WATER

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Dog Training Tips for Children

    Having a dog is a great way to get outside, stay active, and learn about loyalty and companionship. Training a dog for basic obedience and to play games can improve the relationship between a dog and a child. However, with everything that goes along with getting a puppy or an older dog, it’s hard to know where to start and what to do when it comes to training. Our Creative Team member and Illinois mom of two, Meghan Garriott, took her son along on a fun-filled morning with a dog training family. They learned some great tips and tricks and even found some unexpected benefits that came along with the training process. Read along to learn the best ways to get children involved in the dog training process. 

    Dog training tips for children

    A dog training family

    My son Emmett (5), and I spent a morning outside, learning all the ends and outs of dog training with the Houk family, Avery (5) and her parents, Justine and T.W.  The Houk’s run Round 2 Retrievers in Bethany, Illinois, where they train dogs for hunting, hunt testing, obedience, and puppy preschool. Avery spends most of her days, when not in school, outside training alongside her dad, or inside getting dogs socialized. Her confidence and control when handling the dogs can be recognized immediately and is amazing to watch. 

    Avery training dogs at 2 years old

    Setting up the training session

    Our morning started with setting up the training activities. The kids helped TW by bringing bumpers to the tree line, which was approximately 160 yards away. These bumpers are for the dogs find later in the training.  Bumpers are durable plastic dummies that the dogs can carry in their mouths. When training for hunting the bumpers are used in place of what the animal is trained to retrieve for the hunter (e.g. ducks and other birds).

    Setting up for dog training
    Setting up the field for training

    Taking to the training field

    The first dog to take to the training field was an advanced black lab named Stoger. We watched as Stoger was released from the sitting position by use of his name. With ease, Stoger was guided with hand signals and whistleblows to where the bumpers were.  

    T.W. signaled right or left with hand signals and called “back in” or “to attention” with whistleblows. Because of the uneven terrain, the dogs can’t see the bumpers until they are within a few feet of them. The dogs must rely on the hand signals and the whistle blows in order to get them to the right place to find the prize.

    TW giving hand signals to direct hunting dog
    T.W. gives hand signals to the dog

    Age of dog for training 

    We met a large variety of dog breeds and dogs of various ages while visiting Round 2 Retrievers. Some of these dogs were in various stages of hunt training, while others were there just for obedience training. T.W. says dogs can begin any type of training as young as 8 weeks. And while you can certainly teach an old dog new tricks, it is easier when you start with simple commands from a young age.  It is easier to train a dog to properly do tasks than to have to correct old habits first. 

    Petting a young dog with long lead
    T.W. rewards with praise and affection

    Puppy training 

    With puppies, it is helpful to get them used to a collar and a leash early on. This is a great task for children to get involved with from the beginning. One of the younger dogs we observed that was being trained wore a long rope leash. The leash was not used to direct the dog anywhere (verbal commands and hand signals were used for that). The leash was there so he could get used to it and as a safety precaution in case they needed to use it.

    T.W. says it is important for a puppy to be properly socialized and get them used to being touched in order to prevent future problems, especially around children. To do this, he suggests often touching their paws, opening their mouths to look at their teeth, rubbing their bellies, and lifting and checking their ears. This makes the dog more comfortable being touched by their owners, groomers, and veterinary staff in the future.

    Dog with long lead retrieves bumper in water
    Retrieving the bumper with long lead

    Beginner-level dog training

    The first commands to learn when beginning dog training are: “sit,” “here,” and “heel.” T.W. says that when dogs that come to them already knowing these commands, they’re way ahead and are much easier to progress than dogs starting from scratch. The best way to implement these commands is to have the dog sit before completing activities like going outside and before being given food.

    Training a black lab
    T.W. instructs Emmett

    Kids can help with dog training from the start 

    For children involved in the training process, sit, heel, and stay are easy words to say and can be done many times throughout the day.  Early commands teach the dog to be alert for commands. “Sit” can be easily carried out by gently pushing their bottom to the floor to show them what you mean when you say sit. Do this every time to reinforce the command/action connection until the dog does it automatically. These first commands should be given along with a hand signal. As the dog advances, the verbal command can be dropped, and just hand signals can be given (or vice versa depending on the circumstances).

    Yellow lab holds bumper in mouth
    Avery and Emmett begin their training

    Consistency is key

    T.W. notes that the amount of time training each day does not have to be great, especially in the beginning. Consistency is what matters most. A lot of time does not need to be spent giving or carrying out the commands, but they should be done frequently and in different situations for the dog to learn. Be sure to give the same word and hand signal every time so that dog is not confused and knows what to expect.

    Boy and girl with dog
    Emmett’s turn to train with Avery’s assistance

    Training techniques

    There are many different techniques used to train dogs: (1) positive reinforcement with rewards such as treats or affection, (2) e-training with an electrical shock collar to alert or discourage the dog, (3) attrition, which is a technique of repeating a command until the dog gets it right, while also actively preventing the wrong action. With this technique, you don’t punish wrong behavior; you merely prevent it. At Round 2 Retrievers, Avery and T.W. use a combination of these techniques. For younger dogs or dogs just beginning their training, attrition is mainly used along with rewarding with affection.

    Dog returns bumper to trainer
    Emmett and Avery use hand signals to tell Yeti where to return

    Children excel at affection 

    A child’s love and affection are the best rewards for most dogs. Children give this affection easily. This easy affection was clearly observed as Avery and Emmett interacted with the dogs, petting them, scratching their ears, and talking sweetly to them. Loyalty and the drive to please are some of the dogs’ greatest traits and they should be utilized and embraced when training. Likewise, the ease with which children give praise and their love of free play should also be embraced when going through the training process. 

    Boy with dog at his side, girl stands behind them
    Emmett trying by himself under Avery’s supervision

    Dog breeds

    When it comes to dog breeds, T.W. says most dog breeds can be trained to do most things. However, different breeds may have different motivators and may excel at particular activities. Active breeds, such as labs, retrievers, and shepherds like to move, play, and complete tasks. They are easily motivated with affection and praise for a job well done. More sedentary breeds (like Saint Bernards or bulldogs) may be more motivated by foot or treats.

    If addressing general obedience or training the family dog to play games, all breeds are equally appropriate. For higher-level training like hunting dogs, working dogs, or service dogs, there are preferred breeds to suit the needs of those roles. 

    Black lab races with bumper in mouth
    This black lab was fast and excited to be training

    Safety while training 

    It is important to remember (and remind children) that dogs are animals and not people. As lovable and cute as they are, they still have protective instincts, and there are measures that should be taken to ensure children are safe around the dogs and vice versa.

    T.W. says that most dog bite incidents happen around a dog’s kennel or around food. Be sure to educate children not to put their hands in a kennel, which is supposed to be a dog’s safe place. Children should also be instructed not to play or bother a dog while it is eating. When approaching a new dog or a dog that is not your own, do not approach them from behind, which may surprise them, and always ask the owner’s permission first before petting or approaching. 

    Releasing the dog to fetch
    Avery releases Yeti to fetch from the pond

    Dog training games for home

    After seeing the hunting dogs train, we went up to the house and met a 9-month-old golden retriever named Lola. Lola was at Round 2 Retrievers for obedience training, but T.W. and Avery had also taught her a fun trick of finding his keys. T.W. said he started with a metal washer. He would put the metal washer on the ground with a treat in the middle and release her to find it. Once she got good at that, he stopped putting the treat in the middle and just placed the washer on the ground for her to find.

    As she did well with that, he progressed her to keys. We watched as we were in the kitchen of the house, and T.W. threw his keys into the living room. He told Lola to find them, and off she went. She put her nose down on the keys till he came to retrieve them. This is an easy hide-and-seek game children can play with their dog at home. Plus, it can usefun as well when you need to leave and can’t find your keys!

    Yellow lab jumps into pond
    Yeti eagerly jumps into the pond

    Outdoor games for kids and dogs 

    Dogs and children alike love to be outdoors and play games. Training dogs to play active games is a great way for the whole family to spend enjoyable time outdoors with their pet. Playing fetch with balls and frisbees is one of the better-known and easiest games to play.

    Teaching the dog to drop the ball when commanded, or having the dog sit before giving a command to retrieve a thrown ball are ways to advance these games. Agility games, such as having dogs jump through hula hoops or over hurdles, can be great exercise and lots of fun for the dogs and kids. Hide and seek, as mentioned above, can also provide endless hours of fun. 

    Boy training yellow lab by pond
    Emmett releasing Yeti into the pond

    Unexpected confidence boost 

    Going to our training session, I thought I knew all the benefits of training and the process of training. The dog would be well-behaved (obviously), and playing outside with our dogs is something we could all do together. But as our session progressed, I became aware of another unexpected benefit. As Avery showed us how she took command of her dog Yeti, she was so confident in her commands. She had no trouble explaining to Emmett what to do and how to do it. She was calm and decisive and assured. 

    Emmett was at first very timid. We have dogs at home and Emmett wasn’t scared of the dogs. But he was lacking confidence in his ability to command Yeti and for Yeti to listen to him. With a quiet voice and his hands in his pockets, he started out very timidly.  After a few tries with Avery by his side, he soon realized that Yeti would release when he so much as whispered “Yeti” and she would bring that bumper right to his hand if he held it out.

    As the training progressed, his hands came out of his pockets. His voice grew louder and more confident. In just the short time we were there, not only did he learn a new skill, but his confidence in himself and his abilities grew tremendously. By the end of the morning, he was confidently throwing the bumper into the pond and was overjoyed to watch Yeti retrieve it. Seeing that confidence bloom in your child is a beautiful sight.

    Check out our full post on all the benefits of raising kids around pets and animals. 

    Boy and girl watch as dog comes out of pond with bumper
    Emmet confidently accepts the bumper from Yeti

    Benefits of training with children

    Having a well-trained and obedient dog has obvious benefits. The dog is better behaved, listens better, and will be safer around children and in other situations. The process of training may seem difficult and time-consuming at first, but the benefits are immense and last a lifetime. Plus, when the whole family is involved in training, it can help build relationships and improve communication skills with each other and with the dog.

    Training a dog takes consistency, patience, and grace. But, the relationship your family will build with your dog (and companion for many years) will be worth it. Plus, training your dog to play games can help get everyone outside and more active, improving the physical health of the entire family.  Just remember to start small and have fun!

    What will you and your dog start learning today?

    About the author

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

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

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    How to Pan for Gold with Kids

    All that glitters isn’t gold…but it might be! Have you ever been panning for gold? It’s easier than you might imagine to get started with this fun outdoor activity! Gold panning is a great way to get the entire family outside, spend time in nature, learn about history, and maybe even strike it rich! Today, we have Kat Hodgins, Canadian mom, and writer, here to share her experience panning for gold with kids. She’s got all the tips you need on how to pan for gold, what to pack, where to find gold, and how to make gold panning fun for kids.

    How to Go Panning for Gold With Kids

    Gold fever

    Gold fever, it’s catching—even long after the gold rush.

    We’re a family of west-coast Canadians who use gold panning as an excuse to get out and explore nature. It’s an activity that we love to do as a family. However, our baby is less than a year old, making her more of a spectator than a participant in gold panning. Taking her to the creek is short-lived and involves very little panning.

    We wanted to see how an older kid fared when it came to an afternoon of prospecting so we know what to expect in a few years. A weekend visiting family allowed us to borrow my nephew to see if he enjoyed an afternoon gold panning by the creek. We spent a weekend in the semi-desert climate of Kelowna, BC recently, which is where we took these photos.

    My husband, the gold prospector, found a few gold panning spots in Kelowna thanks to his network of gold panning enthusiasts. We drove through a residential neighborhood and parked the car in a small park. It doesn’t sound like there would be rustic nature nearby, but it can be found almost anywhere if you know where to look. A short hike down a dusty trail, through a wall of trees, we emerged creekside. This oasis didn’t seem like it belonged minutes away from houses and a bike park. Talk about a great surprise.

    how to get started gold panning with kids

    Why gold panning?

    Though the gold rush has long since passed, there’s still adventure out there when it comes to the thrill of the hunt for gold. Gold panning is a great history lesson for kids. It’s also a hands-on way for them to experience how prospectors back in the day found their riches. Panning is also a fun way to get kids outside and introduce them to a lifelong hobby. Before you go, do yourself a favor and learn a bit of gold rush history. This way you can share some tales with your kids while you’re out by the creek.

    My husband is a walking encyclopedia on the history of gold panning. He knows where to find gold, the best tricks for finding gold, how to read the land, what the rock formations tell you, and more (so, so, so much more). He kept a steady dialogue for my nephew who seemed to appreciate the facts and tidbits about a foregone era.

    tips for panning for gold with kidswhat you need to go panning for gold

    How to dress for gold panning

    You don’t need any special attire for panning for gold with kids, which is a great perk of the hobby. Everything your kid needs, they likely have in their closet. A simple t-shirt (or a sun shirt) and shorts are all they need to wear. In an ideal world, they’re in a wide-brimmed hat and rain boots (or water shoes), but a baseball hat and some sneakers will do if you don’t mind them getting wet. If it’s sunny, don’t forget the sunscreen.

    Where to go panning for gold

    Things to bring gold panning

    If you’re just starting out, all you really need to go panning for gold with kids is a pan and a shovel. Since my husband has become a full-blown prospector, we have all the additional gear: buckets, a pickaxe, gold vials, snuffer bottles, and various other gold panning paraphernalia (most of which I have no idea how to use). You don’t need all this stuff, especially if you’re new to the gold pan game.

    A few other things you may want to bring:

    • Water
    • Snacks/lunch
    • Towel
    • Sunglasses
    • Beach toys
    • Shade cover for little ones
    • Sunscreen (make sure you apply it and reapply it—especially if you’ve borrowed your nephew for the day)
    • Bear spray (in certain areas—but make sure you keep it out of reach of children!)
    • A change of clothes in case you get wet
    • A pair of dry (or more comfortable) shoes

    how to make panning for gold fun for kidsHow to make panning for gold fun for kids

    Where do you get a gold pan?

    Some families may have a gold pan kicking around somewhere. Ask your parents, grandparents, extended family, or friends if they have one. You can also probably find a used one pretty cheap. If all else fails, a new pan from an outdoor shop will cost you less than $20.

    We bought my gemstone-loving nephew a brand-new pan, vial, and snuffer bottle from a prospector hobbyist store. If you go this route, you should know that brand-new pans have oils on their surface to keep the pans from sticking together. You need to get rid of this oil so the pan surface isn’t so smooth. That will help it catch the gold better. My nephew’s first task with his gold pan was to scratch it up as much as possible using a bunch of dry dirt and rocks. He had a great time ridding the pan of its pristine appearance.

    How to pan for gold with kidssafety concerns when panning for gold with kids

    Safety, safety, safety

    Panning for gold with kids is a safe activity, but it is near streams and water safety should always be taken into account. Even if your kid is an amazing swimmer, creeks and rivers have currents that bring some very serious concerns, especially during flooding season. If the water is rushing too fast for comfort, put your child in a lifejacket and find the calmest and most shallow areas. If you can’t find a safe place, save gold panning for another day or another creek. Scope out a location before bringing your wee ones out for a day of gold panning, if possible, so you are comfortable with the terrain and know what to expect.

    We were fortunate that the area we were in had some pools of water in areas of the dry creek bed, giving us peace of mind. To further punctuate the safety of our location, another family with two youngsters under five came out so their kids could swim in the creek. As an extra safety measure, we always give a family member our location and an estimated time to be home.

    how to find locations to pan for gold

    Where can you pan for gold?

    Let’s talk gold claims for a moment. A claim is a permit that grants you the use of a specific piece of land that you’re legally allowed to pan for gold and other minerals. Recreational gold panners don’t need their own claim, but you do need to make sure you’re not panning on another person’s claim (in the old days, they’d shoot you for this!).

    As awesome as it would be to grab a pan and head to any creek, there are some rules about where you’re legally allowed to pan for gold. These rules vary, depending on where you live. Do a quick search online to find places that may be designated areas for recreational gold panning. In Canada, you can also pan on Crown land without claims. Likewise, in the US, you can pan on Bureau of Land Management land without claims.

    age of kids when panning for gold

    How old should kids be to pan for gold?

    Panning for gold with kids can be done at any age, but there are definitely perks for panning with older kids. My nephew is almost eight. He was really interested in gold panning for about twenty minutes. After that, his patience waned because of the lack of instant/exciting results. Keep in mind, this is only one boy and we could have brought him out to the creek on a low-energy day. As far as age goes, it really depends on the kids. Patient or older children will be able to pan for longer periods. Younger kids, or children who can’t sit still for long periods, may need other activities to keep them busy.

    If you’re bringing an infant along, gold panning needs to be done in shifts so somebody can keep the little one busy. The great outdoors is always a fun place, but with gold panning, safety at the creek comes first. Our baby doesn’t get much out of gold panning itself, but she loves to watch the movement of the water. We dipped her toes in a pool of water and let her touch the rocks and trees around us. Gold panning is something that she’ll grow into with time, but right now she’s just there to watch.

    A quick overview of how to pan for gold

    Panning for gold is pretty simple, but it does require patience. Here are a few more tips to walk you through the gold panning process, start to finish.

    1. Pick the right location – Ideally, you’ll find yourself in a place with gold rush history. Known gold producing areas increase the chances of finding gold (which greatly increases the thrill factor)
    2. Make sure you have the right gear – If you have your pan and a small shovel, you’re in fine form for some panning. If you want to bring a small container with a lid to put your gold into, or tweezers to pick up the gold from your pan, bring those along too.
    3. Find the best places to dig – Choose a gravel bar with cobbles instead of sandy areas (gold doesn’t settle in light material, like sand). The areas where you’ll have the most luck are on the inside curve of a river bend or on the downstream side of a boulder (gold tends to settle behind these boulders).
    4. Fill up your pan with gravel – Don’t be stingy, scoop in as much material as you can hold comfortably. Kids will take much less material in their pans.
    5. Submerge, stir, and shake the pan – Put the entire pan of rock material underwater. Pick off the large stones and shake the pan side-to-side vigorously. Use your hands to stir the material and help the heavy gold sink to the bottom of your pan.
    6. Wash off lighter rocks – Lift your pan hallway out of the water and angle it forward (tip it away from you). Moving the pan back and forth will wash off the lighter rocks.
    7. Find gold (hopefully) – As you get to the bottom of the pan, you might see some black sand—this is a good sign! This is heavy iron material that indicates that you might be in a gold-bearing area. When you’re down to about two tablespoons of material, angle the pan forward again and shake it side-to-side. Add a cup of water to your pan to help spread the remaining material. Slowly swirl the water. If there’s gold, it’ll stay put, while other material will move around. Use a keen eye because gold pieces can be quite small!
    8. Remove gold from the pan – Lucky or seasoned prospectors may find gold pieces big enough that they’re able to pick it up by pinching with their fingers. The more likely scenario is that you’ll find gold specks, which you can pick up with tweezers, or press on with the end of your fingertip to make it stick to your skin. If you brought a small container along, carefully put the gold inside and seal it with the lid so you don’t lose it.

    Panning for Gold with Kids F

    Can you actually find gold?

    Absolutely! You can find real gold. Don’t expect to find giant nuggets, though. If you choose the right places, you’ll find specks and flecks of gold in your pan. Don’t be discouraged by small specks of gold. Finding gold in any quantity these days is an amazing feat! You can suck these small specks up in a snuffer bottle and slowly add to your gold collection every time you go out. Over time, it adds up!

    Keep your eyes open for other great rocks and minerals. You don’t just find gold on these adventures; if you look in your pan, you might find garnets (which are similar to rubies), iron pyrite (fool’s gold), white quartz, and gemstones. These other types of minerals vary depending on your climate and location.

    If you’re wondering about the difference between gold and fool’s gold, take a look at the color. If the material only sparkles in the sun, it’s iron pyrite. Real gold retains its bright luster even in the shade (although, it’s not sparkly like in cartoons!).

    Do you actually find gold when you go panning for gold?

    Do kids like panning for gold?

    Panning for gold with kids involves digging, playing in the dirt and rocks, and getting wet. Therefore, it’s a great activity for kids. However, kids have shorter windows of interest than adults. My nephew took to it for a while, but what he was really fond of what Prospector Dan’s pickaxe because it reminded him of one of the tools he uses in a video game. His interest in gold panning came and went throughout the few hours we were out by the creek, so make sure to plan for other activities to break up the afternoon and keep the kids engaged.

    Panning for gold with little kidscreekside activities for kids

    Other creek-side activities

    Unless you have older children with the patience for gold panning, I would suggest merely planning for a day at the creek. This sets you up for fun, rather than expecting to spend the entire afternoon gold panning. Kids are only interested for so long before they want to do something else. Don’t allow them to get bored with gold panning by doing something else for a bit. Come back to gold panning later, after doing another activity. We suggest building a cairn, swimming (if it’s safe to do so), geocaching, racing sticks down the water, skipping stones, exploring the area, and playing in the sand.

    Tips to get your kids more involved in gold panning

    My nephew liked gold panning a lot more when we involved him rather than just telling him what to do. Some things you can do to get them more involved are:

    • My husband taught my nephew how to gold pan and then my nephew “taught” me.
    • Get them to pick the spots where you dig.
    • Bring along some painted rocks that you slip into the dirt in their gold pan. The size will be far more gratifying to them to find in their pan than small specks of gold.

    Congratulations! You’re now a beginner prospector (and you didn’t even need to grow a mustache!). Hopefully, your kids enjoy learning something new while they play outside—and start a little gold collection along the way.

    Have you ever tried to pan for gold?

    About the author

    Hey, I’m Kat Hodgins, a fun-loving Canadian who doesn’t say “eh”. I’m mom to a baby daughter, wife to a fantastic husband, and lover of the great outdoors. My husband and I have spent a great portion of our relationship outside, and that love of nature has become our business, The Sassy Plant. I’ve been a writer for over a decade, working with a variety of companies on a spectrum of topics from boating to health to building your own outhouse (honestly). I’ve been published by print magazines, online sites, and a micropress. I recently wrote a YA novel that is currently being queried for publication.

    You can find more about Kat in the following locations:
    Instagram: @houseofhodgins and @thesassyplant
    Facebook: @itsthesassyplant
    Website: houseofhodgins.com and TheSassyPlant.com

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Packing Tips for a Day at the Beach with Kids

    Spending a day at the beach with family is an incredibly fun and enjoyable outdoor activity. However, packing for a beach trip with kids is no easy feat. If you tend to get overwhelmed with how much one family needs for a day at the beach, this post is for you! Today, we have Annie Hamilton, Daytona photographer and mom of four, here sharing her beach packing tips and what you really need to bring to have an enjoyable day at the beach! We’ve even included a printable beach checklist for families with kids to make sure you’ve packed everything you need! 

    Day at the Beach Packing Tips

    Professional beach-goer

    It’s no secret, our family loves the beach! With all the trips we have taken, I would venture to say we are almost “beach pros.” Is that a job? I can’t think of a better way to spend the day with the family; our beach trips have led to so many great memories. I’m a firm believer that the more time you spend outside, the happier you are. However, sometimes just thinking about packing the kids up and heading to the beach is enough to give anyone anxiety. Beach trips require some planning and gear, but it doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are a few of our best packing tips and tricks for having a relaxing and stress-free beach day with your family!

    Family beach trip - beach packing trips for large families

    Set the tone

    For me, the beach is like Disney – it’s the happiest place on earth! Remember, as the parent, you set the tone for your family on each adventure you undertake. If you’re stressed and cranky, the whole family will be. And there’s nothing worse than bad attitudes in the sweltering sun. So, good attitudes are paramount! If you’re relaxed and having fun, your kids will be, too. 

    Lighten your load

    We currently live only 14 minutes from the ocean, so our beach commute is much shorter than others. However, we didn’t always live so close to the beach. We used to have to drive much longer to get there. And with any family of 6, even packing for a short trip can be a ton of work. With so many people to think about and so much to pack, even short trips can feel like a big event. 

    Packing light will help with the stress-level and help you get out of the door quicker. This is especially true for a family of six, because no one ever wants to carry a million toys (dad usually turns into SuperDad; carrying it all). Our best advice is to only take the essentials (you might be surprised how little you really need) and load up the night before. This helps to make an easier trip out and avoids the initial bad attitudes and feelings of frustration and overwhelm. 

    what to pack for a beach trip with kids - beach packing tips

    Avoid peak hours

    I’m a lover of light, as well as the ocean…so I usually plan our trips around the best times for lighting. This means you’ll hardly ever find us at the beach in the harsh sun in the middle of the day. Sunset is definitely our favorite time of day at the beach. We like to go a few hours before sunset to watch the kids play on their boogie boards into the evening while the sun goes down. This also means we avoid the crowds during the day and the hottest hours. 

    Best time of day to go to the beach with kids

    Don’t forget the sunscreen

    The most important essential for a good day at the beach is sunscreen. No matter the weather, it’s always important to protect your skin from the intense rays and burn. It’s a common misconception that you can’t get sunburned when it’s overcast or cloudy. In fact, on those days you can get more sunburnt because up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches us. If you’re swimming in the ocean, I highly recommend you use a reef-safe sunscreen that protects both your kids and the environment. We’ve got a great list of the best reef-safe sunscreens for kids. 

    Next, let’s talk about sunscreen application. I don’t know about you, but I can’t stand touching sunscreen! It usually leaves my hands feeling oily and gross. The sand sticks and it takes forever to get off. So, for a great beach hack, I like to bring along a makeup sponge and use that to apply the sunscreen to my kids. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours before or after swimming.

    What to bring to the beach with kids - beach packing tips

    Other beach essentials

    Bring a beach towel for everyone and pack an extra. A bad setup could have your towels soaking up the surf!

    Pack plenty of water and snacks. If we are going to spend the whole day at the beach, I like to make sure the kids have enough water bottles to stay hydrated. I pack a small cooler with ice for water, fruits and sandwiches. I like to pack individual snacks or even Lunchables. Grapes are great because you can freeze them and put them on the ice. Avoid sugary drinks when in the heat because it dehydrates them. Waters (and possibly Gatorade) is the best choice. We freeze bottles of water and place them in the cooler to keep the rest of the food cold and drink them as they melt.

    Accidents happen, so pack a small First-Aid kit with bandages, Neosporin, and alcohol swabs. Baby wipes are also good to have handy, especially when sand or sunscreen gets in someone’s eyes or face. They make it much easier to help wipe it away. Here’s exactly what should be in your first aid kit for kids. 

    Oh! and don’t forget a big blanket for everyone to lay on. We never really fussed with the pop-up tents ourselves, but some people do like them for added sun protection if you’re on the beach during peak sun hours or have really small kids that need breaks from the sun.

    Beach packing tips - family beach time

    Sand toys for the win

    Our kids are little fishies and spend the majority of their time in the water. They don’t need a lot of toys to keep them entertained or occupied. But when the sun starts going down, they always settle in the sand and start building sandcastles. Watching the sun go down as my kids make sandcastles will forever be my favorite memories. For us, sand/beach toys are essential. Luckily, they’re usually very inexpensive and light enough not to weigh us down when packing them.

    Make sure to pack a shovel and pale with a few sand castle shapers. Shapers are fun if you have them, but the kids can do a lot with just a shovel and pale…trust me. If you want to get serious about sandcastles, check out our post on expert sandcastle building tips. 

    boogie boards for kids and other beach toys

    Boogie boards & beyond

    My kids enjoy boogie boarding. They can spend hours floating in the ocean or riding the waves on their boards. If your kids are 3 and up, adventurous, and love the water, then I highly recommend getting one. They will go out there and ride the waves for hours! You can pick them up at any store and beach towns usually carry them as well. Here’s a great post on everything you need to know to get started boogie boarding with kids. 

    Don’t forget a frisbee or a ball to toss around. A quick tip is to bring a mesh laundry bag to put the beach toys in. This helps to rinse them off, reducing the amount of sand that comes home.

    what to take to the beach for kids to play with

    What to wear to the beach?

    We always head to the beach already dressed in our swimsuits. We find it much easier to get dressed before leaving the house so we’re ready to go when we get there. For my boys, they wear bathing suit shorts with rash guards. My girls, if it’s mid-day or a long day at the beach, tend to wear long-sleeve rash guard-type swimsuit. Rashguards give skin extra protection from the sun, which also means less area you have to cover with sunscreen. Even with a rashguard, make sure to reapply the sunscreen every few hours. I have noticed over the years that while my kids are busy building in the sand, their backs, back of neck and the back of their legs tend to get the most sun.

    My kids would never keep a hat on but if your kids will it doesn’t hurt to bring one to protect from the sun. We used to spend money on swim shoes but after a while we learned they weren’t necessary unless you’re going to a beach with lots of rocks or sharp shells. 

    tips for packing for a day at the beach with kids

    Optional non-essential beach items

    Here are a few extra things I like to bring to the beach that help make the trip smoother.

    • Net – If your kids are into seashells, bring a net. You can find these cheap in the beach toy section at most stores or in the fishing section. My youngest is a novelist seashell collector. While everyone else is in the water, you can find her on the shore shifting through seashells. She has found some pretty amazing and beautiful shells….and even fish!
    • Vinyl bag – These are great to throw the wet bathing suits and towels into. They won’t get everything else in the car wet on the way home and keep the sand from getting everywhere.
    • Tunes – We love music, so we bring along a little Sony Bluetooth speaker.
    • Baby powder – Yes, baby powder works great to help you get all the sand off your skin. Once you’ve dried off, sprinkle it over your feet and legs. The sand just wipes right off and your skin is smooth. My kids absolutely love that trick!

    stress-free packing for a day at the beach

    Don’t forget a camera!

    If you’re like me and you like to capture the memories, I highly suggest a GoPro. They are exceptional at capturing photos mid-day in bright sunlight. They also have so many accessories that make them safe to shoot near sand and water. I personally love the dome because were pretty much always around water and it allows me to take photos over and under the water at the same time. Plus, the GoPro is so small and super easy to pack along with you!

    gopro beach photo

    Beach packing list for families with kids

    Beach day packing tips

    So, there you have it! Everything you need to pack for a successful and stress-free day at the beach with kids! Do you feel more prepared now? We certainly hope that after reading this you’ve picked a new tip or two! Now, get your packing list ready and head to the beach! Enjoy the sun and make those memories with your family!

    About the author

    Annie is a wife to a USMC veteran and mother of 4 adventurous kids (2 boys then 2 girls) based in Daytona, Florida. Her family’s love for traveling and adventure comes from moving around in the military and they believe home is where the heart is. Annie’s Ecuadorian and I’m fluent in Spanish. Her love for photography comes from growing up in the movie industry, on the set of shows like Miami Vice and Bad Boys 2. Now she enjoys capturing her children making memories, exploring, and adventuring as a family. As a South Florida native, she’s a beach connoisseur and you can usually find her family at the beach. Annie and her husband are big fans of creating joy and magic with their kids. The oldest son loves to breakdance, the middle son is getting into surfing, the middle daughter takes horseback riding lessons, and the youngest is in ballet. The oldest three also play baseball. Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment in this family!

    You can find more from Annie in the following locations:
    Instagram: @copperstops
    Facebook: Emerald Grace Photography
    Website: http://www.emeraldgracephotography.com

  • BIKE, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Exploring the Outdoors with Medically-Complex Children

    Exploring the outdoors with a medically-complex child can seem overwhelmingly hard and scary. There are so many considerations to take into account concerning the health and safety of your kid. However, getting outside and into nature has been proven time and again to help both children and adults lead happier and healthier lives. The benefits of nature are immense and while it’s never easy to get outside and explore with a medically-complex child, it’s almost always worth it. Today, we have Creative Team member Meghan Garriott, Illinois mom of two, here sharing her story of how their family gets outside with a medically-complex child and how nature has been beneficial for the whole family. 

    Exploring the outdoors with medically-complex children

    Difficulties of caring for medically complex kids

    Caring for a medically complex child can be stressful and isolating. Parents and caregivers often experience intense emotional stress as they navigate their child’s medical condition. Witnessing a child’s pain, discomfort, or limitations can be emotionally draining. Medical care for complex conditions can be physically demanding. Administering medications, managing medical equipment, and assisting with activities of daily living can take a toll on caregivers’ physical well-being. It also requires a significant time commitment. Frequent doctor appointments, therapies, and hospital stays can disrupt daily routines and limit caregivers’ availability for other responsibilities. Plus, the costs associated with medical care, treatments, therapies, and specialized equipment can place a significant financial burden on families. 

    However, despite these challenges, caregivers of medically complex children also exhibit immense resilience, dedication, and love. Seeking out support networks, accessing respite care, prioritizing self-care, and spending time outside are important strategies to help caregivers cope with the difficulties they face.

    The benefits of getting outdoors

    The benefits of getting kids outside have been well documented, and the same applies to medically-complex kids. Fresh air, natural light, and physical activity can help enhance their overall well-being, strengthen muscles, and boost immune function. Being in nature can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which is especially important for children dealing with medical challenges.

    Medically-complex children often have limited social interactions due to their conditions. Outdoor activities can provide a platform for them to interact with family members and other children, improving their social skills and emotional well-being.

    Nature also provides a rich sensory environment that can be particularly valuable for children with medical complexities. Different textures, sounds, smells, and sights in the outdoors can help stimulate their senses and promote cognitive development. Medically-complex children can engage in various activities that stimulate their curiosity and cognitive abilities. They can learn about plants, animals, geography, and more, fostering intellectual growth.

    Benefits for the entire family

    Exploring the outdoors with medically-complex children is not only beneficial to the child but for the whole family. As a family, getting outside can help to reduce stress and increase physical activity for the whole family without a financial burden. Caring for a medically-complex child can be emotionally taxing. Spending time outdoors offers a reprieve from stress and caregiving responsibilities, allowing family members to recharge and rejuvenate.

    Engaging in outdoor activities can promote a positive outlook on life. It’s a way to focus on what the child can do rather than their medical challenges, fostering a sense of optimism within the family. Outdoor activities provide quality family time away from the distractions of daily life. And sharing outdoor experiences creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds.

    Learning how to get outside with a medically-complex child

    Learning when and how to introduce children to the natural world can be daunting. Understanding your limits as a caregiver and your child’s limits may be a slow process, but it will be well worth it. Understanding your own limits as a caregiver involves acknowledging your capabilities and resources.

    No matter what you’re doing, it’s essential to prioritize safety at all times. Medically complex children may have specific medical needs or mobility challenges that need to be taken into account when exploring the outdoors. By recognizing your own limitations and seeking guidance when necessary, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared to handle any situation that might arise. 

    Every child is unique, and medically complex children often have varying levels of tolerance for different outdoor experiences. By taking the time to understand your child’s limits, you can tailor outdoor activities to match their comfort and abilities. This might involve starting with short and simple outings and gradually increasing the duration and complexity as your child becomes more accustomed to the natural world.

    Introducing your child to the natural world doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. It’s a slow process that involves gradually exposing your child to different outdoor environments and activities. This allows them to adapt to new sensory experiences, sounds, and textures at a pace that feels comfortable for them. Here are some fun activities and tips my family has found throughout our journey with rare disease,  bone marrow transplant, and isolation.

    Get started in the backyard

    Getting started adventuring outdoors with medically-complex children can be the hardest part. Where do you even begin and how do you know if it’s safe? There are a lot of precautions to take when exploring outdoors with medically-complex children, but the good news is that you don’t have to go far to enjoy some good quality outdoor time. Your own backyard is a great place to start while staying within your comfort zone. This is a great place to start that allows you the safety of home, combined with fresh air and sunshine. 

    Start a garden

    One of our favorite backyard activities is gardening. Planting and weeding a garden is a simple and wonderful way for children to get outside and learn. Growing their own food, and being proud of their harvest, may help with picky eaters or those with food aversions to be more open to trying new things. As long as the dirt stays out of cuts or sores, it’s perfectly safe for kids to handle. You can use gloves, waterproof bandages or Tegaderm to help keep out dirt and germs when handling dirt. Letting kids pick out their own gardening gloves can get them excited for the job while also teaching them about safety.

    Backyard fun

    If the maintenance of a garden is too much for your little one, consider going outside each morning to stretch or do some yoga. Sit in the backyard on a blanket and read or listen to music. Watch the clouds drift by or have a picnic. These are simple ways to fit in that backyard outdoor time and get kids comfortable with nature in a safe environment. 

    Exploring the outdoors with medically-complex children - backyard gardening

    Outdoors in your community 

    Exploring the outdoors with medically-complex children doesn’t mean you have to go deep into the woods or to exotic locations. If you are ready to get out and away from the house, but aren’t sure how to safely start, consider local parks.

    Many community parks offer safe activities that don’t involve coming into contact with people. Going to the park at non-peak hours of the day will also help. Non-peak hours may differ depending on the time of year and where you live, so you may have to do a bit of research on this (or trial and error). 

    Explore local parks and trails

    Most community parks have paved or gravel paths for walking or bike riding. Bike riding is a fun way for the whole family to get out and be active. If a child isn’t physically able to ride a typical bike, that’s not a problem!

    Try asking a physical therapist or occupational therapist about adaptations that can be made to a bike to allow your child to ride. Enclosed bike trailers are also a good option for kids that can’t ride themselves or for longer/harder rides. This way they can still sit and enjoy the ride and nature all around them. Don’t forget the helmets no matter which option you choose. 

    Child on red bike wearing helmet on an autumn leave covered trail

    Searching for wildlife 

    Observing wildlife is a great way to help your medically-complex child explore the outdoors get your kids interested in nature. When you’re outside, bring along a pair of binoculars and a journal for birdwatching and wildlife sighting. Have your children write down or draw a picture of the different birds that they see. Pick up field guides to help you identify birds, bugs and other local wildlife. For younger kids, turn this into a game to keep their attention and interest.

    Some community parks have small ponds that are really fun for kids to explore and find wildlife. These ponds are great for searching for minnows, fish, tadpoles, frogs, and toads. There are also usually interesting birds and bugs around water. Remind your child to look but don’t touch and keep a safe distance from the water, if they can/shouldn’t swim or get wet. 

    Exploring outdoor ponds and nature with medically-complex children

    Hiking with medically-complex kids

    Hiking is one of our family’s favorite outdoor activities. Hiking with medically-complex kids involves a little more planning than the previously-mentioned activities, but it’s worth it. Many state and national parks have handicap-accessible trails that are great for medically-complex children. Check out this helpful like for info on national parks accessibility.

    Paved paths make it easier to avoid bugs and poisonous plants. Knowing the types of trails that are available and their length is important when choosing a hike. Make sure to set realistic goals for both you and your child. Start on short flat paved (easy) trails to get a feel for how fast you can do them. Work up from there.

    When preparing for the hike, long pants or socks are a must. A long sleeve shirt is also a good option if the temperature allows. While these items are good for kids in general, they’re especially important for medically complex children. Skin is the first defense against infection. You’ll want to protect your child’s skin from being cut by twigs or stones, getting bug bites or touched by poisonous leaves.

    You’ll also want to avoid the crowds and the hottest time of day when hiking. Usually, the best time to go hiking while avoiding contact with others is in the early morning. After your hike, be sure to check for ticks, bites, scrapes, cuts and rashes. Treat immediately, if necessary. 

    Hiking outdoors with medically-complex children

    Water activities 

    Water activities such as swimming, boating, and water sports can be a lot of fun for medically-complex kids when done safely, with certain precautions taken. However, lines like ports, central lines, and feeding tubes can make water activities more difficult.

    When my son had his Broviac line, we used aqua guard for a while but found that Press ‘N Seal worked the best for keeping water away from his line. We simply wrapped it around the end, then wrapped it around his chest where the line entered him. Now we use Tegaderm to cover infusion sites and small abrasions to keep dirty water from causing infections.

    Unfortunately, lakes and rivers aren’t always the cleanest or safest for medically-complex kids. You’ll want to be cleared by your doctor before participating in any water activities, just to be on the safe side.

    Baby splashing in water with AquaGuard covering Broviac line

    Talk to your doctor about new things

    Don’t be scared to ask your doctor if you can try new things outdoors with a medically-complex child. I assumed that swimming in a lake would be a hard NO for my son after his bone marrow transplant. I asked his doctor if he would be allowed to swim and surprisingly (at two years post-transplant), his doctor said YES!

    He was allowed to swim in the lake as long as he understood the importance of not drinking the water. We definitely talked to him about this and stressed the importance. Now, swimming in the lake is one of my son’s favorite activities and it keeps him very active! I’m so glad we asked about it! 

    Little boy in life jacket and rash guard swimming in lake

    Sprinklers and splash pads

    Sprinklers and splash pads are other fun places to visit to enjoy some water fun. Most splash pads are handicapped accessible or have accessible activities. As with other activities try to go at non-peak times to avoid crowds and the high heat of the day. Also, try calling the park to see if they allow private rentals or have certain dedicated hours for disabled or medically-complex kids.

    If you don’t have access to a splash pad, you can turn on the sprinkler in your yard and let the kids run and play with the water. Sometimes, something as simple as a sprinkler will bring your kids hours of fun and enjoyment!

    Boy surrounded by water sprinkler droplets

    Activities around water (but not in it)

    Exploring the outdoors with medically-complex children doesn’t mean you have to get wet and dirty. There are so many activities that can be done around water without jumping in. Fishing is a fun activity that can be great for kids of all ages. Depending on where you live, fishing can be done all year round in any number of locations. You can fish off a boat, the bank, or a dock. Some places require a fishing license for adults but most do not for kids.

    Birdwatching and rock skipping are also fun active activities to consider if you are near the water. When visiting the ocean/beach, don’t let the sand slow you down. There are all-terrain stabilizer tips that can be placed on the ends of walkers, crutches, and canes to make walking on sand easier. You can find these at most medical equipment stores or even Amazon. There are also places that will allow you to rent wheelchairs that go on sand!

    Little boy fishing off dock with floatation device on

    What to bring when adventuring with a medically-complex child

    Before setting out on your adventure outdoors with medically-complex children, make a list of all the things you need to bring the night before your outing. Medically-complex kids can need quite a few things that aren’t on your typical outdoor adventure list. On the day of, make sure you check everything off that list. If you will be bringing medicine, injections, or feeds, try to have them pre-portioned and ready to administer. This way, it can be done easily while you were out and about.

    Bring a cooler. Not only for water but so that you can keep medicines in there too. Diaper bags that have built-in coolers or insulated bags work best for us. Set your alarms so you don’t miss a medication time. When you are out and about, time seems to move differently than when you are at home on your own schedule. Set alarms to remind you when to give medicines or feeds.

    Lastly, bring some extras of everything –  extra bandages, extra Tegaderm, extra socks, extra clothes, extra snacks. Whatever you may need, having extra is a great way to ensure peace of mind for parents and makes your outing more enjoyable when you’re not stressed about time or not having everything you need. 

    Two Tegaderm dressings

    Climate-controlled learning about nature 

    If you are interested in teaching your child about nature but aren’t ready to go out in it, there are still options. Give your local conservation office or nature preserve area a call. Most of these offices will allow you to have a private tour when you explain your individual circumstances. Both of our local conservation offices have large bird-viewing windows. These are great because they allow you to sit inside in a controlled environment and still enjoy nature and wildlife.

    A lot of small local nature centers also have injured or rehabilitating animals that they use for demonstration and teaching. These animals can include birds, turtles, lizards, snakes, and small mammals. Many nature centers will bring these out so that kids can see wildlife up close in a safe environment. Permanently disabled or rehabilitating animals are also a great way to teach children about their own disabilities and how to adapt and thrive.  

    Child at Macon county conservation area nature center

    Gettting outside helps the entire family 

    Having a medically-complex child with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or rare disease can be stressful. Isolation from people for health reasons doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Sometimes, it just takes a little extra planning, some accommodation (and compromise), and some practice to keep the fun going.

    Getting outdoors and enjoying nature has been proven to decrease stress, increase happiness, and improve children’s development. Outdoor adventures can teach children not to put limits on themselves or their abilities.

    Exploring the outdoors is not only safe, but it’s a great way for the whole family to learn and grow together. 

    How do you explore the outdoors with a medically-complex child?

    About the author

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

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

  • BEACH, BIKE, CRAFTS, GARDENING, GOOD FOR NATURE, HIKE, HOLIDAYS, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, WATER

    15+ Activities to Celebrate Earth Day with Kids

    Earth Day is next week and the world needs you and your actions! There are so many things parents and kids can do to help protect, preserve and restore our planet – from cleaning up, to recycling, composting, planting a garden or just enjoying the beauty of nature! Today, we have Chelsea Furlong (professional photographer and eco-conscious mom of 2) here with 15+ eco-friendly activities kids and families can do together to celebrate Earth Day. And bonus that all these activities can be done at or around the home, while socially distancing.

    kid friendly Earth Day activities


    15+ Earth Day Activities With Kids

    Earth Day 2020

    April 22, 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! The first Earth Day was April 22, 1970. On that historical day, 20 million Americans filled the streets with protests to stop the destruction of our precious planet. This essentially started what became the planet’s largest civic event and an environmental movement. Since then, Earth Day has been celebrated annually worldwide on the 22nd day of April.

    While this year is a bit of an anomaly and we’ll have to celebrate at (or close to) home and away from others (no marches or protests this year), there’s no reason why this can’t be the best Earth Day celebration ever! Use this as a way to avoid shopping/purchasing anything new (especially plastics) and use what you’ve already got on hand in new ways. Get creative and make the most out of the things you already own or can find in nature close to home.

    Celebrating Earth Day with kids

    Getting kids involved in taking care of the planet when they’re young encourages them to continue the tradition as they get older. It’s a parent’s job to teach kids to be good stewards of the earth encourages them to love and respect their planet and nature. There are so many amazing ways you can celebrate this day with your kids and family while being conscious of your carbon footprint. Here are some of my favorites!

    1. Nature scavenger hunt

    Make a list of things found in nature around your home, neighborhood or a local park. Then go out for a walk or hike with the family and see how many items you can find. In order to save paper, you could make the list on your phone or a reusable dry erase board or reusable writing board. We love our Boogie Board writing tablets for things like this! 

    Earth Day activities with kids

    2. Neighborhood clean up

    Grab some gloves and garbage bags and beautify your neighborhood by removing all the trash humans have tossed around. My kids actually love doing this because they almost always find treasures they want to clean up and keep. Our oldest son keeps a whole lot of other people’s discarded items to use in creating art and sculptures, and we don’t mind one bit! We get to enjoy his creative mind while giving the trash a second life before it’s tossed into a landfill for decades, centuries, or possibly forever.

    Earth Day clean up with kids

    3. Family bike ride

    Going on a family bike ride is a great way to get the family outside enjoying what Mother Earth has to offer while being active and adventurous! Head to your favorite bike trail or try a new one. You can enjoy your town or city without polluting the air and you’ll feel so great afterward!

    4. Get out on the water

    Spend the day observing nature from the water. Instead of using something motorized, try a kayak, rowboat, stand-up paddleboard, or other pollution-free water vehicle.

    Earth Day activities with kids

    5. Make a bird feeder

    There are TONS of ways to DIY a bird feeder using recycled materials. We made bird feeders using recycled toilet paper tubes, popsicle sticks, and even pine cones! We have a great post on making ec0-friendly bird feeders with kids using materials you already have at home! No need to leave the house!

    Earth Day activities for kids

    6. Practice Earth Day yoga

    My kids love doing yoga! Celebrate Earth Day with kids by doing a special outdoor kid-friendly yoga session. Stand barefoot in the grass so you can feel the earth under your feet and are grounded. Breathe in the fresh air and feel the sunshine and wind on your skin. You can pick some earth and animal-related poses to do. Tree, turtle, butterfly, lotus, and frog are some of my children’s’ favorite yoga poses.

    7. Make seed bombs or seed paper

    Another great activity to celebrate Earth Day with kids is to make seed bombs (with clay) or seed paper using recycled paper scraps you have lying around the house or in your recycling bin! You can bomb an area in your yard or neighborhood and see how they grow over the spring. Or give them out as gifts to friends or leave them on a neighbor’s doorstep as an Earth Day present. Feel free to use my seed paper valentine instructions as a guide, with a few swaps. Change the color (to blue/green) and shape (to a circle like the Earth) to match the Earth Day theme.

    8. Start a garden

    Kids love playing in dirt! Have them help you make a family garden. You can plant a flower garden or edible garden, and work together to take care of the plants. If you don’t have a lot of space or live in a city, you can always do a potted garden or patio garden! We don’t have a lot of space to plant edibles where we live, but we still try to grow some herbs and vegetables every year using pots and containers. Here are some recommendations for easy vegetables to grow with kids and a great post on how to make gardening enjoyable for kids.

    Eco Tip: Be sure to buy the pots/containers pre-loved at a thrift store or from someone else!

    patio garden gardening with kids

    9. Plant a tree

    There’s no better time than Earth Day to plant a tree! Spring is a great time to plant and Earth Day is a great reason. Pick a special spot to plant a family tree that you all can visit for years to come! If you plant a fruit tree, you’ll also have the added benefit of beautiful blossoms and fruit you can enjoy once your tree is mature.

    10. Make earth art

    Doing an art project is always a fun way to celebrate and document any holiday. Making art from natural materials is so much fun to create. Plus, there’s a fun added benefit in that other people will find joy when they come across your artwork! You can use any kind of materials you find in nature to create a masterpiece on the ground. We like to use shells, sticks, rocks, leaves, flowers, petals, nuts and sand.

    celebrating Earth Day with kids

    11. Start composting

    Starting a compost is something that has been on my list to do for years now and I think Earth Day is when we’ll start! My oldest son has been bringing me food scraps daily, asking to put it in a compost instead of the garbage. I promised him we would do some research and begin one soon. We don’t live in a rural area and don’t have much of a backyard space so our compost will need to be small. However, there are plenty of great options for composting in small spaces and in the city! A friend uses this composting tumbler in their backyard and adds the finished compost to their flower beds. You could research composting with your kids and start this year, too! And when you start your compost project, make sure to include a few bins for little hands so the kids can help out, too!

    12. Have a picnic

    A great way to get outside and enjoy nature is by having a picnic. You can have a picnic inside or outside! But be sure to keep it earth friendly by:

    • packing your picnic in reusable containers,
    • bringing reusable utensils/straws/water bottles, and
    • bringing cloth napkins/hand towels.

    Bonus: Try to reduce your picnic carbon footprint by preparing a vegan meal!

    13. Take a hike

    One of our favorite outdoor activities is hiking. Hiking always inspires us to take care of our beautiful planet by reminding us just how impressive nature can be! This year, if you can safely get out to a place away from others, take a fun Earth Day celebratory hike. Bring along a bag to pick up any trash/litter you see and some binoculars to do some birding while you’re out!

    ways to celebrate Earth Day with kids

    14. Make nature crowns

    Nature crowns are a really fun and easy craft you can make and wear in celebration of Earth Day! No need to buy anything, just use whatever you can find in nature. You can make nature crowns out of just about anything – flowers, grasses, clover, vines, sticks, dandelions or wildflowers! Be creative and have fun with it!

    15. Make nature paint brushes 

    Head out on a nature walk and collect different materials to use as paintbrushes! Pick up things like sticks, leaves, long blades of grass, flowers, etc. Take them home and dip them in paint to make a family piece of artwork to hang up forever. It’s a great way to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. You’ll be able to look at the art you made and remember the time you spent with your children for years to come.

    16. Earth Day puppet show 

    Another fun way to celebrate Earth Day with kids is to make puppets with materials from your recycling bin. Or, you could make sock puppets from all those single socks you have lying around! You can have your children do some research online or read some books about ways to protect our planet. Then they can share what they’ve learned by putting on a puppet show! This is also an amazing activity to share with family and friends on FaceTime or other video chatting app during quarantine. You don’t have to leave your house and you can bring some joy to others in isolation from a safe distance!

    17. Make sculptures, art, or robots using items in your recycling bin

    My kids love making art from trash! It gives those items one more life before they get tossed into the recycling bin or trash can. Use materials you would normally throw away or recycle and repurpose them into art, a sculpture or a robot (or a monster or an alien or anything!). Let them paint and decorate their creation. Display it proudly!

    18. Build a fort

    Another great way to celebrate Earth Day is to head out into the woods with your family and make a fort together! Use materials found on the ground to design a shelter. (Do NOT take down anything alive! I’m sure you’ll have plenty of options that are no longer alive and that have fallen to the ground without the help of humans!) You could have a picnic inside your fort, read some books, or just sit in the quiet and observe Earth’s gifts surrounding you.

    Earth Day activities with kids

    How will you celebrate Earth Day with your family?

    About the author

    Hi there, I’m Chelsea! I’m a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and sunshine and fresh air addict. We live in Virginia Beach and spend as much time outdoors as we possibly can! We spend most of our time exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. Our family loves biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find us enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. We’re doing our best to reduce our carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when we arrived.

    You can find Chelsea online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @dimples.and.the.blonde
    Client work: @chelsea.lyn.photography
    Website: dimplesandtheblonde.com
    RWMC posts: Chelsea Furlong

     

  • CANOE/KAYAK, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Beginner Tips for Canoeing With Kids

    Canoeing with kids is a great way to spend time outside, exploring and exercising. If going on a canoe trip with kids sounds fun, but intimidating or overwhelming, we’re here to show you just how much fun (and easy) it can be.  Today, we have outdoor adventurer and mom of two, Brianna from Adventure Families, here sharing the best beginner tips for canoeing with kids.  With her practical advice and packing tips, you’ll be expertly paddling your way across the water before you know it!

    Beginner Tips for How to Get Started Canoeing with Kids

    Adventures in canoeing

    As we pushed off the shore for our first family canoe trip of the summer, I held my breath. Our one-year-old daughter had protested loudly when I strapped on her life jacket, making me think we might be in for a miserable afternoon. While our son, Talon, had dozens of canoe trips under his size 4T belt, Lyra hadn’t yet been afloat as a busy toddler. We were not quite sure what we were getting into.

    Luckily, Lyra’s screams turned into delighted coos as our boat skimmed across the green water. She bounced between my legs, pointing at the birds and trees. From his perch in the center, Talon picked up his small paddle, proud to help propel us across the lake.

    Tips & Advice for Canoe Trips with Kids

    Got water? Just add kids

    My husband and I are water people. We’ve sailed across the Pacific Ocean, snorkeled around the Caribbean, paddled through the Everglades, and rafted down plenty of wild rivers. Once we had kids, we began integrating them into our adventures from the get-go.

    Canoes have been the perfect way for us to introduce our children to the water.

    Two years ago we bought a used 15-foot Coleman to explore lakes and rivers near our home in Montana. We’ve since added a small outboard motor and a sail, too. Sometimes we go out for an hour, and sometimes we pile in the camping gear and head out for a week.

    Reasons to canoe with kids

    There are so many amazing benefits of canoeing for kids and families. From spending time outdoors together to learning a skill, canoeing with your children is a great way to get active on the water at any age. Canoeing is something my family has enjoyed through many phases/seasons with (hopefully) many more years of canoeing in our future. Here are my top reasons why I’d recommend canoeing for your family, too.

    Teaching Kids how to Canoe and Paddle

    Low-risk and low-investment

    Canoeing is a low-risk and low-investment sport to try out. You can buy a good used canoe for ~$300, or rent one for ~$50/day to try it out first to see if it’s something your kids and family would like.  Canoes come in a wide range of sizes and styles, ranging from sleek wooden boats (which tend to be very expensive) to wide plastic boats and even inflatable versions. (Hint: these are the cheapest options and easiest to transport, but they don’t last as hard-shell canoes and require more time to inflate/deflate.) Some canoes are specifically-designed for speed or to handle whitewater, but all canoes will work on any calm water bodies you want to float.

    How to get started canoeing together as a family

    Tough and transportable

    Canoes can be stored in or outside, and are virtually maintenance-free! They’re also easy to transport, which means you can take them nearly anywhere. Most canoes only weigh 50-80 pounds, which is totally manageable for 1-2 adult(s). They can be placed upside-down on top of your car, no trailer needed.

    Pro tip: Use foam pool noodles to protect your vehicle’s roof/paint if you don’t have a roof rack.

    Aluminum and plastic boats are particularly good for kids and families. They are tough, washable, and more stable. When choosing a good canoe for kids, look for boats with flatter bottoms, which feel less “tippy.” As you might expect, it’s possible to tip over in a canoe, especially with squirmy kids around. Test the stability near the shore, wiggling hips and moving around in the boat to see how much side-to-side leeway you have before it feels uncomfortable.

    Pro tip: You can purchase stabilizer pontoon floats for your canoe, which make it super safe and allow you to walk around the boat or stand up to cast for fish.

    advice for how to canoe with kids

    Beginner tips for canoeing with kids

    It doesn’t take long to learn how to paddle a canoe, even for young kids. You can watch videos online to see the basic steering strokes and rowing positions. Or if you’re a hands-on learner, play around in a small pond to figure it out on your own.

    Ready to try canoeing out this fall? Here are some helpful tips for beginners when canoeing with kids:

    1. Get excited! 

    Your happiness (or crankiness) is contagious to your children. Kids love seeing their parents get excited about things, particularly things that involve spending time with them. If you’re thrilled to be on the water, your kids will be, too. Spark excitement for this adventure in them by talking about your canoeing trips, the things you’ll do/see, the reasons why you love it and how much fun canoeing will be for them. Let them help plan the trip and help pack the canoe so the whole family is invested in the outing.

    How to Go Canoeing with Kids

    2. Offer clear safety rules and rewards

    Before you launch, set a few clear safety rules: (1) don’t stand up without asking, (2) no leaning or jumping over the side, (3) keep life jackets on at all times, (4) no whining (ha! good luck with that one). Spending time together outside in a canoe is a reward in and of itself, but if your little ones need a bit of extra incentive to follow the safety rules, try offering a reward at the end of the day, such as a sweet treat or a movie.

    3. Designate a special spot for everyone

    Having a plan is half the battle. Before you get started, decide which adult will be in the stern (back seat) steering. This person will have less leeway to help manage the kids. The adult in the bow (front seat) can help paddle forward when needed, but can also take breaks easily. If you have a toddler, stand them between the adult’s legs in the bow where they can be the lookout and move around a little. Babies can be worn in a soft carrier. Older kids can sit on the center crossbars or a middle seat (if the canoe has one) to help paddle. Or kids can hunker down to play in the bottom of the boat. Letting the kids know exactly where they’ll be and what their “job” is, helps manage expectations.

    best tips for teaching kids how to steer and paddle a canoe

    4. Take your time

    Like most outings with children in tow, the trip will probably take longer than you think. While you and your partner might want to race across the lake, the kids will enjoy it more if you take plenty of breaks. In fact, much of the joy in canoeing is playing on shore! Stop often at interesting spots to swim, have lunch, and explore islands or beaches you couldn’t get to without a boat. And don’t expect (or force!) the kids to add much (any) horsepower. Paddling is simply a fun diversion for them.

    5. Just remember, it gets easier

    As with any new activity with kids, canoeing as a family might be tough at first until everyone learns the ropes. This is doubly true if your kids are very young. But don’t give up! Remember that even if canoeing isn’t quite as fun as you’d hoped the first couple of times out, you’re building skills that will last you and your kids a lifetime. You’re creating wonderful bonding opportunities for years to come. And trust me, eventually, it will get easier!

    beginner tips for canoeing and kayaking with kids

    Canoeing trip packing list

    I’ve also put together a list of necessary, helpful and optional items that you may want to include in your bag on your first/next canoeing trip with kids. All of the items below should be placed in a waterproof bag since the bottom of the canoe usually gets wet from everyone’s shoes and dripping paddles. If you don’t have a dry bag, wrap your backpack or tote in a sturdy trash bag. Buckets also make for great storage in a canoe.

    Life jackets

    Everyone in the canoe needs to wear a life jacket. Even if the grown-ups are stellar swimmers. You’re the role models for your kids and safety starts and stops with you. Have kids practice wearing theirs before you get in the boat, so they get used to them.

    Pro tip: If you can’t find a comfortable jacket for your kiddo, try U.S. Coast Guard-approved water wings that are less bulky.

    tips for canoeing with kids and babies

    Clothing

    Certain clothing will help out on your canoe trip with kids. Here’s a shortlist of must-pack clothing items. 

    • Sandals with straps or waterproof rain boots.
    • Sun hats and sun-protective clothing.
    • Rain gear, which can double as windbreakers.
    • Extra outfit for little kids who will likely get wet and muddy playing.

    Food and drinks

    Like all outings with kiddos, make sure you pack lots of easy-to-grab snacks to keep them occupied, fueled, and happy. We like to bring “special” drinks for the kids to make sure they stay hydrated in the sun: lemonade powder in their water bottles is a favorite.

    what to pack for a canoe trip with kids

     Gear

    • Toilet paper if you’re not near public restrooms
    • Umbrella or pop-up tent for shade in the boat or on shore—perfect for passing rainstorms, too!
    • Seat pads or stadium-style folding seats
    • Rope to attach to the bow to help pull the boat on shore
    • Maps of the area you’re paddling
    • Tarp or blanket for picnics or for “beds” for kids in the bottom of the canoe
    • Extra paddle(s) for the kids: emergency paddles that are adjustable and light-weight work well

     Fun stuff

    • Binoculars (monoculars work best for you young kids—we love ours!)
    • Field guides
    • Fishing rod
    • Frisbee
    • Bubbles
    • Chalk (to draw on rocks or the inside of the boat—it washes right off!)
    • Bucket (have the kids fill it with rocks/sticks/leaves on shore, then throw them overboard one at a time while you paddle)

    how to get started canoeing together as a family with kids

    Have you ever gone canoeing with kids?
    What tips would you recommend for beginners?

    About the author

    Brianna Randall of Adventure Families is a mother of two, writer, dancer, traveler, and nature-addict. She owns a small communications business, and her articles have appeared in The Washington Post, BBC, Outside, Backpacker, Mamalode, Scary Mommy, Working Mother, and High Country News. Her husband Rob is a photographer, adept outdoorsman, and all-around Mr. Fix-It.  He works for Trout Unlimited conserving rivers and streams. They’ve made a pact to keep adventuring as a family, with the kiddos in tow.

    You can find Brianna in the following online locations:
    Website: adventurefamilies.org
    Instagram: @exploreoutsidewithkids
    Facebook: @adventurefamilies.org

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PHOTOGRAPHY, SUMMER, WATER

    Tips for Capturing Amazing Sprinkler Photos

    I am absolutely thrilled to bring you today’s guest post from Kristie of L Photographie on how to take amazing sprinkler photos of your kids this summer. Kristie is a great friend, a former sorority sister, and my family’s personal photographer. She’s also a wonderful teacher and has become one of my go-to resources for all things photography-related. Since it’s a million degrees outside, I thought this would be the perfect time to share this post with you. Kristie’s sharing some really great tips and advice on things you can do to capture some truly adorable and classic summer fun of your kids running, jumping, and dancing through the sprinkler. Give it a read, then set up that sprinkler in your yard, grab your camera and let the kids run wild!

    How to Take Amazing Sprinkler Photos of Kids

    Classic summer fun with the sprinkler

    Warm sunshine, carefree laughter, and the unmistakable sounds of children’s glee—summer is a season that brims with cherished moments. The joy of playing in the sprinkler is an exhilarating burst of unrestrained laughter and unbridled excitement for kids. As water jets and arcs in sparkling patterns, their eyes light up with sheer delight, toes eagerly touching the refreshing splashes that cool the summer heat. With carefree abandon, they dart in and out of the water’s path, their giggles echoing through the air as they leap through shimmering curtains of droplets, creating a symphony of radiant smiles and unforgettable memories.

    And what better way to freeze those timeless memories than by capturing your kids in the midst of their exuberant summer fun? From the sheer delight of running through the sprinklers to the unbridled joy of jumping and dancing, these heartwarming scenes are the essence of childhood. As a parent armed with a camera, you have the power to immortalize these fleeting moments, creating a treasure trove of photographs that will warm your heart for years to come.

    How to take great photos of kids playing in the sprinkler

    Tips for taking adorable sprinkler photos of your kids

    In this post, we delve into the art of photographing kids as they revel in the magic of summer and the splendor of sprinklers. We understand that these moments are both spontaneous and ephemeral, making them a delightful challenge to capture. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or someone who simply loves documenting family moments, I hope these tips will empower you to freeze those candid instances of pure happiness.

    Today, we’ll explore various techniques to not only preserve the vivid colors and playful expressions but also to convey the sheer energy and unfiltered emotions that define these summer escapades. From understanding the best camera settings for action-packed scenes to mastering the art of timing and composition, we’ve got you covered. Moreover, we’ll delve into the world of post-processing, providing insights into how you can enhance the vibrancy and charm of your photos without sacrificing their authentic essence.

    how to take great photos of kids playing in the sprinkler

    1) Sunset is best (consider your light)

    If you have the chance to shoot closer to sunset, do! The sun sets late in summer, which can be difficult with many kids’ bedtimes, but even two hours before the sunset is going to give you much better results than the harsh midday sun. Plan a post-dinner run around the yard for the kids (consider it their bath!). You’ll want to take a few minutes to get everything set up before the kids are running laps around you screaming for the sprinkler to be on (at least that’s what happens at my house), so plan accordingly.

    2) Backlight your subject

    Set up the sprinkler where you can “backlight” your subject – this means you want the sun hitting your subject’s back. You and your camera should face the sun. If you’re in the shade, look for little streaks of light hitting the ground – that’s where you’ll want to place your sprinkler – right in the sunlight. You’ll get some amazing light hitting the water that will help bring your photo to life! If you and your camera can be in a spot where your camera is in shade, even better – you’ll avoid lens flair and get better contrast in your image.
     
    how to get great photos of sprinkler fun

    3) Be aware of your background

    Keep an eye on what is in the background of your photos. Although you want to generally point your camera West, towards the sun, you can cheat a bit and go at an angle to get the best background with the fewest distractions. With water being a big part of your image, you’ll want to find a darker background (dark trees, bushes, a fence, dark color house). If the sky is your background, the water flying around will blend right into it and go unnoticed.
     How to take awesome sprinkler pictures
    Tips for taking amazing sprinkler photos of kids

    4) Lens choice

    Choose the longest lens and focal length you have and scoot waaaaay back! This will help for two reasons: (i) A longer focal length will compress your photo and help the background blur out, so that the water and your kiddos are the focus, and (ii) you won’t get wet! Well, no promises on that one! I like to shoot with my Canon 135mm lens for sprinkler action.
     
    best lens to use when taking sprinkler shots of kids
    sprinkler photography tips

    5) Shutter speed choice

    This is a big one! Especially because of those fast kids you’re about to capture and the water flow! For running through water, I would suggest keeping your shutter speed around 1/1000 or higher to freeze the action. Once you start to dip down into those 100s, you won’t be able to stay as tact sharp and may end up with blurry photos. If you’re not yet shooting in Manual Mode, you can switch to “shutter speed priority” mode – which will read “TV” on your camera dial. Make sure to also choose a higher ISO (to let more light into your camera, as the high shutter speed will take light away).
     
    capturing amazing photos of kids playing in sprinklers
    1/1250 sec, f/3.2 135mm, ISO 800
    camera settings to use for sprinkler photos
    1/5000 sec, f/2.2 135mm, ISO 1000
    how to take the best sprinkler photos of kids
    1/500 sec, f/3.5 135mm, ISO 1600

    6) Get creative 

    If you would like to play with some creative blurry water, you can dip your shutter speed to a very low number. I’d suggest not hand-holding the camera – set it on a table or lawn chair (or a tripod, if you’re feeling fancy) – then capture your kiddos from behind. Since they will be moving, their faces will not be sharp, which is a distraction in your final image. If you capture them running away from you, it can be a fun creative blur with your water.
     
    You can also get creative with different camera angles. Get down to the kids’ eye level or even lower to capture the scene from their perspective. This angle can make the water arcs and droplets appear larger and more immersive, showcasing the excitement from their point of view. Alternatively, try shooting from a higher vantage point, looking down on the kids as they move through the water. This angle can capture the overall layout of the scene, showing the patterns created by the water and the kids’ paths.

    Focus on details by capturing close-up shots of wet hands, bare feet splashing in puddles, or the water droplets on their skin. These shots can evoke a strong sensory connection to the moment. Frame the kids through the streams of water or the spray of the sprinkler itself. This can add a playful and dynamic element to your photos.

    1/8 sec, f/13 135mm, ISO 250

    7) Shoot through for sharp photos

    Of course, with kids running excited through water, they are going to be moving FAST. Even with a quick shutter speed to freeze the action, you might have trouble nailing the focus with lightening fast kids. If you’re having issues finding that exact focus sweet spot as they run around, try to “shoot through” the action. Here’s a quick explanation of how to do that to get the sharpest results. 
     
    Switch your lens to manual focus and set your focus on the center of the sprinkler stream. Wait for your kiddo to come close to running through and press and hold your shutter to take multiple shots. Make sure your camera is on it’s continuous shooting mode, so you can fire off more than one shot.
     
    At some point during that run through the sprinkler, your kiddo will run right into your perfect focus! Yes, you’ll end up with a lot of out-of-focus photos to dump in that series, but it is worth a few rounds of trying this if your Auto Focus finger isn’t keeping up with your kid.
     
    taking sprinkler photos of kids
    how to nail the focus on sprinkler photos

    8) Enjoy the fun!

    Give the kids some distance and just observe the fun! Kids are naturally going to be silly and active and smile when the water excitement starts. Nothing is worse than trying to play while your parents bark orders at you about how to do it. (Am I right?) Just pick the best spot for you and your lens and wait. Watch how their little personalities just shine! 
     
    Remember, the goal is to capture the genuine joy and playfulness of the moment. Both camera angles and any fun props should enhance the story rather than overshadow it. Be open to spontaneous moments and let the kids’ natural interactions guide your creative choices. Be patient and enjoy!

    best sprinkler photos of kidsHow to take amazing sprinkler photos of kids

    9) Super simple post-processing

    If you want to take your images to the next level, here are a few simple post-processing tips to enhance your photos of kids playing in the sprinkler:

    1. Adjust exposure and contrast: Start by adjusting the exposure and contrast levels. Increase the exposure slightly to bring out the vibrant colors and details, and then fine-tune the contrast to ensure a dynamic range between the highlights and shadows, giving your photos depth and dimension.
    2. Boost vibrancy and saturation: You can try to increase the vibrancy and saturation of the colors to make the water droplets and summer hues pop. Be cautious not to overdo it, as you want the colors to look lively and natural, not super saturated or neon.
    3. Crop and straighten: Use cropping to improve the composition and remove any distractions from the edges of the frame. Straighten the horizon if necessary to ensure the photo’s balance and alignment.
    4. Enhance sharpness: Apply subtle sharpening to bring out the finer details, such as the water droplets on the kids’ skin or the textures of their clothing. Use a light touch to avoid introducing noise.
    5. Selective editing: If your photo editing software allows for selective editing, consider darkening or blurring the background slightly to draw more attention to the kids and the action in the sprinkler.
    6. Remove distractions: If there are any unwanted elements in the background that detract from the main subject, use the clone or healing tool to remove them discreetly.
    7. Add a touch of warmth: If you need to, you can adjust the white balance to add a touch of warmth to your photos, capturing the sunlit essence of the summer day. This can help convey the inviting and cheerful ambiance of the scene.
    8. Fine-tune skin tones: If capturing close-up shots of the kids, pay attention to their skin tones. Adjust the color balance to ensure natural and flattering skin tones, avoiding any unwanted color casts.
    9. Consider black and white: Removing the color completely for a black-and-white image can sometimes really make the image pop. Play around with this option and pick a few to convert to b/w. 

    Taking summer sprinkler photos of kidstaking great sprinkler photos of kidstaking sprinkler photos of kids

    10) Share your images with us!

    Now, please tell me you’ll set up the sprinkler in the yard this weekend and capture some fun shots of the kids! And if you do, please post them and tag us on Instagram (use our hashtag #runwildmychild) to be featured on our page. If you have any questions about camera settings, equipment or anything else, please leave a comment below, and we will be happy to answer your questions.

    More photography resources

    If you’re interested in more photography resources, download our FREE guide with our best tips and tricks for taking better photos of your kids’ outdoor adventures with the camera on your PHONE! From creative composition tips to our favorite editing apps, this guide includes everything you need to know to make the most out of the camera in your pocket!  

    About the author

    Kristie Cromie is the owner and portrait side of L Photographie, a fine art boutique photography studio in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri consisting of four amazing photographers. Kristie has a background in journalism and graphic design, specializes in family and newborn sessions, helps run the business and teaches a Camera Love class for parents that want to take better photos of their children. When she’s not behind the camera or computer, she’s chasing her two-year-old daughter, keeping up with her seven-year-old son, plus renovating a house from the seventies that was covered in blue shag carpet.

    You can find Kristie and the rest of the L Photographie crew around the web at the following spots:

    Website
    Blog
    Facebook
    Twitter
    Instagram

     

     

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Benefits of Creeking with Kids

    There are very few things my kids love more in life than playing in the water, whether that’s swimming in a pool, splashing in waves on the beach, running through the sprinkler or just hanging out in a bubble bath. My kids love water so much they volunteer to wash the dishes so they can play with the water in the sink. They get super excited about rainstorms because they know they can jump in the puddles. That’s why going “creeking” with the kids is one of our favorite family activities – it combines the kids’ love of water with our love of exploring the outdoors. Today, we’re going to show you all the amazing benefits of creeking with kids and how exploring a creek is one of the most fun and educational outdoor activities for kids! 

    Sensory benefits of exploring a creek with kids

    There are so many incredible benefits to taking kids creeking. Not only do they get plenty of fresh air and sunshine while creeking, but they get to wade through the cool water, catch minnows, tadpoles and crawdads, hunt for fossils, climb over/around obstacles, skip rocks, build dams, observe wildlife and connect with nature in a very personal way. When kids go creeking, they’re part of nature – they’re surrounded by it, immersed in it, touching it and exploring it in ways that they can’t by standing on the sidelines.

    Benefits of Creeking with Kidsplaying in creeks with kidsPsychological benefits of creeking

    I don’t have any hard scientific data to back me up here (although I’m sure I could find it if I looked), but I’ve seen amazing things happen when kids that have never experienced creeks get to play in one for the first time. We love taking our friends and their kids to creeks in our area (we’re familiar with a lot because we love them so much).

    I’ve noticed that getting kids in the water in a little creek does something for them that’s hard to explain – it gives them a sense of adventure and independence and freedom. When parents give their kids permission to get wet, dirty and explore on their own, it promotes self-confidence and encourages curiosity and exploration. Shy kids become bolder. Clingy kids become more independent. Kids that don’t like bugs or worms suddenly become more interested in them.

    Physical benefits of exploring creeks

    Creeking also helps kids in a multitude of other areas – walking through a creek helps with balancing and stability (rocky creeks are unstable terrain), encourages problem-solving (how to get from one side to the other), teaches about life stages of nature (from tadpole eggs to live bugs to dead fish) and prompts kids to ask questions about nature and the environment that they might not otherwise think of.

    My 4 year-old asks some of the most amazing questions while we’re creeking, like: Is this a dinosaur tooth? Is this the same kind of water that’s in the river? Do fish eat rocks? Why is the water cold? What kind of fossil is this? Where do frogs go at night? Why does that tree look like that? Is that a crocodile? Where can we find a snake? If so, can we take it home with us?

    creeking with kidsBenefits of Exploring Creeks with KidsBenefits of Creeks for kids

    Cool blast from the past

    Exploring creeks with kids is a wonderful activity to do in the summer when everything’s lush and green and thriving. Wading through cold creek water is the perfect way for kids to cool off without having to spend the day at a packed public swimming pool or running up your water bill and flooding your lawn with the sprinkler. Creeking seems to be a thing of the past and not a lot of people are out there exploring them with kids – you’re likely to have an entire stretch of any given creek to yourself. It’s also completely free and can be done with very minimal gear.

    What to pack when exploring creeks with kids

    Here are a few of our favorite things to take with us to the creek:

    • Reef-safe sunscreen to protect you from the sun’s rays and keep the water clean
    • Bug spray to keep mosquitoes and flies away
    • Rashguard and sun hat, so you don’t have to keep applying sunscreen over and over. 
    • Bait net for catching bugs, minnows, and crawdads. This net has metal around the edges, which prevents the net from ripping when kids drag it through the sand and rocks.
    • Water shoes that give kids some stability and grip, but keep the rocks and sand out.
    • Polarized sunglasses are helpful for letting kids see underwater, although not necessary. 
    • Bucket or a small fish tank if you want to catch anything and watch it while you’re at the creek
    • A change of clothes for the ride home – that way it’s totally ok for the kids to get as wet and dirty as they want.

    Exploring Creeks with Kidsteaching kids about creeksExploring new Creeks with KidsLocating a creek

    Creeking is a great activity for kids of nearly any age (my kids started before they were 2) and can be done almost anywhere in the country…so long as you know where to look. Knowing the location of a good creek is probably the hardest part about creeking and is possibly what prevents most parents from taking their kids. However, there are a number of ways to find local creeks in your area. Here are a few:

    • Facebook pages for your area – feel free to ask local moms if they know of any good creeks (mom support groups or even buy/sell/trade groups)
    • State parks and conservation areas – almost always guaranteed to have a creek or two, just call or ask at the visitor’s center where you can access one
    • Google searches – a lot of times you can find a list on a local blog or website of some creeks to try out
    • Google maps – scour the maps of your local parks and neighborhoods for creeks and go check them out
    • Explore on your own – some of our favorite creeks are ones that we’ve found entirely by accident while out hiking or geocaching in local parks and conservation areas

    Creeking with kidsBenefits of Creeking with Kids rock throwing creeks kidsTips for parents when exploring a creek with kids

    There are also a few things that parents can do to promote and encourage a love for creeking. First, make sure you (at least) act like you’re having fun exploring and discovering new things. If you don’t want to get your feet wet, skip rocks or try to catch minnows, your kids won’t either. They take their cues from you, so get in the water with them and share their experience – touch the crawdad, splash the water, show them cool rocks you find. They’ll pay attention to what you’re interested in, so make it count.

    Secondly, keep a close eye on them, but allow them freedom to explore, touch and discover new things on their own. Giving them some independence will encourage them to be brave, explore and push their own boundaries. You’ll still be right there, but allowing them to go a little ahead of you or check areas out first means a lot to a little kid.

    Finally, give them permission to get dirty and wet. Bring extra clothes for you kids and yourself and allow them to splash, throw rocks, fall down, stomp in the water, wade through mud, climb embankments, lay in the sand and all the other things that go along with creeking. So long as you’ve got some relatively unmuddy water to rinse them off before stripping them down and thowing them back in the car to head home, it doesn’t matter if they get a little bit dirty or absolutely filthy, so just let it go and let them do what they want…just this once. Believe me, it’ll be something they remember and appreciate. 
    Kids and creeks exploring creeks with toddlers    sculpin creeks kids

    Let’s go creeking!

    I hope I’ve encouraged you (even just a little bit) to try to get out and explore a creek this summer. I promise your kids will love it and you won’t regret it. You might even get a bit addicted to creeking like we are and seek out creeks where ever you go!

    tips for exploring a creek with kids

    We’d love to hear about your creeking adventures…

    Did you go creeking as a kid?
    Have you ever taken your kids creeking?

     
    Also, be sure to check out our e-book on Exploring Creeks with Kids! It’s a great resource for parents filled with practical tips for exploring creeks, creek wildlife and conservation, how to know if a creek is safe, etc.