SarahRuth Owens

  • BOOKS, HIKE, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Full Moon Frolics: Evening Moon Activities for Families

    Do you have full moon fever? Are your kids howling at the moon? Do they love staying up late and catching fireflies? Do you ever want to find new and exciting activities to do together as a family in the long summer evenings? Look no further! This post filled with fun full moon frolics for families will give you lots of ideas for creating the perfect evening full of moon-related activities for your kids. Today, Georgia homeschooling mom of three, SarahRuth Owens describes how to frolic under the moon with your kids. You will not only learn why full moon frolics are a wonderful addition to your evening family time, but you will also gain tools and ideas to launch this outdoor activity into action!

    Go out, go out I beg of you
    And taste the beauty of the wild.
    Behold the miracle of the earth
    With all the wonder of a child.”
    ~ Unknown

    Full moon frolics for families

    A full moon occurs when the moon appears as a complete circle in the sky. We see it as a full orb because the whole of the side of the moon facing the Earth is lit up by the sun’s rays. A full moon is a beautiful sight and one that we love to acknowledge and appreciate each month. Our family celebrates each full moon with an evening of full moon frolics! It’s a tradition we started a while back and have come to love doing month after month. I’m here to help you do the same with your little moon-lovers. 

    Planning an evening of full moon frolics is easy to embark on and requires as much or as little prep as you want. It can be leisurely and relaxing or it can be an educational teaching opportunity. You can spend a lot of time planning out your activities for the evening, or just wing it as you go! You can make it as elaborate or simple as you want. But no matter how you structure your evening outing with the kids, it’s sure to be fun!

    Monthly moon outings

    Nearly every month there is a full moon! A full moon happens roughly every 29.5 days. This is the length of time it takes for the Moon to go through one whole lunar phase cycle. Did you know that a month was originally defined to be either 29 or 30 days, to correspond with the lunar cycle? However, some of our calendar months were later padded out with extra days, so that 12 months would make up one complete 365-day solar year. Because our modern calendar isn’t quite in line with the moon’s phases, sometimes we get more than one full moon in a month. This is commonly known as a blue moon.

    Since there’s a full moon every month, this means that you’ve got an amazing opportunity to create a year-round experience for your kids, month after month. Being consistent and making your full moon frolics a monthly tradition means that your kids will grow to appreciate and observe the moon. We’re raising “look at the moon” people! 

    Creating special family traditions

    But before we dive into how to set this all up and make your full moon evenings a reality, let’s talk about why…

    Why skip a 6:30 bedtime (wait, maybe I am the only one who does that) and hit the trails during or even after the witching hour? Why stay up late and look at the moon? Why plan all these evening activities for your kids? 

    Because it’s fun! Simple, but true. Families that have fun together, thrive. Consider a full moon frolic for families your invitation to be light-hearted and enjoy something beautiful and magical with your children. Something changes at dusk. Fairies become a real possibility, frogs croak louder, and wonder appears without needing any special encouragement. The evening is a magical time and a little break in your normal evening routine means your kids will think this is a very special adventure! 

    Beyond fun, there are so many benefits to observing the night sky. It is science and all that jazz (insert cute winking emoji here). So don’t worry, you can write your kiddo a note to take the teacher when they skip out on their homework because the fam was busy checking out the moon. 

    How to plan full moon activities for kids

    Now, let’s get to the specifics so you are equipped with ideas and resources for creating evenings full of magic, laughter, and learning. Otherwise, full moon frolics will likely remain something you want to do, but don’t. This is the good stuff.

    So, how on earth do you plan such a thing as an evening of full moon frolics? Does a full moon frolic just mean you step outside and look at the moon? Nope. (Well, okay, it can. But, only if you want it to be that simple.) Luckily, like most activities with kids, there’s no one right or wrong way to do things. There’s no one-size-fits-all-families option. Your family is unique. You know your kids best and what they’d like to do and be interested in. And again, you can plan as many things as you can (or just a few). 

    But, let’s say you want to go all in and do this thing one hundred percent. Go big or go home, right? Here is how you do that.

    1. Note the dates

    A quick internet search will give your the dates of the full moon each month. This will help you plan your evening outing on/near a full moon. We try to schedule our full moon frolics on the date of the full moon, but we’re usually flexible (due to weather/clouds, etc.). Jot down all the dates of the full moon on your calendar, which will help you plan. Once it’s on your calendar, it’ll be easier to remember to celebrate. 

    2. Pick a spot

    You need to know where you can see the moon. A quick google search can tell you where and when the moon will rise in your area. Sometimes a full moon shows up in the middle of the night or the wee hours of the morning, don’t worry about that. Just go when you know it can be seen (the day before the full moon, or even a couple of days after it peaks, is just fine).

    We chose a spot a little ways away from our house. Our family enjoys having a brief hike over to where we will make observations. The evening hike just adds to the fun and makes the outing seem a little more special than staying in our own backyard (but that’s also totally fine, especially for families with small children). 

    3. Learn some basic moon facts

    Equipping yourself with some simple knowledge about the moon is helpful when making observations and enjoying your family full moon frolic. With an evening of activities centered around the full moon, your kids are sure to ask a lot of questions about the phases of the moon, the color, the size, and the shapes. You’ll want to know that the moon has eight phases and the same “face” or side of the moon is illuminated during each observable phase. My kids find it most interesting that a new moon is not observable (as in, it is the phase when we cannot see the moon from Earth). You don’t have to know all the facts, though. Learning about something together with your kids is always encouraged. 

    4. Bring snacks

    We also love having food at our frolics. You can keep it simple and bring simple snacks (fruits, veggies, chips, pretzels, etc.), or you can decide to have an entire campfire meal! We’ve done both and neither disappoints. Any food enjoyed outside under the light of the moon is delicious!

    If you are feeling up to it, prepare a moon-themed snack to enjoy while you gaze up at the moon on your frolic. Moon pies or moon cheese, for example. Or cut your fruit (banana or kiwi slices) into phases of the moon shapes. During the warmer months, moon-shaped cookies (or any cookies) are perfect, and during cooler months bring some hot chocolate. 

    5. Grab some books 

    Taking books with you on your moonlight adventure is the perfect way to learn more about the moon while sitting under it. Plus, if you plan on eating a snack or stopping to sit and watch the moon, it gives your family (think younger kids) something to do while they sit. Below are some of my family’s favorite moon-themed books to get you started.

    Best moon books for kids

    Books somehow always make it into our full moon frolics. There are so many amazing books and resources out there when it comes to this. Here are some of our personal favorites. Often we read these around a fire or while we are enjoying our snack during our frolic. You can check these out from your local library or you may also find many of these titles on thriftbooks at lower prices than buying them new. 

    Fiction

    Non-Fiction

    Activities to do during a full moon frolic

    One of the most spectacular benefits of doing regular full moon frolics is noticing seasonal changes. As you go out each month, you and your family will begin to take note of how things change outside around you through the seasons. Here are some fun ways to enjoy the various changes in nature during each frolic throughout the year.

    Summer full moon activities

    • Bring a mason jar and lid with holes poked in it to catch fireflies. Of course, if you do not have fireflies in your area, you can listen and watch for the creatures that you have around you (frogs, crickets, cicadas, etc.).
    • Collect flowers to press (be sure and check the area you are in for permission to ethically collect wildflowers).
    • Bring a telescope and observe the constellations in your area.

    Autumn full moon activities

    • Walk silently and listen to the changing creature sounds. What do you hear that you didn’t hear during the summer (or what don’t you hear)?
    • Make notes about birds you see.
    • Paint the colors of the leaves in the moonlight.
    • Make a campfire. 

    Winter full moon activities

    Spring full moon activities

    • Observe moths.
    • Go to a pond for the frolic, and find frog and toad spawn.
    • Identify trees by their buds.

    Activities based on the name of the moon

    A quick search will also help you find out the name of each full moon. For example, a few types of moon names are Harvest Moon (fall), Strawberry Moon (June), Wolf Moon (January). Each full moon has a name and a story behind it. Consider telling the story of the reason behind the moon name to your kids each month. Or plan activities and food that corresponds to each moon name (all strawberry-flavored treats for the Strawberry Moon, a scavenger hunt for the Hunter’s Moon, etc.). 

    Photo Credit: Molly Pratt

    Connection and conversation with kids

    One of the reasons I personally enjoy an evening of full moon frolics with my kids is the connection it builds with our family. We have these monthly walks in the woods, at dusk or later, where we have a goal and we have a topic of conversation. In truth, this will work for the oldest kiddos in your home as well as the babies. You can make your frolics simple, like a walk through your neighborhood. Evening walks open us up; there is something unassuming about strolling at dusk or in the moonlight. Guards down, you may find your conversation drifts from the moon to your teen’s concerns at school and questions about life. 

    If you want to keep focused on the moon, our family likes to choose one picture book and one non-fiction book or general facts about the moon. We learn the common name based on the Farmer’s Almanac as well as some of the names given by Indigenous People. The full moon connects us to the past, to religion, to customs, seasons, nature, the beyond, and so much more. 

    We didn’t realize we were making memories, we were just having fun.” -Unknown 

    Everyone will remember these full moon frolics

    Making memories is the best part of this amazing activity. Full moon frolics can become a family tradition – a monthly adventure that everyone looks forward to. Some months you may go all out and other months you may keep it simple. No matter what, taking a frolic together under a full moon will create fond memories for all!

    If you are looking for a more in-depth guide, I created a resource that includes activities, recipes, book suggestions, music, and more for every full moon. It is a Charlotte Mason-inspired approach to moon frolics and includes some faith-based content. 

    When are you headed out on a full moon frolic?

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @kindle_togetherness
    RWMC posts: SarahRuth 

  • FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    Outdoor Rainy Day Activities for Kids

    It’s raining, it’s pouring! So, now what? When it’s rainy outside, you have two options: stay inside and let your kiddos run amuck, or get outside and enjoy some outdoor rainy day activities for kids! In my opinion, this isn’t a hard one – let’s go and play in the rain! We know that most rainy day activity posts are usually about things you can do inside, but that’s not our style! There is so much fun to be had when you play outside with your kids. Today, SarahRuth Owens, Creative Team member and Georgia homeschooling mom of three is here sharing her family’s favorite outdoor rainy day activities for kids (and toddlers, too!), as well as the gear and supplies you might need to enjoy these days the most!

    Outdoor Rainy Day Activities for Kids

    Fun things to do on rainy days outside

    While playing outside in the rain might not sound like a blast for parents, it’s so much fun for kids! Rain makes everything feel more magical and can turn ordinary adventures into extraordinary ones! Today, I’m sharing some of our favorite screen-free rainy day activities for kids. All of these rainy day activities have been tried and tested by my crew of adventurers and are sure to get your kids excited about the rain. Because there’s no such thing as bad weather! 

    Best rainy day gear for kids

    When engaging in rainy day play, one might ask oneself: to be wet, or not to be wet? A lot of factors play into this. Things like…how much laundry is already sitting in piles on your couch. And whether or not there are currently any crayons melted to the inside of your dryer (just me, eh?).

    If you don’t care how wet they get, then just send them outside to play in whatever they want to wear. If the weather is warm and your kids aren’t sweet enough to melt, let them out to play in the puddles and engage in rainy day play outside, getting as wet as possible. 

    Doing outdoor rainy day activities with kids sounds good, but maybe you just don’t want soaking wet kids? If you are in the not-to-be-wet crowd, there is a great solution! Rain gear has come a long way in the past decade. It can be found in a variety of sizes, patterns, and even price points. We’ve got a huge comprehensive list of the best rain gear for kids and toddlers, if you’re in the need of new gear. 

    When it comes to great quality rain gear for kids, here are a few of our favorites:

    • Mk Nordika sells rainy day gear in a mid-point price range. It is high quality and includes adorable and cheerful rainbow stripes! They have sizes from toddler up to adult. We own this brand and it is so easy to care for. You simply wipe it down if it is muddy. 
    • Oaki also has a great full-body rain suit that easily slips over kids’ clothing. It is lightweight and you don’t have to keep up with multiple pieces. They have toddler-sized rain suits all the up through big kids. 

    Rainy play - screen-free rain day outdoor activities for kids

    Safety concerns playing outside in the rain

    While outdoor rainy day activities are fun, here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:

    1. Never encourage children to play outdoors in a thunderstorm. Lightning is real and does strike. Teach children to come indoors and speak to an adult if they hear thunder and are unsure about safety.
    2. Be certain your children have on the right shoes for their location. If they are headed on a hike, the muddy trail is different than the puddles on the pavement. Choosing the correct gear for where your child will play in the rain is important.
    3. No swimming in storms, please. Remember when the lifeguard had everyone get out of the pool for half an hour when there was thunder? There is good reason for that as water is a conduit for electricity and lightning spreads over the water, impacting anyone in it.
    4. If you’re near running water (streams, creeks, rivers), keep a close eye on the water level, as streams can rise very quickly in rain. You never know if it may have rained much more higher upstream, so always keep a careful eye out and stay in shallow water, away from currents. 

    Be sure and keep safety in the forefront of your mind during outdoor rainy day activities! 

    You don’t need anything special to do outdoor rainy day activities with kids

    There, I said it. You don’t actually need anything special or planned or extravagant to enjoy rainy day play. You don’t need Pinterest perfect crafts or any special rain toys. The rain itself creates so many fun things outside. Rain makes everything ordinary feel different. It’s a full-body sensory experience that kids can’t get enough of!

    So, what do you really need for outdoor rainy day activities for kids? A smile is your best supply!

    free rainy day outdoor activities for kids

    Go for a rainy day walk

    One of my boys’ favorite things to do on a rainy day is gear up, bring umbrellas, and walk to town. Would you believe that they can walk miles in the rain? Without complaining! They can, and I bet your crew can as well. This activity requires absolutely no planning or prepwork. It’s something we could do at any time, but the rain makes it extra special and novel.

    Things you can try if your kiddos do begin to get the rainy day blues on your walk:

    • Sing songs (Singing in the Rain is always a fun tune)
    • Jump in puddles
    • Have a contest to see who can save the most worms (this means put them back in the grass and off the sidewalk)
    • Collect nature items
    • Watch water go into a sewer drain (I promise this entertains children)
    • Cup your hands and see who can overflow their hands with rainwater
    • Play “I Spy” as you walk
    • Wave at passerby and vehicles

    rainy day activities for kids - go for a rain walk

    Outdoor rainy day activities for kids in the woods

    Are you ready to unlock expert outdoor parenting level? Go play in the woods….in the rain! Let’s do this. Honestly, rainy day play in the forest is absolutely magical. Some special things happen when you visit the wet forest and see the changes happening as the flora and fauna drink in the rain. There is so much to do while in the woods on a rainy day.

    I organized a forest playgroup for kids for years and rainy days in the woods were some of our favorites! Here are some of the best and favorite rainy day outdoor activities to do in the woods from our forest school excursions:

    • Build a shelter – bring tarps, some twine, etc. and challenge the kids to build a dry shelter
    • See if you can build a fire when it is wet outside
    • Go on a mushroom hunt (fungi love wet conditions)
    • Sketch the woods in the rain
    • Get in the creek – hey, you’re already wet, right? (be careful and cognizant of rising water)
    • Play rainy day hide and seek
    • Bring a ruler and a clear glass or cup and measure the rainfall during your time in the woods

    rainy play

    Outdoor rainy day activities for kids that use supplies

    Ok, so you tried the rainy day activities without supplies (or maybe you didn’t…that’s ok, we won’t tell), but maybe you want to enjoy some structured organized fun like crafts and games. That’s great! I’ve got you covered!

    Here are some fun outdoor rainy day games, crafts, and activities for kids and what supplies you need:

    Rainy day bike ride

    Clearly, you need your bikes and helmets. My sons like to have bike gloves because in the rain, your hands tend to rub the handlebars more. Try sloshing through puddles! We also like to have a manual bike pump on one of our bikes, and don’t forget to bring water!

    Water-gun fight

    This one is so much fun during Summer showers. Each person gets a water gun and you can go to town. I suggest having buckets of water on hand, or even a large rubber maid tub filled with water for refills. 

    Water balloon fight

    Yep, let’s do this water thing all the way! About 100 balloons usually works for our crew of 5. We like to prefill and place them in the fridge in Summer. This means that humid, warm weather won’t be an issue! Swimsuits are smart gear to have on during this activity. Also, be certain to clean up any broken balloon bits; they don’t decompose. 

    Water table fun

    You can create a simple water table at a mud kitchen, or even just at a table, by providing your kiddos with scoops, spoons, a colander, shovels, bowls, and cups. Sometimes simple is best. 

    Bob for fruit

    This one is so much fun in the rain. I cannot explain it, it simply is! Add some apples, peaches, or whatever round fruit is in season, to a big bowl or rubber maid container filled with drinkable water. Now bob!

    Paint with mud

    All you need is some mud, a few paintbrushes and something to paint! This could be anything from a piece of paper or cardboard to your driveway. It doesn’t have to be fancy. If you want more ways to play with mud, check out this post with lots of fun and creative Mud Activities for Kids.

    Boat races

    Have your kids find natural materials (sticks, leaves, pinecones, etc.) and make a small boat. Then race them down the run-off water in the street or down a stream. This is a great way to also teach kids about engineering and what floats (and doesn’t).

    rainy day activities for kids - bike ride in the ride

    What are your favorite outdoor rainy day activities?

    We want to see you and your kids having fun doing rainy day play. Use the hashtag #runwildmychild for a chance to be featured on our Instagram account!

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @kindle_togetherness
    RWMC posts: SarahRuth 

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

    Outdoor Skills: Teaching Kids How to Build A Fire & Fire Safety Tips

    Having outdoor skills like knowing how to build a fire are important when you spend a lot of time outside. Teaching kids how to build fires isn’t very difficult, but it does take some thought, planning, and time. Plus, teaching your children basic fire safety tips and advice is something that may be invaluable and could possibly save lives. Today, Georgia homeschooling mom of three, SarahRuth Owens walks us through the basic fire safety skills and tips for teaching kids how to build a fire. 

    Teaching Kids How to Build A Fire & Fire Safety Tips for Kids

    Teaching basic fire skills to kids

    If your kids are like my boys, they love the idea of creating a fire, cooking over a fire, and even extinguishing a fire. Having a firestarter in your home is a fun journey. Kids learn so much as they practice following directions, caring for the environment around them, and more. Furthermore, they begin to feel responsibility and ownership of their time outside. When children have a buy-in, a role, they really want to be in that place often. So let’s get started; let’s teach our kids how to build fires. 

    Smokey the Bear says “safety first”

    Conversations and practice are the best ways to teach kids how to build fires. When my boys were 2-3 years old, we began this process. As we were outdoors nearly daily, they sat around a fire, gathered kindling, and helped put out a fire from a very young age.

    Let me begin by telling you that 6 years ago, I knew nothing about building a fire. Zero. Zilch. So do not be intimidated. You can learn just like I did. Go with a friend who enjoys building fires and knows how. Watch, ask questions, be like a kid learning to build a fire. In truth, I think this might be the best way anyhow. If you don’t have someone to show you how, you can always Google it! There are tons of videos and articles out there that will show you exactly how to build a fire. 

    Fire safety tips for kids

    If you recently learned how to build fires, then you will remember the safety rules, the steps involved, etc. If it’s been a while, here’s a quick refresher of some important rules to establish when teaching kids how to build a fire and teaching children about fire safety:

    • Location – Only build a fire in an area you know allows it.
    • Fire ban – Make sure there are no fire bans. 
    • Check the wind – Windy days are not fire-friendly days. 
    • Clear the area – Make sure there’s nothing in the area where you’ll be making the fire. This is such a good project for littles, they can begin this in their toddler years.
    • Wood only – Remind kids that the only thing that goes into a fire is wood. No fresh weeds or vines. No food. No plastic. 
    • Water supply – Have a working water hose or a vessel filled with water near your fire ring.

    These fire safety tips can be parts of conversations you have while you build fires near your children. It can take months of this type of conversation before some will feel comfortable heading into fire building with a child. Eventually, your firestarter should be able to tell you these rules independently. Knowing this information and being able to implement it without reminders, is the first step towards autonomy when building fires. 

    Fire Building and Campfire Safety Tips for Kids

    Basic steps of building a fire

    Once a child knows the basic safety rules, they’re ready to start building a fire. Teaching kids to build a fire occurs in steps. Dependent on the age of your kids, they can help with various tasks. Before the actual fire starting can begin, they’ll need to clear the area, gather kindling, and demonstrate that they know and observe safety practices near an active fire. Then, they are ready to begin to build.

    The basic steps of building a fire go like this:

    1. Location – Choose a spot with at least a 10-foot circumference of clearing, there should be no overhanging branches.
    2. Clear the area – Remove all brush, twigs, leaves, etc. from around the fire area.
    3. Dig a small pit – Some sites recommend as deep as one foot. Our family chooses to not make so deep of a pit and instead focus on a larger fire ring.
    4. Create a ring – Arrange rocks around the space you will build an active fire. 
    5. Gather wood – A fire needs three things: fuel, oxygen, and heat. Wood is the fuel. You want three types of wood: Tinder, kindling, and logs/large wood.
    6. Arrange the wood – There are a couple of different options for setting up your firewood. We go over the teepee and log cabin styles below. 
    7. Ignite the kindling – Finally, ignite the kindling to get the fire started.

    Looking at the list above, things might feel overwhelming. So, let’s move through the fire-building process step-by-step. 

    How to choose a safe fire location

    Choosing a location is probably the easiest and most self-explanatory part of teaching kids how to build a fire. Kids should understand where are good fire spots and where are not. Having adults help with this is necessary and not something I would pass off to a child until they have shown their understanding many, many times. Practically speaking, I let my boys show me where they would like to build. They typically choose well, but, occasionally they need a reminder about being too close to a tree or other structure, or if there’s a limb hanging overhead. 

    Clear the area and make a fire ring

    As I said earlier, clearing an area can be something even your youngest firestarters can help with. Having a space for your fire free from things that could burn is essential. In our family, digging a pit is optional. If you have properly cleared an area and created a ring with rocks, plan to maintain and remain with the fire, you can decide if you need a pit or not. They can be great for camping, as it creates an easily reusable space. One of my boys’ favorite parts of fire building is the ring itself. Something about hunting rocks and shaping the ring is just fun!

    Fire building tips for kids

    Gathering wood for a fire

    When teaching kids how to build a fire, you’ll need three types of wood: tinder, kindling, and fuel wood. We actually like to bring our own tinder (see below). For those times when you have no tinder with you, it can usually be found in your immediate surrounding area. You can use dry bits of grass, pine, moss, lichen, and leaves. Focusing on finding dry, crunchy leaves is the best.

    Once you have collected a good handful of tinder, you need kindling. It is fun to assign roles if more than one child is involved. Someone can be the tinder person, the kindling person, and the fuel wood person (of course, you’ll want to rotate). Kindling will be the small sticks and twigs you set up over the tinder. It will catch fire first and then ignite the fuel wood. 

    Choose your campfire style

    There are a few different ways to stack your wood so that it gets proper aeration for a long-lasting burn. For this discussion, we’ll cover the basics of the teepee/cone method and the log cabin method. Both are easy for kids to understand and create.

    A teepee tends to be a great and easy starting place. For the teepee/cone method, make a small teepee/cone of kindling around a few handfuls of tinder that are loosely piled in the center of the fire ring. Your tinder goes at the base of the fire and then your kindling is placed over it in a tent/cone shape. Once you have your kindling in place, you will build a larger tent shape with your fuel wood around your kindling. Light from beneath and blow as needed. Once the fire is going strong and the temperature increases, you can add larger logs a few at a time as needed. My boys love to build this and enjoy the challenge of getting it to stay upright.

    For the log cabin method, place two larger pieces of fuel wood parallel to each other on the ground in the center of the pit. Leave some room in between the logs. Then, place two more pieces of fuel wood criss-crossed on top in the other direction (like you’re building a log cabin) to form a square. Place your tinder inside the square. Continue adding a few more layers of fuel wood around the perimeter, getting a bit smaller with each layer. Finish your log cabin with a layer of kindling and tinder across the top to make a roof. Make sure you leave some space between the fuel wood logs so the fire can get plenty of oxygen. This build is great for longer and slower burns. 

    Some additional info on firewood

    Depending on where you’re making your fire, there may be restrictions on firewood. Usually, it’s recommended that you do not bring firewood with you if you’re traveling from more than 50 miles away or crossing large rivers. Some campgrounds may even ban bring-your-own firewood regardless of the distance you travel. This is to keep local insects out of certain areas and to prevent the spread of new (and possibly invasive) species into areas.  

    If you forage for firewood, make sure to show the kids how to gather only downed wood. Never cut live trees or break off branches from standing trees, even dead trees. Birds and wildlife make use of dead branches and snags. Fresh wood can also be an issue because sometimes it can be wrapped with poisonous vines that can cause reactions to the skin when burned. 

    Starting the fire

    Matches are our favorite item for lighting our campfires. Kids can simply toss the match into the fire once ignited. Easy peasy. Just make sure to supervise and stay close to your kids at all times. 

    DIY firestarters

    One of our favorite types of kindling is homemade firestarters. DIY firestarters are super easy to make and truly make the fire lighting process so easy. We gather our dryer lint and keep it in a bag in our kitchen along with any old candles (with that wee bit of wax in the bottom), used wax melts, string, twine, etc.

    When you want to make some tinder, you can use an old cardboard egg carton. Simply put some of the dry burning things in, heat the wax you’ve saved, and pour it over the dry pieces. This makes amazing firestarters. You can break off the carton cups and use one section at a time to start your fire. This is also another way children can be involved in the whole process. 

    Fire Safety for Kids - Teaching Kids About How To Build A Fire

    Putting out a fire

    Possibly the most important part of teaching kids how to build a fire and about fire safety is to teach them the proper way to put out a fire. Having a shovel and a bucket is a must. Bring these with you any time you build a fire outside. The shovel is to toss some dirt and stir your fire. A fire must be cold when you leave a site. A person should be able to touch the coals and not feel any heat. If there is heat, repeat!

    What do you repeat? Water, stir, touch. Adults only for touching, please (at least until you have a child who knows and understands when it may be too hot). Putting out a fire is a simple process, but teaching your kids to be sure it is stirred and cold it where it’s at. 

    Teaching kids how to build a fire is fun

    There is something truly magical about outdoor campfires. I love cooking over a fire, roasting marshmallows, and sitting beside a fire and crocheting. Teaching my kids how to build a fire has been an important outdoor survival skill. Seeing my sons take pride in a fire they built and can now enjoy, is the icing on top! There are so many fun things to do with a campfire. Once they can build a fire, they can practice making food in the campfire! They can catch fish and roast them. Kids will love the responsibility, the wonder, and the memories made!

    Don’t forget to ALWAYS use common sense and safety practices with fires. Especially as your children are learning. 

    Do you have tips for teaching children to build outdoor fires?

    Show us your campfires!
    Use the hashtag #runwildmychild and tag us on Instagram! 

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @kindle_togetherness
    RWMC posts: SarahRuth 

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, HOLIDAYS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Our Favorite Adventures of 2020

    Happy 2021, friends! We are so excited to wish farewell to 2020 and to start a new year of adventures with you. No matter who you were or where you lived, 2020 was probably a tough year. And while it had its challenges for everyone, there were also a lot of amazing things that came out of those difficult times. We seemed to all feel a big shift towards what really matters, like family, nature, and self-care. The adventures we took in 2020 probably looked different than how we imagined them when planning. But, we still managed to make the most out of it and spend some time outside together. Today, a few members of our Creative Team are here sharing a little bit about their favorite adventures from 2020. Here are a few memories we’ll never forget. 

    Leslie – @c_l_allofus

    Our family plan for 2020 was to spend the year clearing our newly acquired homestead land and beginning the process of building our house and barn. Even in our personal lives, not much else went we as expected in 2020, but that basic plan of spending the year working together outside never changed. It stretched and challenged us as we cut trees, burnt massive piles of branches, put in our driveway, and passed out endless snacks to our pint-sized helpers. Our kids learned to help with whatever jobs they could, to stay clear of moving equipment and falling trees, and to discover endless ways to create their own adventures on our homestead property. They found favorite climbing trees, built forts and hidden playhouses in the west thicket, and made playgrounds out of just-dropped trees. I love the above picture because it shows our whole family working and playing together–our three-year-old plopped down with her coloring book and crayons in the dirt driveway while the two older girls play in the dirt, our son and his dog dig up a groundhog hole, and my husband works with the mini excavator.

    We’ve spent the year trying to balance work and fun, stopping to enjoy the little moments and accomplishments together. We camped out on our property, dreaming about the many nights there in our future. We’ve watched the sun set across the field and fog lift over our meadow. The autumn leaves have fallen and we’ve learned which trees have the most spectacular color. We’ve watched trees bud and left footprints in the snow. 2020 may not have held epic visits to exotic locations for us, but it’s been full of beautiful adventures right here on our own homestead.

    Best of 2020 - Favorite Outdoor Adventures

    Kristen & Jared – @kristcx & @bikeshikesbiners

    Our favorite adventure this year was getting to take our kids on a road trip to visit a handful of National Parks. One of those parks was Arches National Park. My husband and I had visited this park on our honeymoon 12 years ago. So, getting to come back to explore it with our new little family was such a great experience. We made so many new memories together as a family. We loved getting to see our kids explore new terrains and experience a different region from our own, learning as they went and opening their minds to what else was out there. It really fanned the flame of our sense of adventure and we can’t wait to see where 2021 will take us!

    Our Favorite Outdoor Adventures of 2020

    Stacey – @familyroots.photo

    2020 was a crazy year for everyone! It brought highs and lows to all of us. Our family is so grateful to have had some wonderful memories come from it. Here’s a photo of my kiddos and their cousins at the top of the deer loop trail. This trail is right down the street from our cabin in Vermont. It’s about a 3.5 mile loop and the kids absolutely love exploring this trail. We’ve gone multiple times this year, over various seasons – spring, summer, and fall. And it was right here at the top, with this beautiful view of Pico mountain, where they took their very first solo ski down the mountain. It was a memory I’ll never forget and one of our favorite adventures. I hope you and your families can dwell on all the good memories this year has brought you all and cheers to a happy + healthy new year! 

    2020 Favorite Outdoor Adventures

    Nichole – @coleyraeh

    This year was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Unlike anything any of us have experienced. But for us, it was also a year of “level up” adventures. We weren’t able to travel quite as much but I decided to dig deep into shenanigans close to home. Lucky for us, Arkansas is full of adventure. My favorite adventure this past year was a canoe and camping trip, to a floating platform on a river in central Arkansas. Yes, my kids and I CAMPED on a platform, in a river, surrounded by massive cypress trees, blue herons, egrets, owls, and Pileated woodpeckers.

    The experience stretched all of us – for me, loading and unloading the canoe from my car (by myself, thank you very much) and for my kids paddling in a river, and against a headwind on our return trip. We also learned the best way to pack the canoe to balance their weight with mine. My son slept in a hammock (with a bug net) and couldn’t stop talking about the stars. We also spotted a snake mid-meal, with the still croaking frog hanging out of its mouth. It was memorable. And yes, we even jumped on the Ocean Spray cranberry juice/Fleetwood Mac challenge, making our video while floating down the river. I’m so excited about where our canoe will take us in 2021! 

    If you’re interested in reading more about this trip, I wrote a post about it on my blog Luckey Wanderers. 

    Favorite Adventures of 2020

    Michelle – @wonderclubexplorers

    I have to say, picking just one favorite outdoor adventure from this past year was tough! If nothing else, 2020 was a year that taught us to count our blessings and get creative, especially here in Southern California where safer-at-home orders kept us, well, home. Sort of. In search of new vistas and fresh scenery, we perfected the art of Sunday drives this year. Our destinations were always somewhere new and different filled with interesting roads and places to explore. 

    One of our family’s most favorite and memorable Sunday drives was to the Anza Borrego Desert in California. Here in the desert, we found more than 100 sun-bathed metal sculptures amidst the cactus plants, tumbleweeds, and sandy earth. As my son ran wild from sculpture to sculpture in the desert, he proclaimed that “This day was the most fun ever!” I have to agree, and as we waved goodbye to the dinosaurs, dragons, and wild horse sculptures on our drive home, I looked back and indulged in a cotton candy-colored sunset. How lucky are we to have this beautiful earth to explore?

    Favorite Adventures with Kids Outside in 2020

    Araceli – @roaminggonzalez

    I read an article that described 2020 as the year that offered us a “reset”.  That is the biggest lesson I am taking away from this year. Although it was difficult, lonely and some days were impossible, I am walking into 2021 with a grateful heart. We grew closer than ever as a family. I realized how over-scheduled life was for us.  This year gave us an opportunity to slow down. Our days were filled with all the simple things that matter most and that is what I plan to take into the new year!

    We are also unbelievably grateful that we were able to recreate responsibly throughout the year. Whether it was exploring where we live or camping along the coast we treasure what the great outdoors offered us this year more than ever.  Sunshine, fresh air, and time together as a family. ADVENTURES are truly the best gifts. We remain hopeful for a better year.

    Favorite Outdoor Adventures of 2020

    SarahRuth – @kindle_togetherness

    The devil came down to Georgia. Seriously, you’all. The devil came down here. This guy made 2020 his year. Maybe it wasn’t just Georgia, but can I tell you something? We had a hurricane. In the Appalachian Mountains. Pause there and let that settle for a minute. Five and a half hours from the nearest beach, our family lost power for four days. Our community had massive flooding, hurricane-force winds, and more. With three young kids and a camper hanging out in our driveway, we figured if the devil came here to Georgia, we would head to North Carolina! In a frenzy, we packed up enough clothing to get us through, tossed the bikes on the truck, and ran!

    If 2020 was anything, it was unexpected. As we drove a couple of hours away, we laughed, we cried, and we counted our blessings. Not everyone could run away from 2020 for a few days and fish, ride bikes, count the stars. But, if they could, they should, right? So we did! And we had the time of our lives. If I learned anything this year, it’s that circumstances don’t determine outcomes. Often time, you can switch gears and change the atmosphere of a situation. It is hard to defy your feelings. Super challenging to go against the crashing waves of fear and anxiety….but when you do it, you don’t regret it. Instead, you walk away a victor. I’m all about bringing my kids along for that!

    “Challenges are what make life interesting, and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” – Joshua Marine

    Favorite Outdoor Adventures of 2020

    Meghan – @meghangarriott

    We had a lot of growth in 2020 at the Garriott home. Our boys grew and grew and so did our garden! The initial shutdowns across the US due to COVID 19 just happened to be the same time to start a lot of my seeds indoors. This year we grew Roma tomatoes, grape tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapeños from seed. With all our added time at home it worked out perfectly to be able to care for our little seeds and expand our garden. As the weather warmed we planted green beans, carrots, green onions, basil, mint, and cilantro.

    Our extra time at home over the summer ended up making for a much larger and better cared for crop than in years past. We were able to freeze over 20 quarts of carrots, canned and froze 15quarts of tomatoes, and 20 quarts of green beans all while also eating fresh throughout the summer. Our time in the garden gave us some much needed physical and mental exercise. My boys loved helping me dig and water the garden, they were less thrilled with weeding but I took what I could get. I can’t wait to see what our garden brings in 2021 with all that we learned and expanded in 2020!

    Ashley – @sage.and.summit

    My favorite memories and outdoor adventures from this year would have to be hiking with my girls and incorporating trail cleanups on those hikes. It not only was a way to get us outside, strengthening our bodies and minds. It also made us feel good to leave the places better than we found them. The most challenging thing about 2020 was not being able to see our friends, however, it made us all more grateful for those friends that we will hopefully see in 2021.
     

    Gaga – @groovybananaphotography

    2020 has been a very weird year. We did quite a bit of international travel in the beginning of the year, then the borders to our island were closed because of COVID. As wedding, engagement and family photographers, we had much less work coming in, as people were not allowed to travel overseas for destination weddings. Incredibly, our island was very lucky to not get hit by COVID and we lived quite a bit of the year in a normal bubble where we could still hang out together. Having more time not working gave us more time to spend with friends, and above all, with our kids.

    My favorite outdoor adventure of the year was probably our trips to Tanna, another island of Vanuatu. One time we went for a couple photoshoot on the top of a volcano and another time to cover a huge cultural event. In both cases, we went exploring the volcano ash plain which offers out of the world landscapes. It was the most amazing playground and a trip we’ll never forget.

    Favorite Outdoor Adventures of 2020

    Sara – @sara_mccarty

    This may be a very unpopular opinion, but I did not think 2020 was the worst year ever. Yes, it was tough, challenging, infuriating, and heartbreaking. But, it was also beautiful, eye-opening, transformative, and resetting. When the world shut down, it forced us to reevaluate and reprioritize our actions. It was disappointing having to cancel adventures, trips, and extra-curricular activities, but it forced us to get creative and explore our local surroundings in a whole new way. We were scared and apprehensive, but spending time together as a family in nature seemed to make things feel more manageable.

    In 2020, we did a lot of fishing, a family canoe trip, some camping, quite a few hikes, and more creek play than we knew what to do with. One of my favorite adventures from this past year was a 2-day getaway to a nearby lake, where my two big kids (6 and 8) and I rented a tiny cabin in the woods. We fished during the day, made a bonfire each evening, and spent our time enjoying the beautiful fall colors and nature around us. The weather was perfect and the kids got along the entire weekend (which is a miracle in and of itself after all the “togetherness” we’ve had). The kids also discovered a newfound love of kayaking and I could barely get them out of the water to eat or go home. It was amazing to see their confidence grow with each trip out and we can’t wait to do it again. It was a bit of a last-minute trip, less than an hour from our house, but it was just what we needed to re-energize and reconnect. 

    What were your favorite adventures from 2020?
    We’d love to hear all about it!

  • GOOD FOR NATURE, INFORMATION, LESSONS, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR SCHOOLS

    Starting A Forest Group for Kids

    Have you ever wished you had a local community of parents and kids that regularly met up to play together outside? Have you ever considered starting a playgroup, where the kids could socialize together while they run through the woods, hiked, and explored? Are you interested in meeting other like-minded parents that enjoy spending time outdoors? Well, this post is for you! Today, SarahRuth, Georgia mom of three and outdoor educator, shares everything you need for starting a forest group for kids. (Your outdoor playgroup doesn’t have to be in the forest – it can be anywhere.) She helps you come up with your vision for your forest group, a routine for your meetings and advice for how to get the word out. This is a post you’re not going to want to miss!

    Starting a forest group

    The idea to start a forest group

    Hello, there outdoor mama! So, you’ve found your stride and you are wracking up your hours outside. You already know that time outdoors is important for your children and their development. You know how wonderful you feel after spending time outside. Your children love your forest forays and outdoor adventures together. Yet, something is missing. After several frolics under the green canopy, you realize what it is…community.

    We, humans, are social creatures and when you love something (like spending time outside), it’s natural to want to share it with others. Getting outside is now a priority, so why not share the forest with a group of like-minded folks? Starting a forest playgroup for kids may have never been on your radar. Maybe it’s something you never considered or ever planned to do. And yet, it’s exactly what you know you’d love to do and you are ready to embark on this new adventure. I’m here to tell you how to do it and why it’s such a wonderful idea.

    The vision for your forest group

    Starting a forest group for kids can be a huge undertaking. In order to ensure the best chances of success, let’s pull together a game plan. The first step in the process of starting a forest group is to come up with a vision for your group and think about what you want it to look and feel like. Here are some questions to consider right away:

    • How old are your children?
    • Do you intend to keep the group within a similar age range or open it up to all ages?
    • How many kids?
    • Where you will meet? Is there a place you have been visiting in the woods?
    • Does it have any major risk factors for children?
    • How you will communicate with others?
    • Will social media play a role? (Many large forest groups use groups on social media to advertise locations, times, and dates of meet-ups. Smaller groups are most comfortable using a more personal method like texting.)
    • What are the leadership roles for the adults?
    • Will there be lessons or just open play?
    • What about food and snacks? Supplies and gear?
    • Do you want to put together a set of rules or general group guidelines?

    Bringing on additional support

    As you write down the answers to these questions, keep your vision in mind, and plan accordingly. When starting a forest group for kids, nothing is set in stone. You can always make changes later and adapt to the circumstances that arise. The planning part should be fun, so don’t let all the questions overwhelm you into not taking any action. It also helps to get help. Instead of pioneering a group individually, I have found having a co-director is wise and keeps me motivated and accountable. Teaming up with another like-minded adult means you will have double the ideas, as well as a fill-in when you are sick, or cannot be as engaged in the group.

    Starting an outdoor playgroup for kids - Making fires at base camp can be a skill-building opportunity as well as a chance to make memories.

    Finding a base camp for your forest group

    One of the primary roles of the person facilitating a forest group for kids is locating a place for the kids to meet and learn together. Groups usually take on one of two characteristics in this regard. They either choose a specific location and have their meetings there every time or they choose a new location and explore a different place at each meet-up. Both models have their benefits! Keep in mind the skill level, hiking ability, and ages of the participating children. This will help guide decisions about where to meet at events.

    Stationary base camp

    “Follow me!” 7-year-old Nellie shouts as she races forward on the trail.

    “Wow! She is confident,” remarks a new forest group parent as they observe several children run behind Nellie and down the trail.

    One idea is that remaining at the same base camp from week-to-week for months (or even years) creates a known environment. Children become comfortable, and eventually even experts in their space. They know the trails leading in, and around their base camp. Choosing the same base camp for an extended period of time can be beneficial for observing seasonal changes.

    Nellie is an example of a child who is reaping the benefits of returning to the same space over and again. Her leadership skills are flourishing, and other children easily fall in step with her as a guide.

    Roving location base camp

    “Today we plan to use our map skills and cardinal direction knowledge to find our base camp,” instructs an adult as several children flock around them with interested faces. After a brief trail talk, the adult passes out compasses and asks the children to use a simple forestry map to head to their base camp for the day.

    The other option is to decide to host your outdoor playgroup in a new location each time you meet. The above example shows how a base camp might be different at each event and how that might benefit children. Children practice using learned skills, they develop teamwork and learn how to explore new places, and adapt well to change. They figure out how to find a great base camp location at each meeting and learn how to safely explore unknown locations.

    Hybrid

    Some forest groups will choose to have both a stationary base camp, as well as events at new locations with spontaneous destination-based hikes and adventures. 

    How to set up a forest play group for kids

    Setting the structure of your forest group

    When starting a forest group for kids, the next step after finding your base camp is to identify goals and structure for meetings. There is a school of thought that says children in the woods should be their own kingdom. Not infringed upon by the plans and ire of adults. Instead, they can create a world of their own, where they are the kings and queens and rule the land. Adults, step aside! You are the moat around their kingdom. Position yourselves as a border around the chosen base camp, spread your blankets, chat with a friend. You are a gatekeeper only.

    There are many perks to having an “unstructured” forest playgroup that gives kids lots of time for free play. The many benefits of unstructured free play in nature have been documented in research again and again. Kids need time like this to be kids without adult interference. Plus, it’s easier for the adults, as there’s no need to plan activities or bring supplies. Watch, be aware, and relax while your children build friendships and explore. 

    Playgroups for kids in the forest - how to structure your outdoor playgroup

    At some point, or in some groups, a group lesson is important. This can either be an educational lesson, a skills lesson, or even just reading a book to the kids. This “forest school” approach is a great way to incorporate lessons and educational activities into an outdoor setting where kids learn best. Teaching outdoor skills using great books can be useful as well as essential to raising future environmentalists and earth tenders. Moreover, foraging, Leave No Trace, map skills, fort building, nature observation, and more are lessons that are best taught in the forest.

    Some groups will have multiple events every week and can host both uninhibited play meetups as well as more structured “forest school” types of lessons. You can definitely do both and adapt as your kids get older and express interest in certain things. 

    Cultivating a love for the outdoors in kids through a forest playgroup

    Bring your friends to your forest group for kids

    Storytime at the library will forever go down in history as the place I left my pride.  Storytime was over, but a sweet little baby riding in her mom’s carrier kept grinning at me as I walked around the room re-shelving the books my two tyrants had strewn about. I wanted badly to approach and greet the mom, but just couldn’t get up the nerve. She left.

    Suddenly, I find myself in the parking lot beside this mom, baby, and toddler. Breathless, I try and explain why I followed her to her van, “Hi! I know this is strange, but your baby is beautiful and friendly and, well, I didn’t know if you would maybe like to meet with some other moms at my place sometime? I am trying to get some folks together….”.

    Call me crazy, but that was exactly how my first ever moms group started. Later, this mom became my best friend. I learned she had battled postpartum depression and she shared, “I had been waiting for someone to ask me over!”

    Another dear friendship was born from a chance online encounter in a large mom’s group on Facebook. We realized we were in the same area. We agreed to meet up. The rest is history in the woods because she ran forest groups with me for three years thereafter.

    Here’s the deal: making new mom friends can be hard. Sometimes you just have to get out of your comfort zone. The woods are a level playing field. Invite the mom struggling to get through the grocery store with three littles in tow to your forest group. Post an invitation at the library so other nature-loving moms can find it. Drop off an invite at the local food bank. Mention your forest group each time you hang out with friends. Growing a group takes some courage, but it’s so worth it. The friendships that develop (both at the mom and kid-level) are just incredible. Starting a forest group for kids was one of the best things I could do for myself as a mom. 

    Forest school fun - how to form an outdoor play group for kids

    Finding your stride in your forest group events for kids

    A glimpse into a forest playgroup meeting:

    About 15 children and 6 adults encircle a forest sign marking a trail. One adult can be heard over the rest, briefly instructing the adults to silence phones and keep them put up. One caregiver agrees to be the “photographer” for the day. Then a cheerful song begins. Some children sing and clap while others listen. Brief guidelines are provided with the children listing them almost independently.

    1. Be within sight of adults.
    2. Leaves of three, leave them be.
    3. Gentle hands (with each other and nature).
    4. Sticks pointed down.
    5. Rocks are thrown away from others.
    6. Pack in, pack out.

    And then they’re off to play!

    Kids love forest groups - When kids know the boundaries, they are free to take risks.

    That is the forest group way! Simple guidelines shared and then off for a grand adventure. Many groups like to have a rhythm, an expected sequence of events, not necessarily tied to any specific times. In groups I have led, we typically have a trail talk (like above), a hike in (about 15-20 minutes), time at base camp (an hour or so), shared snack, and storytime (15-20 minutes). After that, families can choose to continue to play, or leave. Having a general idea of the flow of events can help children and caregivers feel comfortable. It can also help others step into leadership roles when a director cannot be present.

    the best forest school books for parents

    What you need to know before starting a forest group

    Unless you are a forest guru (and maybe you are!), chances are you won’t know tons about the forest and the surrounding area when you get started. Hence, I have become good at everything and an expert at nothing. In starting a forest group for kids, I have realized that I get to learn as I go. Right along with the kids! You don’t need to know everything to start a forest playgroup. That’s the best part! 

    However, if you like doing your research on projects before jumping right in, here are some suggested books for finding ideas, gaining knowledge, and just overall improving your insight on running a forest group for kids. 

    If you are looking for great books to read while at your forest group events, this post is filled with amazing ideas. Including culturally diverse books is important as well.

    Leading a forest group for kids - outdoor storytime for kids

    The forest is calling

    Be encouraged! So many people have started a forest group for kids before you. Many will after. This is YOUR moment, though. A group for YOUR kids. A place where you get to prioritize outdoor time and give your kids an incredible experience that will change their lives. (and maybe even yours) Work out the plan, find your courage, and then walk outside with your crew and invite your community to join in! You cannot fail, because starting is success in and of itself!

    Outdoor play group for kids - When you give them an inch, they will climb a log!

    So now we need to know…
    When are we meeting you in the woods?

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

  • BIKE, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    10 Ways to Make Summer Last

    Summer’s last weeks are upon us. The shimmering sunlight dancing on water as your children frolic seaside (or lakeside, or creekside) is fading. Soon, the leaves will start changing, the days will get shorter and the temperatures will drop. While fall is my favorite season, I’m certainly not ready to give up summer yet! The last few weeks of summer have the potential to be the best of the season! Today, we have Creative Team member SarahRuth – Georgia teacher and homeschooling mom of two – here with 10 ways you can make summer last and get the most of the final few weeks of this magical time of year. 

    Make Summer Last

    10 ways to enjoy the final weeks of summer

    With officially only a few weeks remaining of summer sunshine and play, we’re determined to make summer last as long as possible!  Grab your children, your sunglasses, and your smile….we won’t let you miss out on those last days of summer. Here are ten ways to make summer last and create memories that will last well beyond the seasons!

    1. Chase a waterfall

    If you are new to this idea, grab hold and run with it! Remember that song, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls….”? Ignore it – that’s terrible advice. You most certainly should chase waterfalls. When dating my husband, he took me to a new waterfall on every date. The sense of wonder and awe as you trek to along a path and hear the rushing water, continuing until it crests into view – it’s priceless.

    Where we live, kid-friendly waterfall hikes are often under one mile. Unless your children are older or more used to hiking for longer periods stick with shorter walks on even terrain. Add some floats and you’ve won summer accolades officially! Buckets, small containers, and scoops are welcomed tools at waterfalls for my sons. Summer will certainly last longer when you and your crew make chasing a waterfall happen!

    Make Summer last by chasing waterfallsWonder of making summer last

    2. Sit in the sunshine

    Yes, just sit. On a blanket, or not. Barefoot, or not. On a sunny day or in a sunshower. The benefits of sunlight and sun exposure are innumerable! The list goes on and on; it eases depression and anxiety, lowers blood pressure, enables the production of vitamin D, and more! Merely basking in the sunlight outdoors is an invaluable experience. You don’t need to do anything more than walk out your door. 

    But if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a hike. Our family often grabs a favorite book and brings it on hikes. When we arrive at a good resting place, we drop a blanket on the ground, get out a snack, and I read aloud to the kids. Our skin yearns for a good kiss of the sun. Of course, wear a good sunscreen if you intend to show a lot of skin for an extended period. Hammocks also make a great sit spot in the sun. We like to hang some in our yard as well as carry them on hikes. Summer won’t slip away as quickly if you make it sit with you.

    Hammocks make Summer last

    3. Forest bathe

    Not a bath. Well yes, a bath, but a different kind. The bathing that occurs when you let summer linger on your skin and prickle your senses in the woods. Summer will last longer if you dash into the woods headlong and let the greenery embrace you. Believe it or not, forest bathing is a real thing. The term first emerged in Japan and is taking the world by storm.

    Did you know that phytoncides are emitted from plants and trees in the forest to protect them from harmful insects and germs? Some say it is what creates that “forest smell”. When you forest bathe, you literally immerse yourself in nature. But sure to cut off your phone and put down the iPad. Disconnect from the world and reconnect with the natural world.

    Want to forest bath in the deep end? May I suggest a barefoot bath? Encourage your children to join you. Connect your feet to the earth and experience grounding. Breathe deeply. Close your eyes. Feel the warmth and the coolness of the woods. Allow the trees and the forest canopy to offer something nowhere and no one else can.

    Forest bath to make Summer last

    4. Water fight

    A water fight is a great way to make summer last a bit longer! Do you need instructions? 1. Splash in a river. Laugh. 2. Throw a water balloon at your partner. Laugh more. 3. Jump into the pool and soak everyone poolside. Laugh. 4. Let your children use water guns to soak you….then bring out your super soaker and get them back! Keep laughing! 5. Get out the water hose and give everyone a turn chasing and spraying each other. Laughter galore! 

    There really is nothing quite like a water fight to level us onto equal footing with grandparents, babies, and all ages! Whether you do this in the cool of the evening, or in the midday heat, it’s guaranteed to be a favorite! Invite neighbors. Social distancing approved. Everyone wins in a water fight. There is no keeping score, there are no losers. Celebrating with a homemade popsicle is a great finale, by the way. If summer had a magnum opus it would be a great water fight in the back yard, don’t you think?

    5. Watch the sunset

    Most summers, our family rents a condo on Hilton Head Island. While there, my favorite thing to do is see the sunset and sunrise. Pink, orange, and dusky purple swirl at the horizon. Rain or shine, I ride my bike along the pathways and then onto the beach. I often bring my journal and watercolors along. Every poem I have ever memorized erupts to meet the sunrise and sunset as I watch my children play in the sand.

    This year, the current pandemic prevented our summertime escape to the beach. However, our mountains have let us experience new joy. Summer continues to bring us beautiful sunsets as we hike to peaks and watch as another day closes. Not willing that it occur without our happy chatter and watching eyes.

    Don’t live in the mountains? No beach trip for you either? That’s okay! The sun sets in the West everywhere! No matter your location, get outside and experience it with your family. Try out a compass. That is a fun way to practice navigating and essential skills while making summer last. Never once have we regretted watching a sunset. Snacks welcome – our favorite is air-popped popcorn, in case you’re wondering.

    Make Summer last longer at sunset

    6. Dance in the rain

    Wellies or not, dancing in the summertime rain should be on your making summer last list! Wriggling worms, the pitter-patter of drops hitting trees, and the laughter of your kids are worth this little adventure. What might make this most wonderful of all is that it is usually a surprise and can’t be planned! You won’t know exactly the day or hour of this grand ball – you may have an inkling of suspicion around the weather, but the invitation will be random. Also, no need to leave your house or pack bags. This fun summer activity will meet you at your home, at the park, or wherever you happen to be!

    When you hear the drops begin to drip, run outside (sans umbrella) and dance like nobody is watching. Let your inner 5-year-old out! Splash in puddles, let the rain be your music. I can assure you there are nary few children who won’t stop gawking and join you! Also, rainy day hikes are great fun. Don’t let showers deter you from hitting the trail. Instead, pack your gear and plan to enjoy the coolness of a good summer rain. You will make memories that last a lifetime! Plus, this is a grand way to make summer last.

    7. Ride bikes at sunrise

    If you have a bike, plan a biking date with a new day. Grab a light snack and your favorite cold brew. Put those sleepy babes in the bike trailer (yep, in their PJs) and ride out to meet a new day! A little foresight is needed for this one. Ideally, you would know the local sunrise times and also plan for comfortable weather. A rainy day might make seeing the sunrise less brilliant. Be sure and check your tires and bike chains before heading out. A good flag on your bike trailer is also essential.

    Our family loves bike rides because the wind from our speed truly cools us as we pedal. Breakfast picnics are also welcome. Fresh fruit, cream cheese, and good bread taste even better in the summer morning’s first light. Go ahead, ask me how I know!

    Bike rides for making s

    8. Splash in the creek

    Make summer last a little longer by heading creekside. If there isn’t one super close, it is totally worth a day trip. Plan to visit a creek with 2-6 inches of water and not more. A good flow of water is fun, even for littles. So long as the water depth is shallow, the speed of the water is nothing to fear. Lots of small rocks are ideal.

    Be sure and bring some small mason jars or a plastic container. When your children get into the creek, they are sure to find some amazing creatures. Crawdads, crawfish, crayfish….how do you say it? These little fellows are summer’s mascots! Carefully overturning rocks is sure to be a favorite past time once they observe a salamander skittering through the shadows. Parents can enjoy some lounging beside the water, toes in. Although this mama enjoys some splashing and creature hunting as well. Summer will last a smidge longer if you linger creekside.

    Making Summer last at the creek

    Creekside makes Summer last

    9. Eat a meal outside

    In our family, summer is for outdoor eating (well, so are autumn and spring, now that I think of it). Nothing fancy is required for dining al fresco. Your regular food can just happen to make its way to a picnic table in your driveway or a blanket on the lawn. If you aren’t up for a big meal, sandwiches taste better on a blanket in the woods. Promise.

    Does summer last longer if ants are guests during meal times? I’m not sure, but you can be certain these bodybuilders will be visitors if you plan to eat out of doors. Kids love watching ants and it truly is amazing to see them carry crumbs 100 times their weight! Also, eating outside means you beat heating up your home by using the oven. Some family favorites of ours include waffles and bacon in the yard, fire-cooked burgers, and fresh fruit. Meals outside mean less clean up. Dripping popsicles, goopy marshmallows, and melty ice cream don’t require mops when enjoyed outdoors. Standing ovation, please! Of course, you do want to pack in and pack out, like all good visitors. 

    10. Activity of your choice

    My last suggestion on making summer last is to choose your family’s favorite summertime activity and enjoy it together one last time. Whether it’s catching fireflies, enjoying a bonfire, watching a movie outside or something not shared here, the important thing is getting out there and enjoying the last weeks of summer. Together is better. Children thrive when experiences include parents, grandparents, and friends. Stay safe. Use caution and wisdom. Our summer may have looked different this year, but it’s still a beautiful season to embrace and behold!

    So how will you make the most of these final weeks of summer?
    Share your ideas in the comments or tag us in a photo posted on social media with the hashtag #runwildmychild.

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @mountainpaz