Month: May 2023

CRAFTS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Crafting Nature Critters with Kids
- May 31, 2023
With screens occupying a significant portion of our lives, it’s crucial to carve out time to engage in activities that foster an appreciation for the natural world. One delightful and engaging way to achieve this is through creating nature critters with children. Nature crafts provide a perfect opportunity for young minds to explore their creativity while fostering a deep connection with the environment. By gathering materials from the great outdoors, children can transform ordinary objects into whimsical creatures, igniting their imagination and developing a sense of wonder.

Today, Tennessee mom and photographer Somer Pickel dives into the magical world of nature crafts, specifically focusing on creating nature critters with children. She explores the various materials that can be gathered from nature and transformed into unique creatures, as well as the benefits that come from engaging in these crafts together. As parents, we play an essential role in encouraging and participating in these activities, as they offer numerous benefits that extend far beyond the finished product.

On being “not crafty”

Is it alright to start a “crafting nature critters with kids” blog post, saying that I really truly don’t like crafting with kids?

I know, I know…as moms, we’re supposed to love doing all things crafty with our children. And let me tell you, I’ve tried. But at some point, it’s better to just accept the obvious truth. And in this scenario, it’s that I am not a crafty mama.

I can’t stand bits of paper all over the place. Finding stickers stuck to anything other than paper annoys me to no end. Don’t even get me started on glitter, slime, or Play-Doh. No.

But believe it or not, I’ve finally found a craft I can get behind – nature critters. Making nature critters together has just the right amount of crafting, creativity and outdoor time for both me and my kid. I get to have her outside exploring a nature-filled environment, including looking for small, minute details. She gets to use a hot glue gun. So basically, it’s a win-win.

Getting beyond the mess when crafting with kids

I know I’ve already voiced my displeasure about crafting with kids. And yeah, a lot of my displeasure is due to the concerted effort that’s needed in the setup and the patience involved during the actual craft. But, it’s also partially because crafting always seems to be so expensive. Then to add insult to injury, there’s the aftermath. After your kiddo loses interest, you’re stuck cleaning up Elmer’s glue from your kitchen table or picking Play-Doh out of your dog’s hair. Then you have to find someplace to put all kinds of crafting leftovers and supplies.

And don’t get me wrong, I know that crafting is some folks’ cup of tea. There are people who love it so much they have entire rooms in their homes dedicated to the wonders of all things crafting! As I am sure you all can guess by now, that’s just not me. But also, I highly doubt they live with the constant tornadic activity that is a pre-schooler. My kid could thoroughly destroy even the most organized of craft rooms in under 5 minutes.

Benefits of crafting with kids

However, there are some really great benefits of crafting with kids that I really appreciate, and go far beyond the finished piece of artwork and mess left behind. Crafting stimulates and enhances children’s creativity, allowing them to explore their imaginations and express themselves freely. It encourages problem-solving skills as they navigate through different materials and find innovative ways to bring their ideas to life. And doing craft projects with kids also promotes fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, as children manipulate and handle various tools and materials.

Moreover, crafting provides an opportunity for children (and their parents!) to develop patience, perseverance, and the ability to follow instructions, as they learn to complete tasks step-by-step. Doing crafts together and making art fosters self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment as children witness their creations taking shape, boosting their confidence and pride in their abilities.

If you’re a fellow hater of all things glitter, nature critter crafting may be just up your alley!

Tips for moms that hate crafting

For moms who find crafting with kids challenging (or frustrating, or just plain awful), there are several tips and strategies that can help make the experience more enjoyable, less messy, and less frustrating. Here are some suggestions to consider:
1. Simplify the projects – Start with simple and age-appropriate craft projects that require minimal supplies and have straightforward instructions. This will help reduce the complexity and frustration for both you and your child.
2. Choose low-mess materials – Opt for crafts that involve materials that are easy to clean up, such as washable markers, colored pencils, or pre-cut stickers. Avoid projects that involve excessive glue, glitter, or paint unless you’re prepared for a potential mess.
3. Incorporate what you like – Maybe you hate paint, but you don’t mind markers. If stickers seem wasteful, maybe consider stamps. Maybe you’re like me and don’t mind crafts that incorporate natural elements and cute creatures. Figure out (and embrace) what you like about crafting (or at least don’t hate or can tolerate) and use those materials. Cut out anything that’s too stressful, messy, or overwhelming.
4. Set up a dedicated crafting space – Designate a specific area in your home (or outside it) for crafting activities. Cover the surface with an old tablecloth or use a plastic tablecloth that can be easily wiped clean. Having a dedicated space will make it easier to contain the mess and keep things organized.
5. Embrace imperfection – Remember that the process of crafting with kids is more important than the final product. Embrace imperfections and allow your child’s creativity to shine, even if things don’t turn out as expected. Let go of the need for perfection and focus on enjoying the experience together.
6. Incorporate storytelling or music – Make the crafting experience more engaging by incorporating storytelling or playing background music. This can create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making the process more enjoyable for both you and your child.
7. Take breaks and keep it short – Recognize when you or your child might be getting tired or frustrated and take breaks as needed. Keeping craft sessions short and focused can help maintain enthusiasm and prevent burnout.
8. Don’t be too hard on yourself – Remember that not all moms are naturally inclined towards crafting, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s more important to focus on spending quality time with your child and finding activities that bring joy to both of you. Embrace your strengths as a mom and explore other ways to bond and connect with your child that align with your interests and passions.
Crafting nature critters

Embracing what I like about crafts (natural elements, cute creatures, and spending time outside with my daughter) led us to try making nature critters. Basically, nature critters are essentially anything your kid wants them to be – they’re not necessarily real animals, but maybe based on a real animal with some creative elements incorporated.

While I personally like to make them look more like animals, they don’t always end up looking like the one I envisioned when I started. For instance, when I tried to make a porcupine, I ended up making what looked like a turkey. My bird turned into a fish. And so on. Oh well.

My kid, on the other hand, is very imaginative and typically steers toward open-ended toys. So, I guess it’s no real surprise that she seems to like the more abstract-looking critters (cat-monkey!). When it comes down to it, the jest is they’re “critters” made out of any found natural materials and hot glue.

When crafting nature critters, they really can be whatever you want them to be. Or if you’re anything like me, whatever they turn out looking like when you’re trying to make something else. 🙃

How to prepare for crafting nature critters with your kid(s)
- Have a glue gun with a few sticks of glue.
- Find a mesh baggie to hold the materials you find. Why mesh? We learned the hard way with this little detail. We brought home a few bug “friends” the first time we made nature critters. If this isn’t an issue for you, by all means, use whatever sort of bag you want.
- Set aside an hour or so to spend outside looking for critter-making materials. Your natural materials can be any of the following items (or whatever you can find in your area): leaves, pinecones, flowers, shells, berries, sticks, moss, grass, bark, acorns, twigs, pebbles, etc. (see below for more ideas)
- Have an outdoor space with an outlet where you can plug in your hot glue gun. Why outdoor? Well, it’s just another precaution, given the likelihood of tag-along bug friends.
- Pour yourself a hot cup of coffee or whatever your preferred means of caffeination and ready yourself to provide excessive patience.
When your child is out looking for materials to craft with, they slow down. They take more in and they find purpose in the search.

Safety note

Some hot glue guns probably get hot enough to cause actual burns. Ours is a fairly cheap one that doesn’t get very hot. Even so, my four-year-old was supervised the entire time she used the tool. I also noticed that since she perceived it to be “dangerous,” she took more care with it than I believe she otherwise would have. She was much slower, more deliberate, and controlled with the hot glue gun than she ever is with her typical school glue. This could be purely coincidental, but I don’t think it is. I feel like it tracks with the idea that kids’ capacity to learn increases when a bit of risk is involved. But back to the nature critters…

Typically when children perceive a task as risky, they slow down and focus on what they are doing. In turn, they tap into deeper learning and understanding.

Why natural materials for crafting nature critters

Could you use more than just natural elements when making nature critters? Of course! If you want to break out the googly eyes, pom poms, pipe cleaners, and crafting supplies, go for it! However, we prefer to only use what we find in the yard or on a trail. I feel like this gives the critters a bit more personality and makes the whole activity more challenging and creative.

Plus, it really forces me and my child to slow down and pay closer attention to our environment than we otherwise would. On our most recent critter supply run, my kiddo found two good-sized Appalachian forest snails. They were so camouflaged that I had stepped right past them. My kiddo was so thrilled to have found what my eyes had missed, that she spent the rest of the hike talking about her superhero vision.

I love watching my child slow down and really take in the world around her. This craft has been a fun way for us both to engage more deeply with the natural world and each other.

What materials to collect for crafting nature critters

Honestly, these are your critters, so collect whatever suits your fancy!

Everywhere you go will have different things available. We live in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, so we have an abundance of deciduous and coniferous trees growing in our area. This gives us access to lots of pinecones, needles, pebbles, moss, bark, etc.

But, last week, we were in southwestern Florida. While there, we found loads of shells, fish bones, sand, driftwood, and other treasures on the beaches every morning. I am sure desert environments would have their own brand of wonderful nature treasure finds that would lend to excellent critters too. Just use whatever you find around.

Personally, I’ve found coniferous cones, large and small, make great bases for critter heads and bodies. Acorns are fantastic for heads and hats. Sticks and twigs make great limbs. Other things we have used include leaves, bark, moss, seeds and seed pods, flowers, rocks, and grass.

But really, just collect whatever catches your eye. The good thing is, you can just toss whatever you don’t use into the bushes or compost pile after craft time is over. Or at least that’s what we do.

Nature critters can be made into all sorts of concrete or abstract creations with a bit of creativity and luck! (This is supposed to be a deer of some sort.)

Sometimes the critters may just turn out well enough and sturdy enough to be toys! Other times they fall apart if you even try to move them. Either is fine, because, in the end, it was all about the process.

Nature art inspiration

So I’m not deluded enough to believe our crafting to ever grow into something truly outstanding. We are in it for the experience and the fun of creating. However, there are folks out there creating truly inspiring art out of totally found natural materials. One of them is David Bird. He started his career as a Lego toy designer, and that later moved into creating adorable little critters he lovingly refers to as Becorns. Do yourself a favor and check out his work. And, I also love the nature art created by Sisten Golden (@sistergoldenshop) on Instagram. Both artists create such a beautiful blend of photography, naturalism, and art! They demonstrate what is possible with time, creativity, and a passion for the world around us.

Side note: my kid finds value in expressing her independence— including dressing herself. I find value in my own sanity more than her wearing socially appropriate outfits.

Embrace the mess

While the mess and challenges of crafting with kids may seem daunting, it’s essential to embrace the chaos and immerse ourselves in the joy and wonder of creating with our children. Making nature critters together not only allows us to tap into their boundless creativity but also offers a unique opportunity to bond with our children, both inside and outside. By engaging in these activities, we can foster a deep connection with nature, instill a sense of environmental consciousness, and nurture our children’s development holistically.

So, let’s embrace the mess, seize the chance to explore the great outdoors, and create cherished memories as we embark on this creative journey with our little ones. After all, the mess will fade away, but the moments shared, and the love nurtured will endure forever.

More nature crafts (that you may not hate)

Never fear, non-crafty mamas; we have a few nature-inspired crafts and activities that you may not hate! All of these involve spending time outside (in nature) with your kids and can be done with less mess than regular crafting.
Do you enjoy crafting with kids?
What sort of nature critters will you make?

About the author

Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter (Avelyn) was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life in 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
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, TEENS
Teen Mental Health and Nature
- May 22, 2023
In today’s fast-paced, socially distant, yet hyperconnected world, the mental well-being of teenagers is facing an alarming crisis. The prevalence of anxiety, stress, and other mental health challenges among adolescents has reached unprecedented levels, casting a dark shadow over their formative years. As parents, it can be scary to consider the statistics, but it’s also imperative that we delve into the depths of this issue and explore potential remedies that can bring hope and relief. One of those being the great outdoors. Today, Jen Barnes, South Carolina mother to three teens, will shed light on the daunting state of teen mental health, and unveil the transformative power of spending time outside in nature as a vital antidote to anxiety and stress, igniting a path towards healing, resilience, and personal growth.

Using nature as a tool

I have three teens of my own, and I am around adolescents day in and day out. And like you, I even have experience as a teenager myself. While I am not a doctor, nor do I have any training in the mental health field, I have observations, experiences, and anecdotes that tell me this fact…teens need nature.

Teen mental health and nature have a connection. Spending time in nature can have a significant impact on teen mental health. Nature is not the only solution, but it is a powerful tool in our parenting toolbox that we can use to help our children.

We all have a deep-rooted need within us to let go and be free. Free of social constraints, free from school/household responsibilities, and free to be ourselves. Nature and outside time can give that to our teens. This post will show the reality of teen mental health today, ways nature can be an aid, and how-to solutions to help your teens through it all.

Teen mental health today

While I do not want to scare or intimidate you with statistics on the dire state of teen mental health, they are necessary to understand some of why teens are experiencing debilitating diagnoses and daily mental health struggles. Strong mental health is vital to the development of everyone, but it is especially poignant during the adolescent years as teens mature both physically and emotionally.
- Over 2.7 million youth report severe major depression.
- 22% of high school students in a recent survey said they have seriously considered suicide in the past year.
- 25% of teens have a mental health diagnosis from a professional (and this does not include teens who are either too scared to seek help or do not have access to help).
Factors affecting teen mental health

Every organization involved in teen mental health reports that these statistics are on the rise dramatically. And while there is no one single thing we can blame these statistics on, there are several that come to mind and have been cited time and again. Understanding these significant factors that impact teen mental health is crucial in developing effective strategies and interventions to support and nurture their well-being.

Screens

First, we live in an era dominated by screens. The ubiquitous presence of social media platforms has transformed the way teens interact and perceive themselves. The constant exposure to curated online personas, cyberbullying, and social comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and low self-esteem.

Performance pressure

The pressure to excel academically (or athletically, or extra-circularly), secure scholarships, win games, and gain admission to prestigious institutions has intensified for teenagers. Teens often experience immense stress, anxiety, and burnout due to the high expectations placed upon them.

Traumatic experiences

Teens may experience traumatic events such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, bullying, or loss. These experiences can have long-lasting effects on their mental health, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. In addition, in the U.S. significantly, we have teenagers that go to school every day, fearing that another school shooting has taken place or will take place.

All of these factors have a tendency to draw anyone inward, but especially teenagers who are still immature in their coping mechanisms and emotional development. It’s on us as parents to help them through this.

Teen mental health and screens

It is almost impossible to have a conversation on teen mental health without talking about screens and the content our teens are consuming on those screens.

Access to adult content

The entertainment and media options available to teens are endless. No, it’s not all evil…but it’s not all good, either. The sheer amount of access to adult content available at their fingertips is unfathomable to most parents. In today’s digital age, explicit material is just a few clicks away, blurring the lines between what is appropriate for adult consumption and what is suitable for impressionable minds.

Exposure to adult content at an early age can have detrimental effects on teens’ cognitive development, self-image, and understanding of healthy relationships. Such content often portrays unrealistic and harmful representations of sexuality, leading to distorted perceptions, confusion, and a distorted sense of self. It can fuel feelings of inadequacy, body shaming, and pressure to conform to unrealistic standards.

Social media

Let me give you my hot take on social media. Not only does social media demand the attention of our teens, but it demands their loyalty. Every time a teen scrolls he/she is told, “You, too, should be a beautiful person with a beautiful life…and here’s how you do it right.” In a world that preaches individualism, there sure is a lot of conformity that is expected. So, in an effort to conform, they go back to the social media that informs them on how to do it. Constant exposure to social media platforms can fuel a cycle of comparison, where teens measure their worth based on carefully curated highlight reels of their peers. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and a distorted self-image.

The addictive nature of social media further exacerbates the problem, with excessive screen time replacing real-life social interactions and adversely affecting sleep patterns. The pressure to gain likes, followers, and virtual validation can create a constant sense of anxiety and a fear of missing out (FOMO). Additionally, cyberbullying, (hurtful comments, rumors, and public shaming) can inflict deep emotional scars.

Social media can make teens less social

Paradoxically, as these kids are deeply connected to their screens, they are more socially disconnected than ever. The rise of social media platforms has led to a concerning trend of teenagers becoming less socially engaged in the offline world. While these platforms promise to connect individuals, they often contribute to a decrease in face-to-face interactions and genuine human connections.

Social media can create a false sense of socialization, where likes, comments, and emojis substitute for meaningful conversations and authentic interactions. But, adolescents need peer face-to-face interaction. They need to argue and affirm in real life, not with keyboard courage or placating phrases. They need to be able to observe and read body language and facial cues so that they can understand emotions and reactions. These interactions provide a unique and irreplaceable opportunity for young individuals to learn, grow, and navigate the complexities of the world around them. They also help teenagers to develop essential social skills such as empathy, communication, and conflict resolution.

Social media shows teens what they’re missing

Furthermore, social media has the ability to make teens feel very left out and lonely when they see their friends and schoolmates posting about their activities. Remember how you and I were often blissfully unaware if other friends got together to go to a movie and you weren’t invited? That does not exist anymore. If a few kids hang out, everyone else will know about it when they Snapchat photos. You can even find them all in the same location on snap maps. Naturally, those not invited feel left out and rejected. With girls, this scenario may play out for weeks as gossip, jealousy, and competition can ensue. Of course, these have always been a part of social life, but with screens, it is all instantaneous, and everyone knows.

Teen expectations and exhaustion

Teens also have mental fatigue. We are asking for more and more output academically, physically, and mentally than ever before. Parents often place significant pressure on teenagers to excel academically and perform well in sports, inadvertently leading to negative consequences for their mental and emotional well-being. We are telling them they need to perform harder, faster, stronger, and more adeptly than most of them are ready for. This pressure to perform can create a constant state of stress, anxiety, and fear of failure in our teenagers. They may feel overwhelmed, burnt out, and experience a loss of motivation and joy in learning or playing sports/games they used to love.

Oftentimes, we simultaneously let them off the hook in their character development and pursuit of personal growth at the expense of performance pressure. The relentless pursuit of academic success can lead to a narrow focus on grades rather than fostering a love for learning and personal growth. The demand for excellence in one sport may keep kids from trying new sports or discovering new passions, interests, and hobbies. The constant drive for athletic achievement can also result in physical exhaustion, injuries, and mental burnout.

A generational shift in stress

A recent study showed that 64% of teens report feeling the world is more stressful than when their parents were their age. This increased perception of stress has profound implications for their overall well-being and development. It suggests that teenagers are grappling with unique challenges and pressures that previous generations did not face to the same extent.

The modern world is characterized by rapid technological advancements, increasing academic competitiveness, social media influence, economic uncertainties, and global issues like climate change. These factors, among others, contribute to a heightened sense of pressure, uncertainty, and overwhelm for teenagers.

As parents, we hope that we’re giving our kids the best and making things easier for them than we had, but that doesn’t seem to be the case, according to many teens. There has been a generational shift, and we need to pay attention.

How nature plays a positive role in teen mental health

In a world where teenagers grapple with mounting pressures and the constant bombardment of technology, finding solace and respite in nature has become more crucial than ever. Nature has an inherent ability to heal and restore, offering a sanctuary away from the stresses and anxieties of daily life. Here are some positive benefits of spending time outside that teenagers desperately need.

Sense of calmness

One of the great benefits of nature for teens is the sense of calm it offers. In a world that is adamant to gain teens’ attention with extreme noise and flashes of glitter, nature lets their minds rest. And as their minds rest, their nervous system can relax. Anxiety is reduced as their brains take a break from the worries and cares and instead go blank.

This calmness can be experienced in a simple walk around the neighborhood or a picnic at the park. As I have personally encouraged my own teens to take a break outside, they are now implementing it themselves. I have even heard them say they crave time in nature. When they experience the sense of calmness that nature can provide, they want “the calm”!

Confidence and self-esteem

Another benefit for teens is how nature can play a part in building confidence and boosting self-esteem. My friend Tiphini says that “the biggest perk we’ve seen from pushing our teens to spend time out in nature is an unexpected boost in self-confidence. Whether they are on a multi-day paddle across Lake Superior, navigating moguls on a black diamond run, working to conquer a new mountain bike trail, or pushing themselves up the side of a mountain — they know they can do hard things. They recognize they are capable, and in the tumultuous teen years, this is something pretty special.”

Nature provides a nurturing environment that encourages exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. When teenagers spend time outside in nature, they are exposed to new challenges. And when they overcome their obstacles, they develop a sense of accomplishment and a belief in their abilities. Moreover, being in nature promotes a break from social comparisons and judgments, providing teenagers with an opportunity to embrace their individuality and build confidence in who they are.

Gratitude

Recently, I have been learning more about blue mind science. This is the scientific proof that spending time on, in, or near water has a positive effect on our bodies, including our mental health. Cited as one of the byproducts of blue time is awe and gratitude. There is a shift from self-focus to recognizing a larger world beyond themselves. The depths of the sea and the sea life within open up their minds to things how many things are possible, and all the things undiscovered. It’s inspiring rather than stifling.

Stress relief

As noted above, there are physiological responses that aid in mental health as well. Studies show that nature is an antidote to stress. Some of the physical responses determined by scientific data are lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, an enhanced immune system function, a reduction in anxiety, and an improved mood. Anyone would benefit from these things, but with the added pressures teens face, these could be game changers for their daily lives.

Focus

When a teenager’s mind is relaxed, they are able to focus better, as well. When my teenagers are studying, I encourage them to take a break by going for a walk or a bike ride outside to clear their heads, get some fresh air, and physical activity. All these things have been linked to increased focus, a boost in creativity, and battery memory retention.

Time in nature can also foster exceptional creativity by allowing stimuli to push a teen into hyper-awareness. Moving away from “noise” allows their minds to go blank and hone in on some pretty fantastic creativity and purpose. As distractions are eliminated, a teen can see their direction more clearly and discern what gives him/her joy.

Connection

As a mom, one of the greatest benefits of nature in a teen’s life is the way it plays a part in our connection to each other as a family. Without the pull of screens, time in nature gives me the opportunity to really talk to my teens. Without fail, times in nature are the times when my teens open up and talk about the things that matter to them. Nature gives them a place to express themselves and let them be true to themselves.

How to use nature as a nurturer in the life of your teens

Telling your teens they need nature and “go outside” won’t really work. Telling teens anything has little effect. Instead, one method that works for our family is to model what it looks like to use nature to aid in mental health. Show your teens that taking a walk along the river or even a day in the woods to yourself is a great way to alleviate stress. Let your kids see you revert to nature when you need a break, and use outdoor time as a way to self-soothe and regulate your stress and emotions.

In addition, here are some ways you can incorporate more time outside with your teens.

Keep it simple

If outside time is new to your teens, you may want to start with simple solutions. Serve family dinner outdoors one night. Start taking the dog for a walk in the neighborhood together every day. Pack a picnic for lunch at a local park. Set up a hammock in the backyard and make it a reading/resting spot. Your teen does not need to be “outdoorsy” or climb mountains to spend time in nature. Fresh air and sunshine in your own backyard can do so much to relax and reset.

Try new things outside

If your teens don’t particularly have a passion or interest, this can be a great excuse to explore some new outside activities. I have found that exposure often drives teens toward nature as they find new things they try and enjoy. Fishing, surfing, sailing, trail running, and mountain biking are all ideas to let your teens give a try. When they have an activity that brings them joy, they are more likely to seek out that time in nature on their own.

Let your teen lead the way

I know this can be scary, but teens are moving toward adulthood, and independence — they crave it. Give your teen the opportunity to choose and plan something that excites them. Rock climbing may not be your idea of fun, but if it is something your teen wants to explore and it gets them outside, why would you stand in the way? If snowboarding is an outlet for your teen to burn off stress, don’t you want to encourage that? The bottom line here is to let them have an idea and then let them find a plan to make it happen.

Encourage your teens to invite friends

There is no denying that teens function in peer groups, and the pack mentality is strong during the adolescent years. In a post-covid world, though, there is less emphasis on face-to-face interactions. Use outdoor time as a way to help your teens reconnect with their peers. Activities in nature are an easy way to gather groups together for fun. River tubing, bonfires, frisbee golf, beach games, cliff/waterfall jumping, and campouts bring teens together and give them the freedom to have fun and connect together in nature.

The connection between teen mental health and nature

I hope I have made the case for the connection that exists between teen mental health and nature. My own teens tell me (and their friends) they need time outside. I recently overheard my teenage daughter on the phone with a friend talking about feeling like she was drowning in schoolwork and responsibilities. She admitted that she just wanted to get outside and take a hike…preferably in Washington state, where there was no cell service. (Note: a few summers ago, we hiked in Olympic National Park, and I guess she realized how wonderful it really was to disconnect and be free from the daily grind. That trip paid off!)

It made me so happy to hear her realize that getting outside and into nature was her first response to stress and her go-to coping mechanism. That has been my goal, to give my teens an awareness of their mental health state and to provide them with a solution to help them cope. Getting outside helps them get back to a renewed place, ready to face the next challenge in life.

How do you help your teen get outside?
Do you feel it helps?

About the author

Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20 years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!

You can find Jen online in the following locations:
Instagram: @gofamilyadventure
Website: Go Family Adventure
RWMC Posts: Jen Barnes
INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, SUMMER
Creating a Summer Bucket List with Kids
- May 18, 2023
As the warm, sun-kissed days of summer approach, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about and planning a summer filled with outdoor adventures that will forge lasting family memories. Summer is a season brimming with opportunities to escape the confines of indoor routines and embrace the wonders of the great outdoors. Today, Courtney Cronin of Wild Migration Family will show you how to take advantage of this precious time and create a summer bucket list for your family, filled to the brim with exhilarating outdoor activities. She’ll guide you through the process of curating an enchanting summer bucket list that promises cherished moments and bonds that will endure a lifetime.

Now is the time to create your summer bucket list

As the weather begins to transition from the coolness of winter to the warmth of summer, there is a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air. Spring brings a renewed energy and a feeling of excitement, making it the perfect time to brainstorm and plan for the upcoming summer adventures. Summer will be here before you know it, so it’s time to get started on your summer bucket list.

As a kid, summer felt everlasting. As an adult, it feels like we blink three times, and it’s over. By starting to make your summer bucket list now, you can maximize your summer fun as you plan! You have ample time to research, gather information, and make necessary arrangements for the activities on your bucket list. Whether it’s booking campsites, researching hiking trails, or planning day trips to local attractions, having a head start allows you to secure reservations and ensure smooth logistics.

In this post, you’ll find tips and tricks for creating a summer bucket list to help set your summer up for success– supporting memorable adventures and family growth. Whether you seek thrilling escapades, tranquil explorations, or moments of pure relaxation, the options are endless for a summer filled with outdoor adventure.

What’s a summer bucket list?

A summer bucket list is a collection of activities, experiences, and goals you and your family want to accomplish during the summer. It’s a way to create a roadmap of adventures, both big and small, that will make the most of the season. By involving your kids in the process of creating a summer bucket list, you not only empower them to have a say in the family’s activities but also foster their creativity, curiosity, and sense of exploration.

Creating a bucket list together allows your kids to dream big and think outside the box while actively participating in the planning process. Making a summer bucket list together as a family not only builds anticipation and excitement but also strengthens the bond between family members as you embark on shared experiences and create lifelong memories. It encourages quality time spent together, away from screens and distractions, and enables you to discover new places, try new activities, and explore the beauty of nature together. It’s a chance to break away from routines, step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of the fleeting summer months.

We are a bucket list family

I am a BIG bucketlist person. We, collectively as a family, make one every season to ensure we are intentional about setting goals and carving out time for the things we value most. Bucket lists can help increase buy-in (from everyone), keep us on the same page, and help ensure we’re living our lives with intention.

If you’re new to bucket lists, summer is the perfect season to start. The long days and forgiving schedule of summer make bucket lists both exciting (for dreaming) and invaluable (for structure and planning). For me, it’s crucial that my bucket lists are diverse in both intensity and scope. I include goals that are big and challenging, and also the small, easy-to-accomplish glue-like pieces that keep us moving and happy. We need it all!

How to make a summer bucket list together as a family

We always make our seasonal bucket lists together as a family. In many ways, treat it as a code we’re committing to because in order for any of the stuff to happen, we all have to be on board, invested, and involved in the pieces. Everyone also naturally has their own ideas, interests, and priorities; sharing these can be really grounding as a family.

When planning your summer bucket list with your kids, it’s essential to foster open and engaging conversations that allow everyone’s ideas to be heard and considered. There are so many ways to frame this process, but essentially we just sit down and talk about what sorts of things we want to do and dig into this coming season.

The planning process is an opportunity to bond, communicate, and create a shared vision for the summer. Encourage your kids to express themselves freely and embrace their imaginative ideas. By involving them in the decision-making, you empower them to take ownership of the summer bucket list and ensure a memorable and fulfilling summer for the entire family.

How to plan and research your summer bucket list activities

Researching and selecting activities for your family’s summer bucket list can be an exciting and enriching process. Here are some tips to help you research and choose activities that will make your summer truly memorable:

Gather inspiration

Start by gathering inspiration from various sources. Look for travel blogs, websites, magazines, and social media platforms that feature family-friendly activities and destinations. Follow outdoor adventure pages and explore hashtags (including #runwildmychild) related to family adventures and summer activities. Pinterest can also be a great resource for visual inspiration and ideas.

Utilize online resources such as travel websites, outdoor recreation websites, and review platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about popular attractions, hiking trails, water parks, campsites, and other outdoor activities. Read reviews and look for activities that have positive feedback and align with your family’s interests.

Seek local recommendations

Reach out to friends, family, and local community groups for recommendations of things to do nearby. Ask for their favorite outdoor activities, hidden gems, unique attractions, or family-friendly events happening in your area during the summer. Local tourism websites or visitor centers can also provide valuable information on attractions and activities suitable for families.

Consider age, interests, and skill levels

Take into account the age, interests, and skill levels of your family members when selecting activities. Ensure that the activities you choose are suitable and enjoyable for everyone involved. Look for options that offer varying difficulty levels or have options for beginners and more experienced participants. Discuss your family’s shared interests in outdoor activities. Talk about the activities you enjoy as a family, such as hiking, biking, swimming, camping, or picnicking. Explore any new activities they might want to try, such as stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, or fly fishing.

Weather and seasonal considerations

Consider the weather and seasonal factors when planning your activities. Some activities, like swimming, boating, or water sports, are perfect for hot summer days, while others, like hiking or nature walks, may be more enjoyable during cooler parts of the day. Make sure to plan accordingly to optimize your experiences.

Mix thrills and tranquility

Be sure to include a mix of thrilling and relaxing activities in your summer bucket list to cater to different interests and preferences within your family. This can range from adventurous activities like ziplining or kayaking to tranquil experiences like picnicking in a beautiful park, reading outside in a hammock, or stargazing on a clear night.

Look for learning opportunities

Look for activities that provide opportunities for learning and personal growth, for both adults and kids. This could involve visiting museums, historical sites, or nature reserves where your family can discover and appreciate new knowledge and perspectives.

Our bucket list planning process

There’s no right or wrong way to choose the activities on your summer bucket list. Some folks love websites and books for ideas and inspiration. We’re big map people, so inevitably, a map always gets pulled out somewhere in our planning process.

In planning our summer bucket list, we usually try to include the following activities:
- 1-2 big summer adventures
- 6-10 “can’t do summer without” type activities
- 1-2 ongoing home-based activities
- 4-8 challenges
These numbers are obviously fluid and can be changed according to your family’s needs and desires. Every family has a different capacity and schedule. My husband is a teacher, so we have full-on open family summers. This means our summer bucket list goals are quite ambitious, to maximize our time together as a complete family unit.

Consider what would work best for your family, both for your time and your budget. You want your bucket list to feel inspiring, not overwhelming, so while you can certainly get ambitious, don’t stress out about having to do it all. Make it manageable and set yourself up for success, so don’t layer on more than you can handle.

Big summer adventures

We usually add 1-2 “big summer adventures” to our summer bucket list. These are the adventures that push your edge and require more planning and prep. Usually, this means travel, reservations, potential gear investments, and vacation time taken from work.

In order to hone in on what these should be, think about what you currently do that your whole family enjoys and is within your comfort zones, and then push into this. It’s incredible how habitual we can become, and how much we miss out on as a result. Use this summer to lean into what you love, and plan an adventure that will push you a bit further.
- Do you always go to the same beach or trail? This summer, make a goal to check out some new places. Find trails using the Alltrails app or look up local Land Trusts.
- Want to adventure with friends? Find a local playgroup or family meet-up, such as a Forest Playgroup or Hike it Baby branch, or set a day each week that you’re going to adventure with friends. Don’t have a group in your area? Start one! Be an adventure friend to others.
- Feel comfortable on day trips? Level up and plan an overnight camping trip! Check out a local campground. Don’t wait to make reservations as many campgrounds, particularly these days, book up and book up fast. If it’s your first time camping, chose a campground in an area you’re familiar with. We’ve got a great resource for parents camping with kids for the first time.
- Car camping pro? Why not try backpacking! Pick a hike-in site next time you make a reservation, or plan an overnight backpacking or canoe camping trip. Regardless of how many packing lists you check out, prepping for these trips will be a learning curve. Surrender to that reality and trust that once you can figure out how to go light in a way that makes sense for your family, the world becomes your oyster.
Plan easily doable adventures

It’s clutch to have easily doable adventures on your bucket list. These are the small activities or gatherings that don’t take a ton of planning or prep, but you want to make sure you don’t go the whole summer without missing! These can be the tried-and-true summer traditions that you do every year, or new small things you’ve been wanting to try. Write them down to make sure you don’t breeze past them.
- Ice cream party (either at that favorite ice cream shop, or buy the supplies and have an ice cream party picnic somewhere)
- Sunset picnic
- Sunrise hike
- Fish a nearby river
- Explore a “new to you” park or hiking trail
- Scenic bike ride
- Baseball game
- Family movie night (in the backyard or at a drive-in)
- Friend/cousin sleepover
- Swimming at your nearby beach or pool
- Pick-your-own fruit at an orchard
- Fort slumber party
- Beach BBQ with friends
- Kids’ “yes” day (Pro tip: Set guidelines in advance to set them up for success)
Map out some all-weather challenges

Sure, sunshine and summer feel kind of synonymous, but there inevitably will be some not-beach-perfect days. With our changing climate, we never know just how many perfect summer days we’ll have each year. Therefore, we always plan for this by including some “all-weather” activities and challenges on our bucket list.
- Go for a hike in the rain. (One further: After, have kids create a packing list for all the things they need when hiking in the rain.)
- Search for amphibians in the woods on a wet day (One further: Do research on the species you found and create a bio card about it)
- Fly a kite on a windy day (One further: Go to multiple fields on a windy day, track the windspeed at each site, and compare how the kite flew differently.)
- Create a watercolor painting on a stormy day (One further: Track the clouds with timed watercolor paintings throughout the day.)
- Build a leakproof fort outside when it’s raining (One further: Have them sketch their structure like an engineer.)
- Track the sounds of nature when it’s storming (One further: Research how weather affects birds, and what clues you can tune into to know when a storm is approaching.)
Engage in ongoing home-based activities

While much of summer adventuring happens outside of the home, make sure to include some home-based activities on your summer bucket list. Having some creative and engaging projects can help make home time feel both slow and meaningful.
- Raise a monarch (One further: document its development with a monarch journal)
- Plant a garden (One further: Make a garden map. Track growth and harvest on a calendar. Kids create a responsibility chart for garden maintenance.)
- Make a recipe book (One further: Have kids illustrate step-by-step recipe instructions.)
- Make art (One further: Visit an art museum and map out key features– artist bios, art piece descriptions, etc. Have kids chart out their own art show. Kids create invites, with bios, to invite family/friends. They write descriptions for their pieces. Design their art displays. Prepare hors d’oeuvres, etc)
- Reading Challenge (Many local libraries have excellent summer reading programs. If yours doesn’t, make your own up. A simple board game blueprint with reading time goals and incentives along the way can be magic.)
- Put on a talent show (One further: Let each kid choose their talent to perform for an audience. Let them create tickets and a program. Invite friends, neighbors, and family. Maybe they want to sell refreshments and set up seating arrangements.)
Curate some kid challenges

Summer is a great time to build kid life skills and let your kids take on greater responsibility. What better way to do this than through fun challenges? We always love to think about what are some of the “next level” things our kids are ready for, and how we can get some practice through fun challenges.

Integrate these into your bucket list by including a few “kid challenges.” Don’t name the actual task on the bucket list, but instead, write “kid challenge,” pick a day, and give them a card that maps out their challenge. They check off a kid challenge on the bucket list when they complete it. Some kids may need more help if these are new skills. There’s no cheating here; make a checklist of things they need to remember in order to succeed.

Here are some fun ideas for kid challenges that not only challenge them, but teach them skills in the process:
- Kids pack for the beach/a hike/an overnight sleepover
- Let the kids plan and cook dinner (from making a grocery list to serving)
- Kids bake a dessert for a friend or neighbor
- Have them make and deliver breakfast in bed for the parents
- Kids do their own laundry– from hamper to drawer
- Build map reading skills by letting them plan a route for a family bike ride
Support the spontaneous

Part of the beauty of summer is having greater time and space for spontaneity. Allow your bucket lists to hold space for the magic of in-the-moment adventures and plan-making. If you have a hard time with spontaneous plan-making, include that in your bucket list as one of your challenges! Add “Say yes to a spontaneous adventure with friends” as one of your bucket list items. Just having that intention out there may make it easier to prioritize and make happen.

Final notes on summers with kids

At best, we have 18 summers with our kids. Sure, there are lots of variables there and different definitions, but I think about this A LOT. Particularly, as my oldest is just about to turn 10, which means we’re over the halfway mark. This keeps a lot in perspective and pushes me to really make the most of each day we have together. I think about all the ways that I want him and his sister to remember the seasons of their childhood, which are all too fleeting. And arguably, there is no season more memorable than summer.

This is the first summer in 5 years we’ll be in our home State of Maine. After traveling around North America and Central America over the last few years, I have decided that nowhere beats a summer in New England. (There’s something magical about loving where you live.) The weather is glorious, there are clean rivers and lakes, the ocean water is warm(ish), and there is a plethora of epic outdoor adventuring– from lobstering to hiking, and everything in between.

Most importantly, Maine is home, so I know exactly when my favorite wildflowers are in bloom, what beaches have the sweetest tide pools, and the best spots to watch the sunset. The summer countdown is officially on, so we’re soon to be charting out our summer bucket list– tapping into the joys of home and making sure to discover new places and push ourselves to try different things.

What will you include in your summer bucket list?

About the author

Courtney’s the homeschooling mother of two wild and kind kids, the founder of 2 non-profit organizations, an avid traveler, and a passionate experiential educator. She has spent the better part of the last two decades traveling around the US and Central America – first as a part of her traveling high school, where she lived out of a converted school bus and slept in tents every night for 4 years, and, more recently, traveling with her family – from following animal migration routes to Mexico to fishing in Southeast Alaska. Rooted in Maine, she is passionate about immersive education. When not on the road with her family, she is busy organizing educational immersives, from tapping maple trees to tagging Monarchs and facilitating outdoor adventure programs, from hiking to ice fishing. Whether hauling lobster traps or monitoring salamanders, she works to make learning fun, engaging and interactive. She’s excited to share her love for nature, travel, and outdoor adventures with the Run Wild My Child community.

You can find more from Courtney online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildmigrationfamily
Website: Wild Migration
RWMC posts: Courtney Cronin
FAMILY TRAVEL, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING
Adventure Friends, May We Be Them and May We Know Them
- May 17, 2023
One of the best things about getting outside is being able to share the experience with friends. It could be purely for socialization, or to distract the kids with friends so they are more enthusiastic for challenging outdoorsy elements. Either way, having friends present can completely change the dynamic of an adventure. Sometimes, we are lucky, and adventure friends are found and made easily. Other times, our circumstances might make it harder to create these types of relationships. Today, self-confessed extrovert Jacqui Hazell of @tiny.adventures.often and Tasmanian mom of two, explores the importance of adventure friends, offers some tips on where to find them, and how to be one in return.

What is an “adventure friend”?

One of my firm beliefs is that we are shaped by those we choose to spend our time with. Our “village.” They’re not with us purely for emotional support and food drop-offs in hard times, but to inadvertently provide a magnetic pull towards life, towards new experiences and adventure.

What’s more, a good adventure friend is there at the base of your wagon, yanking your wheels out of the rut you’ve been traveling on. Next, they send you careening down a wildflower-covered hill, and they are right there beside you, hollering all the way down! They are generally the ones texting you with their latest crazy idea and asking, are you keen?

Where it started

As a new mother six years ago, I made a friend at a local playgroup who was an ex-hiking guide. We would organize to strap the babies to our chests and hike trails every week that had us puffing and red-faced. When we’d arrive at the destination and unstrap our babies, I’d marvel at what we’d achieved.

Having a friend who invited me out each week to places I sometimes didn’t even know existed empowered me to get out of my physical comfort zone. It helped me to settle into a parenting rhythm that suited an outdoorsy spirit. Those adventures have inspired me through to the here and now.

When you’re just getting started taking kids on adventures, it’s daunting. But, with every adventure, confidence is gained, and boundaries widen a little further. Adventures start small and build as you gain experience in your outings, confidence in your abilities, and curiosity in what else you can accomplish!

Why spending time outside with friends is important

Spending time outside in your area with friends can be an excellent way to foster a sense of connection and appreciation for your community. From exploring local parks and hiking trails to discovering hidden gems and natural wonders, spending time outside strengthens the bonds you have with each other, as well as makes you more appreciative of where you live. And living in a place that you love can have a significant impact on your mood, attitude, and overall mental health. When you feel connected to your surroundings and your community, it can provide a sense of security, belonging, and fulfillment. Furthermore, it can help to reduce stress levels and alleviate anxiety.

Outdoor activities often involve physical movement, whether it’s hiking, biking, playing sports, or simply exploring nature. Engaging in these activities with friends adds an element of fun and motivation, making it more likely that we’ll participate in regular physical activity. Spending time outside promotes cardiovascular health, improves fitness levels, boosts energy, and reduces the risk of various health issues.

How can having adventure friends help get our kids outside?

Having “adventure friends” can play a significant role in encouraging children (and their parents) to spend more time outdoors. Here are several ways in which adventure friends can help get kids outside:

Peer power

Kids are often more likely to listen to their friends rather than us as parents, often emulate their friends’ behaviors, and generally aren’t keen to miss out on any excitement being had by others. When their friends are enthusiastic about outdoor adventures, children are more likely to be motivated to join in and explore the outdoors as well. This positive peer pressure can be a handy tool while out on the trail. Positive peer influence can create a sense of excitement and encouragement for outdoor activities. The shared joy of being outside together can help foster a love of the outdoors.

Getting out the door

Have you heard of the doorstep mile? It’s a concept that means the first step out of the door is the longest step of any adventure. We might have miles of trails on our ‘to-do’ list, or new experiences we’ve wanted to try but haven’t quite been able to because taking that very first step is the hardest. Having friends that lure you outside with the promise of socialization and accountability while trying something new can shorten that doorstep mile considerably until it’s just a normal step, after all.

Safety and supervision

Sometimes it can feel scary or intimidating to try new adventures with your kids on your own. Adventure friends can provide an additional layer of safety and supervision when engaging in outdoor activities. With more people involved, other parents and kids can look out for each other, help in case of emergencies, and ensure a safer outdoor experience overall. Parents may also feel more comfortable allowing their children to explore the outdoors when they have responsible adventure friends accompanying them.

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

Expand your horizons by trying new things

Adventure friends can introduce us and our kids to new outdoor activities and hobbies they might not have otherwise discovered. Each friend brings their own interests and experiences, broadening the range of outdoor adventures available to children. Trying new activities can be exciting and encourages kids to step out of their comfort zones. Having friends that are willing to brave all types of conditions and challenges can expose your kids to new experiences and inspire them to try something they’ve never tried before.

Socialization, teamwork & support

Spending time outdoors with adventure friends promotes socialization and teamwork skills. Kids learn to communicate, cooperate, and collaborate with others while navigating outdoor challenges or engaging in group activities. These skills are essential for building healthy relationships and fostering social development. Adventure friends also provide support and encouragement when outside on adventures, making outdoor activities more enjoyable and rewarding. Friends can motivate each other to push their limits, overcome obstacles, and try new things. This support system helps children build confidence, resilience, and a positive attitude toward outdoor exploration.

Tips on finding adventure friends

Making new friends as a parent can be hard and intimidating. Add on top of that, trying to find other parents with shared interests and kids around the same age as yours. Location can also be a hurdle; maybe you’ve moved and have struggled to make friends in your new area. Alternatively, it could be that you don’t feel comfortable talking with strangers.

Finding friends who are interested in outdoor adventures can also be an exciting process for families. Here are some tips to help you connect with like-minded individuals who can join you on outdoor adventures. Try some of these suggestions if you feel like you’ve struggled to find your crew.

1. Participate in community events

Finding and participating in community events that promote the outdoors can be a great way to meet like-minded people. Keep an eye out for community events that promote outdoor activities. Events such as de-trashing, conservation and land care, charity walks, festivals, fairs, and working bees. By attending such events, you increase your chances of meeting other families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Check if your child’s school or community center offers outdoor programs or summer camps focused on adventure activities. This can be a great way for your child to meet other kids with similar interests, and it can open doors for building relationships with other families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

2. Use social media and online communities as a tool

Many groups that focus on adventure enthusiasts and outdoor activities have groups online that are easy to join. These groups will often share information about upcoming activities and events related to their specific interest. Join relevant forums or Facebook groups in your area to connect with other families who share your passion for the outdoors. Once you find a person or two that’s interested, plan and coordinate adventures together.

If imposter syndrome is stopping you from joining a group that centers around an activity you’re interested in but haven’t yet tried, you could try observing until you feel comfortable interacting.

3. Organize your own events

If you can’t find any local groups that you want to join, consider creating your own event and inviting people along. When I had my first baby, I was shocked that there were no baby-wearing hiking groups in the area. I created a page on Facebook where I could invite other parents to join, and then planned walks for our group. This was mostly through word of mouth and people sharing my page with people they thought might be interested. It gained traction quickly and was so much fun for me and my baby.

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

Ways to be an adventure friend yourself

It’s one thing to have friends that encourage us to live life fully and get us adventuring, but it’s extra fulfilling to be this friend in return. By being an adventure friend, you can inspire and support other families in their outdoor pursuits, helping them create lasting memories and a love for nature and adventure. Here are some things that might be helpful to keep in mind.

Extend the invitation

Don’t shy away from reaching out to someone, even if they are only an acquaintance, and asking them to join you on an adventure. Invite other families to join you on your outdoor adventures. Whether it’s a hiking trip, a day at the beach, or a picnic in the park, including other families creates opportunities for shared experiences and fosters a sense of community. Take the initiative to organize group activities for families. Plan outings, such as group hikes, nature walks, or bike rides. Coordinate logistics, suggest meeting points, and create a sense of excitement around the event. This can take the pressure off other families to plan everything and make it easier for them to participate.

Be specific

It helps to be specific in the initial invitation to set them up for success and set their expectations. Include the activity that you are thinking of doing, some helpful info, and a few available times that you are free to do it that might work with their schedule. This goes for online groups as well.

For example, it’s more successful to say something like: “Hello! I’m planning a hike in the Roan Mountain Highlands with my kids soon. The hike I’m looking at is a 1-mile loop, perfect for little kids and taking our time. We’re free on Tuesday mornings (9-1) and Thursday afternoons (11-3) if anyone is interested in joining us. My kids’ ages are 3 and 6. I’d be happy to send you a list of a few items to bring if that helps. Let me know if you have any questions!”

That’s much better than: “Is anyone interested in going on a hike soon?”

Photo credit: Michelle from @wonderclubexplorers

Be responsible and helpful

If you have outdoor gear or equipment that other families may need, offer to lend or share them. This can be especially helpful for families who are new to outdoor activities and may not have all the necessary gear. Sharing resources can make outdoor adventures more affordable and accessible for everyone. Handy things while out adventuring might include letting your buddies know that you’re carrying a first aid kit or that you’ve got a picnic blanket big enough to share.

Share your knowledge

Offer your expertise and share your experiences with outdoor activities. Be the person that provides recommendations for family-friendly hiking trails, camping spots, or fun outdoor destinations. Share tips on gear, safety, and planning to help make their adventures smoother. If you have the knowledge and experience to help others, be sure to do it!

Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

Emphasize inclusivity and adaptability

Be mindful of the needs and abilities of the families you’re supporting. Ensure that activities are inclusive and adaptable to accommodate different skill levels, ages, and preferences. Consider activities that can be enjoyed by everyone and make adjustments as needed to ensure everyone feels included and comfortable.

Be supportive

With adventures come challenges; that’s why we love them! Be a source of support and encouragement for other families as they embark on outdoor adventures. Offer words of encouragement, provide reassurance, and help build their confidence. Share stories of your own challenges and how you overcame them to inspire and motivate them. Be conscious and respectful of the physical limits of your adventure buddies. Stick together, and if the need arises to turn around halfway, then let them know that’s ok and you’ve still had a fun adventure!

Document the fun

Be the friend that snaps candid moments of your adventure buddy and their kids. I usually take lots of photos of my kids enjoying the outdoors, but I have hardly any of the kids, and I adventuring altogether. Being able to send a few photos to your friend of her adventures with her little ones when the day is done can help them visualize their accomplishments and encourage them to be proud of what they’ve achieved. A photo like that might mean the world to her (I know it would to me). They also then have something extra to share on social media (if that’s their jam) to mark the occasion.

Photo credit: Meghan from @meghangarriott

Having adventure buddies from afar

Sometimes, there’s nothing quite like the trusty friends we have already made along the journey of life. But, oftentimes, those friends might scatter near and far as time goes by. If you have friends like this that don’t live nearby, consider trying these ideas to inspire each other from afar.

Set common goals

Establish mutual challenges or goals that you and your friend can work towards together, even from afar. For example, you could set a goal to hike a certain number of trails each month or year. Keep in touch about your progress and check in with your friends on theirs. Make time to tell the stories that go along with the adventures and it’ll feel like you were there!

Stay connected

Keeping up regular contact makes it easier to help inspire each other. Share photos and videos of adventures you’ve had, or consider video calling from a campsite or trail if there is enough reception to share the joy. Highlight the fun and positive aspects of being in nature and engaging in outdoor activities. Seeing your enthusiasm and experiences can inspire them to seek similar adventures. Schedule video calls or virtual hangouts with your friends and their kids. During these sessions, discuss outdoor activities, share ideas, and plan future adventures together. This can help maintain a connection and keep the conversation focused on outdoor pursuits.

Share ideas

You can send each other articles, events, online challenges, books, or documentaries related to your shared interests. Discuss your thoughts on what’s shared and what new ideas for the future might form during the discussion. If you know the area where your friends live (or follow other social media accounts in that area), share recommendations for local outdoor spots, parks, or trails that are suitable for families. Send them articles, blog posts, or resources about the benefits of outdoor play and the importance of nature for children’s development. Provide information about local outdoor programs, nature centers, or family-oriented events that they might find interesting.

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

In honor of our adventure friends

Here’s to our free-spirited adventure friends. May we keep embracing the wild and keep challenging each other. You are the ones who have laughed with us at suddenly being caught in hail. The ones that delight in our toddlers getting covered in mud, while wondering if we’ve remembered a change of clothes this time. You’ve known which plants we can forage and the hiding places of wild creatures. You’ve taken us along on adventures that felt challenging alone, but not only conquerable yet enjoyable with you.

With you, we’ve gotten outdoors, and life has been interesting and empowering.

But most importantly, you’ve filled the lives of our children with natural beauty and wonder. Thank you.

Photo credit: Emily from @inclusivelibrary

Who are your adventure friends?
Where/how did you meet them?
What’s your next adventure?

About the author

Jacqui and her two intrepid kids call that little island on the bottom of Australia home. Most people know it as Tasmania, but in the indigenous language of palawa kani, it is known as lutriwita, and it is a stunning place to live and explore. In a way, Jacqui lets the local landscapes be her co-parent, having realized early on in her parenting journey that the kids are happiest when they’re outside. Jacqui has a background in natural health, but these days she’s hung up that hat to parent full-time while the kids are still young. You can usually find them at a beach, rock-hopping, hiking, camping, jumping into rivers, or sipping chai teas while the sun rises. Among friends, Jacqui is known for never going anywhere without a Jetboil, telling long stories, having her head in a book, and whisking the kids away on ambitious adventures.

You can find more from Jacqui online in the following locations:
Instagram: @tiny.adventures.often
RWMC posts: Jacqui Hazell
INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Look Up!: Using Storytelling to Connect Children with the Night Sky
- May 16, 2023
The boundless expanse of the night sky has captivated the imaginations of humans since time immemorial. Within its inky canvas, twinkling stars form intricate patterns, weaving tales of ancient lore and myth. Amidst the vastness, storytelling emerges as a powerful tool, unlocking the secrets of constellations while kindling a deep love for astronomy within young minds. Today, PNW mom and photographer Jackleen Leed takes us on a celestial journey as we explore how the art of storytelling can transform stargazing sessions into captivating adventures, providing a gateway for children to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, and fostering a lifelong curiosity for the wonders that lie above. Prepare to embark on a cosmic odyssey, where imagination merges with knowledge, and the night sky becomes an enchanting storybook waiting to be read.

Photo Credit: @coleyraeh

The wonders of the night sky

The night sky has been captivating human beings and inspiring storytelling since the dawn of time. It only follows that our smallest humans would be equally awestruck, and not only because they have the opportunity to stay up past their bedtime (though, that certainly helps!).

The night sky is vast, mysterious, and breathtakingly beautiful. The sense of scale its magnitude provides, and the small place we occupy in the cosmos are downright humbling. It’s no wonder humans have looked to the night sky for answers, weaving stories, legends, and myths that have created various tapestries of human cultures. Storytelling is, after all, a fundamental part of human nature.

The importance of storytelling

We’ve been using stories to convey ideas and information, communicate complex concepts, entertain, evoke emotion, elicit empathy, and foster social bonding for millennia. On an even grander scale, stories have been used to pass on cultural knowledge, norms, beliefs, traditions, and values, shaping and reinforcing our very social fabric.

Let’s face it, stories are just so much more compelling than a list of semi-related facts. And because of that, they’re also more comprehensible and memorable. They help us make sense of stuff by providing a narrative that organizes and clarifies meaningful information.

Perhaps, most importantly, for our purposes, stories are engaging! They ignite the imagination, allow flexibility of thought, encourage perspective-taking, and stimulate creativity. And the best part is that children are inherent and intuitive storytellers who are generally quite happy to contribute!

Tips for using storytelling to connect children with the night sky

It probably comes as no surprise then that coupling stargazing and storytelling is a perfect way to connect kids with nature and nurture our relationship with our children and the natural world. It’s easy to say storytelling is a powerful tool to spark children’s interest in the night sky, and another thing altogether to actually create a story. We aren’t all born storytellers. Well, we are, but that’s one of those skills we can lose through lack of use. But don’t worry, like any muscle, you can strengthen it with exercise. Follow these tips, and you’ll be a strong storyteller in no time at all!

Keep it simple

In the beginning, keep it accessible, age-appropriate, and follow your child’s cues. This may all sound like a no-brainer, but bear with me. As adults, we easily go into explaining mode. I’m pretty sure it’s our factory default setting!

Imagine your child picking up an autumn leaf and admiring it. They may even ask you, why is it red now? You, excited at the opportunity to impart some of your own vast knowledge to your offspring (besides, you know the answer this time!), quickly move into a diatribe about how plants use sunlight to make energy in a process called photosynthesis. This takes place in leaf cells that contain a green pigment called chlorophyll. Each of these cells also has a bit of yellow/orange carotenoid color…blah, blah, blah.

Your child, once filled with wonder, has now tuned you out.

Photo Credit: @kristcx

Keep the wonder

The key word here is to keep the wonder. Children naturally survey their world with a sense of wonder. When we immediately move to explain concepts to them in a way to which they simply cannot relate, we smother that wonder. But, by being sensitive to their cues, keeping things simple and accessible (and not being afraid to ask them questions in return), we feed their wonder and flex our own wonder muscle at the same time.

By simply saying, “Hmmm, I wonder why it turned red; what do you think?” you stimulate their further inquiry. You may even be surprised at how intuitive their response is! Plus, a conversation is always more engaging than a lecture.

Your stories should be accessible, too

Using simple language and vivid imagery will stimulate your child’s imagination. There are many books with amazing stories to which you can add your storytelling flare. (Scroll to the bottom for a list of some of my favorite books filled with stories about the night sky.)

Tell stories that illustrate basic astronomy concepts, for instance, about how the constellations got their names, or how the moon has different phases.

The best stories are relatable

Don’t be afraid to pop your children into the story, or, at the very least, create characters that are similar in age in settings you know will interest them. Perhaps an alien spaceship invites them aboard, and they embark on an epic adventure to explore the stars. Isn’t that much more exciting for them than this happening to an imaginary kid they don’t know?

Photo Credit: @meghangarriott

Use lots of descriptive words to evoke a sense of wonder and encourage participation

Make the storytelling process dynamic by inviting their participation. Ask them questions. What do they think will happen next? You could even take turns going around a circle, each person building on the piece of the story that came just before.

It may get silly, but it’s a great way to bond with your child and will help them consolidate new information. When you slip in fun, age-appropriate astronomy facts, they’ll be more likely to remember them later on.

Engage their visual sense

Stories that use visual aids and props are more interesting. My 5-year-old likes a good story, but he will lose his mind over a puppet show. Including visual tactics may take the form of glow-in-the-dark stars organized into constellations on your child’s ceiling. Use a flashlight to create a glowing constellation on a wall (Mirus Toys makes a beautiful set of wooden constellation tiles for this, but you can make your own with cardboard, too!). Paint the night sky in your nature journal. Baking a moon phase pie. And, my favorite…eating the moon phase pie (see where I’m going with this?)! The more you incorporate the senses, the deeper the engagement and learning!

Storytelling is just the beginning!

Coupling night sky explorations with storytelling, not only engages children’s imaginations but can also teach complex concepts and spark a further interest in astronomy. Stargazing, visiting a planetarium, and hands-on experiments can further stoke your child’s curiosity. Go for a camping trip under the stars. Get out the telescope (if you don’t have one, you can borrow one from your local public library).

Photo Credit: @kristcx

Tips for stargazing with children

If there’s one thing that children require, it’s preparation. I know this from attempting any outing at all with my twin babies and five-year-old. We basically need an itinerary to go to the grocery store these days. But, planning a camping trip, or just throwing a blanket out in your backyard to gaze at the stars is worth the work, I promise! Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for a stargazing experience with little ones.

1. Choose the right time and place

I live in the Pacific Northwest, which, though gorgeous, is also known for its cloud cover and wet weather. It takes a little extra planning to ensure we’ll be able to see something in the sky. Likewise, light pollution can make it difficult to visualize the night sky. Choose a dry clear night in a location away from bright city lights.

Photo Credit: @kristcx

2. Make sure your kiddos are comfortable

Dress warm, but not too warm, and bring all the snacks. Bring blankets, pillows, or chairs to sit on. Make sure you have drinks. Expert tip: Cocoa is a perfect stargazing beverage.

3. Use the tools

Bring a telescope or binoculars to get a closer look. A star chart can help you identify constellations and planets. If you have older kids, let them try out a stargazing app to help identify constellations (SkyView and Star Walk 2 are both great for beginners).

4. Know before you go

Learn a bit about the night sky before heading out to stargaze. Do a little research on the constellations. Know what will be visible at that time of year in your area. Use some of the storytelling tips and tools above to stoke their curiosity in advance.

5. Slow down and move at their pace

Anything with young children requires patience. Cultivate it and be flexible. Keep your expectations reasonable and in line with your children’s ages and interest levels. Let your child set the pace, and let their curiosity drive the experience.

6. Be safe

Stargazing sometimes brings you to unfamiliar locations. Couple the unfamiliarity with darkness and potentially uneven terrain, and there’s the potential for an accident to happen. Make sure you discuss safety with your children in advance and keep an eye on them at all times.

7. Encourage curiosity and consolidation

Let them ask questions. Ask them questions. Have them write about their experience. Alternatively, they can dictate a story for you to transcribe if they aren’t writing just yet. They can then illustrate it to create a book commemorating the experience. Read and create stories about the night sky. Explore other sky phenomena as well. Above all, let their interests lead the way!

Photo Credit: @wendycoxphotography

What to look for in the night sky

The moon

Certain space phenomena are easier to locate than others. A great place to start is the moon itself! Introduce basic moon vocabulary while observing it each night. Is it a crescent, a full moon, a quarter moon, or a dark new moon? Then gradually introduce the concept of waxing and waning. If you live near a beach, you may even decide to explore the connection of the moon with the tides. Start a moon journal and get children acquainted with data collection, as they record their observations in it each night.

Constellations

Start with Orion’s Belt and the Big Dipper (part of Ursa Major). These are usually pretty easy to pinpoint. StarDate has a great constellation guide. Encourage your kids to connect the stars, kind of like connect-the-dots (you may even create a connect-the-dot constellation sheet with the dots numbered so they can practice connecting them in advance). Can they find any other pictures in the night sky?

The Milky Way

The galaxy that we find ourselves in is spectacular to observe. With the naked eye, it looks like a hazy cloud stretching across the sky. If we use a telescope to get a closer look, we can see that the “cloud” is actually a multitude of stars.

Photo Credit: @kristcx

Meteors

A space rock that falls towards the Earth, when many of these shooting stars are present at once, they are called a meteor shower. Meteors are best viewed during a new moon when the sky is extra dark. Several major meteor showers happen throughout the year. The following is a list of the major meteor showers to keep an eye out for:
- Quadrantids – December/January
- Lyrids – April
- Perseids – August
- Orionids – October
- Leonids – November
- Geminids – December
Additional resources for exploring the night sky through storytelling
- The Moon Book by Gail Gibbons
- What We See in the Stars: An Illustrated Tour of the Night Sky by Kelsey Oseid
- Star Stories: Constellation Tales from Around the World by Anita Ganeri
- A Kids Guide To Stargazing
- Time & Date– Fantastic resource for finding out what should be visible in the night sky in a location on a particular date.
Storytelling and stargazing

Nurturing a child’s curiosity about the night sky, stars, moon, and solar system is a gateway to instilling a profound appreciation for nature and our world. By unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos, we empower children to become explorers of their surroundings, fostering a sense of wonder and awe that extends far beyond the reaches of our planet. Storytelling and stargazing are amazing and complimentary ways to help kids connect with the natural world, and for the adults in their lives to flex their own wonder muscles, too! In a world increasingly dominated by technology and screens, teaching kids about the night sky through storytelling reconnects them with the natural wonders of the universe, stimulating their imagination and sparking a lifelong curiosity for the intricate tapestry of our existence. So, take some time to look up!

Have you ever been stargazing with your kids?

About the author

Jackie grew up in central Pennsylvania but is currently enjoying island life in the Salish Sea with her two teens, a pre-schooler, and identical twin baby girls. She specializes in soul-centered outdoor elopements on wild pieces of Earth, as well as soulful, nostalgic, and cozy storytelling photography for families wishing to reconnect with the Earth and with each other.

Jackie is a former forest preschool teacher with a Ph.D. in developmental psychology who whole-heartedly believes that Reginald Horace Blythe was right when uttering the words “Mud is the most poetical thing in the world,” and loves to spend her time in the thick of nature, usually with bare feet. Her greenhouse is her happy place. She also believes that children are big philosophers in little bodies and that we would all be better off walking through life as they do, with our eyes, ears, and hearts open to it all. To that end, she wishes to share photography as a means to live more fully and intentionally in each moment and in nature. Mostly, she just wants her children to grow up with a sense of wonder, to wander, and to have a strong passion for protecting this planet.

You can find more from Jackie in the following locations:
Instagram: @raising_little_naturalists
Websites: Wild Kin Wandering and Earthwise Mothering
RWMC posts: Jackleen Leed
BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with Kids
- May 11, 2023
Often the best outdoor destinations require traveling off the beaten path. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in the remote upper peninsula of Michigan, but this scenic park is worth the time and effort it takes to travel there. One of only four lakeshores protected by the U.S. National Park Service, Pictured Rocks offers so much beauty for the whole family to enjoy. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family, shares why your family should consider a visit to this amazing Michigan destination. If hiking to gushing waterfalls, exploring sugar sand beaches, or enjoying turquoise blue water sounds like a great trip, read on to learn the best tips and spots to visit while Exploring the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with Kids.

Best times to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Since Pictured Rocks is located in far northern Michigan, the weather can vary widely between seasons. Winter brings snow and ice, and travel can be limited. Spring can still bring plenty of snow, but late spring can offer a chance to visit before the summer travelers arrive.

Summer and fall are typically the best times for families. While Lake Superior never gets warm, hot summer days can allow kids a chance to splash along the lakeshore. More guided activities, shops, and restaurants are open during the summer tourist season. The downside to summer is that you may have to deal with biting flies.

Fall is also a good choice as it brings mild temperatures and stunning fall colors. We visited in mid-September and found the weather still warm enough but without any of the biting flies that summer brings. Fall color typically peaks in early to mid-October, and the park can be more crowded during peak color weekends.

Tips to plan a visit to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

1. Plan ahead for lodging

The two main areas to stay when visiting Pictured Rocks are Munising and Grand Marais. Munising is located on the west side of the park and offers more lodging and restaurant choices. This is also where boat tours of Pictured Rocks depart.

On the east side of the park, you can find tiny and charming Grand Marais. Both of these towns offer hotels, cabins, or campground options. There are also several campgrounds located within the National Park boundaries. As the area is more remote, the lodging choices are few, and it is best to book ahead of time.

2. Bring a map

Cell service can be spotty in this entire area. It is best to download offline maps onto your phone, use a GPS device, or bring a paper map. The park visitor centers and the town visitor center in Munising are great spots to pick up maps of the area.

3. Pack food and a cooler

There is no food sold inside the park boundaries, with the nearest restaurants being in Munising and Grand Marais. Bring along a cooler for a scenic picnic lunch and a large snack supply to keep the kids fueled up for exploring.

4. Be prepared for conditions

The weather can be variable this far north. Packing extra clothing and lots of layers is always a good idea, as even the average summer high temperature is only 74 degrees. With the park focused along the Lake Superior shoreline, kids are bound to get wet, sandy, or muddy. Be prepared with extra clothes or shoes for the beach.

5. Pack insect repellant

Late spring and summer can bring swarms of biting black flies and mosquitos. I strongly recommend bringing along plenty of bug spray. Ticks can be present in wooded and grassy areas, but are less prevalent in this region. On hot and humid days with a south wind, stable flies may be present. Unfortunately, insect repellant does not work against these biting critters. Long and loose-fitting pants plus thick socks are the best defense as they target legs and ankles.

6. Stop at a Visitor Center

There are two Visitor Centers for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The main center is located at Munising. The other Visitor Center is located near Grand Marais and is typically only open in the summer. Both of these centers offer maps, Junior Ranger booklets, and park passes.

Admission to Pictured Rocks is $20 for a 7-day pass. Annual passes such as the America the Beautiful pass are also accepted.

Best hikes at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers 100 miles of hiking trails. These scenic hikes lead to waterfalls, unique rock formations, beaches, and Lake Superior overlooks. No matter the age and ability of your family, be sure to check out a trail when visiting.

1. Munising Falls

Munising Falls is one of the easiest and most kid-friendly hikes in the park. Located right in the town of Munising by the Pictured Rocks Visitor Center, a paved 1/4-mile path leads to the base of this lovely 50′ tall waterfall. Two other wooden platforms require climbing up stairs for a different viewpoint of the waterfall.

This is a great hike for the whole family as it is stroller and ADA-friendly. It is also one of the few park trails where pets are allowed. The road to the waterfall trailhead is kept cleared year-round so that the waterfall can even be viewed in winter.

2. Sand Point Marsh Trail

Another stroller and wheelchair-accessible trail is Sand Point Marsh Trail. This path is a 0.5 mile loop located across from Sand Point Beach. A wooden boardwalk offers a view of the park’s most beautiful wetlands. Try this one early or late in the day to increase your chance of seeing wildlife.

3. Miners Falls

This 1.2-mile roundtrip hike offers a view of the park’s most powerful waterfall. The path is wide and mostly level as it travels gently downhill to the waterfall viewing platform.

4. Miners Castle Overlook

One of the most popular spots in the park, this overlook offers an amazing view of the Miners Castle rock formation. This area is the only cliff area of the park that can be reached by vehicle instead of a long hike. There are three overlook platforms. The first two are short walks along a paved trail. The final overlook does require descending a set of wooden steps for a total 1/2 mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot.

If you wish for a longer hike, another 1-mile trail leads from the cliff overlook down to Miner’s Beach below. You can also drive directly to Miner’s Beach from the overlook.

5. Log Slide Overlook

The Log Slide Overlook is an interesting stop combining a scenic view and history. A 0.25-mile roundtrip walk leads to a dramatic overlook 175 feet above Lake Superior. Back in Michigan’s logging days, loggers built a wooden chute to slide logs down the sand dunes to the lake below. The logs were then floated to sawmills in Grand Marais. Today, you may see some brave (or just crazy!) people climbing down the steep sand dune to the lake. (Remember, what goes down, must climb back up!)

6. Sable Falls

Sable Falls is yet another beautiful waterfall that can be reached with a short hike. The trail from the parking lot leads down a set of stairs with viewing platforms of this 75′ tall waterfall. The best viewpoint is from the bottom of the 168 steps. You can also continue hiking past the waterfall and down to the beach. This would make a total 0.4-mile roundtrip hike.

7. Au Sable Light Station

The Au Sable Light Station at Pictured Rocks was built in 1873-1874 and stands 86 feet tall. The site today contains the keeper’s quarters, the lighthouse, and several outbuildings. The hike to the Au Sable Light Station is a little longer at 3 miles round trip. However, the trail is easy as you are hiking along a flat and wide roadway that is only open to park service vehicles. This trail can be prone to stable flies, so be prepared if hiking on a hot or humid summer day with a south wind!

Keep an eye out while hiking along the trail, and you will see a sign on the left about shipwrecks on the beach. Take the stairs down to the beach and keep following along the beach toward the lighthouse. Along the way, you will see the remains of several wooden ships right on the beach. Be sure to keep kids off the shipwrecks both to preserve them and for safety. Once you reach the lighthouse, another set up steps leads back up from the beach to the lighthouse.

From mid-June through September, you can even take a tour and climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view. The tours typically run between 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tours are $5 for anyone over 6. (Age 6 and under is free.) Be sure to bring cash and exact change.

8. Chapel Falls

The Chapel Falls hike is located in the Chapel and Mosquito Basin area of the park. Hitting the trail early in the morning is suggested, as parking is limited in this area. Reaching the trailhead requires driving 5 miles down an unpaved and potholed road. It’s typically fine in a regular car, but check conditions at the Visitor Center when wet or muddy.

The trail to Chapel Falls follows an old road and is mostly flat and easy. It is about 1.2 miles each way to the overlook of 60-foot-tall Chapel Falls.

Older kids and strong hikers may wish to continue further to reach Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach. This full loop runs about 6.2 miles but offers amazing cliffside views of Chapel Rock and Lake Superior.

Best beaches for kids at Pictured Rocks

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers many beautiful beaches to explore. Bring along the typical sand toys and buckets to allow kids to enjoy the sugar sand. Many beaches also offer a mixture of interesting rocks to examine or throw into the water. Just keep in mind that you cannot keep any rocks found within the National Lakeshore.

1. Sand Point

Sand Point is located just a few miles north of Munising. This beach offers picnic tables and a wheelchair-accessible mat to the beach. The shallow waters at Sand Point mean the water is a little warmer than at other beaches. This is also a great spot to watch a sunset over Munising Bay.

2. Miner’s Beach

Miner’s Beach was my favorite beach we visited. The beach stretches for a mile between two towering cliffs on each end. A seasonal waterfall flows off the rocks at the northeast end of the beach. This beach offers a lovely sunset view.

3. Twelvemile Beach

Closer to the east end of Pictured Rocks, you can find Twelvemile Beach. As the name suggests, this area consists of a 12-mile-long stretch of pristine beach. The beach is a short walk from the parking lot, but does involve descending stairs down from the bluff.

Water activities at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

While the beaches and hikes are a big draw at Pictured Rocks, don’t miss exploring the lakeshore from the water. Munising offers several types and lengths of tour cruises to view the red rock formations and cliffs of Pictured Rocks from Lake Superior. Glass bottom boat tours give visitors a chance to view the shipwrecks located under the lake. Families may also wish to rent a boat and explore the area on their own from one of several boat rentals.

Older kids and teens may enjoy SUPing, taking a kayaking tour, or a scuba diving tour to view the many shipwrecks in the lake. The weather and currents of Lake Superior can be unpredictable, so these activities are only recommended for families with older children and an experienced guide.

Why you should visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

We have visited many national park sites, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore ranks right up there with our favorite destinations. The sugar sand beaches, historic sites, towering waterfalls, and dramatic red cliffs make Pictured Rocks a stunning destination for the whole family to enjoy. I hope you feel inspired to seek out this scenic jewel along Lake Superior.

Have you ever visited Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?

About the author

Sara Lesire 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
ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, LESSONS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Nature’s Math: Earthworm Measuring with Kids
- May 9, 2023
Measuring earthworms with kids is a fun and educational outdoor activity that can provide a great opportunity for children to connect with nature and learn about the world around them. It’s a simple yet engaging activity that requires only a few basic materials and can be easily adapted to suit different age groups and skill levels. Measuring worms can also help children develop important skills such as observation, estimation, and measurement while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

Today, UK mom and teacher Hannah of Hobie’s Nature Club is here exploring the fun activity of measuring worms with kids. She provides tips for getting started and offers some fun and creative ideas for turning this activity into a memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, measuring worms with kids is a great way to get them excited about learning and exploring the wonders of nature.

A bit about earthworms

Do you like being outside no matter the weather? Enjoy getting down and dirty with the kids? Well, we have a fun (and educational!) activity for you and your children that can be done in your own backyard — measuring worms!

Did you know, there are 30 species of earthworm in the UK, all of different sizes and colors? The US has 100 native species (and 60 invasive species) of earthworm.

Worms are essential to growing food and crops, but it is an ongoing question as to whether they are beneficial or detrimental to our soils.

A positive argument for earthworms is that they are responsible for aerating the soil and preventing flooding. They break down decaying plant waste such as leaves and stems. This is why you will always find them in your compost bin. They don’t eat growing flowers like the pesky slugs and snails. They are, of course, a major part of the food chain for birds and other invertebrates.

However, some scientists say that worms disturb the roots of growing plants, which can cause problems with their ability to absorb water. And due to worm’s ability to break down decaying matter, they can negatively impact the habitats of animals that live in the decaying leaves.

Fun with earthworms

But good or bad for the environment, earthworms are a part of our wildlife landscape and fun for kids to study and learn about. Measuring earthworms is a great way to not only teach kids about worms, but also spend time outside and do a little math in the process. I hope this activity gets you outdoors, provides a tool to get your children chatting about nature, and provides a fun way of involving learning in your play!

Treat your worms with kindness

No matter how we feel about worms, we need to be very careful with them and show them respect, like we do for all living creatures. Make sure all worms you catch are released back into the wild after about 30 minutes of exploration. However, if you still have more activities to do or just want to watch the worms some more, try to find some new worms. Worms are very sensitive. Do not handle them too much, and always use a gentle touch. Remember to keep them moist (use a mister, if necessary) and out of direct sunlight.

Worm measuring equipment

Measuring earthworms is such a simple, free activity you will just need a few basic items:
- Collecting tray or pot
- Shovel or trowel for digging
- Pen and paper
- Ruler (or we used this very cool worm measuring board)
Hunting for earthworms

Once you’ve got your spade and a good damp place picked out, you just need to start digging. The best spots to find worms are usually in darker areas of your yard and where it’s damp, but not too wet. Make sure you dig around the worms to loosen the soil so you can gently pick them up and place them in your container. While collecting our worms, we created a competition challenging the kids to see who could get the longest, shortest, fattest, and pinkest worm. When you’ve collected each category, you can start to measure your worms.

Measuring earthworms

Now that you’ve got your worms, it’s time to measure them. When measuring worms with kids, it is important to use a technique that is safe, respectful to the animals, and appropriate for the child’s age and developmental level. Here are some tips for measuring worms with kids:
- Use a ruler or measuring tape: Using a ruler or measuring tape is a great way to measure the length of worms. Show the child how to line up the ruler or tape along the worm’s body to get an accurate measurement.
- Use a magnifying glass: A magnifying glass can help kids get a better view of the worm’s body, making it easier to measure its length.
- Be gentle: When handling worms, it is important to be gentle and respectful. Remind kids to be gentle and avoid squeezing or pulling the worms, which can harm them.
Remember to supervise kids closely when measuring worms and to release the worms back into their natural environment when finished.

Make sure you put earthworms back in the soil carefully

Incorporating learning into the equation

So how can we incorporate math into this activity? And how can you teach math with earthworms to kids of all ages?

Toddlers and preschoolers

For little kids, have them count the number of earthworms they can find. This can help them learn how to count and recognize numbers. Or, you could let them compare the sizes of different earthworms they find. You can use words like “longer,” “shorter,” and “pinker” to teach them about comparing sizes and colors.

School-aged children 5-8 years old

Kids this age should be able to count in steps of 2, 5, 10 and order numbers to 1000. They’ll partition numbers into 100s, 10s, and 1s, add and subtract three-digit numbers, and do basic multiplication. On average, an earthworm is unlikely to be 2 digits long, but this activity can be good practice for one-digit adding.

You can also practice estimating with kids this age. Encourage kids to make a guess about how long the worm is before measuring it. This can help them develop their estimation skills and also add an element of fun to the activity.

Have the kids study the anatomy of earthworms and measure different parts of their bodies, such as their segments or setae (the small bristles on their body). This can help them learn about the structure and function of earthworms. While we were measuring our earthworms, we talked about their segments and how they can lose them and replace them. It was fun discussing how a bird might grab a worm at his tail but if the worm is quick enough and burrows down he might survive the attack. We queried whether a worm could replace its head! This led to a discussion about invertebrates and how that means they have no spine just like spiders, butterflies, crabs and lobsters. The children loved how a worm is actually a terrestrial invertebrate, they enjoyed making out that they were aliens and from another planet!

Older children (8+)

Older kids may be interested in analyzing the results of their measurements by creating a graph with statistics to show the number of earthworms and the size found by each participant. This can help them learn about graphing and interpreting data.

You can also challenge older kids to calculate the volume and density of earthworms by measuring their length, width, and height. This can help them practice their math skills and learn about concepts related to volume and density.

Encourage older kids to design their own experiments related to earthworms, such as testing the effect of different temperatures or light levels on earthworm behavior. This can help them develop their skills in scientific inquiry and experimental design.

Making it fun

Measuring earthworms can be a fun game for kids when presented in an engaging and interactive way. Here are some ideas to turn measuring earthworms into a fun game for kids:
- Earthworm hunt – Start by having a group of kids search for earthworms in a designated area. The first child to find a worm wins!
- Earthworm Olympics – Create a series of challenges that involve measuring earthworms, such as “Guess the Length” or “Fastest Worm Measurer.” Award points for each challenge and tally them up at the end to determine the winner.
- Earthworm art – Encourage kids to draw or paint pictures of the earthworms they find and measure. This can be a fun way to combine art and science.
Remember to make the game age-appropriate and provide clear instructions on how to handle the earthworms with care. Emphasize the importance of being gentle and respectful to these creatures.

Are you kids into worms?
Have you ever used worms to teach?

About the author

Hannah Martin has worked as a PE Teacher in the UK for 15 years. She has always loved being active outdoors. However, she discovered a new passion for nature and appreciating the environment when she had her son Hobie (now 5 years old). Hannah and Hobie’s vision is to inspire parents to spend time doing fun, creative, nature activities outdoors with their children; no matter where they live and whatever the weather. They believe spending time together outdoors as a family will encourage future generations to love and care for the world, wildlife, and environment.

Find more from Hannah (and Hobie) in the following locations:
Instagram: @hobies_nature_club
Website: hobiesnatureclub.co.uk
YouTube channel: Hobie’s Nature Club
RWMC Posts: Hannah Martin
FAMILY TRAVEL, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
How to Love Where You Live by Getting Outside
- May 8, 2023
Are you looking to develop a deeper connection with and appreciation for the place you call home? Spending time outside in your area can be an excellent way to foster a sense of connection and appreciation for your community. From exploring local parks and hiking trails to discovering hidden gems and natural wonders, there are many opportunities to discover the beauty of your environment. Today, Amy Eastin, Kansas City mom of three, explores the many benefits of spending time outdoors in your area, and how it can help you fall in love with where you live. Get ready to be smitten with your location!

From unremarkable to unbelievable

I have lived in some spectacular places. And, I’ve also lived in some pretty unremarkable places. Or, at least, I thought they were unremarkable…

I’ve lived in Bulgaria, South Korea, England, Kansas, Missouri, and Texas. I lived in a village of 500 people and a city with 10 million people. Everywhere I went, there were people who loved where they lived and those who hated where they lived.

Living in a place that you love can have a significant impact on your mood, attitude, and overall mental health. When you feel connected to your surroundings, it can provide a sense of security, belonging, and fulfillment. Furthermore, when you are happy with your surroundings, it can help to reduce stress levels and alleviate anxiety.

But loving where you live may be easier said than done. Not everyone gets to choose their location based on their interests or needs and everyone’s preferences and interests are unique. However, there are a few things that can help individuals develop a deeper connection with their surroundings and foster a sense of appreciation for their environment.

How the outdoors can help you fall in love with where you live

Living in the Midwest, I hear all the time that there is “nothing to do here,” especially when it comes to getting outdoors. True, we do not have snow-capped mountains or white-sand beaches. But, that doesn’t mean we don’t have other remarkable outdoor attractions. We have plains, caves, woods, and creeks. We have outdoor festivals, outdoor entertainment, and amazing outdoor parks.

Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, I have taught myself to find the good in all the places I have lived. It has helped my mental and physical health, as well as given me so much to look forward to doing with my family.

The Midwest has a ton to offer outdoor adventurers (and families just wanting to spend more time outside). However, I did not always know that. I lived in Kansas City for years before I started exploring it and realized there was more to do than I ever imagined! Once I started looking for gems around the Midwest, I found more and more incredible places. I quickly realized that so many places have a lot to offer if you just give them a chance. Here’s how you can do this, too.

Exploring our home in Kansas City, Missouri

Finding local destinations/attractions

My first recommendation for falling in love with the place where you live is to find nearby experiences and places that interest you. One of the main reasons people don’t like where they live is because they believe there is nothing to do there. What is more likely, is that they just don’t know all the things there are to do!

Here’s how to change that and find local destinations, events, and activities that pique your interest:

Follow local social media accounts

I like to follow accounts of local tourism boards, experiences, public places (nature sanctuaries, libraries, etc.), and travel bloggers on social media. All of these accounts give me ideas about what there is to do in my area.

Look for events

I’m always on the lookout for local events or local calendars with nearby activities and events on them. Finding special things to do helps me get excited about all the fun things happening in my town. Maybe this is a local festival, concert, outdoor expo, fair, or presentation. Attending local cultural events or traditions can provide an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of your community, and develop a sense of pride in your surroundings. It can also be a fun way to connect with others, make new friends, and create lasting memories.

Collect local and nearby travel brochures

Did you know you can get state and local travel brochures mailed to you for free? If you go to your state’s travel website, they will send you a big magazine, plus you can usually opt in to smaller travel bureaus’ pamphlets as well. You can also go to local tourism boards’ websites and order them there too. Also, when you’re out exploring, pick up pamplets and brochures for local attractions to file away. Then, anytime you need an idea for someplace to explore, pull one out and give it a try!

Make lists

I have a Google document full of places I would like to go. Anytime I hear about a place we’ve never been, I add it to my list. I make notes on the places we explore (e.g. where to park, whether we should go back, what there was to do, etc.).

I also make seasonal bingo boards for my family (you could also do this with seasonal bucket lists). We include activities like pumpkin carving or apple picking in the fall, splash pads in the summer, and sledding in the winter. We also add places we love returning to, such as our favorite pumpkin patches. It helps us look forward to what we’re going to do and keep traditions year after year.

Save places on Google Maps

Any time I learn about somewhere new that I am interested in checking out, I pin it on my Google Maps. That way, if it’s a Saturday morning and we’re looking for something to do that day, I will pull up my Google map and look at options. Seeing where something is on the map also helps me decide if we have time for exploring a new place a bit further away, or whether we may need to explore closer to home.

Also, any time we’re going on a road trip or to a part of town we’re not usually in, I’m able to pull up my map and see if there is anything we’d like to do in that area or on the way.

A Bulgarian village I lived in when I was in the Peace Corps

Find your people

It’s ridiculously hard to love where you live if you don’t have any friends or feel like a part of the community. Friends can make a town feel less lonely, they give you someone to adventure with and allow you to appreciate where you live more. Here are a few ways to find like-minded individuals, who will hopefully turn into your new adventure friends!

Join groups on Facebook or MeetUp

If you’re looking for friends, Facebook and MeetUp are good places to start. There are so many local Facebook groups that you can join no matter what your interests or location. There are tons of local mom groups based on the ages of your kids, your school district, kids’ interests, neighborhood, etc. If you are interested in mushroom hunting, there’s probably a group for that! Archery? There’s probably a group for that, too. Use these groups to your advantage to find your people!

Be bold and show up

Joining an online group is easy, but actually attending events is a lot harder- especially when you don’t know anyone. You will probably have to force yourself to go the first few times, but if you do, you will probably thank yourself later. Luckily, you probably won’t be the only one there that doesn’t know anyone. And people are generally very welcoming and happy to show you around and introduce you to other members.

A photo from when I lived in Seoul, South Korea

Change your perspective

There will always be some people that don’t like where they live. If their home suddenly became the coolest spot on the planet, their minds probably wouldn’t change because of their mindset. If you think you’re stuck in a mental rut about where you live, here are some tips to change it.

Consider what would make you happy

What do you wish your location had? Can you bring that to where you live? Some people think they can only be happy if they live in the mountains. Unfortunately, you can’t bring mountains to where you live if they don’t currently exist, but maybe you can ask yourself why you think you need mountains and what the root cause is for what you desire. Are you actually craving nature? Do you have a belief that where you live isn’t beautiful, but places with mountains are? If that’s the case, then look for beautiful nature closer to home. I guarantee you’ll find something. The more you look, the more interesting places you’ll find.

Take action

If there are things you don’t like about your environment, take action to change them. This can involve participating in local politics, volunteering for community organizations, organizing the events or activities you’d like to see in your area, or simply taking steps to beautify your neighborhood. Don’t have a local moms group for your area? Start one! No outdoor play groups that you’re aware of? Organize your own! Taking action can help you feel more connected to your community and give you a sense of agency in shaping your environment and maybe even make you some friends in the process.

Change your attitude about the weather

Some people hate where they live because it is too cold, hot, or rainy. You can’t change the weather, but you can try to change your outlook and attitude. Sometimes overcoming weather obstacles means being properly outfitted and getting outside despite the weather. As moms, sometimes we’ll worry so much about properly outfitting our kids for the weather that we don’t take our own comfort into consideration. If your outdoor gear is lacking (maybe it’s old, doesn’t fit properly, or is non-existent), look into buying yourself the proper clothes and gear to get outside. Having the right gear could help you be more comfortable when you’re out and make you more willing to get outside despite the weather. Will you love winter as much as the rest of the year? Probably not. But you can still enjoy it more and improve your mental health by getting outdoors.

Practice gratitude

Another way to shift your mindset about where you live is to practice gratitude. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you appreciate about your surroundings, such as the natural beauty, cultural events, or friendly neighbors/people. What is it that you do like about where you live? Look for opportunities to connect with your community, participate in local events, or explore the natural beauty around you. Focusing on what you’re grateful for can help you develop a positive attitude toward your environment and foster a sense of appreciation for your community.

What do you love about where you live?

About the author

Amy is a Kansas City-based adventure mom to three kids. She loves exploring all that the middle of the USA has to offer, from hiking trails to family experiences, rivers, museums, and everything in between. Before kids, Amy traveled and lived around the world, rode camels, trekked through mountains, and occasionally danced with the locals. Now Amy is usually road-tripping with her kids (and sometimes her husband), getting outside, and exploring Kansas City. Amy is passionate about promoting the Midwest as a travel destination and encouraging families to get outdoors with young kids.

You can find more from Amy in the following locations:
Website: http://www.everydayoutdoorfamily.com
Instagram: @everydayoutdoorfamily
Facebook: Everyday Outdoor Family
Tiktok: @everydayoutdoorfamily
RWMC posts: Amy Eastin
HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, RECIPES, SPRING
Spring Foraging With Kids
- May 4, 2023
Spring foraging is a great way to get the whole family outside after a long winter. There are so many flowers, plants, and mushrooms that can be foraged in the spring, but it is important for the health and safety of your family and the land that you know how to do it properly. Today, Illinois photographer and mom of three, Meghan Garriott, is here sharing tips for wild foraging with kids for springtime plants, flowers, and mushrooms. She’s got tips on how to identify what you find and foraging etiquette.

What is foraging?

Foraging is the act of searching for, identifying, and collecting wild food and resources. Before the days of modern agriculture, humans relied on foraging from the land they lived. Many cultures forage not only to feed their family, but they also used these wild plants and mushrooms for medicines and hygiene. Contrary to popular belief, just because a plant is not commercially grown or mass-produced, does not mean it’s not healthy! There are so many things around you (possibly in your own backyard) you probably never realized are not only edible but are also healthy and delicious!

Importance of foraging with kids

Kids love a good scavenger hunt. Foraging is like a scavenger hunt where you can eat your prizes for dinner or dessert once you’re done. It is fun and productive. When you are out in the forest foraging, this is a perfect time to pass down traditions and culture about foraging. Explain to your children what you are gathering, and weave in storytelling elements while you gather. My grandmother loves to tell me about her childhood foraging for violets and making violet jelly.

Being outside and taking from nature is a great time to teach kids about respecting nature and how we can try to live more sustainably. A foraging haul can provide a nutritious meal or snack, but be sure to harvest mature plants, only to take what you need and leave some for others. When gathering food with your own hands, you tend to appreciate what you’re eating and waste less. These are all good lessons for children to learn. Additionally, the act of foraging keeps little bodies active, promotes better eyesight, and improves self-confidence.

Foraging rules and regulations

Before heading out to forage, make sure you know the laws or restrictions on foraging in your area. Different plants have different rules, as well as different areas. These laws dictate not only what you can take, but how to harvest it. As a general rule, foraging is not allowed in nature preserves or conservation areas. Public or state land may allow you to forage, but only native species. If you are foraging on private land, you should always have the land owners permission. Do your research and know the rules before you go.

Sustainable foraging

There are some plants like ramps/wild leeks that have recently become very popular, so to ensure future growth, forgers are instructed to cut from the base and not to take the bulb. It is best practice when foraging to only take 1/4 of what you see. This ensures that there are enough wild plants and flowers left for other species, and enough to regrow or spore for next year.

Identification when foraging

Being able to correctly identify what you are foraging is incredibly important, even more so when forging with kids. You should always have multiple identifiers before picking or eating anything you find outside. Identifiers for plants and flowers are things like color, leaf shape, petal shape, and number of petals. For mushrooms, some identifiers are color, presence of gills, and shape of the cap and stem. Remind your children that they should never touch, eat, or pick anything that has not been properly identified by an adult (one that knows what they’re doing) first.

If you are unsure if you have the right item, do not pick it. Using tools like Google Lens and nature-identifying apps can be helpful, but should not relied upon solely.

Special considerations when foraging with kids

Precautions should always be taken when out in nature, but special precautions should be taken when children are helping. If you are not familiar with the area you are foraging, make sure an adult checks the area for animal or insect nests and poisonous foliage first. Educate kids about using multiple identifiers before picking. When you’re done foraging, make sure to double-check your haul to make sure extras aren’t brought home, like bugs, spiderwebs, or unwanted plants. Be sure to remind kids that when out in nature, we should always respect the other species and their habitats, and try not to take more than needed.

Spring flowers to forage with kids

Flowers are one of the best and easiest things to start foraging for when you are just getting started. Because of their multiple identifiers, colors, and beauty they are easy to spot and correctly identify. Spring is a great time to forage flowers.

Dandelions

Dandelions are probably one of the most well-known landscaping weeds. People work very hard to get these out of their yards. But did you know the entire plant is edible? The roots, the stem, the leaves, and the flowers all have amazing benefits health benefits! And, because of their bright color, these are one of the easiest flowers for a little hands to find and to pick. Because there is an abundance of dandelions around, there’s also an abundance of things you can do with them.

Here are my top 3 things you should do with dandelions:
Violets

Violets are another flower commonly found in the early spring. In addition to growing in people’s yards, they also grow in forests and along river banks. Although they can come in many variations of purple, their color makes them easy to spot against the contrasting green grass and leaves.

Similar to dandelions, the flowers and the leaves of violets are edible. Violet flowers can be used to make jellies, simple, syrups, and candies. Here is an article dedicated to foraging violets with kids and using them to make a simple syrup that will change colors!

Forsythia

Forsythia is a flowering plant in the olive family. In the spring, its branches are full of bright yellow flowers. This bright shrub is usually found in gardens and landscaping, but can be found in parks, as well.

Because the flowers are large and close together, it doesn’t take long to fill up a jar of them. The bright yellow flowers not only taste good but are used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine. We have used these golden flowers to make Forsythia Honey. Forsythia can also be used to make soaps, lotion, and toners.

Muscari/ Grape hyacinth

Muscari/Grape Hyacinth

Grape Hyacinths are actually not Hyacinths at all. Thank goodness because true hyacinths are not at all edible! Muscari are extremely invasive, so you can take as many flowers as you want; just try to leave a few for the bees. People often plant just a few and end up with them invading and overtaking their entire yard.

Grape hyacinth blossoms are used as a flavoring in Europe. You can use the little blossoms to make simple syrups to add a little flavor to teas and lemonades. Like violets, grape hyacinths are pH sensitive. This means if you add grape hyacinth syrup to a base, it will turn from purple to more blue, and if you add it to an acid, it will turn more pink!

Here is a video showing how to make the Grape Hyacinth Lemonade

Magnolia blossoms

Magnolia blossoms are such a beautiful site after a long winter. The flowers of the magnolia tree are large, brightly colored blooms and are some of the first blooms of spring. Foraging magnolia blooms might be difficult for smaller kids due to the branches being so up high. The blossoms can be used to make Magnolia snap cookies, and petals can also be pickled for a sweet and tangy treat. My bet is, kids will be more excited about the cookies.

Red bud

Red bud trees are easy to spot, and their buds and blooms are edible! Like magnolias, it may be hard for kids to reach high enough to pick the blossoms to forage, but they can definitely be spotters! Red bird blooms are high in vitamin C, and, like other flowers, can be used to make jellies and syrups! If you want to sprinkle some color on a salad, these can be eaten raw as well.

Red Clover

Similar to dandelions and violets, red clovers are commonly found in yards, landscaping, and along roadsides and sidewalks. Red clovers are easy to spot and their flowers usually stick up 6 inches or more from the ground.

The flowers not only smell delicious but are tasty as well. These pretty pink flowers are mostly used for tea. Red clover tea is not recommended for children, as it is traditionally, used to help with women’s health issues, such as menstrual and menopausal symptoms. A more kid-friendly way to use red clover is in these Red Clover biscuits.

Lilac

Nothing smells better in the spring than fresh lilac in the breeze. Lilac tastes as good as it smells! The flowers can be used to make syrup, flower-infused sugar, and candies. Infuse lilacs in oil to make delicious-smelling soaps and lotions! Here is a video on how to ferment lilac water using the yeast that is naturally on it to make a fizzy lilac drink!

Spring plants to forage with kids

Wild plants are a little harder to for untrained eyes to find than flowers. Luckily, the plants listed below are readily available and probably in your front yard, back yard, or along your local sidewalks! Here are a few of our favorite local plants to forage in the spring.

Ramps/wild leeks

Ramps are a species of wild onion that can be found all over North America. Ramps are among some of the first plants to appear in the forest in the spring. The very strong garlicky smell of ramps can help to identify them properly. Be aware when foraging for ramps that lily-of-the-valley looks very similar, but is NOT edible. Both ramps and lily-of-the-valley can’t have white or red stems. If you are not for sure, do not eat it.

Ramps have recently risen dramatically in popularity over the last few years, and because of this, some places have put restrictions on foraging ramps or instructed foragers to cut ramps instead of pulling out the bulb. Please do your research and be aware of any rules or restrictions when harvesting.

Plantain

You have probably seen this plant in the cracks of sidewalks. Plantains grow all over and have qualities you probably didn’t even know about! Did you know that plantain can be used to help sores, blisters, and insect stings? Indigenous people would chew up the leaves of plantain and use the poultice to soothe insect bites. This could come in handy, especially for kids, who are often stung by bees and bit by mosquitoes while outside playing!

Here you can read about the medicinal benefits of plantain with sources and science to back up the claims!

Onion grass/wild onion/wild garlic

If you’ve spent any time outside in the spring, you’ve probably seen wild onion grass. It pops up in the spring, usually before the regular grass, and it grows twice as fast and much taller. You can often find it growing in small patches or clumps.

When identifying, you can pull out the patch, and you will see small white bulbs at the end, just like miniature green onions. The stems/grass part of the plant can be used like chives (fresh or dried), or you can grind up dried stems to make onion powder!

Fiddlehead ferns/ostrich fern

Fiddleheads are the furled fronds of a young fern. Say that 5 times fast! Fiddlehead ferns are edible ferns before they unfurl and become inedible ferns. They are edible when in the furled-up stage of a fern, just after they start to shoot through the ground in spring. As they emerge through the fertile, wet April soil, they grow and unfurl quickly (sometimes lasting just a few days in their furled-up stage) – so you have to act fast! At this unfurled stage, they are tender and edible.

Though all ferns have a fiddlehead stage, it’s the Ostrich fern, a specific edible fern species, that has become synonymous with the words “fiddlehead ferns.” Their taste is often described somewhere between asparagus, broccoli, and spinach. The ostrich fern is pictured here.

Hosta Shoots

Did you know these shade, loving ornamental plants were also edible? Hostas usually spread/multiply quickly over the years. So instead of getting rid of them to keep from overcrowding, you can dig up, young shoots and eat them!

Most people prepare them like you would asparagus, with a similar taste and texture. All species of hosta are edible, but they are best eaten right when they shoot up. Here is a recipe for Bacon Wrapped Hosta Shoots.

Mullein

Mullein is probably most recognizable when it is large, tall, and its yellow stalk is flowering along roadsides and sidewalks. Foraging mullein is best done in the spring when the leaves are young and tender. These fuzzy leaves are fun and easy for kids to identify. Mullein is most known for its respiratory benefits. Smoking Mullen is probably not the best way to utilize it with kids, but mullein tea is also raved about for its respiratory healing properties.

Morel mushroom picture by @c_l_allofus

Foraging spring mushrooms

There are thousands of mushrooms/fungi to find out in the woods or even just in the backyard. It’s important to know that while a lot of mushrooms are edible, there are a lot that are not. Some mushrooms are very dangerous and even deadly if ingested.

Morels

Morel mushrooms are a great way to start foraging mushrooms because they are easier than most to identify! Not to mention, they’re delicious! You can find morels under or around fallen and decaying trees, and along south-facing slopes. Morels have deeply ridged camps that resemble honeycombs. The stem of the morel is hollow. These mushrooms are delicious when sautéed or when fried!

Family time foraging

You don’t have to venture far to begin your foraging adventures. Nearly everything listed here was found on or around my own property without too much searching. Even if you don’t plan to eat the things you find, looking for these spring treasures is still a fun and educational scavenger hunt! How much can you forage in your backyard this spring!?!

What do you forage in the spring?

About the author

Meghan is a midwestern mom of 3 kids and one dog. She is a physical therapist assistant and family photographer. At home, her and her family enjoy gardening (both indoors and outside), riding ATVs, and exploring the river behind their house. When not at home, they can usually be found at the lake or exploring Illinois state parks. Meghan’s family has always loved the outdoors, but they really found a passion for being outside and photography when her oldest son had to undergo a bone marrow transplant as a baby. During her son’s recovery, being outside became a safe place for the whole family to learn, grow and thrive.

You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
Instagram: @meghangarriott
Meghan’s RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott
GOOD FOR NATURE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Teaching Sustainability to the Next Generation: Eco-Friendly Activities for Kids
- May 3, 2023
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 may sound overwhelming or intimidating, but there are lots of easy and simple ways to get kids involved in sustainability actions and thinking about our planet. Today, Army vet, RN, and Florida mom of two, Lea Reynolds is here to show parents how easy it can be to lead by example by making eco-conscious choices. She’s included great advice on how to get kids involved in the process, as well as 60+ eco-friendly actions for kids and fun ways to get kids excited about sustainability.

Every day is Earth Day

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd that aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote actions that help protect the planet. Earth Day is the largest secular holiday in the world, with more than 500 million people taking part in 174 countries around the world.

While Earth Day can provide an opportunity for people to learn about the causes and impacts of climate change, it’s not the only day to take action to reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. Action needs to start with us and with teaching/showing the next generation how to protect the world they will grow up in.

We strongly belive that our incredible planet should be celebrated every day – not just one day a year. We hope this post will encourage you to choose to honor, protect, and preserve our planet throughout the year with your actions and teachings. We’ll show you how!

Photo credit: @dimples.and.the.blonde

Get children involved in the process

Kids naturally want to be involved in the things we (their parents) are passionate about. Give your kids the opportunity to participate in your eco-friendly actions and help make decisions on sustainable changes for your home and life. Getting your child on board from an early age teaches them so many valuable lessons and makes eco-conscious decision-making second nature.

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. When your child is stuck in a cycle of “I want,” it’s much easier to transition out of it when they realize the impact all those “wants” have on our planet. The more time we spend discussing how our actions can impact the world around us, the more our children will learn. Then we’ll have a whole generation of environmental thinkers and activists coming up after us…how wonderful would that be?!

Sustainability activities for kids

There are many ways to get involved in taking care of our planet; whether it’s by participating in local events, volunteering for environmental organizations, or making lifestyle changes that promote sustainability. No matter how you choose to be more sustainable and eco-conscious, we hope you’ll involve your children and teach them about each of our individual responsibility to care for our planet.

Below, we’ve included a huge list of 60+ eco-friendly sustainability activities that you can do with your kids to make an impact. These are great hands-on activities that will help your child connect to the planet and teach them about the importance of sustainability from an early age. But, before we get to the list, there are a few action items that I want to talk about in a bit more detail: picking up trash, the 3 R’s, gardening, Junior Ranger programs, shopping small/local, and getting outside. Each of these things can have a huge impact on our planet and are easy to incorporate into our daily lives.

Clean up trash when you’re out and about

Encouraging kids to pick up trash in nature is a great way to teach them about the importance of protecting the environment and its inhabitants. When plastic, glass, and other types of litter are left on the beach, in a river, or anywhere outside, they can harm local creatures, such as turtles, fish, and birds, who can mistake it for food or get tangled up in it.

It is important to help kids understand the WHY behind what you’re doing. Why do people litter, and why is it important for us to clean it up? Talk them through scenarios and what the consequences of our actions (good and bad ones) are. For example, my son found this plastic bag on the beach. We discussed that a sea turtle could easily mistake this for a jellyfish, and he immediately sprang into action. He realized we needed to throw it away so the turtle wouldn’t get hurt. When children understand the why, they make it second nature to help, and they learn to teach others.

We hope you’ll add a clean-up bag to your adventure gear, so you can clean up trash anytime you’re out enjoying nature. This is an easy way to incorporate sustainability actions into your everyday activities. If you want to get more involved in an organized effort, research cleanups hosted by local organizations in your area and sign your family up to participate. By engaging in such activities, it instills a sense of community, responsibility, and stewardship in kids, encouraging them to take care of the planet and its natural resources.

*Adult supervision is always recommended so kids do not pick up anything dangerous.

Practice the three R’s at home

Teaching kids about sustainable living is crucial for building a sustainable future. One way to do this is by incorporating environmental education into their daily lives. By now, most people have heard of those three Rs…reduce, reuse and recycle. While it’s a catchy phrase and sounds amazing as an environmental campaign, we’ve relied too heavily on the recycling part, which is not the answer to our trash problems. We need to spend a bit more time also reducing our consumption and reusing what we already have.

Reducing your consumption of consumer items is the very best way to reduce the amount of trash your family sends to a landfill. We cannot recycle our way out of excessive consumerism – we need to buy less stuff. Before purchasing something new, stop and ask yourself these questions: (1) Do I really need this? (2) Do I already own something that can be used in this item’s place? (3) Is purchasing this item worth the environmental costs of resources, production, shipping, and landfill space once it’s been discarded?

Reusing what you already have is the most eco-friendly option of all! And it’s budget-friendly. If you want to put the concept of reusing (or repurposing) items to good use, you might have to get creative! Before tossing something in the trash, think to yourself, “Is there another way I can use this item?” Not only does repurposing mean we get to reduce our waste, but we also find ways to be creative, active, and involved. Kids are super creative and great at coming up with new ideas and ways to use things! Be sure to get them involved.

Photo credit: @sara_mccartyPhoto credit: @meghangarriott

Gardening

Gardening is another excellent way to teach kids about sustainable living, as it can help them learn about how plants grow and how to care for the environment. By starting and growing a garden, you can teach children about the natural world and where their food comes from. Kids can learn how to plant and care for seeds, how to compost and recycle, and how to use natural methods to control pests and diseases. Gardening is a fun way to help children develop a sense of responsibility and pride in their accomplishments as they watch their plants grow and thrive.

Growing their own food can also inspire children to try new vegetables and fruits, which can lead to healthier eating habits. By teaching kids to grow their own food, we can help them develop important life skills and instill a sense of respect and appreciation for the environment. Gardening can also help reduce food waste and cut down on food packaging waste and transportation costs.

Photo credit: Anna Stopińska-Lewucha

Earn a Junior Ranger badge

Get kids excited about nature at a national park. Visit a national park in your area with your child. Many have activity books to follow while you explore. The Junior Ranger program is a great way to get kids involved in protecting and preserving local parks and natural areas. By participating in this program, kids can learn about the history, wildlife, and ecology of their local park or reserve and engage in fun, educational activities that help them develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The Junior Ranger program offers a wide range of unique and location-specific activities, from guided hikes and wildlife observation to ranger-led talks and interactive exhibits. Through these activities, kids can gain a sense of connection and responsibility to their local environment and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability. The Junior Ranger program is a fun and educational way to get kids involved in environmental stewardship and instill a lifelong love of nature.

Photo credit: @roaminggonzalez

Shop small and local

When you shop at small, locally owned businesses, you’re not only making an eco-friendly decision, but one that’s great for your local community. When you purchase at small locally-owned businesses rather than nationally owned, more money is kept in your community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers, and farms. Purchasing local helps grow other businesses as well as the local tax base.

Small local businesses usually set up shop in the town center, providing a centralized variety that is much friendlier to a community’s walk score than out-of-town shopping malls. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.

Teach kids about supporting small businesses. Shop local. Here in Florida, we have kids’ business groups that promote kids with small businesses, such as lemonade stands, and craft stands. It instills responsibility and a sense of pride. This helps to protect the Earth from mass-produced materials and aims to keep our landfills free of trash and waste.

We have recently started a small business that focuses on small batches of beach attire for the whole family. Our son loves helping us design and create our products!

Get outside

Perhaps the single most important thing you can do to make your child aware of the environment and want to protect it is to spend time in it with them. Show them the beauty of our planet and let them learn to love it on their own. Parents can also take their kids to parks, nature reserves, botanical gardens, arboretums, zoos, and other outdoor areas to teach them about the importance of protecting and preserving natural habitats and wildlife.

Need ideas on how to get outside or what to do…check out the rest of our website and sign up to get on our weekly newsletter, which is filled with outdoor activities and ideas!

60+ eco-friendly activities for kids
1. Pick up trash at a local park (or on a trail, or in your neighborhood, etc.)
2. Set up a scrap paper reusing station in your home
3. Use a cloth bag at the grocery store
4. Set up a bird feeder (or make a DIY eco-friendly bird feeder)
5. Go for a family bike ride
6. Play in the water (lake, creek, beach, stream, etc.)
7. Start a compost bin (and compost something!)
8. Use a reusable water bottle
9. Start a nature journal (or add to an existing nature journal)
10. Make sculptures, art, or robots using items in your recycling bin
11. Plant something (e.g. garden, flowers, vegetables, tree, herbs, etc.)
12. Identify a new plant or animal (we love the Seek by iNaturalist app)
13. Watch a nature documentary
14. Check out books from your local library
15. Make your own DIY herbal cleaner
16. Attend a local Earth Day festival in your area
17. Go on a nature scavenger hunt
18. Use a magnifying glass or pocket microscope to view nature close-up
19. Go barefoot in the grass
20. Create a mandala using items found in nature
21. Donate unused seeds to a seed library
22. Go screen-free for the day
23. Wildflower bomb your yard
24. Enjoy a meal outside!
25. Visit a little free library (and leave a few books for others)
26. Donate gently used clothes/toys/books to charity
27. Make a terrarium
28. Visit a local farmer’s market
29. Recycle something
30. Go for a hike (or even just a walk around your neighborhood)
31. Forage violets for color-changing syrup
32. Make nature crowns (from leaves, flowers, shells, etc.)
33. Build a fort in the woods
34. Read an educational book about our planet, nature, or wildlife
35. Make seed paper cards
36. Build an insect hotel
37. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth
38. Swap out plastic containers for paper products
39. Repurpose something you were going to throw away
40. Shop local & small businesses
41. Visit a national park and earn a Junior Ranger badge
42. Eat a meatless meal
43. Watch the sunset
44. Turn off all lights in your home
45. Do a nature-inspired STEAM activity
46. Unplug devices you’re not using
47. Make your own nature paintbrush
48. Build your own rain barrel
49. Purchase something second-hand (instead of new)
50. Switch out 5 lightbulbs for LED bulbs
51. Shorten your shower
52. Visit an arboretum or botanical garden
53. Carpool to an event/activity
54. Grow your own herbs
55. Reuse glass jars
56. Eat ice cream from a cone (no spoon or bowl to throw away)
57. Sign a petition online for climate change
58. Donate to an environmental cause
59. Write to your congressman about protecting the Earth
60. Go geocaching at a local park
61. Practice yoga outside with nature poses
62. Display your nature finds in your home
63. Use no single-purpose plastics all day
64. Volunteer
65. Visit a refill station for shampoo, soaps, etc.
Photo Credit: @tiny.adventures.often

Getting kids involved in protecting the planet

We 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.

While Earth Day is an important event that reminds us of our responsibility to protect the planet and preserve its natural resources for future generations, it’s not the ONLY time to take care of the Earth. By raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices daily, we can all play a role in creating a healthier, more sustainable world.

Let us take action today and every day to make a positive impact on our planet; it starts now, with us and with our children!

Additional resources

If you’d like some additional resources for learning about sustainability with kids and help with making small (but very important and impactful) eco-friendly changes in your house and life, check out the following:
What are your favorite sustainability activities to do with kids?

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
HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Best Kid-Friendly Hikes in Atlanta
- May 2, 2023
When you think of Atlanta, you may not think of it as a hiking city. Many locals go to North Georgia for all the kid-friendly hikes, but there are quite a few closer to the city that are worth your time. Atlanta is filled with many unique hikes, and you don’t have to go far to experience them. Today, India Tate, local Atlanta mom of two, outdoor adventurer, and founder of Our Wanderlust Life, is here to share the best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta, Georgia. So, grab your hiking boots, and let’s go explore!

Exploring the kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

Hiking in Atlanta doesn’t just mean you have to do urban trails. There are many kid-friendly hikes that don’t feel like you are in the city at all! Many of them are in secluded neighborhoods with lush vegetation and lots of green space. This makes you feel like you are far from the city and deep in nature.

Today, I’ll be covering 7 kid-friendly hikes and trails in the Atlanta area. Be sure to add these kid-friendly hikes to your list next time you are exploring Atlanta.

1. Sweet Water Creek (red trail)

Sweet Water Creek is a popular state park. One of the main trails to do is the red trail. This trail starts at the visitor center and takes you down a path where you are able to walk alongside the creek the entire way. The hike can be a bit rocky in certain parts, especially as you get closer to the end. With this being an out-and-back trail, once you get to the end of the trail, you must turn around and go back toward the beginning of the trail.

2. Sope Creek Paper Mill trail

This trail is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in all of Atlanta. There is so much history at Sope Creek, with the ruins once being the largest paper mill in the state during the Civil War. To access this trail, there are a few starting points, but the main entrance is off paper mill road.

The trail is easily accessible year-round, but even better in the summer when you can play in the shallow parts of the river. The main loop is 2.3 miles and takes you down to the ruins and access to the Chattahoochee River. Once you walk back up from the river access, you continue on the loop, which will take you around the lake and back to the main parking lot.

3. High Falls

High Falls is another state park in the Atlanta area with great hiking. This park offers camping and a few different hiking trails. The High Falls Trail takes you over to the beautiful waterfall. This trail is a quick 1-mile loop. You can park across the street in the main parking lot and then cross over to the trailhead.

Head down the staircase and get treated to the beautiful waterfall view that is High Falls. After visiting the falls, you will continue on the trail through the wooded forest and loop back around towards the start of the trailhead.

4. East Palisades bamboo forest

The bamboo forest on the East Palisades trail is such a hidden gem! Many locals don’t even know that it is there. This loop is about 4 miles and is considered moderate, but it is a very kid-friendly hike. If my 3-year-old and 4-year-old can do it with no problem, yours can too! Using the AllTrails app to map your hike is helpful for this particular trail because finding the trailhead can be a little tricky.

Once you park in the parking lot, you can either walk back down the road a little to access the trailhead from that end (which is a quick way to the bamboo forest if you don’t want to do the whole loop), or access the trailhead closest to the parking lot and make the full 4 mile loop. There is a lot to see and do on this trail, and once you start walking alongside the river, you will quickly approach the hidden Bamboo forest!

5. Vickery Creek

Vickery Creek is a local favorite, and for good reason! This hike leads to a stunning waterfall and is a great family outing experience. The loop is 2 miles, and you will cross over a bridge and end up at the popular waterfall along the trail.

This kid-friendly hike is also great if you want to just walk up to the waterfall alone and make a day of it. Vickery Creek runs along the Chattahoochee River, and on a day after rainfall, it flows heavily and is amazing to see!

6. Clyde Shepherd nature preserve

Clyde Shepherd is a true hidden gem right in the city of Atlanta. It’s tucked away in a neighborhood in Decatur. This nature preserve is funded by local donations. Volunteers of the neighborhood are the ones who continue to take care of it.

This park has a few trail options. The interpretive main loop that covers most of the preserve is 1.5 miles. There is a big pond (seasonal) that you can walk past on the loop as well as another small pond closer to the beginning of the trail. There are so many unique areas along this trail that make it a super kid-friendly hike. with over 300 species of native plants and animals, your child is sure to find something to keep them engaged for quite some time on this hike.

7. Cochran Mill (orange trail)

Cochran Mill Park features miles of hiking trails, a playground near the parking lot, and a few beautiful waterfalls! The orange trail is easily accessible and a great kid-friendly hike option. Once you cross the street from the parking lot, you will head over the bridge. The main waterfall is immediately to the right as you cross the bridge, and the kids have a lot of fun playing in the creek under the bridge.

If you want to do the entire loop, you will head left on the trail after you pass the waterfall and continue to make that loop. Along the trail, there are a few more waterfalls to see, and some you can even walk up to.

Best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

Atlanta is filled with so much more nature and outdoor fun than you might expect. It’s a big city, but one with a lot of amazing local green spaces, hiking trails, parks, and nature preserves.

If you are looking to get out in nature and out of the city, these trails are perfect for your next adventure! Which trail will you go on first?

Did you know about any of these hikes in Atlanta?

About the author

India is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, blogger, and travel photographer. She is also a single mom to two young boys (ages 5 & 4). India and her boys currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, where she grew up, and are always out exploring, whether that be camping, hiking, backpacking, and so much more. She loves taking road trips with her boys to new places at a moment’s notice and is grateful to be able to share this love of adventure with her kids.

You can find more from India online in the following locations:
Instagram: @ourwanderlust_life
Website: http://www.ourwanderlust.life
INFORMATION, PARENTING
Autism, Finding Happiness in Nature
- May 1, 2023
Autism is a developmental disorder that can affect communication, social interaction, and behavior in autistic individuals. Autistic children often struggle with sensory processing and can become overwhelmed in social situations or with disruptions in routines. However, spending time in nature and going on outdoor adventures can provide many benefits for autistic children. Today, Anna Stopinska-Lewucha, a UK mom of two, is sharing her family’s experience using nature and time outdoors to help her autistic son thrive.

Autism and the outdoors

How often do you see children with developmental differences when you are outdoors? How many families with children with additional needs actively and purposefully make the most of their natural surroundings?

I’m the mum of an awesome, adventurous, and autistic boy. Today, I want to give you an overview of what autism is, how spending time outside and in nature can benefit autistic kids, and encourage you to take your unique family outside and discover what nature has to offer.

What is autism?

Autism is a life-long, neurodevelopmental condition. Every person diagnosed with autism experiences difficulties in communicating and interacting with the world and has repetitive patterns of behaviour and thought. Autistic people may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.

Core symptoms of autism, differences in sensory processing, and possible learning difficulties combine to create a plethora of difficulties in the everyday lives of autistic children and their families.

What autism means to our family

Dear readers, I hope this gloomy and serious introduction to autism did not put you off, and I’m glad you’re still here reading.

Let me take a minute for introductions. I’m Anna, and my older son, Stefan, is autistic.

This means that the above description relates to Stefan, and his autism diagnosis is one which we have to accept and embrace. However, I’m here to tell you that our lives aren’t doom and gloom at all. His diagnosis isn’t at either extreme – Stefan is not a boy locked in a glass dome, and neither is he an antisocial genius. He has severe learning difficulties, and his autistic presentations are complex. But he also is a little boy who loves trains, washing machines, and being outside.

This post is about how nature makes him happy.

Our journey with autism

Stefan’s autism was mentioned for the first time when he was two and a half years old. Once the professionals suggested that Stefan might be autistic, I went online and read all I could about the condition. Most of what I found was written in a negative tone. Yet, I was determined that our story would not be a negative one.

I’ve experimented on Stefan more than I am comfortable admitting. Autism affects each person differently, meaning that autistic people have unique strengths and challenges and different treatment needs. I tried Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA), the Son-Rise programme, and some other treatments and programs I found on the internet to see if anything would make a difference. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel like any of it was doing us any good.

So, I enrolled to do a degree in Autism at the University of Strathclyde to better understand what we were dealing with and how I could help my son. I struggled at the beginning of the course because it was all about impairments and deficits. But, eventually, we were given a bigger picture. We were told to consider what would be really important for an autistic person and what practical things we could do to improve their quality of life.

Ditching therapies for outdoor play

The course leader at the time, Dr. Anna Robinson, specialises in autistic welfare. While studying the well-being module, I found my path. I stopped searching for therapies and started looking at what makes my child happy.

Outdoors was always a place where he could be himself. So, we started paying bigger attention to free play, muddy fun, and child-led exploration. And this is where our positive story began and our son began to thrive.

Accepting changes through outdoor activities

I remember our walks to and from Stefan’s preschool when he was little. They had to be exactly the same. He would insist on sameness and rebel if I wanted to change our route or anything about our walk.

But, these walks had alterations as seasons changed and some degree of unpredictability (as happens in nature). Looking back, making a daily walk outdoors a part of our routine allowed some openness to changes because of the weather, time of the year, temperatures, and situations we encountered on our way home. Just experiencing nature as it changes, allowed Stefan to experience change on a level he could accept and handle.

“Early years” day trips

Stefan’s diagnostic path started when we moved home. We left a big city behind and moved to a tiny town in Cumbria, UK. Despite having a toddler and a baby, we wanted to discover new places and enjoy the vicinity of the sea and mountains.

Our trips out were often short, but they brought us joy and gave us a good variety of experiences with Stefan. He loved running around and not being restricted in how he behaved and what he could do. Being outside gave him a newfound sense of freedom to explore his body and his surroundings. We found that choosing outdoors over indoors was more beneficial and brought more contentment for all of us.

Getting outside the comfort zone

Every day trip, our little out-of-the-town adventures, were taking Stefan away from places he was familiar with. I don’t think we realised back then how important this was for his development. Desensitising him to changes, obstacles, and different environments was challenging. However, putting him in new situations also evokes curiosity, which neurotypical children are naturally equipped with.

Stefan, possibly, was curious about the world around him too, but he was very cautious. I don’t think his curiosity would come naturally to him had we not helped him overcome obstacles related to exploring new places and getting out of his routine. I believe he learned to enjoy exploring through these outings, rather than being born curious or with a desire to explore. Or maybe he was born to explore but had to be given tools to overcome his fears? Either way, we are proud that he found his way to be openly and happily curious.

Spontaneity for outdoor adventures

Getting outside and going on adventures allowed us more spontaneity. Usually, day trips and local walks were planned, and we always gave Stefan enough time to accept the fact that we were taking him somewhere.

However, we also had moments when we would, for instance, arrange a quick trip to the seaside because the weather was lovely. A change of routine like this could be very difficult for some autistic children. But with time, he accepted non-planned outings and could be happy with the last-minute changes in plans. His love for the outdoors is bigger than his love for a set routine.

Mistakes and discomforts

I don’t want to give you the wrong impression…we aren’t perfect parents. We make mistakes like everyone else. For example, last Easter, we went hiking and forgot water. We had a choice of turning round and going home, going to the nearest town and buying water, or going for a hike and drinking stream water (don’t try it yourselves – the water where you live might upset your stomach). The weather was glorious for the first time in ages, so, we went on! We drank stream water, hiked for four hours, and bagged three new peaks. It was worth it!

As parents, we are often scared of making mistakes and experiencing discomfort. But, making mistakes show our children that life isn’t always perfect and teach them to look for solutions. Mistakes happen, but when we approach them as learning opportunities, not as failures or something we should escape from, we all benefit.

Stefan’s sensory profile

When Stefan was around three years old, we noticed that he started touching people whenever he was near them. He also ran his hand alongside fences and walls when we walked. He engaged in running and falling on his knees, on purpose. He also liked running into walls and trees, at high speed, and bouncing off them, often falling. I was concerned that he would injure himself and didn’t understand the purpose of it. Then, I went to a talk that introduced me to proprioception and the vestibular system.

Sensory processing differences

Learning that we have more than five senses was a revelation to me. I also learned that the senses can be over-sensitive (too much input causes discomfort or pain) or under-responsive (a child is craving for more input). This can be compared to eating soup: too salty isn’t tasty, so we don’t want it, and not enough salt makes us want to add more salt. This was really eye-opening and made a lot of sense. However, I then learned that my child’s senses can be simultaneously under and over-sensitive. This was just too much. I didn’t understand how the same soup can be too salty one day and not salty enough another.

Physiotherapy at playgrounds

In the UK, autistic families do not have the support of physiotherapists, unless their child’s mobility is seriously affected. In our case, another university lecture I attended brought us some answers we needed. The lecturer encouraged me to use children’s playgrounds as a form of physiotherapy, as playground equipment is designed to support children’s physical development.

Playgrounds were not our favourite places. Stefan had a hard time with them because of the noise and all the other children. However, with therapy in mind, we looked for a playground that was quiet and often unoccupied and found one in a tiny village nearby. Always empty, it became a regular place to go after school and started using it as a form of physiotherapy.

Proprioception (body awareness) and autism

Stefan’s intentional crashing and banging into things and his habit of touching people and walls, finally, had a word attached to them: proprioception. His proprioception was dysregulated. With this definition came an answer. We were told to push him hard on a swing, undertake rough play, play animal movements, wheelbarrow, jump on a trampoline, run, climb, and engage him in all activities referred to as “heavy work.”

We loved this task, and it made such a big difference for him. We continued making trips to our playground and started using nature with body awareness activities in mind. We would climb boulders at the seaside, climb trees, jump off small ledges, do a lot of silly running, rolling down hills, pushing, pulling, and exploring all animal walks. With time, it all paid off.

Did you guess we had a lot of fun too? Yes, we did!

Vestibular system (balance) and the outdoors

From an early age, Stefan could spin around (for longer than I could watch) without ever feeling dizzy. He was never sick in a car. I’m the opposite; as an adult, I still experience travel sickness, and watching him spin caused me to get nauseous.

I was told that spinning was a possible sign of autism and I just accepted it as such. Alongside improving Stefan’s body awareness, we worked on Stefan’s balance. As I mentioned before, physiotherapy wasn’t available to us, but I had guidance from one of my lecturers and took it upon myself to help him in this area.

The outdoors was the perfect place to work on balance. We walked on every fallen tree, every stone wall, and up and down every hill. We walked in fallen leaves, in the snow, and over muddy squishy ground.

And yes, it did pay off! And yes, it was fun! Today, when I went for a bike ride with Stefan, and he was riding uphill, out of the saddle, I remember how unachievable this felt a couple of years ago…

Speech and language therapy (SLT) and the outdoors

Stefan’s lack of communication was one of the red flags of autism when he was little. Not only did he not have speech (bilingualism was an excuse at the time), but he wasn’t interested in communicating with us or anybody else.

However, when he was outside, he was happy and more relaxed. Stefan was often more responsive and more communicative outside than when indoors. Playing in nature often required our help, which he needed to indicate, and we often didn’t offer until he made an effort to interact. Being outside also gave us an opportunity to teach Stefan many, many words and introduce him to the concept of natural variety.

Learning through outdoor experiences

When Stefan was first diagnosed with autism, we often worked on putting together two-piece jigsaw puzzles of animals. One of them was a brown cow. After a few days, Stefan learned to point at a cow when I asked him to. But then, I found a picture of a black cow, and he couldn’t understand the connection.

Luckily, I had great support from his very enthusiastic SLT. Sarah encouraged me to incorporate as much as possible of Stefan’s language and communication learning in outdoor play rather than making it yet another living-room-arranged task. We moved our speech and language learning from our living room outside, and it was a great decision. That possibly made his learning more chaotic, but it was also more spontaneous and did bring the effect we wanted, eventually.

Since then, we’ve made an effort to intentionally connect his learning to the outdoors. For example, when he was learning about waterfalls in school, we would go to see a real-life waterfall. When they learned map reading, we would go exploring at a local park with a map over the weekend.

The school supported Stefan by keeping us up to date with their classroom topics, and we supported him by turning his classroom learning into an outdoor experience. Now Stefan is eleven years old, and while we don’t need to follow his school learning, we still believe that learning by doing and experiencing is the most meaningful to an autistic child. And we’ve personally seen it pay off.

Expanding food choices outside

Like many autistic people, sensory processing differences narrow down Stefan’s food choices. However, we noticed that Stefan would be more likely to try new foods when we are out and about on trips or outdoor adventures. It’s an interesting concept we would never have realized unless we were outside and adventuring.

While this might not work for everyone, it works for him. He is more open to new options when he is tired and hungry after a hike. He accepts the fact that when we go camping, our food choices are limited, and we might not be able to cook his favourite food. And outdoors, he’s much more curious and willing to taste whatever we eat.

Fitness and health

Although Stefan might not be as physically fit as his neurotypical peers, we believe that he is in good shape and health. Our active routine of everyday walks and hikes and day trips on weekends have all made him a resilient walker. We are out in any season and any weather.

As a family, we also enjoy wild water swimming. I have to admit that Stefan only dips his feet in cold water in winter, but still does take part in our fun. And even in summer, lakes in northern England are far from being warm.

He also loves his weekly, train-spotting, out-of-town bike rides. He makes most of his trampoline and spends hours in our garden when the days are longer. His immune system is very healthy, and I think a lot of that is from all the time we spend outside.

Building connection and trust outdoors

Although I said earlier that Stefan isn’t a boy locked in a glass dome, I haven’t always believed that. When he was little, we felt that he was so distant from us, emotionally. Being in nature made Stefan more relaxed and happy. It also allowed us more interaction, and we found him more open to our support and guidance.

Over the years, our outdoor adventures have shown us that Stefan wants to share his experience with us. Now, he often makes remarks about what he feels, sees, hears, or smells.

Another thing we let him do is help us choose our walks or trip destinations. Following and being responsive to Stefan’s choices makes him more open to new experiences. And, all these experiences in the natural world are shared moments of joy that allow so much more connection and closeness with him than I could ever have imagined.

Lessons learned from lockdown

When schools shut down during the lockdowns, like many families, we switched to learning from home. Our homeschool experience was very successful. I had great guidance from Stefan’s school, and he had my (his private teacher at the time) full attention nearly all of the time (sharing only with his brother). His academic education went great. We also walked as much as was allowed and made the most of our garden. Stefan’s life was very structured and predictable.

However, when we were allowed to explore again, Stefan’s perfectly structured world was ruined. He refused to get into the car and refused to go anywhere. He wanted his 100% predictable routine, his safety net, back. We had to start from scratch. It was very hard on all of us.

Inspiration came from an unlike place. I will be forever grateful to the parent of little Isaac, whose YouTube videos Stefan loved watching. The videos were about lifts in supermarkets, and a promise to visit the lifts was our best bribe to get Stefan out of the house again. Somehow, it worked.

As the world was slowly opening up and expanding again, we cautiously went exploring. We quickly discovered that Stefan’s body forgot how to walk on unknown, uneven ground, how to run up and down hill,s and how to climb. It was a petrifying discovery. Luckily, with more outdoor adventures, he quickly adapted and soon was back on track. But, we’ve learned our lesson and now know that he needs to experience different terrains and environments frequently to keep his skills alive.

Outdoor recommendations for autistic families

Every autistic child is unique. Each of them has its own set of differences and strengths. I understand that not every family might be able to use the outdoors to the extent we do. However, if you would like to try, below are some activities you and your child might enjoy.

Garden/backyard activities
- Bubbles
- Sidewalk chalk drawing, chalk paint or a water painting
- Trampoline jumping
- Sandpit play
- Walking barefoot around the garden
- Playing hide and seek
- Messy play with mud (add grass or flowers for a wow effect)
- Kicking and throwing a ball
- Scavenger hunt (adapted to child’s levels of understanding)
- Jumping in puddles
- Gardening
- Pulling/climbing a rope
- Pushing a wheelbarrow
- Building a musical wall
- Mud kitchen
- Hammock
Exploring the wider world
- Neighborhood walks – Little walks around your area should provide the safety of a known place and a bit of exercise. It can be easily adapted, changed, and expanded.
- Woodland walks – Walks in the nearby woodland or forest are also great sensory experiences. A lot happens in the woods with changing seasons.
- Visiting playgrounds – If your child finds them too noisy, our hack is to visit them early morning or late afternoon.
- Stream paddling – Good fun in the water, great physical activity, and good for balancing.
- Beach – Spending time at the beach is an amazing sensory experience: sifting sand through their fingers, walking barefoot, paddling in a sea, and being allowed carefree play would make many children happy.
- Nighttime walk – We love little trips around the neighborhood or to our local woods at night. Torches off, senses on. It’s a really fun way to explore the same place in a new way.
- Rock climbing – We found a beach where nobody goes with lots of rocks to climb and play on. It’s fun, good for balance, and improves body movement and strength.
- Camping – Our best holidays are camping holidays! If you are unsure how it will go, try camping in your back garden first.
- Horse riding – This can be a bit pricey, but there is a long list of benefits.
- Canoeing/kayaking – A great water activity that’s very physical and involved all the senses.
- Raft building – We are currently collecting milk bottles to build our own raft this summer.
- Cycling – It took us a long time to convince Stefan to pedal. First, he had a tricycle. After a few years on trike, Stefan learned how to use a bicycle, and it brings him a lot of joy.
- Geocaching – Real-life treasure hunting with your phone! This is an absolute hit with our family.
- Rolling down dunes/hills – Great physiotherapy and lots of fun!
- I-Spy books – These are themed and motivate kids to finding new things and pay more attention to their surroundings.
- Hiking – Great outdoor physical activity with tons of variety and options.
- Farm visits – Visiting a working farm is a great way to experience a new place. Our favourite is an ice cream farm.
- Forest bathing – A visit to a forest can do wonders. Some places have sculpture trails or children trails.
- Kite flying – Cheap and cheerful entertainment for hours.
- Bonfire – Gathering wood and having an open fire (if allowed in your area).
- Winter play – Sledding and having a snowball fight.
- Building a snowman – And, of course, drinking hot chocolate afterward.
- Crabbing – It’s amazing how much fun you can have with a piece of bacon and a crabbing net.
- Foraging – Finding berries is what my children love: blackberries, raspberries, and wild strawberries are easy to find and delicious.
- Orienteering – With a help of an adult, children can navigate a map and find checkpoints.
- Fishing – A great way to keep kids outside and entertained for hours.
Useful literature and websites
- I-Spy books
- What a Child Should do Before They are 11 and ¾
- 101 Things for Kids to do Outside by Dawn Isaac
- The Big Book of 100 Outdoor Activities by Laura Minter & Tia Williams
- Playing, Laughing, and Learning on the Autism Spectrum: A Practical Resource of Play Ideas for Parents and Carers by Julia Moor
- Calvert Trust, just to give you an idea that there are outdoor centres created specifically for people with additional needs
- You Can Have an Outdoor Adventure by Alex Gregory
- British Orienteering
Your local public library will also have a shelf with factual books for children, including literature that encourages nature and outdoor play. A trip to a local library could be an adventure in itself.

Taking autistic children outdoors

The natural world has plenty to offer to our autistic children. We hope that this article would inspire you to spend more time outdoors and find what makes your child happiest.

Are you and your autistic child exploring and having fun in nature?

About the author

Anna is a mum of two energetic boys and the wife of Cezary. Before they started a family, they enjoyed backpacking and hitchhiking. Once the kids arrived, they adjusted their lifestyle and settled down in the beautiful Lake District, in the northwest of England. It’s often foggy and rainy where they live, but, they are outdoors in any weather. Anna is an ultramarathon runner, and Cezary loves triathlons, so, the children grow up being involved in hiking, trail running, cycling, all-year-round wild water swimming, and camping. Stefan is 11 years old and has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Antek is a neurotypical 9-year-old. Anna believes in positive psychology, in creating good moments and capturing memories. She believes that being outdoors brings them together as a family and advocates for children with additional needs to be encouraged to explore and play outside. She trusts nature is a natural playground, enriches and stimulates the senses, and this is where she sees her children happiest.

You can find more from Anna in the following online location:
Instagram: @celebrating_my_boys_journey
All RWMC posts: Anna Stopinska-Lewucha

Month: May 2023

On being “not crafty”

Getting beyond the mess when crafting with kids

Benefits of crafting with kids

Tips for moms that hate crafting

Crafting nature critters

How to prepare for crafting nature critters with your kid(s)

Safety note

Why natural materials for crafting nature critters

What materials to collect for crafting nature critters

Nature art inspiration

Embrace the mess

More nature crafts (that you may not hate)

Do you enjoy crafting with kids? What sort of nature critters will you make?

About the author

Using nature as a tool

Teen mental health today

Factors affecting teen mental health

Screens

Traumatic experiences

Teen mental health and screens

Access to adult content

Social media

Social media can make teens less social

Social media shows teens what they’re missing

Teen expectations and exhaustion

A generational shift in stress

How nature plays a positive role in teen mental health

Sense of calmness

Confidence and self-esteem

Gratitude

Stress relief

Focus

Connection

How to use nature as a nurturer in the life of your teens

Keep it simple

Try new things outside

Let your teen lead the way

Encourage your teens to invite friends

The connection between teen mental health and nature

How do you help your teen get outside? Do you feel it helps?

About the author

Now is the time to create your summer bucket list

What’s a summer bucket list?

We are a bucket list family

How to make a summer bucket list together as a family

How to plan and research your summer bucket list activities

Gather inspiration

Seek local recommendations

Consider age, interests, and skill levels

Weather and seasonal considerations

Mix thrills and tranquility

Look for learning opportunities

Our bucket list planning process

Big summer adventures

Plan easily doable adventures

Map out some all-weather challenges

Engage in ongoing home-based activities

Curate some kid challenges

Support the spontaneous

Final notes on summers with kids

What will you include in your summer bucket list?

About the author

What is an “adventure friend”?

Where it started

Why spending time outside with friends is important

How can having adventure friends help get our kids outside?

Peer power

Getting out the door

Safety and supervision

Expand your horizons by trying new things

Socialization, teamwork & support

Tips on finding adventure friends

1. Participate in community events

2. Use social media and online communities as a tool

3. Organize your own events

Ways to be an adventure friend yourself

Extend the invitation

Be specific

Be responsible and helpful

Do you enjoy crafting with kids?
What sort of nature critters will you make?

How do you help your teen get outside?
Do you feel it helps?

Who are your adventure friends?
Where/how did you meet them?
What’s your next adventure?