get outdoors more

INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
10 Ways Your Public Library Can Help You Get Outdoors
- April 24, 2023
Public libraries have always been places for learning and exploring, but they can also play a role in promoting outdoor activities and helping families spend more time outside. Libraries today can provide families with so much more than just books. Emily Liebel, Salt Lake City mom of three and book lover over at Inclusive Library, is here sharing 10 creative ways public libraries can help kids and families learn about their environment, appreciate local nature, and spend more time outside adventuring together! By promoting outdoor activities and environmental education, public libraries can play a vital role in fostering a love of nature and sustainability in the next generation.

How your public library can help you get outdoors

Public libraries are meant to be hubs for community and education. But, they can be underutilized in many ways beyond checking out interesting books. There are wonderful (and free!) resources curated by attentive librarians that we should be taking advantage of, many of which can actually be a springboard for helping kids and families spend more time outdoors.

Here is a list of 10 ways that libraries can help kids and families spend more time outdoors, each of which I’ll cover in more detail below:
1. outdoor reading and storytimes
2. park passes and library partnerships
3. community exploration programs
4. nature-themed book kits
5. seed libraries and gardening programs
6. story walks
7. gear and equipment loans
8. outdoor classes, workshops, and events
9. books
10. outdoor architecture of the library
1. Outdoor reading programs and storytime

Public libraries can organize outdoor reading programs where children can enjoy books while being outdoors. The library can set up reading tents, chairs, and blankets in a park or a garden and encourage children to read books or listen to stories while being surrounded by nature.

Many libraries plan their story time events to be outdoors when the weather is warm enough. This is a great way to get a little extra time outside while also participating in other enriching programs. The downtown branch in SLC has amphitheater seating connected to the children’s section for this purpose. Some libraries provide blankets or mats for the children to sit on and brings out books and games for kids to read and play with outside.

2. Outdoor park passes and library partnerships

Some libraries partner with local parks and recreation departments, as well as outdoor educational places, to offer passes (or discounted admission) to nearby parks, zoos, conservation areas, botanical gardens, arboretums, wildlife centers, and nature preserves. This allows families to explore the natural beauty of their community and get immersed in nature.

These partnerships can also include joint programs, such as educational workshops, presentations, or storytimes hosted at these outdoor venues. By partnering with these organizations, libraries can offer unique learning experiences that allow children to engage with and learn about the natural world.

For example, while living in Georgia, I took my child to the Atlanta Zoo for free through our local public library. The Pines Library System has a DVD that you can check out and learn about the history and information on the Atlanta Zoo. When you return the DVD, the librarian prints a receipt that you take directly to the zoo to free admission for four. You can check out the DVD once a year.

The Georgia Public Library Service also provides state park passes to patrons. You can check these out the same way you’d borrow a book. You can also check out a discovery pack along with the pass. These packs have information about the 48 state parks that participate and a pair of binoculars.

Some libraries also offer national park passes that you can check out!

3. Community exploration programs

Public libraries can offer community exploration programs that encourage families to get out and explore their local area. These programs can take many forms, such as scavenger hunts, self-guided tours, or neighborhood walking groups. These activities can highlight interesting landmarks, historical sites and architecture, public art, or hidden gems in the area.

Community exploration programs not only encourage families to get outside and be physically active but also help them develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of their local area. By discovering new places and learning about the history and ecology of their community, families can feel more connected to their environment and to each other.

In Michigan, the Ann Arbor Public Library System hosts “The Summer Games“. Kids spend the summer earning badges and prizes by solving puzzles or riddles, looking for clues at each library location, and walking around their neighborhoods and the city at large looking for hidden QR codes at volunteer houses or businesses. Our first year participating was during 2020 lockdowns, and the library organized the games to be almost entirely outdoors while finding codes in windows or yards.

Now we live in Utah and the Salt Lake City Library (SLC) System offers a lottery system for Community Exploration Cards. Each month, a limited number of enrolled people are provided with free passes for four people to city centers like the Tracy Aviary, Red Butte Gardens, the Natural History Museum, and more. I enjoy taking my kids to Tracy Aviary because there are so many interesting and active birds, they do regular shows and classes, and there are fun playgrounds and sand pits.

4. Nature-themed book kits

Every library I’ve visited has “book kits,” which are curated backpacks or tote bags full of books and supplies on a specific theme. You can find kits on animals, insects, instruments, food, the weather, languages, botany, geology, outdoor activities (e.g. camping, hiking, etc.), and so much more. They can also include field guides, outdoor activity books, and exploration tools such as magnifying glasses or binoculars. The kits are a great way to encourage kids to learn about the habitats and ecosystems of their local area, and develop a lifelong love of nature and environmental stewardship.

In addition to the books and tools included in the kit, libraries can also provide activity suggestions or challenges that encourage kids to get outside and put their newfound knowledge into practice. For example, we’ve participated in library challenges for kids where they’re expected to identify and photograph different birds or insects they find on a hike or to create a nature journal to document their outdoor adventures.

Our most recent kit had a gardening theme. In the SLC libraries, the kits include five books and a small selection of free-to-keep materials. The gardening kit ‘keep’ portion included a seed packet and a pot, a book, and some stickers. My kids check on their small wildflower pot daily. We read the books outdoors while planning where to plant all our seeds- which were also provided by the library!

5. Seed libraries and gardening programs

Public libraries can use seed libraries and gardening programs to help get kids outside and engaged in nature. Seed libraries allow library patrons to borrow packets of seeds to plant in their own gardens or outdoor spaces. These seed libraries can include a variety of seeds, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs, and can be used to encourage children and families to start their own gardens at home.

In addition to seed libraries, many public libraries offer gardening programs that provide educational opportunities for children to learn about gardening and environmental stewardship. These programs include information on starting a garden, caring for plants, and harvesting fruits and vegetables. They can also include activities such as creating a compost bin or building a birdhouse to attract local wildlife.

Through seed libraries and gardening programs, public libraries can inspire children to get outside and engage with nature. Children can learn about the natural world, the importance of sustainability, and the benefits of growing their own food. Gardening can also promote physical activity and healthy habits, as well as provide a sense of accomplishment and connection to the environment.

The seeds we will be planting in our home garden this year were all provided for free by our local public library. Many SLC and Salt Lake County branches have displays full of seed packets. You pick out the ones you want from an incredible selection, and a librarian will add them to your account. Once you plant your seeds, you take the leftovers back to be checked out by someone else. We will be spending many hours this spring outdoors planting and tending green beans, tomatoes, strawberries, and wildflowers that we found at our local branch.

6. Story walks

A story walk is an outdoor literary experience where pages of a children’s book are posted along a walking path or trail. As children walk along the path, they read the story in order and engage in physical activity.

Story walks can be used to promote literacy, physical activity, and outdoor exploration. Often they’re hosted at local parks or nature reserves, allowing children to engage with nature while also enjoying a fun and educational experience. The stories selected for story walks can be just for fun, or themed around nature, ecology, or adventure, and can be curated to fit the interests and reading levels of different age groups.

Public libraries can partner with local parks and community organizations to organize story walks in their area. They can also provide additional resources and activities related to the story, such as craft activities or educational worksheets, to further engage children in the story and encourage them to learn more about the topic.

7. Gear and equipment loans

Depending on where you live, your local public library could offer a variety of outdoor equipment and gear that help and encourage families to get outside and explore the natural world.

The “library of things” movement has gained a lot of traction in libraries across the country. This movement refers to libraries loaning items well outside the traditional realm of books and audiovisual materials. Popular collections now include toys and games, camping equipment, and fishing gear. The gear is FREE to rent and use and can dramatically reduce the often-heavy and burdensome price point of entry for outdoor activities and hobbies.

Here are some examples of gear and equipment you could get from your local public library to help you spend more time outside:
- Outdoor games and sports equipment: Some public libraries offer equipment for outdoor sports and games such as frisbee, soccer, basketball, and tennis. We’ve heard of libraries that loan kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes!
- Camping gear: There are libraries that provide camping equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and portable stoves to help families plan and enjoy outdoor camping trips.
- Biking gear: Libraries can provide bikes for families to borrow, as well as helmets, locks, and bike repair kits to ensure safety and convenience.
- Fishing equipment: Libraries can offer fishing rods, reels, and tackle boxes to encourage families to try their hand at fishing.
- Technology gear: Some public libraries also let you check out technological equipment such as microscopes, telescopes, GoPros, and binoculars.
8. Outdoor classes, workshops, and events

Events such as classes, workshops or presentations where kids learn about nature are great ways that public libraries can help you get outside. If you check your local library website, you will find events listed that cater to different age groups. These can be recurring meeting or special events. Not every class will be geared towards the outdoors, but we can find many that do. Outdoor classes and events hosted by libraries in local parks or natural areas can provide a fun and interactive way for families to explore nature and learn about their community, while also engaging in a creative activity.

Our local library host outdoor crafting workshops where kids can make crafts using materials found in nature, such as leaves, flowers, and twigs, which can spark an interest in exploring the natural world and encourage kids to spend more time outside collecting materials for future crafts. Books, guides, and online resources can give kids ideas for outdoor crafts, such as making birdhouses, nature collages, or planters using recycled materials.

If you are looking for simpler materials that you bring along outside, ask your children’s librarian what they have available. Each week, our local public library will print coloring pages, bookmarks, and other crafting packets that you can pick up for free. These are great to color outdoors: in your backyard, on a picnic, or take on your hike.

9. Books

Of course, there are always books to check out! Any book you and your children find interesting from the library can be packed along and taken with you on your outdoor adventures. Take a book to a park or read on your patio furniture for a relaxing moment outdoors.

You can also check out books that are specifically about nature, wildlife, the environment, and the outdoors. These are great options to learn more about an activity you’re about to do or to enjoy fun stories about spending time outside.

Check out books about a state park you will soon visit to learn about the best trails and the history. Check out a book with information about insects that you can then find in your own yard. Whether you browse for these books yourself or ask your librarian for recommendations, there are books that cover many interesting topics. Additionally, many library systems can borrow books from other locations if your specific branch doesn’t carry what you’re looking for.

10. The outdoor architecture of the library

I love visiting every library branch when I move somewhere new. I have even been known to seek out the local branch of places I visit on vacation. This is because each and every building is unique to simply physically visit. As I said in the beginning, libraries are meant to be hubs for the community. Their spaces must then be inviting and useful to the community they serve. I have found libraries in which I would love to spend hours meeting with others from my community.

Some branches I’ve visited, such as the Glendale and Marmalade branches in SLC and the Oconee branch in Georgia, have courtyards where kids can enjoy their newly checked-out books or eat their snacks in the sun. In some of these courtyards, librarians provide chalk or bubbles that the kids can use while out in the space.

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Tippecanoe branch has a spectacular outdoor space complete with a “Secret Garden” inspired garden and bioswales. This library has also taken steps to combat some of its carbon footprint. They use solar panels and have a permeable parking lot to reduce stormwater runoff. Visiting a library such as this one is a great way to supplement our kids’ education on caring for our planet.

The downtown branch in SLC is an impressive building with a rooftop terrace. There are trees, grass, and multiple seating areas for all patrons. The terrace has 360-degree views of the valley and the Wasatch Mountains. It is always engaging to take kids up to point out different sights on the mountains or areas they might recognize.

Ways your public library can help families get outside

When you are short on ideas, supplies, or money for new outdoor adventures, your library will help you out. I have lived in five different states, and the public libraries in each have helped me acclimate and learn about cool places in my new home area. Head to your local public library to ask about the unique outdoors benefits they provide- like the ones I mention here.

How does your local public library help you get outside?

About the author

Emily and her family have moved across the US multiple times, and the best things about each state have been the outdoor adventures and the public libraries! Now living in Utah, Emily has continued her love for both. She explores both mountain and city outdoor spaces weekly with her three kids and friends and attends library story times, as well as leads a local story time. Emily has a passion for children’s literature. She uses books to educate, promote inclusion, understanding, and justice, and inspire adventure and creativity. Emily loves how reading and being outdoors overlap in so many exciting ways!

You can find Emily online in the following locations:
Instagram: @inclusivelibrary
RWMC Posts: Emily Liebel
INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Mental Health and Parenting Outdoors
- February 11, 2022
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.

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…

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?).

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.

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
    - Ours has snacks, a first aid kit, and seasonally appropriate items
    - Tips for winter layering
  - 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.
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?

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
INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Tips for Getting Kids Outdoors More
- December 29, 2020
Over the last few years, I’ve heard so many parents and friends say that they want to get their kids outside more. To which I say, “YES, yes and yes!” A new year is here and it’s the perfect time to set a goal of getting your kids outside more often. That’s exactly what this website is all about! Let’s make this a year of outdoor adventure, together. I’m here to share some tips for getting kids outdoors more this year, and every year to come.

Adopt an outdoor mindset

Getting outside regularly and doing things together as a family has made a huge positive impact on our lives. For us, getting outside is now more of a pleasure than a chore. However, I know it isn’t that way for everyone. And that’s not to say it’s always easy for us – sometimes it takes hours just to get out the door! But it’s always worth it in the end.

Adopting new ideas and trying new things takes time, research, trial, and error. Believe me, we’ve been erring for years! The more we pushed boundaries and tried new things with our kids, the more confident we became and easier it got to get outside. Not all of our adventures are successful. Trust me, we’ve had our share of ruined outings, meltdowns, and horrible experiences. But, we learned something from our mistakes and they’re funny to think back on now. Even unsuccessful outings are worth it. We learned something new with each fail and know what to do differently next time.

You’ll never regret it

While getting outdoors with your kids isn’t easy, it’s always worth it. I can guarantee that you will never regret making a commitment to getting outdoors more. Your children will benefit in ways you never imagined or expected. We want to make getting outside easier for you and make your time spent outdoors more pleasant. We want to share some ideas with you on how to turn your goal of getting outside a reality. Some of these ideas are tried and true by our family. Some of these nuggets of wisdom are from other outdoorsy nature-loving moms. We hope this inspires you to get outside and let your kids run wild this year!

Set a goal, but start small

If you’d like to get outdoors with the kids more, set a goal that’s reasonable and achievable. If you jump in with the goal of getting outside 4 hours a day, every day of the week, chances are you will fail and it will be miserable. Kids (and adults) need time to get used to new things, so start small.

Maybe the first goal is to get outside (for any length of time) three times a week. You can start right in your own backyard and venture further out from there. If you’re a planner, come up with some fun games or activities that the kids can do outside. Pinterest is great for this! If you have a “go with the flow” personality, let the kids dictate your adventures and activities. Either way, allow the kids to explore on their own a bit with you close by. This fosters independence, boosts curiosity, and builds confidence.

Work your way up

Once you’ve mastered your first goal of just getting outside, increase the time you spend outdoors. The more you and the kids are outside, the less intimidated you’ll be by bad weather, new locations, or even the ever-dreaded “boredom” routine. Your kids might surprise you by not needing to be constantly entertained. Your children’s imaginations and creativity will surprise you when they’re outside with “nothing” to do and have to come up with something clever to play.

If you’re feeling ambitious, set a goal to get outside for 1000 hours this year! Our Creative Team member Ginny Yurich runs the 1000 Hours Outside challenge, with the goal of matching average yearly screentime with outdoor time. Ginny has some really awesome printable trackers you can download and stick on your fridge to have a physical reminder of all the fun time you’re spending outside and making memories with your kids.

Make yourself accountable

If you’re intimidated by the outdoors or need some additional motivation to get outside, enlist help! There’s nothing like having a friend to get you through some of the initial hurdles and make it less scary. Set up playdates with mom friends outdoors and let the kids explore together. Take turns checking out new parks, new trails or new activities. Or you could even start your own forest playgroup with some local like-minded friends!

If you want some online accountability, consider joining the Nature Play Club, hosted by Penny from Mother Natured. For real life experiences (and to meet new friends in your area), join a local Hike it Baby chapter and tag along on a group hike with other moms and kids. Sign the kids up for a nature class at your local conservation area, botanical garden or science center. Look into Tinkergarten or a similar outdoor class for kids. Buy that Groupon for a round of golf, scuba diving certification, ziplining, or kayak rental. Sometimes just making plans and having accountability can encourage you to get out of your comfort zone easier.

Prep ahead of time

Sometimes half the battle of spending time outdoors is just getting dressed, packed, and out of the house. Anything we can do to make this process easier buys us more time outside, having fun. Here are a few suggestions for getting as much prepped, packed, and ready ahead of time for your outdoor adventures:
- Have a dedicated “outdoor” backpack filled with all the things you need for your outdoor adventures (sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, water, sunglasses, hats, diapers/wipes, dry socks, extra gloves, binoculars, magnifying glass, trash bag, first aid kit, etc.). Keep it stocked and by the door ready to go when you are.
- Keep a full change of clothes for each kid in the car. That way if they want to play in the creek or splash in the waves at the beach while you’re out and about, they don’t have to drive home in wet clothes (or naked).
- Pack a picnic lunch the night before so you can stay outside longer instead of rushing home to eat. Just eating meals outside will increase the time you spend outdoors. However, even though fresh air and exercise can increase your appetite, don’t expect kids to be able to sit for very long outside to eat. Outdoor meals are usually short and sweet so the kids can get right back at it as quick as they can.
- Make a list of all your favorite places to play outside and a list of some new places you’d like to explore. That way you always have some options that the kids can choose from, making it easier to decide what to do.
Invest in good gear

You don’t have to spend a fortune on name brand items, unless you’re spending an abundance of time outside in extreme temperatures. However, quality gear like a rain jacket, snowsuit, hats, gloves, and boots can make a huge difference in attitude and excitement about being outdoors in the weather. You are much more likely to get outdoors and stay out if your kids (and you!) are properly outfitted in gear that keeps them cool, dry, warm, comfortable, etc.

While being stuck inside for a day or two during bad weather is fine, sometimes that’s when everyone needs to get out of the house the most. There’s really no such thing as bad weather, right? There are different adventures to be had in all kinds of weather! Having the right gear will help you enjoy all the seasons your area has to offer and gives you fewer excuses to use the weather as a deterrent to outdoor play.

Mom tip: A great place to find quality outdoor gear is resale/second-hand shops. Obviously, it depends on inventory, but good quality gear usually lasts longer than kids stay that size. That means you can find some really great gently used items for less than half the retail price.

Create a backyard outdoor space

If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space that you can spruce up for outdoor fun, make the most of it. Kids don’t need acres of woods or miles of beaches to immerse themselves in nature. Kids can connect with nature in their own backyard. Whether it’s because I’m busy cooking dinner, the little one’s napping inside or we just don’t have enough time to get away, sometimes our daily outdoor time is spent entirely in our (very small) backyard. And that’s ok!

Here are a few things you can do/set-up in your backyard to ensure hours of fun:
- Set up a slackline for the kids to practice walking/balancing on
- Fill a waterproof bin with outdoor fun equipment: whiffle balls and bats, plastic golf clubs, tennis balls and rackets, Frisbees, hula hoops, bubbles, sidewalk chalk and other outdoor games and activities
- Set up a craft table or easel outside so your kids can draw, paint, craft, or do homework in the fresh air
- Assemble a tent in the backyard and let the kids play “camping”
- Plant a garden or put some potted plants outside for the kids to care for
- Create an outdoor kitchen, complete with dishes and utensils for creating the most delicious mud pies
- Set up a sandbox, filled with beach toys, shovels, scoops, and buckets
- Hang a hammock or swing for the kids to play on
- Check out these 25+ favorite backyard toys, activities, and games
Find your interest

If you’re just starting to get into outdoor activities, you may be overwhelmed by just how many things there are to do. Don’t feel like you have to do them all right away. There’s no master outdoor bucket list that you have to make your way through. There’s no requirement that your kids try everything activity under the sun.

Start with activities that interest you (or the kids) and branch out from there. For example, if you like going for walks, try hiking through the woods or geocaching. If you like animals, give horseback riding a try. Love the water? Try kayaking or canoeing. If you’re lucky enough to find an outdoor activity that you and your kids all absolutely love, free free to pursue that as much as possible. Starting with activities that you enjoy will build up your confidence being outdoors and you can always expand from there.

What do you find is the biggest obstacle to getting outside more?
HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, URBAN NATURE
Neighborhood Hiking with Kids
- June 19, 2019
Hiking with kids doesn’t have to be daunting or intimidating. It doesn’t require fancy gear or long miles. All you need to do to get started is step outside your front door with the purpose of having fun and a sense of adventure. Today, we have Maggie (Nimo), active mom of two from Sydney, Australia here sharing how her family got started hiking by going on local neighborhood excursions. She walks you through everything you need to know about neighborhood hiking with kids and how to start your own family tradition.

Benefits of hiking with kids

Hiking is not only fun, but it has many health benefits for kids and adults. Hiking is a great way to get kids outdoors and is a fun way to get them to love nature and foster their curiosity about the world around them.

When most people think of hiking, they think of an expedition that involves fancy gear from The Northface, hiking poles and a hydrating Camelbak with a straw into your mouth. While these kinds of hikes can lead you to some amazing places, they are not always possible to undertake with small children. However, hiking doesn’t have to be so intense. Kids can get outside and hike in their own neighborhoods!

The start of neighborhood hiking

When my son was only 20 months, I fell pregnant with my second child. I had such bad morning sickness that I spent most of my days laying on the floor, the TV on and my son entertaining himself around me. When my husband would come home from work, we would go for a walk to get some fresh air. This was the beginning of our neighborhood hiking adventures.

In the beginning, we needed to carry my son most of the time we were hiking, but in no time, he was covering the distance all by himself! That was 3 years ago. Today, he is an avid hiker and is always encouraging his little sister not to give up.

Neighborhood hiking with kids

Our hikes have since advanced from our neighborhood to National parks, but we still make time to walk around the neighborhood a few times a week. Most of our neighborhoods are rich with interesting things to make a group of children excited enough to get outside. If you want to get your little ones hiking around your neighborhood, here is where to start.

1. Start a weekly tradition

Pick a day (or multiple days) in a week and call it “family hiking day.” Pick a time that suits the whole family, when the kids are not too tired or hungry. Also, make sure you are not in a hurry so the kids can explore. Our hikes usually happen in the evening, after dinner. This is a time when my husband and I are not rushed, the kids are full and they have that pre-bedtime surge of energy.

2. Make it exciting

Make a big deal of your neighborhood hikes and show them you’re excited about going. Help them pack a little bag with items for the hike (my kid’s bags contain water, a magnifying glass, a neighborhood map printed off Google maps and a headlamp for winter walks). Our hikes are known as excursions by the kids and we have reached a point where they usually choose which direction to take.

3. Find interesting things in your neighborhood to mark your destination

When we first started hiking and our son was small, our excursion used to take us to a neighborhood cat. When he became comfortable with that distance, we discovered a friendly dog that was a little bit further and this became our destination. We have since discovered other interesting things around the neighborhood and we choose to hike to those destinations. This gives the kids a goal and helps set their expectations.

Some of our other destinations are a large tree with all sorts of interesting insects to watch. There’s a large rock where we practice our climbing technique and a local dog park where we have made friends. Sometimes we hike to a construction site so the kids can see the diggers and tractors. Most recently, a local community garden has become a favorite spot for my 2-year-old daughter because she gets to feed all my lettuce to the chickens. Kids find interest in so many things that adults tend to overlook. Use your neighborhood hike to discover things in a whole new way.

4. Find friends to hike with

There is strength in numbers. This could not be truer when it comes to toddlers and pre-schoolers. During our walks, I usually notice that my kids cover way more distance when we bring friends along. I like to ask other mothers in the neighborhood and their kids to join us on our hike. I find that the children get so busy with each other that they rarely ever ask to be carried or complain about the distance.

5. Don’t worry too much about the destination

Yes, I mentioned that having a destination helps keep kids motivated, but make sure you allow them to explore. Toddlers and pre-schoolers get distracted very easily. Sometimes, a rock or tree will catch their attention and they’ll want to stop to explore or play. You can try to gently encourage them to keep walking, but don’t force them or get impatient with them. This will only make you frustrated and discourage them from trying the walk again.

If it so happens that a child stops and refuses to move on, then stay there! Let the kids explore whatever they find interesting until they’re satisfied. If after a while they still don’t want to move on, turn around and go home, and try again another time.

6. Don’t combine the hike with a task

Neighborhood hikes should not be the time when you plan to stop at the grocery store and pick up a gallon of milk. Separate “tasks” from “hikes.” These neighborhood hikes are meant to get your kid outside and into nature and eventually increase the child’s stamina and endurance. If you tie it to a task, you shift the focus to your needs and it then becomes impossible to move at the child’s pace. Remember, these child-friendly hikes should be led by them, so don’t rush them.

7. Safety first

As always, when hiking, safety is high on the list. Put down some basic rules that are easy for the kids to follow. Our rules are:
- No running too far ahead of the parents
- When asked, you must stop
- All children must hold an accompanying adult’s hand when crossing a street
We also try to avoid main roads, as its more peaceful and less polluted. We always repeat our rules before leaving the house. If any child is struggling with following them after a few reminders, that child goes back home with one of the adults. I have had to do this to show the kids just how important it is to follow the rules. I’m happy to report that, my 4-year-old son knows them and follows them quite well. My 2-year-old has not gotten the grasp yet, but I am confident she will get there.

8. Leave the gadgets at home

When we do neighborhood hikes, we make sure to stay off our phones. However, one adult usually carries a phone with them for emergencies and safety reasons, but it stays hidden in a backpack or pocket and is not to be used. Our hikes are a time to connect as a family. You never know when a pre-schooler is going to hold your hand and tell you about their day. If you are distracted by your phone, they may move on to something else and you’ll miss out on an important piece of your child’s day. Our neighborhood hikes usually last around 45 minutes, and everything else can wait.

9. Don’t forget to have fun!

The main purpose of our neighborhood hikes is to explore, exercise, and, most importantly, have fun. Use your imagination on your hike and pretend to hunt for dinosaurs or escape from crocodiles. Let the kids’ imagination take them places like the jungle or desert, and go along with them. You will be in for quite an adventure.

Start your own tradition of neighborhood hiking

If you want to get outdoors more with your family but find life getting in the way, neighborhood hiking is a great place to start. Getting out the door and into your local neighborhood is the perfect way to start adventuring more with the kids. Before you know it, you will be online ordering that fancy gear from the Northface, ready for a hike off a beaten track! We hope to run into you out there. Happy hiking everyone!

About the author

I am Maggie (Nimo). I’m originally from Kenya but lived in the U.S. for over 10 years. While living in Pittsburgh, I met and married a Slovakian man. We decided to move to warmer weather, initially thinking California, but we kept moving and ended up in Sydney Australia. We now call Australia home and when we are not busy working, we like to get out and hike, camp and travel with our children ages 2 and 4.

You can find more of their family’s adventures in the following locations:
Instagram – @babystepslongstrides
Website – http://babystepslongstrides.com/