get kids outdoors

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Mental Health and Parenting Outdoors

    Parenting today is hard. Parents are feeling the weight of the world on them and every decision feels monumental. Stress and anxiety have been piling on top of parents over the last couple of years and we’ve been operating in survival mode, not taking care of ourselves as we should. We all know the benefits and importance of getting kids outside, but what about parents? Today, nurse educator and mom, Somer Pickel is here to chat about mental health and how parenting outdoors can make a huge difference. Spending time outside isn’t just good for the kids – it’s healing for parents, too. This post will walk you through the importance of getting outside with (or without) your kids, as well as help you overcome your objections and struggle points. 

    Mental Health and Parenting Outdoors
    Most parents are well aware that getting our kids outdoors is important. But do we prioritize our needs for time spent outside?

    Getting outside benefits my mental health, making me a better mom

    We have all heard that getting outside benefits mental health. We know it can make kids less anxious, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem.  Yet, we don’t often consider how getting outside (with or without our kids) benefits parental mental health. So, that’s what we’re going to discuss here today. 

    Mental health is something I take very seriously. Not only is it my job (I’m an acute mental health clinical nurse educator), but I personally struggle with profound grief, depression, and post-traumatic stress due to the chronic critical illness, hospitalization, and death of my firstborn child. Medication and therapy aside, regularly getting outdoors have been my ticket to productively coping and functioning. To be honest, getting out into nature quite simply helps me be a better mom.

    Full disclosure about seeking help

    Before we jump in, y’all should know, I’m not a medical provider. Professionally, I’m an acute mental health clinical nurse educator. However, nothing within this article should be taken as a substitute for medical/psychological care. If you are experiencing mental illness and/or distress, please speak to your health care provider about options best for you and your family. Seeking help for our mental wellbeing is one of the bravest and most essential actions we can take for ourselves and our children.

    Trauma and grief have profound effects on our lives that continue to surface for years. Being proactive in caring for my mental health aids in my ability to maintain stability.

    Parenting is hard

    Being a mom is the most important thing I’ve ever done. But dang, it’s hard! I’m not even talking about parenting or caring for a child who is medically fragile with complex needs. (That’s a whole other level of difficulty that you can’t begin to fathom unless you’ve been there.) I’m just speaking to the typical parenting of typical kids.

    Sure, kids can be the most precious little creatures on the planet. Their big eyes of wonder and hilarious antics can give you an oxytocin boom that’s like a kick to the ovaries. Then the next minute, your grade-schooler is exasperatingly precocious. Or maybe your toddler is insisting on being carried, while simultaneously melting into semi-liquid with Gumby joints.  And of course, no one wants to go outside.

    Parenting is never easy, but it grows more difficult when our mental wellness isn’t what it should or could be.

    The struggle of getting outdoors

    We know that getting outside benefits mental health, but that doesn’t mean that getting out the door is any easier. Getting outdoors can sometimes feel like a task I’m just not up for, even before kids are added to the mix. Their complaints atop readying gear, snacks, and the logistics of it all can feel too overwhelming to bother with. Don’t get me wrong, I know that time spent outdoors is important for my kid. I’m fully aware that nature benefits her physical, psychological, and developmental health. Yep, I’ve got it. My guess is that you likely do too if you’re here. 

    But what about when we (the parents) are struggling, especially with our mental wellbeing? Why should we push through what feels insurmountable at the moment to reap the benefits of the outdoors, not only for our kids, but for ourselves? And how do we even begin to try?

    Sometimes we have to put our needs before our children’s wants if we are to be the parents they deserve.

    Humans are designed for the outdoors

    According to a theory called the biophilia hypothesis, humans have a seemingly innate need to seek connections with other life, most notably within nature. Our brains and bodies are the products of evolutionary processes attuned to living in natural environments. And while the theory is much more complex than I’ll go into, suffice to say–we, as a species, are designed to function best outside in nature. 

    Now, let’s take into account the modern world. I don’t know about you, but my windowless and sterile hospital office is anything but a natural environment. It’s a wonder I manage to get anything done within it, and it isn’t surprising that I’m stir crazy by the end of the day. The same goes for our kids spending the majority of their time within school walls, where physical activity is discouraged for hours at a time.

    Nature offers a reprieve from the overstimulation and stress of the modern world.

    Getting away from distractions

    Getting outside helps us reconnect with ourselves and our kids. It gets us away from screens and more immersed in our surroundings. It also gets us out of the house and away from all the potentially distracting tasks (hello, mountain of laundry) we’d likely otherwise be doing instead of engaging with our children. 

    Are there any other moms out there who go into crazy-multitasking mode around the house–then basically end up chasing your own tail? Not to say household chores don’t need to be done, but more than a few can be prioritized behind outdoor time that benefits our wellness, relationships with our kids, and their development. 

    Pro-tip along these lines: the more your kids are outside, the less time they have to destroy your house (can I get an amen?!). This is probably why our own mothers locked us out of the house in the summers when we were kids. Maybe they were onto something…

    getting outside benefits mental health
    The longer it takes me to get out of the house, the more time I spend running circles cleaning, straightening, and cursing. The quicker I can get my kid strapped into the car, the better. Even if that means lunch is haphazard or everything is thrown in a single bag unorganized. It’s what works best for us. You’ll find what works best for you.

    Calming effects

    Mother nature calms both us and our kids. Well, most of the time. Kids will still be kids and there may still be tears, for reasons big and seemingly microscopic. However, there’s research to show that being outdoors helps lower our stress hormone levels and blood pressure, as well as helps us center ourselves. So maybe when our kids inevitably act a fool, we’ll at least be in a better place to handle it than we would otherwise.

    Pro-tip #2: Kids are calmer when they’re asleep (brought on by physically exhausting themselves outdoors, of course). I am always amazed at how much I’m able to accomplish while my kid is napping after a long jaunt outside.

    Who am I kidding? I usually grab a nap myself (can I get another amen?). 

    outdoors benefit mental health
    There are few things more precious than the sight and sounds of our kids sleeping after thoroughly wearing themselves out?

    Social outings in COVID times

    I don’t know about you all, but I still struggle with COVID restrictions and anxieties. Logically, I know my worry is heightened by the trauma experienced loving and losing our oldest child. Given it’s easier to accept trauma responses than to reason yourself out of them, our social gatherings are all outside these days to lessen the risk of COVID transmission.

    So, needless to say, getting outside with other families is huge for us. Meeting up for outdoor adventures and/or picnic meals has been a win, win, win. Both parents and kids get in some healthy outdoor time, exercise, and socialization. Hallelujah. If getting outside benefits mental health, then getting outside with friends seems to exponentially make things better. 

    getting outside benefits mental health
    The outdoors offers great opportunity for socialization while also social distancing. Plus, I don’t feel the need to guilt clean my house first!

    How to get outside when you’re just not feeling it

    I will again preface with, I am certainly not an expert and still struggle with this myself. All I can do is share with you what has worked for me and our family. 

    • Start small (with or without kids)

      • Spend more time in your yard or on the porch
      • Eat a meal outdoors, picnic-style or even while walking
      • Go on an evening neighborhood walk
      • Look up and visit the parks closest to you.

    • Make it easy

      • Have a go-bag with essentials packed and ready
      • Create routines (which isn’t easy to start but makes things easier later)
        • Outdoor routines help manage expectations. One of our routines is that we spend an hour outside every evening when I get off work. We may do different things each day, but my kid knows that we’re going to spend an hour outside. She fussed the first week or so, but then rarely. 

    • Be flexible and try to leave your ego at home

      • The thing that helps me get out the door on my hardest days, is telling myself we can bail if we get out and just aren’t feeling it. I know it sounds counterintuitive, but once we’re outside, we usually find our stride. Very rarely do we turn tail and head home, but the option helps make getting out the door manageable. 

    • Try to catch sunrises and/or sunsets (especially with friends!) 

      • With the days being so short in the winter, it’s hard to get much outdoor time each day. For some reason, I used to be wary of keeping the kid out for sunset. But now that she’s older and can eat on the go, sunset adventures are probably my favorites.
      • As for sunrises, I like to enjoy those alone with a steaming cup of coffee for my own sanity. No one else is invited. Maybe not even the dog.

    getting outside benefits mental health

    Confidence in motherhood

    Getting outdoors improves my mental health–period. A healthy mama is what is best for my kiddo. So, yes, getting outside with or without her makes me a better mom. And for some reason, parenting outside gives me confidence in my mothering ability. I don’t know; maybe it’s feeling more connected to natural life cycles, or being made to feel just a small part of our big beautiful world. Or maybe it’s just that once you’re outside, parenting is easier.

    For real, parenting is easier outdoors. When outside, kids basically entertain themselves. I find myself saying “yes” more than “no” when we’re outdoors. Nature is full of great sensory experiences, physical challenges, and imaginative catalysts. Plus, nature can handle a bit of child’s play. For the most part, you don’t have to worry about your kids being too rambunctious or destructive (one more amen?).

    All you have to do is let them be who they are, while you get to marvel at who they’re becoming. Isn’t that what parenting is meant to be?

    How getting outside benefits mental health for parents
    Parenthood is the hardest and most important thing we will ever do. Let’s make sure we are setting ourselves up for success by prioritizing our own outdoor needs.

    Sources:

    Do you find getting outside benefits your mental health?

    About the author

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

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

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

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

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, GOOD FOR NATURE, HIKE, LESSONS, OUTDOOR SCHOOLS, WATER

    Discovering the Wonders of Salamanders with Kids

    Exploring nature with kids is always an adventure. There are so many things for them to discover and learn with their senses. Sometimes, they find new plants and creatures that even we parents know very little about. This can be unnerving because we don’t always know if it is safe for our children to explore. Salamanders, with their bright colors, potential toxicity, teeth, and generally strong ability to remain unseen, are one such creature many parents may be wary of when stumbling upon one in nature. Not to fear, Somer Pickel, Creative Team member, and nature-loving Tennessee mom shares everything you will ever need to know about discovering salamanders with kids.

    Discovering Salamanders with Kids
    Eastern newts, in the juvenile red eft stage, are strikingly red-orange.

    Teaching kids to love nature through sensory experiences

    The cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits for kids spending unstructured time outdoors are well documented. And I am guessing you wouldn’t be on this website if you didn’t already believe in the wonders of time spent outside. But how do we get our kids to defy the allure of screens and seek more time outdoors?

    What if we could help our children foster a personal relationship with the natural world? If our kids develop a passion for being outside, they’ll take more interest in leaving the screens behind. I’d argue the most long-lasting (and fun) way to encourage your child’s love for the outdoors is through complete and total immersive play. Our kids are sensory beings. They learn most easily when they’re having fun and allowed to explore.

    In less fragile areas (and where you have permission), let them venture off-trail to experience the thrill of wandering and independent discovery. Let’s encourage them to literally delve in and make their own connections. Mother nature is tough, surely she can handle a bit of child’s play.

    It may seem like it on the surface, however, I’m not promoting the abandonment of leave no trace (LNT) principles. LNT values have their place. But too, if all our kids are never granted the freedom to roam or learn as their little heart’s desire, how will they connect with the natural world? So, from time to time, seek balance. Let your child run wild and discover salamanders in their natural habitats.

    Why salamanders?

    I am sure some of you are wondering what any of this has to do with salamanders. Why should you discover salamanders with kids? Well, these adorable little creatures are a great means to actively engage and immerse your children in nature.  Salamanders are a mostly harmless, yet abundant, class of critters that your kids can explore safely (with supervision).

    They’re also quite elusive. To have any luck finding them, kids will have to put in effort learning about their habitat, behavior, and activity. They’ll need to get out and trek through the animals’ natural habitats if they are to have the honor of eyeing one of these guys up close. Discovering salamanders could be your child’s window into the wonders of nature. 

    discovering Salamanders with kids
    Salamanders love fresh pollution-free creeks under tree canopies.

    What are salamanders?

    Salamanders are in the amphibia class along with frogs. Within the amphibia class, they are members of the Caudata order, meaning “tail” in Latin. Like other amphibians they are cold-blooded critters who (mostly) remain tied to water.

    Salamanders either live wholly aquatic lives and/or lay their shell-less eggs in it. Their eggs hatch into larvae, which resemble tadpoles, and stay in the water until they metamorphosize weeks or months later. During this process, they grow limbs and tails.

    Once mature, most salamanders are like lizards in shape. They tend to have elongated necks and bodies with lengthy tails. But unlike lizards, they lack claws and scales. In lieu of scales, they sport thin permeable skin. And instead of claws, most have adorable little toes. Though, some species lack legs altogether and tend to look more like eels.

    discovering a White spotted slimy salamander.
    Discovering salamanders can be a great introduction to your area’s local fauna.

    Where do salamanders live?

    Salamanders can be found all over the world, with Australia and Antarctica being the exceptions. But, they are most abundant in the northern hemispheres. Those found in the southern hemisphere tend to be in mountainous regions or the Amazon basin.

    Like all amphibians, salamanders’ permeable skin makes them unable to survive saltwater. So, while salamanders do boast quite an impressive range (from nearly the arctic circle of Russia to Bolivia’s Andean Mountains!) they aren’t found in oceans, salt marshes, estuaries, or tidal creeks.

    Discovering a Terrestrial white spotted slimy salamander
    When teaching kids where and how to find these critters, they learn and discover about salamanders’ habitats.

    Salamander diversity in the US

    The United States is home to 186 distinct species of salamanders, which is about a third of the world’s salamanders! Though salamanders can be found almost anywhere in the U.S., four regions contain particularly high concentrations and diversity. The areas are the Pacific Coast; Edwards Plateau region in Texas; Ozark and Ouachita mountains in AR, MO, and OK; and the Southeast.

    As a fourth-generation Tennessean, I was shocked to learn the American Southeast has the highest genetic diversity of salamanders in the world (who knew?!). On that note, all photos in this article are of salamanders native to the southern Appalachian region.

    Discovering an aquatic salamander in souther Appalachia
    Salamanders come in all shapes and sizes, making each species a fun new discovery for children.

    Salamander habitat

    Salamanders are extremely diverse across species, including the habitats they call home. Some salamander species are aquatic and spend their whole lives submerged in creeks, bogs, swamps, ponds, rivers, or lakes. Others live in caves, freshwater seeps, terrestrially in forests, or burrowed within moist forest soil.

    Many terrestrial species tend to return to the same water source each breeding season.  Some salamander species have been known to travel up to nine miles back to the vernal pond where they were born. Imagine traveling that far on teeny legs! After breeding, the new generation hatches and metamorphosizes within the water source. Then they find their way onto land.

    Kid discovering salamanders in nature
    Teaching kids about salamanders in their natural habitats gets them outdoors exploring and discovering.

    Salamander size

    In case you weren’t already thoroughly impressed with these under-rated amphibians, they also have huge variants in size. And I am not talking about a pound or two’s difference. While some salamanders only ring in at a couple of inches, others grow upwards of 6 feet and >60lbs! (I know, crazy right?!)

    The Southeastern U.S. has a species called the Hellbender that can grow up to a couple of feet long (though unfortunately, they’ve become quite rare). The largest terrestrial species are members of the mole salamander suborder and endemic to North America. Some of these species, such as the tiger salamander, can be more than 8 inches long. However, most salamanders that you’re likely to find on your adventures will be less than 6 inches.

    Discovering how small salamanders can be with kids
    Salamanders come in all shapes and sizes. Discovering just how teeny they can be is fun! 

    Salamanders are carnivores

    Salamanders are carnivores from the larval stage through adulthood. Adult terrestrial species tend to consume a wide variety of invertebrates including millipedes, centipedes, insects and their larvae, snails, and earthworms. But large mole salamanders may go as far as to eat small mice, shrews, and snakes. Aquatic species feed on fish, crawdads, zooplankton, mosquito larvae, and even other salamanders.

    Some North American mole salamander species, such as the tiger salamander, require only a few meals a year. Uniquely for cold-blooded animals, they tend to function better at lower temperatures. They’re able to conserve energy and go long periods between meals because they’re more active in colder temperatures. Some species go into a mostly dormant state in their burrows during the hot summer months.

    Toddlers exploring
    Don’t discount toddlers! Kids of any age can explore their surroundings.

    Salamander color diversity

    There’s an incredible amount of body coloration diversity within the >575 known species of salamanders. They come in a myriad of colors, ranging from camouflaging browns, dramatic neons, and even translucent in some cave-dwelling species.

    Biologists who study reptiles and amphibians believe the brightly colored salamanders evolved their beautiful tones as a toxicity warning to their potential predators. As shown in some of the photos within this article, the Eastern U.S. has some strikingly bright species.

    discovering Eastern newt salamander in the juvenile red eft phase.
    Some eastern newts, in their juvenile red eft phase, are so bright they seriously do not look real.

    Salamander toxicity

    On that note, yes, some salamanders are poisonous. However, you must ingest the salamander for it to be of any harm. I don’t think this article will lead folks to run off into the forests to catch and eat salamanders, but let’s just throw it out there, *salamanders are not safe for human consumption*.

    For all practical purposes, if your kids wash their hands after handling, they’ll be alright. However, it’s worth noting some of the larger species, namely Hellbenders, pack a mouth full of teeth and can bite. If you and your kids find the motivation to explore and discover these critters, you may want to stick to the smaller species.

    Child discovering eastern newt salamander in red eft phase.
    Kids love hands-on discovery. As long as you and the kids are careful it can be a safe learning experience for all involved.

    Salamander lifespans

    If you’re anything like me, then you may equate a critter’s small size with a short life span. That’s not the case with salamanders. These typically small vertebrates have uncharacteristically long lives. Some span decades.

    Hellbender lifespans can be upwards of 30 years, and spotted mole salamanders can live up to 20 years. There are accounts of giant salamander specimens in Japan and China living 60-70 years! With such long lives, I guess it’s not surprising that some species, like the eastern newt, spend years in their juvenile stages before metamorphosizing into their adult forms.

    discovering an Aquatic salamander native to the southern Appalachian region.
    Aquatic salamanders are typically less brightly colored than their terrestrial cousins.

    Salamander skin

    Another distinctly amphibian characteristic is the salamanders’ skin. They sport thin permeable skin that must be kept moist. Even so, there’s a lot of diversity in how a salamander’s skin can feel. Some are mucous-covered and slimy. Others (especially juvenile newts called efts) feel more dry, bumpy, and granular.

    Salamanders also differ across species in how they breathe or participate in gas exchange. Some oxygenate through their permeable skin, others through gills or lungs, and still others using a combination thereof.

    Small child discovering salamander
    Children love discovering and learning about the world around them.

    Where to look for salamanders

    One thing that all salamanders seem to have in common, is that they are very sneaky. Depending on species, they may burrow under the ground, logs, rocks, boulders, or leaf litter. With such a wide range, while you are out discovering salamanders with your kids it’s probably best to look up what species are native to your area and where they tend to reside.

    Terrestrial salamanders

    If your local salamanders are terrestrial, take to forests, especially on wet days. Once under the tree canopy, very slowly and carefully look under rocks, fallen logs, or freshwater seepage areas. Just take care to return whatever rocks or logs are moved. You may also want to research your native salamanders’ breeding seasons and seek out seasonal/vernal ponds.

    If you do find a salamander, be mindful to not return the log or rock on top of the creature, as they can be easily crushed. One tactic is to return the rock or log first, then gently release the salamander next to where you found it. You’ll be amazed at how quickly their short legs can get them back undercover! If you and the kids are up for it, you can also go forest exploring on a rainy night when salamanders tend to be more active.

    Aquatic salamanders

    If your area has native aquatic species, go exploring creek beds, bogs, swamps, springs, and ponds. Aquatic salamanders are often easier to find, but harder to catch. They are faster than their land-dwelling cousins. The aquatic salamanders use their tails to propel themselves through the water like little missiles. They also tend to be more camouflaged as compared to the brighter colored terrestrial counterparts.

    If you go searching in freshwater habitats, look under rocks near the bank or in creek beds. Lift the rocks slowly and carefully to limit siltation (murky water), which decreases water visibility. And just like you do for terrestrial species, take care to replace all potential cover back into place prior to leaving. Salamanders may be stealthy, but they need the natural cover of rocks, logs, of organic debris for protection and hunting.

    Discovering salamanders with kids
    Teaching kids from an early age about the environment gets them to care about conservation as they grow.

    How to handle salamanders

    When you are lucky enough to find salamanders, please take care in handling them. Their permeable skin makes them delicate and quite sensitive. Try to remember to wash your hands with soap and water before going out. Make an extra effort to not have any chemicals on your hands including sunblock, bug spray, sanitizer, scented lotions, or any other substances that could be potentially harmful to the amphibians. Many species breathe through their skin and need to stay moist. So, it may be beneficial to wet your hands before touching them.

    When attempting to hold them, keep in mind that they can also be very fast. They will squirm and squiggle right out of kids’ paws if given the opportunity. Try to prepare your kids. You don’t want them to clamp down on the fragile critters should they make for an escape. A gentle loose grip is best.

    For smaller kids, who may not have the dexterity to safely hold small salamanders, bring along a small cup to put them in temporarily. That way your child can see them up close without harming or overstressing them. After you all have gotten a good look, help empower your kiddos to be good nature stewards by releasing the salamanders right where they were found.

    Of note: Some terrestrial species secrete a very sticky mucus when handled as a defense mechanism. The mucus tends to not wash off for a day or two, although in my experience it lost the stickiness within a couple of hours.

    Child discovering Eastern newt salamanders in red eft stage
    Bringing a small cup ca help small children explore salamanders more safely.

    Salamander conservation

    Scientists consider all amphibians, including salamanders, as sentinels or bio-indicators. This means that the health of an area’s species, or group of species, is considered an indicator of the overall wellbeing of that habitat or environment. This is because amphibians are extremely sensitive to environmental change. Due to this sensitivity, amphibian populations seem to be declining globally.

    discovering Aquatic shovel nosed salamander
    Note how camouflaged its skin is with its environment.

    Salamander vulnerability

    Salamanders, like frogs, lay unshelled eggs in water. Without outer shells, the eggs are easily damaged by pollutants, ultraviolet radiation, and other disturbing factors. It’s more complicated for terrestrial species who depend on vernal ponds to lay eggs, as seasonal water sources are being increasingly affected by climate change. And as mentioned earlier, salamander’s permeable skin also makes them quite fragile to chemical pollutants. They can’t survive in polluted waterways.

    Child discovering eastern newt salamander in red eft stage.
    Even very young children can learn how to be gentle and respectful of small critters.

    How to help salamanders

    All is not lost; we can help protect these amazing creatures. There are simple things we can do to benefit salamanders no matter where we are.

    • We can help by ensuring they have shelter. When you see rocks stacked into (unnecessary) “cairns”, dismantle them by gently dispersing the rocks. Removing rocks from creeks and streams to form stacks, causes over-siltation of the waterway and loss of protective shelter for salamanders and other little beasties like crawdads.
    • Advocate against using salamanders for fishing bait, and for the humane release of Hellbenders caught by anglers.
    • Collect litter we come across while out adventuring, especially trash you can reach at the edges of water sources.
    • And if your family is really looking to be a force of change, investigate how you can engage in local habitat restoration efforts in your community.
    • Last but certainly not least, help us spread the joy and wonder of these clandestine critters! The more folks know about them, the more folks will care, and the more likely we’ll be able to make a difference.
    child discovering a salamander
    The more you expose kids to nature the more they learn about the interconnectedness of the world around them.

    Cool salamander facts for kids

    • Salamanders are older than dinosaurs! The earliest found fossil records of salamanders are more than 250 million years old. That’s 40 million years older than the first fossil records of dinos. That means these incredible creatures survived the great extinction events that killed the dinosaurs. No wonder some species (particularly in the cryptobranchidae family) look so prehistoric.
    • “Salamander” is Greek for “fire lizard”. The name has its origin in the myth that salamanders can walk through fire. This myth came about in ancient times. People would often see salamanders as they crawled out from logs that had been thrown onto the fire.
    • A group of salamanders is referred to as a herd or a congress.
    • The axolotl, a native Mexican species, can regenerate missing limbs, eyes, gills, and some organs (cool, right!).
    • Colloquial names for salamanders include snot otter, devil dog, lasagna lizard, walking fish, fire lizards, Allegheny alligators, mudpuppies, waterdogs, and baby dragons.
    • The biomass of salamanders in America’s southeastern Appalachian forests is greater than all mammals and birds combined.
    Child discovering a red eft salamander.
    Teaching children about small creatures is also extremely adorable. Did I mention that yet?

    Salamander fun for young children

    Bring the outdoors in with salamander toys and books!

    Salamander toys

    • Beautiful handmade salamander toys by OutsideEverywhere.
    • Salamander puppets are a good option too. Folkmanis has a couple options; a mud salamander finger puppet and axolotl.
    Kids handmade salamander toy. Discovering salamanders with kids.
    Kids learn through play. So bring the outdoors in through toys!
    child discovering salamander
    Salamanders are beautiful creatures that can teach kids and parents alike so much about our local environments.

    Children’s books about salamanders

    References

    How are your kids developing a passion for the outdoors?

    About the author

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

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

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

    You can find Somer online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @somerpickel

  • 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

  • FALL, HIKE, INFORMATION, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    How to Get Kids Outside During the School Year

    It’s that time of year again – our children are trading in their beach towels for backpacks and holding pencils more than sidewalk chalk. Whether you homeschool or traditional school, back-to-school generally means less free time and fewer hours to play outside. Not only that, but the days are growing shorter and the weather’s turning cooler. Getting kids outside during the school year can be a challenge. However, spending time outside in nature is still necessary for our kids’ physical health, mental focus, and emotional development. Today, the amazing Leslie Alvis, Ohio homeschooling mom of four, is here sharing a few ideas for practical ways to build outdoor routines into your school days. Hopefully, these tips will help you incorporate more nature into your busy schedule without making outdoor time feel like one more thing on your to-do list.

    Tips for Getting Kids Outdoors During the School Year

    Make nature time a priority

    Whether back to school means a traditional school program for you or homeschooling with a flexible schedule, days become extra busy as you settle into a fall routine. Many of us have kids involved in extra-curricular activities and sports. It’s easy to feel like we don’t have enough time for nature exploration during the school year. However, a busy schedule doesn’t mean the outdoor adventures have to stop! In fact, I think it should help us make nature time even more of a priority. We’re here to show you how to get kids outside during the school year.

    How to Get Kids Outside During the School Year

    Our kids need us to help them balance the demands of school with the freedom of childhood and the wonder of exploring outdoors. Formal education is necessary, but children also require time outside for proper growth and development. Ginny Yurich, author, educator, and founder of the 1000 Hours Outside movement, says,

    Nature play facilitates growth in every area, making time outside a crucial part of the landscape of childhood.”

    Playing Outside

    Time outside matters

    Time spent outdoors doesn’t always have to be done in giant hour+ long chunks. Even on busy days, there are many ways to get our kids outside for short amounts of time, which still have huge benefits for kids. A quick break to explore outside helps break up the mental stress of school. While a long hike or bike ride gives them a chance to catch their breath mentally while also strengthening their bodies, sometimes a short walk/ride around the neighborhood is just what they need. Weekend adventures provide fun and memories for the whole family, but short outings to a local park are great for when you don’t have tons of time. Our family tries to include a mix of these different activities throughout the school year to keep us all enjoying the great outdoors, no matter our schedules or the weather. Time outside gives us space to breathe and the freedom to explore.

    How to Get Kids Outside During the School Year - Wading in the Creek

    Take walks to get kids outside

    Walks are one of the easiest ways to get kids outside and moving! A family walk can happen anywhere, anytime. It doesn’t have to take long or have the perfect setting. Just look around at what you do each day and see if you can link a walk into that activity. Walk to the bus stop. Stroll to get the mail. Wander to the end of the street…around the block…down a country lane.

    As homeschoolers, we work a daily walk into our school routine as our recess. Sometimes we do it when the lessons are dragging long, or sometimes as soon as the school day is finished. But at some point, we grab the bikes, scooters, and stroller (and the dog! Our neighbors call us a parade!) and head outside for some fresh air and exercise. The time out in nature is good for us all. I’m pretty sure it’s all that saves my sanity on some long winter days.

    How to Get Kids Outside During the School Year - Go for family walks

    When you get your kids outside to take a walk, you’re not only getting active together, but you are also exploring and observing nature together. My kids never fail to find something wonderful to point out to me on our walks. The bunny that’s always lurking near the vacant lot on the next street over. A brilliantly colored leaf or flower. A puffy cloud.

    There are a world of discoveries from every sidewalk, driveway, and walking trail. Sometimes we have more time to linger and wander than others, but wherever we are outside, we see amazing and beautiful parts of the natural world. Getting kids outdoors on a walk is a great way to tailor-fit a quick nature adventure to your family’s busy schedule.

    Kids Finding Caterpillars Outside - How to Get Kids Outside During the School YearKids Getting Outside to explore - getting kids outside after school starts

    Evening adventures get kids outside

    Sometimes our days get really full and busy. I try to plan at least one evening (or late afternoon as the days grow shorter) each week to intentionally get outside! Look at your schedules and find an hour somewhere in the week to go have a little outdoor adventure. Play at the park. Walk in the woods. Blow bubbles. Get some friends together to play frisbee or hide-and-seek together in the lingering twilight. Again, this doesn’t have to be elaborate. It just requires you being intentional about making time for your family to breathe in the fresh air and explore nature together. You won’t be sorry you did!

    Take kids’ school outside

    Another way to get kids outside after school is simply to take the lessons or homework outside! Before you discard that idea as impractical and impossible, I challenge you to give it a try. When the weather is nice, set up a school/homework station on the porch, the backyard or in the tree fort. Let your older students take their reading up in their favorite tree. Pack up the backpacks and snacks and go sit in a picnic area at a park. There are so many ways to help kids take their schoolwork outside!

    Kids Doing School Outside -How to Get Kids Outside During the School Year

    Yes, you may have to keep tabs on them and make sure they aren’t totally distracted from their work. But honestly, most of the time kids will buckle down and get their book work done when they realize all the many other things they would rather be doing outside! And wouldn’t you rather have your kids distracted by the mystery of the cicadas and the falling leaves than sitting inside glancing at a computer or television?

    Kids doing school outside

    We are a second-generation homeschooling family. I grew up hauling my textbooks outside every chance I got. I loved it. (This probably contributes to the feeling of claustrophobia when I’m stuck indoors.) It motivates me to give my own children the same opportunities to get outside in all seasons, doing all kinds of things. Even schoolwork.

    Kids Doing School OutsideKids Reading Outside

    Outdoor learning

    Whether you homeschool or not, there are a lot of ways to extend learning outside. When you step out into nature, everything around you is a science lesson, art lesson and history lesson. Studying the beauty of nature gives inspiration to every kind of art. Observing the mysteries of the natural world naturally leads to questions and learning about plants, animals and how things have changed over time. Time spent in nature is never time wasted. So, when your days are busy with school schedules and extra-curricular activities, don’t forget that time in nature is an essential part of your children’s education, too.

    kids finding nature treasures outside

    Look for ways to include outdoor time as part of school! Choose a nature-based science fair project. Conduct your own STEM activities outside using nature. Help your kids study the weather, the seasons, the natural world around them. Volunteer in your child’s classroom to take them outside to work in the school garden or go for a nature walk. Incorporating education into your outdoors time is one of the best ways to make sure you are getting your kids outside after school starts.

    Kids finding insects outside

    Picnics get kids outside

    Is the sun shining? Is the sky so blue it takes your breath away? What about the breeze that’s the perfect combination of crisp air and gentle warmth? Take advantage of the lovely fall weather and have a picnic! Take PB&J sandwiches on a hike. Order pizza delivery to your favorite local park. Or build a campfire in your backyard and cook hot dogs and s’mores. Kids don’t need fancy food—they need time outdoors and memories with their families. Impromptu meals outside on a gorgeous day are some of my favorite times with my kids.

    Making S'moresEating S'moresKids eating outside

    Weekend adventures get kids outside

    Another way to get kids outside during the school year is to plan weekend adventures! We all know that sometimes if we don’t make plans to do something, it just won’t happen. So, grab your calendar and make some plans. Pick a Saturday afternoon and go explore that state park. Find a new bike trail and spend a few hours on it. Go hiking together, or just go have a picnic at a nearby park. Find a local corn maze or fall festival and enjoy some outdoor fun. Pull your family loose from the tug of school schedules and obligations and make some memories together.

    Kids Running Outside

    Weather

    Just a quick note on the impact weather can have on your fall activities. Cooler days, shorter evenings, and more rain can make planning an outing challenging. Getting caught in a summer shower can be fun. But getting caught in the rain in October can be miserable. Especially if you aren’t dressed for it. There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing, so be prepared! Check the weather often and look for days that will suit your family and the activity you are planning. Take advantage of those gorgeous sunny days and enjoy nature to its fullest!

    Enjoying Outdoors

    Don’t let bad weather keep you from getting your kids outside this fall. Sometimes the wind is unexpectedly biting. Sometimes it pours rain every time you plan a nature outing. Several times we’ve planned for an all-day outdoor adventure and had to do it in chilly, incessant rain. Honestly, that makes memories, too! Sometimes they’re the best memories! Just remember that your attitude sets the tone for dealing with the unexpected or inconvenient. Oftentimes, kids don’t mind wet feet and pants as much as adults do. And a cup of hot chocolate can turn a chilly experience into a delightful adventure for a kid!

    Kids playing outdoors

    Need more fall ideas?

    As we mentioned, sometimes planning an outdoor activity and making it a priority is half the battle. If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas of things you can do outside this fall as a family, we’ve got a great list of 100+ outdoor fall activities for kids and families. This list should give you all kinds of inspiration for easy and quick nature crafts to outdoor adventures, STEM experiments and more.

    How do you get your kids outside during the school year?

    Hi, I’m Leslie Alvis! I’m a follower of Jesus Christ, wife to my high school sweetheart and best friend, and a mom to four rascally kids. They love the great outdoors as much as I do, and our yard often feels like the scene from “The Sound of Music” where you hear voices and laughter and can’t find any children until you look up into the trees.  I love writing, photography, and all things outdoors. We live in Northeast Ohio on the edge of Amish Country, where it’s perfectly normal to park beside a horse and buggy at the grocery store. We also homeschool, which basically means that I’m trying to teach my kids to use their minds without losing my own. While we follow a traditional curriculum, I weave every outdoor adventure I can into our educational journey. I believe that the lessons children experience firsthand sink deepest into their hearts and minds, and there is so much we can learn outside in the beauty and wonder of nature.

    Find Leslie on Instagram @c_l_allofus