Jacqui Hazell

FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, PARENTING
Growing Healthy Habits Outdoors
- October 29, 2024
Have you ever dreamed of weaving your love of the outdoors into the fabric of your family’s well-being? Nurturing healthy habits goes far beyond exercise, which is often our first thought when it comes to well-being. For me, healthy habits revolve around fostering a vibrant connection with nature, igniting a love for movement, and nourishing our bodies with the fuel for adventure (and wholesome foods!).

As a former naturopath and now outdoor parenting writer, I can’t wait to help you and your family grow some healthy habits. From snacks for picnics to practicing mindfulness games on hikes, in this article, you’ll find practical tips and helpful strategies to weave health into your outdoor adventures. I’ll even share my personal “toolkit” of natural remedies and stress-busting methods that help me stay grounded and strong. Together, we’re embracing how the outdoors can be a magical recipe for raising happy, healthy families.

Healthy habits of outdoorsy parents

Adventuring with your kids offers a myriad of opportunities for creating lasting memories and fostering bonds. For parents, these adventures present an opportunity to demonstrate and teach kids about the importance of health and well-being. The concept of growing healthy habits is a deliberate and mindful approach to instilling values that will shape the foundation of a resilient and thriving family.

Adventure is more than just a physical endeavor; it’s a holistic experience that engages the mind, body, and spirit. When moms prioritize health during their adventures, they not only set an example for their children but also create an environment where wellness becomes an integral part of the family’s identity.

Healthy habits contribute to the physical vitality of the family. They also lay the groundwork for emotional resilience and mental well-being. By intertwining health-conscious choices into their adventures, moms can create a positive and empowering narrative that teaches kids not just how to navigate the great outdoors but also how to navigate life with a resilient and health-focused mindset.

Growing healthy habits

Let’s clear the air before we dive in — “growing healthy habits” has nothing to do with weight loss. That’s not what this article is about. Here, we are all about cultivating body positivity and setting a confident example for those little ones who watch and model their viewpoint of themselves on us as parents. We’re not focusing on weight. Instead, we’re emphasizing the importance of nourishing our bodies with delicious, nutrient-dense, slow-release energy foods. These help give us the right conditions in which to thrive.

Parenting is exhausting, stressful, and sometimes feels designed to wear our bodies and spirits down. But, knowing tricks that can fuel your energy and help ease the stresses of daily parenting while maintaining a positive life outlook and keeping our cups flowing…that’s where the magic happens. Growing healthy habits is about building resilience for ourselves, empowering our minds and bodies, and fostering a joyful environment for our families. These are habits worth celebrating.

Fueling tiny adventurers

Last week, my four-year-old was riding his bike in our yard, and he asked to go on a quick adventure. I didn’t think too much of it and said, “Sure!” I threw a lead on the dog and popped a water bottle and some snacks into a backpack while he attempted to churn up every part of our gravel driveway with his skids.

We went across the street into a nature reserve. I fully expected to cover no more than a mile at most, maybe hang out in the reserve for a snack before heading home. What followed was an epic 8-kilometre (5-mile) trek with the dog and I jogging behind my energetic wild-child, who would stop every 10 minutes and ask for a morsel before he kept going.

Every tiny adventure with your child has the potential to turn big. With kids, everything is a possibility, and our outings sometimes turn out very different than the one I imagined in my head. It’s taken me years of things not going as expected for me to finally realize I needed to plan for the unexpected. And part of that was figuring out the best snacks to give my kids on adventures to keep them properly fueled and hydrated.

I wanted slow-release energy, high-calorie, easy-to-eat, tasty snacks. Easier said than done, right? Kids can be picky. And the snacks kids like best aren’t usually the healthiest options. However, I’ve experimented quite a bit, and here are a couple of our favorites that aren’t just the old classic trail mix. These snacks, paired with fruit and veggies, will aid any little adventurer on their quests, no matter how long the expedition ends up being!

Date dinosaurs

Who says you can’t play with food?! Make a shallow cut along the top of the pitted Medjool date. Slip in a “ridge” of pumpkin seeds. Then, use a metal skewer to poke two holes for eyes and insert either slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, or currants. You could go a little further with these and include a nose or feet. These are a big hit with my kids.

One big benefit of this snack is that they keep really well in an airtight container. This means you can make enough for the entire week ahead of time. This fun snack tastes great, is high in fibre from the dates and protein from the pumpkin seeds and is totally unprocessed. So, you’re getting the most nutrients possible from the ingredients.

Cheat’s scrolls

Cheat’s Scrolls are really just a variation on the sandwich, but my kids are all about making food fun. There’s also something to be said for one-bite pieces, for the kids to be able to grab one, throw it in their mouth, and have both hands free for their handlebars.

Start by getting either whole-meal or rye bread and flatten each slice with a rolling pin (tip: cutting off the crusts will make them roll easier, but optional). Then, pick a spread. I tend to go with nut butters for increased protein, but there are many options. Another favourite is hummus or pesto.

Roll up the bread, slice into 4 pieces and that’s it!. Quick to make, good quality carbohydrates and a relatively slow energy-release rather than a quick blood sugar spike.

Picnic sushi balls

My kids love sushi nights, however with my youngest especially, there’s a bit of a struggle to eat sushi without getting it everywhere. The outer seaweed gets a bit chewy, and it’s not feasible to make it too far in advance as it can go dry quite quickly.

I found these sushi balls online and have found them to be a great picnic addition – easy for little hands to make and eat, while also keeping well for 2-3 days in the fridge. We usually put tuna in the middle of ours and wrap them up nice and tight. Once they’re dipped in seaweed flakes, this light meal tastes just like the real thing.

Coconut water smoothie

We all know hydration is super important when we are actively enjoying the outdoors. Did you know coconut water is high in electrolytes and aids healthy hydration? If you’re wanting something a little bit extra for your next picnic, why not consider a coconut water smoothie?

You don’t even need a recipe. Just grab your food processor, pop in a handful of frozen berries or banana, a cup of coconut water and any extras of your choice, like other fresh fruits, honey, milk or milk alternatives, chia seeds or psyllium powder for a fibre boost. You can use a thermos to transport it to the picnic spot for a refreshing, healthy, delicious drink.

Mindfulness while hiking

I’ve always found the layers to hiking with kids incredibly interesting. From a simplistic viewpoint (and possibly from the child’s perspective), hiking is just walking. That’s it. But, that’s also the beauty of it. Merely taking a walk with your child is an opportunity to engage in the present moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness that can have profound effects on both you and your kid.

What’s great about hiking is its simplicity. It’s a walk through the natural world with your child. And once you strip away the external stimulus that kids are often around (such as technology, playground equipment or structured activities), you’re left with their undiluted personalities.

I’ve had some of the most powerful conversations with my kids while hiking with them. When all that’s asked of us is to put one foot in front of the other and be present in the moment (which is essentially mindfulness), deep connection can be found.

Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can enhance emotional regulation and self-compassion, ultimately leading to a greater sense of peace and well-being. It’s about savoring the simplicity of the journey, appreciating the vibrant hues of the surroundings, and relishing the joyous laughter that echoes through the trail.

It can be fun to keep these couple of activities in the back of your mind for your next hike to get kids fully immersed in their surroundings, aware of where they are and what they are doing.

5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique

Grounding is a very simple technique that is also often used to stop anxiety in its tracks. However, you don’t need to be in an anxious state to still benefit. When hiking, we use it to centre a child and focus on their surroundings, encouraging mindfulness without them even realizing that’s what’s happening.

Start by asking your child(ren) to name 5 things they can see, 4 things they can touch around them, 3 things they can hear, 2 things they can smell, and 1 thing they can taste.

It often helps the child to participate if the care-giver goes first, it doesn’t matter if there are double ups of kids picking the same things. It’s about every thought being in the present moment and taking the time to really absorb and process your surroundings.

Hiking blind

Another simple mindfulness game to play is Hiking Blind. This is a trust-building activity that helps kids focus on their surroundings. Pick one person to slowly lead, then join hands in a chain. You can use a blindfold, or everyone can just close their eyes. Obviously, this wouldn’t be done on terrain that is too uneven but it will work on straightforward trails.

Make sure it’s not always the adults leading. Kids want to be leaders too! The purpose of this exercise is to again focus the brain on what is going on in that moment. Being blindfolded and led on the trail for a short while increases the use of their other senses. It takes concentration on the feel of the person in front of you and the ground under your feet to be able to move forward.

Mum’s well-being toolkit

No matter how much fun we have adventuring with our intrepid offspring, there will always be elements of parenting that can be stressful. It comes with the territory. If you’re reading this, you probably already identify as “outdoorsy” and feel that purely being outside can promote a healthy mindset in yourself. And you’re right! However, there are additional things you could add to your healthy habits menu to increase what you get out of nature.

Herbal teas

I almost always carry my portable gas stove on walks. Even small walks, picnics, sometimes in a playground. Less so during a hot summer, but every other time of year I live by it and my kids have come to expect me to pull it out on any adventure or outing.

My favorite thing to make with it is herbal tea. The kids will usually drink a chai tea or a hot chocolate. I tend to stick to herbal teas for their extra benefits. Here are some of my favourites:
- Green tea: Has one of the highest concentrations of antioxidants of any tea, plus being good for your cardiovascular health and concentration.
- Rooibos: I think I’m slightly addicted to this herbal African red bush tea, pronounced roy-bos. It is naturally uncaffeinated and has a smooth, naturally sweet taste with earthy undertones.
- Lemon balm: A beautiful tea that’s not sour like the name might make you think. Lemon balm tea was even used in the Middle Ages to reduce stress, promote sleep and ease stomach discomforts.
- Chamomile: I do find this tea a bit divisive, people either love or hate the unique floral flavour. However, it is one of the best known teas for calming the mind and the digestive system.
Magnesium, the great all-rounder

Some common complaints often go hand-in-hand with parenting: tiredness, body aches, trouble sleeping, feeling stressed or anxious. Magnesium can help with all of these symptoms. Magnesium plays a role in regulating your nervous system, which can help you maintain calm in moments of chaos. It supports restful sleep, can relieve headaches through its muscle relaxant properties, and can even provide more energy through energy production.

I keep a magnesium powder in my pantry and add it to my bircher muesli or breakfast smoothies. It’s also an easy one to take camping and reap the benefits of a better night’s sleep in the tent!

*As a side note, please make sure you consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements, especially if you are already on medications or have any underlying conditions.

Outdoor journaling

The simple act of journaling is an incredibly therapeutic and empowering practice for moms. A journal is a place where moms can reflect on their experiences, articulate emotions, document their adventures, note their gratitude, process failures, and celebrate victories.

Through the simple act of putting pen to paper, moms can gain clarity on their thoughts. This fosters self-awareness, aids in stress management, and cultivates a deeper connection with one’s own feelings and aspirations. Journaling serves as a compassionate companion on the path to personal growth, allowing moms to navigate the challenges of parenthood while fostering a sense of resilience and self-care.

I often carry a notebook in my day-pack and encourage my kids (of writing age) to have one in theirs, too. When we stop somewhere on a trail, at the beach, or while exploring a national park, I will sometimes sit and use their distracted time to write about my day/week (often while enjoying a cup of herbal tea).

This is also a great habit to role model to kids and have them take part if they are interested. Not only can it help with their emotional regulation, it also allows them to get in a bit of writing practice.

For more on this topic, check out our full post on how to get started nature journaling with kids.

Growing green habits

These activities, tips, and snacks are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to growing healthy habits outdoors and maximising your well-being. Even staring into a campfire, enjoying green spaces or spending time near water have all been linked to positive effects on our health. So if you’re getting outside, you’re doing something right!

Which tip listed here do you think you’ll try first?

About the author

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

You can find more from Jacqui online in the following locations:
Instagram: @tiny.adventures.often
RWMC posts: Jacqui Hazell
CHALLENGE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING
Discovering the Joy of Family Challenges
- September 28, 2023
As parents, we often feel challenged by many things on a day-to-day basis. Just getting out the door can sometimes be a challenge. However, what about the fun challenges? The ones that are inspiring and promote goal-orientated thinking. The ones that push you to try hard, prioritize, and reach. There seems to be a rise on social media of every sort of hashtagged challenge you can think of, from reading a book every week for a year to walking 1000 miles. These are goals that we can set for ourselves, for our families, or even for our communities that can promote a sense of togetherness as we work towards a target. Today, Australian mum-of-two Jacqui from @tiny.adventures.often takes us on a journey of her own tried and tested challenges and explores the benefits of shared family goal setting.

The allure of a year-long goal

Setting a long-term year-long goal can be highly appealing for several reasons, as it offers numerous benefits and advantages. Whether you set a goal or not, time passes either way. Wouldn’t it be great, at the end of 12 months (or earlier), to be able to celebrate reaching a goal? But why a year-long goal? What’s the allure of using such a long time frame?

Well, there are quite a few. A year-long goal provides a clear and tangible target to work toward over an extended period, which is motivating, without short-term intense pressure. Year-long goals encourage gradual, sustainable progress. They often require consistent effort over time, promoting the development of good habits and routines.

Year-long goals are typically well-defined and measurable, making it easier to track progress and evaluate success. This measurement can also provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as milestones are achieved. This gives people a sense of purpose and direction, helping them stay committed to their objectives even when faced with challenges.

As a new mother, the snuggles are great but the identity crisis is real! @tinyadventuresoften

Where it began for me

For me, I began thinking about year-long goals and challenges around the time I got pregnant with my first child in 2016. When she arrived, I finished up work to be a full-time parent. Leaving the workforce to dedicate my life to keeping a tiny human alive left me with a gap when it came to ambition and personal fulfillment, though. I found that setting myself year-long challenges gave me something to work towards and take pride in.

In the early years, the challenges I set for myself were purely personal. I set a goal to spend 12 months off social media. I did 12 months with no refined sugar. I went 12 months without buying any new clothes. That sort of thing. These challenges were all difficult at various points throughout each year, and I did let myself have a small bit of leeway (like having a piece of wedding cake at a wedding or buying new underwear).

Getting to the end of the year felt fantastically empowering. I did it! I was proud of myself. I felt better. Now, what else can I do?

The goal of getting outside

It wasn’t until 2022 that I stumbled across the 1000 Hours Outside movement, created by Ginny Yurich and vastly popular on social media. The challenge of spending 1000 hours outside with my kids over the space of a year intrigued me straight away. I was already outdoorsy, so I wasn’t sure whether 1000 hours would actually be a challenge or if I would be meeting that goal already without even realising it.

Prioritising spending time outside with the kids (and often with extras) proved to be a lot of fun. @tinyadventuresoften

Spending 1,000 hours outside in twelve months

Almost as soon as I found out about the challenge, I started logging the time my kids spent outside. In a move that might be slightly controversial, I didn’t actually tell my kids the goal that I had set for us. I thought that if I told them the goal, then any time I planned activities outside, they might accuse me of only doing it to ‘get our hours up,’ instead of for the joy and benefits of just being outside.

I wanted them to appreciate each moment for what it was, not just for the destination. The goal was to spend more time outside for the sake of spending time outside, not hitting a number. In hindsight, I think I didn’t give them enough credit. Either way, it worked for us. I planned our days around getting the kids outside.

Doing the challenge made us think differently about getting outside in all kinds of weather! @tinyadventuresoften

Getting creative and gaining confidence

Sometimes we’d go outside exploring and take our time. Sometimes we’d take the more mundane activities, like eating dinner or folding laundry, outside to rack up hours. I quickly realized that if I took the kids camping, we could easily get eleven or twelve-hour days outside! These were all things that we already enjoyed doing, but having the goal of 1000 hours at the end of the year inspired me, pushed me, to be more creative, and to really prioritise getting outside.

And then I began noticing some changes. I noticed my kids becoming more physically confident. I also noticed our moods benefiting from being outside; the kids bickered among themselves a lot less when they weren’t confined to four walls. They showed much more initiative with their imaginative play, building cities out of rocks on riverbeds and money machines with dried leaves. Their creativity blossomed outside; they got better at unstructured free play, and they saw possibilities of play everywhere.

I also noticed my own confidence growing in my parenting and outdoor experiences. Where I may have been reluctant sometimes to try new things before, the challenge inspired me to take action and get outside. The more time I spent outside with the kids, the more confident I became. Time outside led to curiosity about our surroundings, which in turn led me to becoming more knowledgeable about the nature around us. We were all changing for the better.

One of my tricks to get them outside: always carry the hiking stove for hot chocolate anytime! @tinyadventuresoften

Reaching our year-long goal

It turned out that even though I considered us a very outdoorsy family, hitting that 1,000-hour goal for the year was more of a challenge than I expected. It didn’t help that we spent nearly a whole month with one or more of us down with RSV during that August. That month we only scraped thirty hours outdoors.

February 18th was our start (and end) date though, which meant that we had nearly the whole of an Australian summer to get over the finish line. A week-long camping trip over New Year’s bumped us up considerably, and by the end of January (spent mostly at the beach), we’d reached the goal.

Hooray!

Spending most of summer at the beach was beautiful! @tinyadventuresoften

Working towards a goal as a family

Setting a long-term shared goal as a family can offer a wide range of benefits and can strengthen the emotional bond among family members. Working towards goals together creates a sense of unity and shared purpose. It also encourages open and effective communication, as family members need to discuss their aspirations, priorities, and expectations, leading to better understanding, teamwork, and empathy. Setting and pursuing goals can teach kids important life skills such as planning, time management, problem-solving, and resilience.

Benefits of family goals

Even though I chose to work towards that goal, there are benefits to setting a shared goal together as a family, such as:
- An increase in communication and teamwork, as you work together to achieve a common goal.
- Team building and bonding experience.
- The process of choosing and setting goals often involves discussing values and principles that are important to the family. This can help reinforce shared values and ethical standards.
- Inspiration and motivation. When everyone is working towards the same goal and aligned in their thinking, it is easier to stay on track and inspire each other.
- Creating memories by trying new things together.
- Family goals related to health and wellness, such as exercising together or eating healthier meals, can encourage the development of healthy habits that benefit everyone.
- Pursuing family goals often requires spending quality time together. This can strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
- There’s often increased awareness of each other’s needs and interests. When families brainstorm together different challenges and ways to meet their challenges, each family member will bring to the table things that are important to them. This can lead to everyone being aware (and having to take into account) others’ needs.
- Flexibility and adaptability. Family goals can be adjusted and adapted over time to accommodate changing circumstances, schedules, and evolving family dynamics.
- There is a joint sense of accomplishment and joy when the goal is reached (and a lot of fun celebrating)! Achieving shared family goals creates a sense of achievement, pride, and a boost of self-esteem among family members.
Creative Team member Anna from @celebrating_my_boys_journey enjoying a family camping picnic.

Making the decision to do a family challenge

Embarking on a year-long family challenge can be an exciting and rewarding experience. If this is something that you want to try, you’ll want to begin by initiating a family discussion. Gather all family members together to talk about the idea of a year-long challenge. Make sure everyone has a chance to express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas.

Next, you’ll want to clearly define the purpose or objective of the challenge. What do you hope to achieve as a family? This could be related to health, fitness, learning, hobbies, or personal development. Based on the purpose, you can set clear and specific goals for the challenge. These goals should be achievable within a year and measurable so that progress can be tracked.

Finally, you’ll want to create a plan for tackling the challenge and establish any rules or guidelines that you want to include. This may mean you’ll need to consider the daily, weekly, or monthly activities or tasks required, put together a timeline specifying when you will start and finish the challenge, procure any necessary resources or equipment, and have a contingency plan for obstacles or setbacks. If the challenge involves rules or guidelines, make sure you define them and communicate them to all family members. This could include how progress will be measured/tracked, what constitutes success, and any consequences for not meeting goals.

Encourage kids to help choose a family challenge

Kids love to feel valued for their opinions and for the role they play in the family model. Encouraging them to come up with their own ideas around setting a family challenge, and choosing one together, will give them even more motivation to achieve the goal.

At the dinner table recently, I talked to my kids about our next family challenge. I gave them a few ideas, and we talked about our interests, what was important to our family, and what was coming up for us in the year.

Together, we decided to work towards a goal of spending 20 nights camping together over the next year. I love this choice! Both kids were excited about all the options and places we could camp. My daughter has asked for more time spent in a standard tent rather than our usual rooftop tent, which I think will be a nice way to mix up our routine. I’m already looking forward to all the lifelong memories that this challenge will create for us and the stories that will come out of these 20 nights!

A scenic family picnic outdoors, from @celebrating_my_boys_journey

Ideas for year-long family challenges

When it comes to setting a family challenge, the options and possibilities are endless. You could design a family challenge around whatever hobby, activity, or interest you have. You could choose to focus on perfecting one thing, or an open-ended challenge that gives you flexibility to do all kinds of things! There’s no right or wrong answer; no one size fits all challenge.

If you’re having trouble thinking of a challenge that resonates with you, consider the following ideas as a sounding board to get you brainstorming. Just add the number/goal that you think would be a good challenge for your family.
- The Humans Outside 365 Challenge – spend 20 minutes outside every single day for a year
- Books read per month or year – choose a number of books to read each month or a total number to read over the course of the year
- 52 Hike Challenge – one hike per week, for an entire year
- 100 Blue Hours Challenge – spend 100 hours in blue spaces over the course of a year (created by Run Wild My Child Team Member Bethany)
- State parks challenge – visit all the state parks in your state in a year
- Pounds of rubbish picked up from public parks and beaches – set a goal to pick up a specific amount of trash from public spaces over the year
- Meals eaten outside – set a goal to eat a set number of meals together outside (picnic style, over the campfire, on a patio, on the trail, etc.)
- Miles walked, hiked, cycled, or paddled – choose a number to hit over the year
- Alphabet adventures challenge – go through the alphabet and choose adventures and activities that correspond with each day’s letter (A = aquarium, B = bike ride, C = camping)
- Times you visit a new place – set a goal to get out of your comfort zone and visit some new places this year
- Hours spent volunteering in the community – set a goal to spend time doing service projects, acts of kindness, volunteering, etc. as a family
- New skills learnt/attempted – set a goal to see how many new outdoor skills you can learn over the course of a year
- Geocaching quest – challenge your family to find a certain number of caches over the year
- Birdwatching expedition – develop an interest in birdwatching and aim to spot a certain number of bird species throughout the year (keep a family birdwatching journal to record your findings)
- Nature photography challenge – take up nature photography as a family hobby and aim to capture the beauty of your outdoor experiences and create a family album or calendar
- Project 365 – take one photo a day of your kids (and/or your outdoor adventures) every day for a year (you’ll be amazed how much your photography improves)
- Year of the moon challenge – observe and connect with the moon during its full and new phases over the course of a year through stargazing, learning about lunar phases, and each month’s name (e.g. Wolf Moon, Strawberry Moon) and meaning
The possibilities are endless!

Creative Team member Anna celebrating with her sons after finishing a marathon. @celebrating_my_boys_journey

Celebration ideas for when you reach your goal

With family challenges, the most fun part is the journey and working towards the goal together. However, the celebration at the end makes it all the more worthwhile. This is a great opportunity to have a lot of fun and an excuse for a family party.

It’s also a great idea to start planning the celebration at the start of your goal planning, so everyone has it in the back of their minds as they work towards achieving their goal. Here are a few ideas to celebrate the end of a family challenge:
- Make a cake in the theme of your challenge (for example, a bicycle cake for a cycling challenge)
- Each family member dresses up as their favourite book character and makes a meal from their favourite book (for a book-themed challenge)
- A “glamping” experience as a treat for a camping-themed challenge
- A trip to somewhere the kids have wanted to go for a long time but haven’t had the opportunity
- Have a movie night, with the movie related to the theme of your challenge
- Have a family award ceremony and hand out awards for each member’s accomplishments
- Make a family donation to a charity related to the theme of your challenge
- Have your kids invite their friends over for a celebratory party
- Let your kids pick out new books at the book store, or new camping equipment at the outdoors centre
Extra tips for more learning through challenges

For parents who are homeschooling or anyone just wanting to add another layer to the family challenge, consider these ideas to incorporate more areas for learning opportunities.
- Have your kids journal their experiences with each step they take towards achieving their goal.
- Ask local businesses or members of the community to sponsor your challenge. Once you’ve reached the end of the challenge, they might be willing to donate to a local charity on your behalf.
  - Alternatively, the kids could raise money for a charity along the way.
- At the very start of the challenge, have your kids write down what they think might be the hardest part, and the easiest part, of the challenge. At the end, have the kids read out their predictions and see how close they were to reality.
- Loan books from your local library on the theme of your challenge, or invite guest experts to share their knowledge with your family. This could be a friend, neighbor, or professional in a field related to your challenge.
- Set aside a designated time each week for family meetings. Discuss what you’ve learned, share interesting facts, and plan future learning activities.
- Assign family members topics to research and present to the rest of the family (or places to explore, or where you should camp, etc.). This encourages public speaking, research skills, and persuasion.
By infusing your family challenges with learning opportunities, you not only achieve your challenge goals but also foster a culture of continuous learning, curiosity, and personal development within your family. These experiences can create lasting memories and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Blue skies, pets, and bikes. Perfect! @tiny.adventures.often

Including friends and your wider community

Challenges don’t have to be confined to your immediate family. Once you’ve landed on an idea, why not put it out there for friends and family to join in if they want to? Including friends and extended family members in your year-long outdoor family challenges can enhance the experience, promote social bonding, and create lasting memories.

The team bonding could extend to cousins, school buddies, and even grandparents. You could put a notice on your local online community noticeboard, and if enough people want to join in, you could even create a new group where you can inspire each other and share your achievements. The more people on board with the challenge, the bigger the celebration can be at the end!

Feel free to collaborate on specific challenges or activities with friends and family. For example, you could plan joint camping trips, hiking expeditions, or outdoor fitness sessions. These could be monthly or quarterly gatherings dedicated to challenge-related activities. You could also organize friendly competitions or challenges between your family and another family or group of friends. This could include sports, games, or outdoor races. Or, dedicate specific days or weekends throughout the year as “Family Challenge Days” where friends and extended family are encouraged to participate. Plan a range of outdoor activities and games related to helping your family meet your goal.

We’re excited for more nights spent camping, even with basic set ups in the back paddock like this one! @tiny.adventures.often

How to turn a failed challenge into a win

While it’d be great to always be able to complete your family challenges, that may not be the case. Unexpected circumstances may come up causing you to fall short of your goal, or something may happen during the year to derail you or shift your goals. That certainly doesn’t mean the experiment was a failure. Even when a year-long family challenge falls short of completion, you should recognize that the journey itself is a resounding win. The memories created throughout the challenge, whether they involve laughter during outdoor adventures, heartwarming moments shared around a campfire, or the resilience displayed in the face of setbacks, are invaluable treasures that will be cherished for years to come. These shared experiences strengthen family bonds, forge deep connections, and build a reservoir of shared stories that become part of your family’s unique history.

Moreover, a failed challenge can often lead to the establishment of enduring traditions and habits. It’s an opportunity to reflect on what went right and what could be improved, allowing you to adapt and continue refining your family’s approach to future challenges. The persistence and determination demonstrated in the face of adversity are powerful life lessons for every family member, fostering personal growth, resilience, and a spirit of perseverance. In the end, while the ultimate goal may not have been achieved, the immeasurable value of the journey, the traditions formed, and the growth experienced make every family challenge, whether successful or not, an undeniable triumph.

Sara McCarty’s family did an Alphabet Adventure Challenge this year and correlated their activities to a letter of the alphabet – via @sara_mccarty

Making a family challenge a tradition

If you loved your year-long family challenge and want to try another one the next year, you may be onto something! Your year-long family challenge could easily turn into a cherished tradition that evolves with your family’s interests and needs. Setting personal challenges has been my tradition every time New Year’s Eve comes around (not that I think any challenge has to be tied to a calendar year), but now I love the idea of bringing this to our family and getting the kids involved.

To begin, take a good look at how last year’s challenge went – what went right, what was hard, what would you like to do differently. Use this feedback as the foundation for selecting the next year’s challenge. By involving every family member in the decision-making process, you ensure that the challenge aligns with everyone’s interests and aspirations.

As you embark on each new challenge, infuse it with elements that promote togetherness and create lasting memories. Incorporate traditions and rituals unique to your family, such as a special kickoff event or a symbolic gesture at the challenge’s conclusion. These rituals will help solidify the challenge as an annual tradition that carries emotional significance.

Having successfully completed the 1000 Hours Outside challenge as a family, I got excited to bring my kids into the tradition as well. Although we aim to keep up the tradition and mentality of spending as much time as we can outside, I thought it was time for a new challenge for us. That’s why we discussed it as a family and decided on our new camping challenge. I’m SO excited to start working towards our goal!

Have you ever tried a year-long family challenge?
What challenge would you like to try next?

About the author

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

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

What is an “adventure friend”?

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

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

Where it started

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

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

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

Why spending time outside with friends is important

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

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

How can having adventure friends help get our kids outside?

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

Peer power

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

Getting out the door

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

Safety and supervision

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

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

Expand your horizons by trying new things

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

Socialization, teamwork & support

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

Tips on finding adventure friends

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

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

1. Participate in community events

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

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

2. Use social media and online communities as a tool

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

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

3. Organize your own events

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

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

Ways to be an adventure friend yourself

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

Extend the invitation

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

Be specific

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

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

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

Photo credit: Michelle from @wonderclubexplorers

Be responsible and helpful

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

Share your knowledge

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

Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

Emphasize inclusivity and adaptability

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

Be supportive

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

Document the fun

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

Photo credit: Meghan from @meghangarriott

Having adventure buddies from afar

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

Set common goals

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

Stay connected

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

Share ideas

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

Photo credit: Kristen from @kristcx

In honor of our adventure friends

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

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

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

Photo credit: Emily from @inclusivelibrary

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

About the author

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

You can find more from Jacqui online in the following locations:
Instagram: @tiny.adventures.often
RWMC posts: Jacqui Hazell