready to hit the trails, the SkyPark bike instructors found us a quiet spot to learn some mountain biking basics.

Difference between biking and mountain biking

So, what is the difference between biking (or cycling) and mountain biking? Mountain biking is a sport that uses a bicycle but is done on rough terrain. It can also involve options like free riding, dirt jumping, downhill, trail riding, and cross country. Mountain bikes are constructed differently than normal bicycles; designed to endure rough terrain, they have flat and wider handlebars, lower gear ratios, off-road tires that provide more traction, and suspension forks.

Mountain biking fundamentals

If you’re new to mountain biking, there are certain fundamentals you’ll need to know. Just like regular bike riding, you’ll need to master things such as balance, stability, brake control, and eye placement. These skills are all the more important when mountain biking, given the uneven and unpredictable terrain. A stable rider keeps their pedals level to avoid inadvertently hitting the pedals on rocks in the road. Balance and stability are important for keeping you, and the bike, upright.

If your child hasn’t used hand brakes before, they’ll need to learn proper hand and finger position. This may be a bit of an adjustment for young riders, but they’ll catch on quickly. When operating mountain bikes, kids will generally use a two-finger grip on hand brakes. As they grow older and become more experienced, they might eventually settle into a single-finger grip.

Eye placement is incredibly important for steering. When riding a bike, whether on the street or on a mountain, it’s important to keep a high visual horizon. If you’re looking at the ground underneath your tire, you’re likely to fall. Riders should keep their eyes focused ahead (anywhere from 15-20 feet in front of them), so they can scan their terrain and be prepared for potential obstacles.

Mountain biking body positions

Beginner mountain bikers will benefit from learning three basic body positions on the bike. Each position will help deliver more confidence and stability on a trail.
- Foot Position – When bike riding, it’s important to keep the ball of your foot in the center of the pedal (just behind the pedal axle). Foot placement is important for leverage, maintaining control, and safety. Keep even weight on both pedals.
- Neutral Position – In the neutral position, riders stand tall, keep their feet level, and maintain a slight bend in their elbows and knees.
- Ready Position – Sometimes called the “ninja position,” the low ready position is the most often used mountain biking position. It lowers your center of gravity and maintains level pedals, eyes ahead, bent elbows, and a crouched position.
Pro Tip: When mounting or dismounting your mountain bike, lean the bike towards you to lower the saddle position. This makes it easier to get on and off the bike.

Braking & bike control

When conquering trails and downhills, it’s important to maintain control of the bike. A technique called the “foot wedge” is the best way to help maintain control on downhills. A rider pushes their feet against the pedals with the front heel down and back toes up. With feet and legs fully engaged, you’ll have the stability to conquer downhill speeds and uneven terrain.

While you never want to ride the brakes, whether in a car or on a bike, it’s important to know how to use them. To avoid being tossed over the handlebars, a mountain biker should lower their body position as they apply the brakes. Riders should use their front foot and leg to brace for the speed differential about to occur. By pushing their front heel down, the legs act as shock absorbers and help the rider maintain control when braking.

Intermediate mountain biking skills

With saddle time, comes experience. And pretty soon, your mountain biker will be ready to tackle more intermediate skills. At a place like SkyPark, you’ll see some pretty experienced riders that maneuver with flair. Some of the intermediate skills to look forward to include: high-speed cornering, lifts, loads, and hops. While we didn’t advance to these skills on our first outing, it was great fun to watch others shred.

Ready to ride? Know your mountain bike ABCs

Alright! You’ve got the fundamentals down, and it’s time to hit the trails. Before you ride, remember your ABCs.

A: Air in tires! Check your tires to make sure they have the proper air pressure or PSI (pounds per square inch). Look for raised text and numbers on your tires to find the proper PSI for your tires.

B: Brakes functioning. Yes, this is important! You don’t want to find out too late that your brakes aren’t working.

C: Chain lubed & gears/shifters in working order. You don’t want to hear clinks, clanks, and grinding when riding your bike. A little bit of lube can keep your bike running smoothly.

Mountain bike pricing

Full disclosure (and probably shocking to no one): good mountain bikes for kids aren’t cheap. They are essentially the same quality build as an adult mountain bike, but in a smaller frame. Pricing can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands for high-end options. One of the biggest factors in how your kids will enjoy mountain biking is how well their bike performs (and how comfortable it is for them). Your child’s mountain bike doesn’t have to be the most expensive bike on the market to be fun. But, it does need to be lightweight, fit properly, and work well for the intended purpose.

If you’re not ready to make that kind of investment investment, there are a few options:
- Consider a regular bike with knobby tires. This might be sufficient for gentle dirt trails or the neighborhood pump track. Your local bike shop can help you outfit a regular bike with the tire you need for off-trail adventures.
- Look for 2nd hand mountain bikes. Many local bike shops resell trade-in bikes that are in great condition for the fraction of the price of a new bike. You can also scour your local buy/sell/trade groups and pages on social media.
- Rent a mountain bike. If a mountain bike isn’t something you think you’ll use all the time (maybe you just need it for a weekend or a trip), consider renting one from a local bike rental shop.
Things to consider when purchasing a mountain bike for kids

The most important feature to look for in mountain bikes for kids is a full suspension set-up. Full suspension bikes have front and rear shocks. This combination of shock absorbers makes a bumpy trail or mountain ride more comfortable. The more comfortable the ride, the longer the activity might last and the more enjoyable it will be!

Wheel size on kids’ bikes is also something to consider. Wheel sizes range from 20 inches to 26 inches. My son is 4’2”, and he was fitted on a 24-inch wheel. His cousin is 4’7”, and he was fitted on a 26-inch wheel. Adults generally ride on 27.5 to 29-inch wheels.

Weight of the bike is another consideration. Some kids’ mountain bikes can weigh up to 40 lbs! We recommend looking for a bike between 20 and 30 lbs. – the lighter, the better. Alumnium frames make lightweight bikes that are easier for kids to maneuver.

The best mountain bikes for little kids

Littlest kids – balance bikes

If your little one is showing interest in mountain biking but isn’t ready for a big bike, you’ll want to get your hands on a coaster bike with no gears or pedals. Woom bikes are great balance bikes that are cleverly engineered for children as young as 18 months. A balance bike can help kids learn invaluable bike handling skills right from the start. If you like Woom balance bikes, they also make ultralight and robust mountain bikes for kids when they’re ready to graduate into a bigger bike.

Best mountain bike brands for kids

Big kids & tweens – full suspension bikes

Woom OFF AIR

Woom has changed the sport of mountain biking for kids with their durable mountain bikes! The Woom OFF AIR bike delivers off-road performance in a lightweight package. Child-specific ergonomics bring comfort and added safety to each adventure. This bike is well equipped and capable of handling almost anything it encounters, from the bike park to gravel roads to singletrack. With its air suspension fork, the Woom OFF AIR provides off-road capability and ergonomics designed for growing bodies and developing skills. Stable, responsive, and equipped with high-performance components and tubeless-compatible rims and tires, it provides best-in-class value in its category.

Kona Bikes

Kona Bikes gets kids, and they make great kids mountain bikes. This bike manufacturer offers a complete line of mountain bikes for kids, from the littlest kids to the big ones. Kona kids bikes are spec’d with kid-friendly components, including wider tires, simple shifting, coaster brakes, and kid-friendly geometry. When you’re child is ready to make the leap into a kid-sized mountain bike good enough for an adult to ride, Kona Bikes offers adult bikes, too.

Rocky Mountain

Whether your kid is just getting started or is an experienced rider, Rocky Mountain Bikes offers a bike for every step of the way. From gentle trails to rowdy single tracks, the Rocky Mountain line of mountain bikes for kids are quality bikes that help to build confidence with developing riders. The Vertex Jr. is a great kid’s bike for junior riders who are ready to tackle beginner and intermediate trails.

Specialized

The Riprock by Specialized is a fantastic mountain bike for kids. Brought to you by a company that knows cycling, the Riprock was designed to make riding more comfortable for kids. Whether using data to reimagine how kids grip and sit on bikes or updating geometry to decrease the risk of injury and increase pedal power, these bikes rock. And, this mountain bike doesn’t completely break the bank as far as mountain bikes go.

Transition

The Transition Ripcord is an amazing bike for kids! We can’t help but love this company for touting that one ride on the Ripcord, and your kid’s PlayStation will become a dust collector. The Ripcord is a 24-inch mountain bike that features air front and rear shocks, hydraulic disc brakes, and knobby Maxxis tires for braking and cornering control. This super fly bike comes in gold, raw alloy, grape, and teal.

Where to go mountain biking with kids

If you don’t live near the mountains or you don’t have access to mountain trails, never fear! Mountain biking has become more popular and accessible than ever before. Kids can get their fix and saddle time in the backyard or community pump tracks, neighborhood singletracks, or even a bike park. The forest, desert, and beach often have trails for biking, but read the trail rules before you ride to make sure that bikes are allowed.

It’s giddy-up time!

Mountain biking is such a thrilling activity for kids! It builds on regular bike riding skills and adds a healthy dose of risk and adventure. Like with all adventure sports, mountain biking comes with some risks. Remember to always wear a helmet, hydrate, wear proper protection, and hit the trails with a buddy. By mastering a few fundamentals and investing in a quality bike, kids will develop a new hobby and pastime to get them outdoors. We hope to see your kids in the saddle and shredding soon!

About the author

Michelle spends her days working on projects to improve the quality of life for the citizens of her community and her nights reading books to her 6-year-old about every kind of dinosaur there ever was (there are 900 validated species, in case you’re wondering). Together with her son, Michelle created Wonder Club Explorers, a company to inspire wonder and curiosity in kids. She carves out time for herself on the weekends as an early morning exerciser and metalsmith of fine jewelry. Michelle is also the co-host of the Run Wild My Child podcast. She resides in Altadena with her husband and son amongst California oak trees and a stone’s throw from the San Gabriel Mountains.

You can find Michelle online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wonderclubexplorers
Website: http://www.wonderclubexplorers.co
RWMC posts: Michelle Garrett
BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, PRINTABLES, SPRING, SUMMER, URBAN NATURE, WINTER
Free Outdoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids
- February 8, 2023
As a mom to young children, I have always looked for quick and simple activities that keep my kids engaged, occupied, and moving. Scavenger hunts are an excellent activity for kids of all ages, are low-cost or even free, and include items you can already find in your home or backyard! Today, Lissy Perna, founder of Get Outside Cape Cod and mom of two, is sharing all kinds of fun ideas for free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids. Use our free downloadable printable scavenger hunts for your hunts, or feel free to use the suggestions or ideas to create your unique scavenger hunt!

Free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

We’ve put all the outdoor scavenger hunt ideas into one fun FREE printable bundle for you! Click the button below to download the entire bundle of 20+ free outdoor scavenger hunts! The free printable bundle includes the following scavenger hunts for kids:
1. Alaphabet Scavenger Hunt
2. Color Wheel Scavenger Hunt
3. Beach Scavenger Hunt
4. Hiking/Forest Scavenger Hunt
5. Holiday Walk Scavenger Hunt
6. Halloween Scavenger Hunt
7. 4th of July Scavenger Hunt
8. Sensory Scavenger Hunt
9. Texture Scavenger Hunt
10. Park/Playground Scavenger Hunt
11. Spring Scavenger Hunt
12. Summer Scavenger Hunt
13. Fall Scavenger Hunt
14. Winter Scavenger Hunt
15. Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
16. Creature/Critter Scavenger Hunt
17. City Scavenger Hunt
18. Farm Scavenger Hunt
19. Creek Scavenger Hunt
20. Camping Scavenger Hunt
21. Road Trip Scavenger Hunt
22. Indoor Scavenger Hunt (for days when you cant’ get outside)
23. Zoo Scavenger Hunt
[maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/d4b23c6dd031/4o2ulnyifs” text=”FREE SCAVENGER HUNT BUNDLE” ]

Great activity for all ages

Scavenger hunts are great for kids of any age. The great thing about scavenger hunts is that there are so many ways to make them adaptable, not only for kids of all ages, but for whatever location and adventure you want to have. Use the printables like traditional scavenger hunts for the little ones. Younger kids love the thrill of finding something on the list of items and checking it off. If you have older kids and want to take it up a notch, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt and let them take a picture of each item they find. Older kids can also help out the little ones and show their reading skills and leadership. Scavenger hunts don’t have to take up much time and can help kids get comfortable in new locations.

Alphabet scavenger hunt for kids

“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” – Fred Rogers

With school-aged children, use their knowledge of the alphabet as a starting point for a scavenger hunt. This simple scavenger hunt idea allows the children to find objects that coordinate with each letter of the alphabet and can adapt to any location or environment you are exploring. This activity can be done outside on nature trails, running errands, or in the grocery store with your young kids. Our free printable list of scavenger hunts includes an alphabet page for kids to cross off each letter as they find something outside that starts with that letter.

Color wheel scavenger hunt for kids

“Colors are the smiles of nature” – Leigh Hunt

Nature is a rainbow of elements, colorful, vibrant, and ready to be explored. Use our color scavenger hunt for kids to inspire your children to get outside and identify all of the colors mother nature produces. This will help younger children identify colors and name them. You may even be surprised by what colors you can find that are purely natural!

Beach scavenger hunt for kids

“When two roads diverge, take the one that leads to the beach!” – Hannah McKinnon

Do you have the privilege of living near a beach? Or plan to visit one on vacation? If so, keep our beach scavenger hunt for kids in mind. Your child can add shells, rocks, tiny sea creatures, driftwood, or even an unfortunate litter to their search. Collect smaller items with a paper bag or bucket if you’d like, but remember to leave any living creatures at the beach!

Forest/hiking scavenger hunt for kids

“Into the forest, I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” – John Muir.

I love this quote because it shows the healing power of the woods, where children can play freely and reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. So why not facilitate a scavenger hunt in a beautiful forest? Hit the trails and keep your kids entertained while hiking with our forest/hiking scavenger hunt.

Many items can be found on a scavenger hunt in the forest. Mushrooms, insects, flowers, a variety of trees, colorful leaves, pine cones, bird nests, stones, and animal tracks are just some of the treasures you may find.

Holiday scavenger hunt for kids

“May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve” – Unknown

Not all scavenger hunts with your kids need to be physically collecting items. The holidays, specifically winter holidays, can be a great time to participate in a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in your town or neighborhood. Take a drive or walk around and see what sights you can find. Christmas trees, wreaths, blow-up lawn decorations, rainbow light displays, the grinch, and a snowman wearing a top hat are just some items you can seek out.

We’ve also included free scavenger hunts for Halloween and the 4th of July!

Five senses scavenger hunt for kids

“My five senses are a doorway to the present” – Unknown

While most of these scavenger hunts utilize your child’s eyesight solely to find treasures, you can also do a scavenger hunt based on your other senses. Go on a nature walk and listen for a bird chirping, feel something wet, smell something pretty, taste a wild blueberry. This sensory scavenger hunt will help kids feel completely immersed in nature and aware of all the wonderful things around them.

Texture scavenger hunt for kids

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” -Diane Ackerman

A texture-based scavenger hunt is an engaging, outside-the-box option for your child to explore the outdoors. Find something soft (moss, a bird feather, a cattail). Look for something rough (bark, pavement under your feet, a rock). Find something smooth (birch bark, a rounded stone, an acorn). Can you find something prickly (holly leaves, pinecones, butterflies feet)? Or silky (water, mica, beetle wings)?

Playground or park scavenger hunt for kids

“It is a happy talent to know how to play” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

A playground at your local park is a great place for outdoor fun and to initiate a scavenger hunt. Include the other young kids at the park for even more fun! Our playground scavenger hunt will have your kids looking for swings, a slide, a water fountain, a trash can, a sign, a tree, etc.

Seasonal scavenger hunt for kids

“There is a beauty to be found in the changing of the earth’s seasons, and an inner grace in honoring the cycles of life.” -Jack Kornfield

Each season comes with beautiful changes, many visible to the keen eye of your children. Changing leaf colors, snow or ice, new sprouting flowers, or leaf buds are signs of change. You may even weave your scavenger hunt activities into your homeschool curriculum if you homeschool your children. Our free printable scavenger hunt bundle includes a separate scavenger hunt for each of the four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. There are specific items to find in each season, relating to the change of the seasons and weather.

Backyard scavenger hunt for kids

“Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein

No need to travel to initiate a scavenger hunt! If you have an outdoor space where you live, head outside! Or go for a walk around your local neighborhood. Look for garden tools, toys, and even small animals or insects that live near your house. This is a great way to explore your own backyard with your kids!

These scavenger hunts are perfect activities to use at a birthday party, a local park, and with kids of all ages. You can set a time limit or adjust each hunt depending on your child’s skill level. I hope you enjoy these printable scavenger hunt lists and exploring with your family!

Neighborhood scavenger hunt for kids

“We become neighbors when we are willing to cross the road for one another” – Henri J. M. Nouwen

Get outside and explore your neighborhood with your kids! This fun scavenger hunt gives you many different things to look for: fire hydrants, mailboxes, stop signs, pets, flowers, and even wild animals can be found in your neighborhood. A fun walk through your neighborhood is a great option for an easy dose of fresh air and one of our favorite outdoor activities for families.

Creature/critter scavenger hunt for kids

May we raise children who love the unloved things–the dandelion, the worms, and spiderlings. – Nicolette Sowder

What is more fun than finding small animals and insects? Birds, bugs, chipmunks, deer, or foxes could be found! This scavenger hunt is perfect for kids who love all creatures of the world and teaches us how to care for the critters that live in our environment.

City scavenger hunt for kids

“To live in a city is to live the life it was built for, adapt to its schedule and rhythms, and move within the transit layout made for you during the morning and evening rush, winding through the crowds of fellow commuters. To live in a city is to consume its offerings.

Do you live in a bustling city? Will you be visiting one soon? Scavenger hunts can be so fun in an urban environment and are a great option for keeping kids entertained when traveling through the city. Keep an eye out for buses and taxis, pigeons and dog walkers, and don’t forget to seek out the elements of nature that are always present, like trees and flowers!

Indoor scavenger hunt

Yes, I know we’ve mentioned multiple times that these scavenger hunts are designed to help kids, and families get OUTSIDE. But, as parents, we know that’s not always a possibility. When you need a fun indoor activity on a rainy day, we’ve got you covered. We included a free printable indoor scavenger hunt in our bundle with items kids can easily find around any house.

20+ free printable outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

We hope this free PFD printable scavenger hunt bundle for kids will help get you outside with your kids and keep them entertained and on the lookout for nature all around them! Scavenger hunts are a fun outdoor activity for the whole family. Spending time together outside and in nature is always worth it! Download your free copy of our printable scavenger hunts today and let us know which one is your kids’ favorite! Happy hunting!

Which scavenger hunt will you choose first?

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
INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PHOTOGRAPHY, URBAN NATURE
Hearts in the Wild Project
- February 1, 2023
Hearts in the Wild Project

Run Wild My Child is hosting a fundraiser and awareness campaign we’re calling “Hearts in the Wild” for children born with congenital heart defects (“CHD”). During the month of February (“Heart Month”), we are asking families to get outside and find heart-shaped objects in nature. Post them to your social media account and help us raise awareness for CHD and funds for designated nonprofits that support heart families and CHD research.

What are CHDs?

Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities in the heart and/or its vessels that form prior to birth, oftentimes soon after conception, before mothers even know they are pregnant. When trying to understand CHDs it’s helpful to remember how the cardiovascular system, including the heart, is meant to function. As per heart.org:

A normal heart has valves, arteries, and chambers that circulate blood in a recurring pattern: body to heart, heart to lungs, lungs to heart and then heart out to the body. When all the chambers and valves work correctly, blood is pumped through the heart, to the lungs for oxygen, back to the heart and then throughout the body to deliver that oxygen. When valves, chambers, arteries and veins are malformed, this circulation pattern can be impaired.

Congenital heart defects range in severity from simple problems, such as “holes” between chambers of the heart, to very severe malformations, such as the complete absence of one or more chambers or valves.

Children with critical CHDs often require open heart surgeries to survive, but these surgeries are not considered a cure.

CHDs are the most common birth defect

1% of all babies are born with diagnosable congenital heart defect(s)–making CHDs the most common birth defect. The range in severity of defects directly impacts the child’s prognosis. While most children born with CHD live into adulthood, 15% do not. And 25% of all children born with CHD require cardiac intervention to survive–whether that be open heart surgeries, interventional catheterizations, or a combination of both.

While our understanding and treatment of CHDs has come a long way in recent years, to quote my child’s open heart surgeon, “there’s just still so much we don’t know.” There are a few known genes linked to CHD, but most defects are of unknown origin seemingly without cause. And while there may be small subsets of people who carry higher risks of having a child with CHD, anyone can have a child with CHD.

Raising awareness for CHDs

One cannot underestimate the importance of expectant parents’ awareness of CHDs. Many CHDs, especially critical ones, are now diagnosed in utero–but many go undetected. Sometimes I worry that they may go undetected because expecting parents don’t know what to ask their providers about. Most pregnant individuals undergo anatomy scans, but many don’t realize these scans are much more important than finding out the biological sex of their child. Oftentimes CHDs can be detected on anatomy scans, even at 16 weeks gestation.

Questions expectant parents may want to ask during anatomy scans include:
- Does the child have a four-chambered heart?
- Are the large vessels/outflow tracts part of your scan?
- If so, are they connected normally?
- Is the heart pumping normally, including rate and rhythm?
Answering these questions should allow you to either rule out critical heart defects or prepare for any abnormalities found.

Other than encouraging your pregnant friends to inquire about their baby’s heart during anatomy scans, what can you do to raise awareness for CHD?

Help us raise awareness by finding nature Hearts in the Wild!

Finding hearts in the wild

Run Wild My Child is hosting a fundraiser and awareness campaign for children born with congenital heart defects during “Heart Month.” We’re asking families to get outside together and look for heart-shaped objects in nature. Maybe that’s a heart-shaped rock, leaf, chunk of ice, or crack in the sidewalk. Heart-shaped objects are all around us, we only need to look! We hope this activity will not only inspire you to explore outdoors with your kids this chilly month but be extra aware and appreciative of the nature around you and your family.

When you find a heart-shaped object, please post it on social media and tag us! We also hope you’ll consider making a donation to a heart charity (we have some suggestions below) or host your own fundraiser to raise funds and awareness. We’ll show you how easy it is below!

How to participate in the Heart in the Wild project:
- Get outside and explore with your family!
- Look for heart-shaped objects, heart-shaped holes, heart-shaped shadows, etc. (get creative, anything heart-shaped counts!)
- Take a photo and post it to your Instagram feed or story.
- Tag @runwild.mychild and use the hashtag #heartsinthewild. We’ll be sure to reshare!
- Please consider making a donation (even if it’s just $1) for every heart found or photo posted. We’ll do the same!
- Help spread the word by adding a fundraiser for a heart charity* to your post! It’s super easy to do (steps below).
*We’re supporting @BrightforBrett and @MightyOakesHeartFoundation, but you can choose any CHD research or heart-related non-profit of your choosing. Additional information on the charitable organizations we chose to support is below.

Creative Team member Somer Pickel here to tell you about my darling little girl Avelyn Marie.

Avelyn’s story

We found out before Avelyn was born that she had critical heart defects (CHDs), name tetralogy of fallot (ToF), pulmonary atresia (PA), and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs). Given the severity of her diagnosis, we picked up our lives and relocated 4+ hours from home to a city with a renowned children’s hospital in preparation for her birth. We were willing to do anything to provide our child a shot at life and had hope that with multiple open heart surgeries, we’d see her grow into adulthood.

In December of 2015, she was pulled from my womb limp and gray. Even so, she fought to announce her presence. To me, her soft wail was her asserting that she too was taking up the fight for survival. She would fight until her last breath 18 months later.

Our daughter endured horrors alongside miracles. She experienced unimaginable compounding complications, yet to know her spirit—you’d never know it. Even after 4+ months of intubation and 4 open heart surgeries, she was the sweetest most affectionate soul. She inspired those around her to be better and do better. Avie gave us strength to accomplish what we all believed impossible.

Children with critical CHDs are some of the sickest children you can imagine. Their care is incredibly complex and there’s not enough funding for research.

Avelyn’s battle

We stayed by her side day and night, not only to help keep her alive, but to provide every bit of normalcy possible throughout her hospitalization (450 consecutive days– most of which was spent within the pediatric cardiac ICU). When she woke or stirred, she knew her mama or dada would be there to soothe her. I still dream of those sweet chubby hands reaching for me in expectation. She loved, trusted, and interacted with those around her like any other infant. Avelyn made sure her dada & I knew she loved us (something we now cling to).

She was the absolute light of our lives.

Close to the end, she was doing better than she ever had and better than most of her providers ever expected. I cannot describe the feeling of finally bringing our daughter home after 17 months of living the unimaginable (4+ hours away). After so long, our own home felt foreign as feelings of joy and fear mingled indistinguishably. And yet we clung to our baby, rejoicing in her and all she had accomplished.

Sadly just weeks later, she suffered an extremely rare medication side effect. Things escalated quickly, and she had to be emergently transported back to the specialty hospital where she was born. She never saw life outside of hospital walls again.

With more funding for research, more treatment options will become available.

Supporting heart organizations

We have chosen two heart foundations to support during our Hearts in the Wild project this year. Each of these foundations holds a special place in the heart and lives of the Creative Team members they’ve helped and supported. Here’s a little bit more about their mission and all the amazing things they’re doing for heart families and CHD research.

The Brett Boyer Foundation

The Brett Boyer Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness for CHDs and fund research to advance treatment options. They aim to spread the love and awareness that their darling Brett filled them with for the wonderful, capable people living with Down Syndrome.

Like most parents of children with CHD, Brett’s parents quickly found that people are in the dark about the existence of CHD, let alone the underfunding of necessary research. Without awareness and education, funding for research will never increase. They believe sharing stories and educating people about CHDs and how common they are in order to raise awareness. The Brett Boyer Foundation strives to support better options for treatment, improved lifestyles for people living with CHD, and positive outcomes for families.

The foundation has raised and donated millions of dollars of funding to cutting-edge CHD research, and they support a mental health research initiative that’s extremely near and dear to my heart. The foundation provided funds for the hiring of a full-time psychologist at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital focused on supporting the psychosocial needs of CHD patients and families. The team is currently researching early mental health intervention for parents and patients and both the mental and physical outcomes of these interventions.

Children with critical CHDs have extremely complex needs that can oftentimes be overwhelming. To best care for their children, parents need to ensure their own mental wellness. Bright for Brett has been funding research that supports parents and children coping with the trauma of CHD.

The importance of supporting parental mental health

Sweet little Brett and my Avelyn were neighbors in the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care at Vanderbilt Children’s hospital for 100 days. But sadly, I didn’t reach out to Brett’s family during her life.

In Avelyn’s 450 days inpatient, we saw many families and children come and go. While most of the children did well, many did not. Honestly, by the time Brett came into the PCICU, I’d already isolated myself from other families. I just couldn’t take going to any more funerals for children while my own still sat in an ICU, barely clinging to life.

Instead, I hid within the glass walls of my child’s PICU room, trying to hold myself together. Each time a tiny body bag rolled by or a code blue was called, I’d find myself silently shedding tears for the child and family–while also knowing my child could be next. By the time Avelyn finally discharged after 16+ months, I’d long since exhibited tell-tale signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. But given Avelyn’s critically intensive needs, there wasn’t time to care for myself.

I can’t describe the gratitude I feel knowing there’s now a psychologist on staff who can help guide parents through the immense darkness that CHD can bring into a family’s life. I don’t believe it’s an exaggeration to believe that such care could save lives.

Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation

The Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation was created with a mission to carry on the legacy of Oakes Ortyl, a mighty warrior born with a congenital heart defect, by spreading love and hope to heart families. Oakes Orytl was diagnosed in utero with a congenital heart defect named truncus arteriosus, a defect in which the heart is developed without a pulmonary artery—rather, a large “trunk” artery exists, taking blood from the ventricles of the heart to the lungs, and a hole between the right and left ventricles of the heart. Oakes underwent two open-heart surgeries, three cath procedures, a slide tracheoplasty, plasmapheresis, chemotherapy and a double-lung transplant all before turning five months old. Oakes was 15 months old when he died.For all but 12 days of those months, Oakes was in the ICU at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Through financial and emotional support that’s unique to the needs of each family, the MOHF helps them be a constant, mighty presence for their child, giving their little warrior every reason to keep fighting. Their vision is to be a source of strength, assurance, and hope to families of children with congenital heart defects. They are dedicated to expanding their reach, while continuing to support and connect with families on a personal level. Through critical financial support and emotional comfort, the MOFH enables families to focus on the love that empowers them to bravely face the fight.

How to set up your own fundraiser on Instagram

If you’d like to help us raise funds for supporting heart families and CHD research, there’s a super easy way to do this right through the Instagram app.

Instagram app for Android
1. Open Instagram and tap .
2. Create or choose your image and tap .
3. Crop and filter your post, and then tap .
4. Tap Add fundraiser.
5. Choose the nonprofit you want to fundraise for. You’ll automatically go to the “Fundraiser Details” page.
6. Enter the details for your fundraiser and then tap Done.
7. Tap .
Instagram app for iPhone
1. Open Instagram and tap +
2. Create or choose your image and tap Next.
3. Crop and filter your post, and then tap Next.
4. Tap Add fundraiser.
5. Choose the nonprofit you want to fundraise for. You’ll automatically go to the “Fundraiser Details” page.
6. Enter the details for your fundraiser and then tap Done.
7. Tap Share.
After you’ve created your fundraiser, you can post it to other Instagram accounts or tag it in other Instagram posts. Donation and fundraising features on Instagram aren’t available in every area. Learn which countries can currently make donations or start fundraisers on Instagram.

Join the Hearts in the Wild project

Raising awareness for congenital heart defects is a passion project for us here at RWMC, as multiple team member families have been affected. We hope you’ll join us in spreading awareness about CHDs and raising funds by finding Hearts in the Wild throughout the month of February!

Please consider donating to one of our chosen heart charties below (or feel free to choose your own). Any and all help raising funds and awareness for CHDs is greatly appreciated!

[maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://www.thebrettboyerfoundation.org/donate” text=”DONATE TO BRETT BOYER FOUNDATION” ]

[maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://www.mightyoakes.org/donate” text=”DONATE TO MIGHTY OAKES HEART FOUNDATION” ]

About the author

Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life within a pediatric ICU. Though she lived her life chronically critically ill, Avie was an incredibly loving and joyous child. After her death, Somer and her husband sought solace backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail. Before long, they discovered their ability to cope seemed to correspond with time spent outdoors.

When it came time to add another kiddo to the mix, bringing the baby along was never a question. In an effort to celebrate the freedom provided by healthy bodies, Somer has hiked her second-born 2k+ miles. Even so, she doesn’t believe grand adventures are necessary to reap nature’s wonder. They just as often revel in mundane evenings in their backyard. The family believes it’s prioritizing time spent outdoors that’s important.

Professionally, Somer has spent the last decade caring for veterans in an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years, she’s become a passionate advocate for the intersectional relationships of mental health, wellness, and the natural world. She truly believes there’s healing and strength to be found outdoors for those who seek it.

You can find Somer online in the following locations:
Instagram: @somerpickel
RWMC posts: Somer Pickel
Podcast episode: Overcoming Grief Outdoors

References