summer

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    40 Beach Games for Kids

    Are you headed to the beach this summer? Maybe you’re taking that long-awaited vacation, or you live along the shore and are eager to enjoy the sunshine and refreshing water close to home. Whatever the case may be, you’ll want to keep the kids busy so that you can enjoy your time as well! While the beach alone is a great playground for kids, having an arsenal of beach games prepared will help you get the most out of your day! Today, Lissy Perna of Get Outside Cape Cod, is here sharing her family’s favorite 40 beach games for kids. I hope your family loves playing them as much as we do!

    40 beach games for kids of all ages

    Fun beach games and activities for kids

    There’s no denying the sheer magic of a day at the beach. The sand beneath your toes, the salty breeze tousling your hair, and the boundless horizon stretching before you – these are the ingredients for a perfect family getaway. And what better way to infuse even more joy into your seaside beach vacation than with a medley of exciting beach games that will have your kids giggling, splashing, and creating memories to last a lifetime?

    In this sun-soaked realm of endless possibilities, we’ve curated a treasure trove of awesome beach games that promise to transform ordinary sand into a canvas of laughter and adventure. Whether your little ones are aspiring sandcastle architects, curious beachcombers, or budding athletes ready to conquer the shoreline, we’ve got a game for every beach-loving heart.

    So, grab your sunscreen, pack your buckets, and let’s dive into a world where imagination knows no bounds and the only rule is to have an absolute blast under the sun! Take your next beach trip up a level with these fun games and activities.

    40+ beach games for kids

    1. Building sandcastles
    2. Beach scavenger hunt
    3. Play catch
    4. Journey to the center of the Earth
    5. Ladder golf
    6. Beach bowling
    7. Make a mermaid
    8. Sand angels
    9. Seashell hunt
    10. Fly a kite
    11. River at the beach
    12. Beach clean up
    13. Cross net
    14. Boogie boarding
    15. I Spy
    16. Towel tug of war
    17. Buried treasure
    18. Mandalas
    19. Surfer dudes
    20. Musical towels
    21. Ice cream shop
    22. Creature hunt
    23. Water balloon fight
    24. Beach books
    25. Kan Jam
    26. Paint shells
    27. Hula hoop games
    28. Skipping stones
    29. Cornhole
    30. Pebble tower
    31. Simon says
    32. Cloud gazing
    33. Crabbing
    34. Blow bubbles
    35. Obstacle course
    36. Limbo
    37. Sand tic-tac-toe
    38. Relay races
    39. Spikeball
    40. Uno Splash

    1. Building sandcastles

    What is a more quintessential beach game than building sand castles? Kids of all ages (including adults) love getting creative and building sandcastles. You can use beach buckets to form castles or get creative with your tools! My boys have used Tupperware from home, plastic cups, or even filling empty shells with damp sand to create castles. Another favorite way to make sandcastles is to use the “drip method” by using very watery sand; drip a mound of sand until it resembles an abstract castle. Decorate your castles with shells, seaweed, or driftwood!

    For amazing tips from sandcastle-building experts, check out this post on Sandcastle Building with Kids. 

    2. Beach scavenger hunt

    Plan and print out a scavenger hunt for the beach. This is a fun and easy game for younger kids and all family members. We’ve included a free beach scavenger hunt in our Scavenger Hunt Bundle! If you’re familiar with sea life, you can create a nature-themed one yourself using common marine life in your area. Another beach treasure hunt could include a list of items commonly found at the beach, such as boats, beach umbrellas, lifeguard towers, or other similar items. Kids will have a blast checking things off their lists while exploring their surroundings. What other nature-themed items could be included in a beach scavenger hunt?

    3. Play catch

    Catch is a fun game for the whole family that can be played anywhere, with just about anything. This activity is a simple game, but it appeals to all ages! Whether you bring a football, a tennis ball, or even a baseball and your gloves, it will keep the kids busy and entertained for hours! My kids like challenging themselves to see how many passes they can make without dropping the ball. Here is a fun beach set that we recently purchased and my kids love! Throw it in your beach bag and break it out whenever the kids are ready for some action!

    4. Journey to the center of the Earth

    This is a fun game for kids of all ages. The object of the game is to see who can dig the deepest hole! That’s it! Grab your shovels and get to work! Guaranteed to be fun, entertaining, and wear those kids out! Just be sure to fill the hole in before you leave so no one accidentally falls in! 

    5. Ladder golf

    If you haven’t heard of ladder toss before, maybe you’ve been living in that giant hole you just dug! Ladder toss (or ladder golf) requires that each player toss a set of two rubber balls attached by a string (called a bolo) across 15 feet to land around one of the three rungs on the ladder. The first player (or team) to reach exactly 21 points wins. The tricky parts are not going over 21 points and expertly aiming for each rung since they each have different point values: The top is worth 3 points, the middle is worth 2 and the bottom is worth 1.

    6. Beach bowling

    This is a simple game that can be played a few different ways. One way would be to have the players dig a set of small holes and roll a ball into one of them. Award points according to the difficulty of getting to a hole, and be sure to use a lightweight ball to increase the level of difficulty. Or, if you fill and set up plastic water bottles and roll a ball to see how many pins you can knock over (like traditional bowling). 

    7. Make a beach mermaid

    Create your mermaid sculpture in the sand by carving out her tail and long beachy locks with your hands. You can even bury someone up to their arms in sand and create the mermaid effect on their bottom half. Add shells for decoration, seaweed hair, rocks for eyes, or any other creative additions you can think of! The kids will let their imagination flow, and you will be impressed with how different everyone’s mermaids look! Bonus points if you give your mermaid a beach-themed name! 

    8. Sand angels

    Making sand angels is one of the easiest and most fun activities for kids. All you have to do to make sand angels is simply lay flat on their backs and flap their arms to make angel wings. If you want to take it to the next level, decorate your angel’s wings with shells. 

    9. Seashell hunt

    For this fun beach game, challenge the kids to search the beach and collect as many different shells as possible. You can also make it a competition by challenging the kids to get the biggest shell or the maximum number of shells. Once you’ve collected shells, you can identify them and learn about them through a shell ID app. 

    10. Fly a kite

    Is the weather forecast predicting a breezy day at the beach? Then you’re in luck because a bit of wind makes a perfect day for flying a kite! Kiting is a healthy and active outdoor activity for kids that is usually very low-cost and budget-friendly. Spending time outside means that kids get a healthy dose of Vitamin D from sunlight. Flying a kite also provides exercise for your child’s body as they chase. It’s wonderful for hand-eye coordination, kinesthetic awareness, and gross motor skills. Kite flying also helps strengthen the eyes, as they focus far and near, observing and controlling the kite’s flight. 

    For more information on the best way to fly a kite, the best kites for kids, and more, check out our full post on Kite Flying with Kids. 

    11. River at the beach

    Provide your kids with beach shovels and buckets and have them dig a river on the beach! Kids will love digging narrow trenches on the sand close to the water to create a river that will hold water and float objects to the sea. Use the buckets full of water to make a flowing stream through the trenches and float a small boat (or ball or piece of driftwood) down the river. Get creative and make it curvy, or add a sand dam to hold the water back and release it all at once.

    12. Clean up the beach

    Wait! Before you ignore this suggestion, consider the fantastic example you will set for your children by participating in an activity that shows them how to take care of our oceans. Fostering a love of nature and caring for our planet is so important; why not make it fun by doing a beach cleanup? Your kids will be proud of themselves, and mother earth will thank you. Remember to bring hand sanitizer, gloves, and your trash bags. You’ll have a great time, inspire other beachgoers to do the same, and make your beach day feel great! 

    13. Cross net

    Cross net is when beach volleyball meets four square. This game is a ton of fun for older kids and adults. It’s set up for 4+ players; the first to reach 11 points is the winner. While this set is definitely a bit bigger to lug around than some of the others, it’s still relatively easy to assemble and carry, so you can take it with you as long as you have a little extra space. 

    14. Boogie boarding

    Surfing on the waves or floating in the tide pools is a great way to spend the day at the beach. Boogie boards are great for all ages and are generally inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to carry to and from the beach. We even use our boards as makeshift seats when having our picnic lunch. I recommended the boogie boards with the Velcro wrist strap so the board doesn’t float away into the open ocean. This strap is also helpful for giving each other rides on the boogie boards in the shallow water.

    Check out our full post for more information on Boogie Boarding with Kids. 

    15. I spy

    An “I Spy” game can be played anywhere, but somehow it can be the most fun at the beach! With younger children, we like to play the color version of this game (“I spy, with my little eye, something orange!”), and for older kids, the letter version is also fun (“I spy, with my little eye, something that starts with the letter L”). The first person to guess correctly gets to pick the next object. There are SO many things to find at the beach, from seagulls to crabs, lifeguards, beach toys, and maybe even an ice cream truck. 

    16. Towel tug of war

    Kids love playing tug of war. At the beach, you can stir up their competitive side with mention of this challenge. You’ll need at least two players to get this game started, but it’s more fun with four or more people. Start things off by putting a marker on the sand — a stick, line in the sand, or pool noodle can be ideal. Now both teams try their hardest to pull the towel hard enough to pull the other team across the line. The best of 3 out of 5 rounds wins!

    17. Buried treasure

    Round up your little pirates and have them spend some time searching for buried treasure. You can use play or real coins and bury these in the sand, or even go the extra mile and find a makeshift treasure chest that you can fill with goodies. Give the kids shovels and let them dig to find the treasure. To make the game feel more authentic, create a treasure map with clues and hand one out to each participant.

    18. Make a mandala

    With all the bits and bobs you can find at the beach, why not create ephemeral art with them? Collect rocks, shells, feathers, seaweed, driftwood, and even pieces of molted crab shells into your beach bucket. All these beach finds would be great additions to a mandala. Use what you find to create a circle or art, in any way that floats your boat! But quick, take a photo of your mandala before the tide washes it away. You can ask your kids to create their mandalas or work on a large one together; either way, you will produce a great memory by creating this piece of art!

    For more information, check out our full post on Making Nature Mandalas with Kids. 

    19. Surfer dudes

    Surfer Dudes are an award-winning surf toy that’s so much fun for kids to play with at the beach. All you need to do is toss the Surfer Dudes into the waves and watch them go! The little surfer dude surfs the waves and (like boomerang magic) comes right back to you on shore! No batteries or wind-up is required – uses the energy of the surf. 

    20. Musical towels

    Remember the age-old game of musical chairs? Well, this one is very similar! Spread out your beach towels in a circle, and play some music. Have the kids circle the towels, and when the music stops, everyone has to jump onto a towel. Whoever is left without a spot to sit is OUT! Make it fun for the ejected player by allowing them to control the music on the next round. If you don’t have enough kids in your own family to play this game, consider inviting other beachgoers to participate! Making friends at the beach makes these beach games even more fun!

    You can also play this game with beach chairs, if you have enough. 

    21. Ice cream shop

    My kids LOVE playing imagination games, and “restaurant/ice cream shop” at right up there at the top. We love this set of ice cream shop beach toys, which the kids use to inspire hours of imaginary ice cream shop play. They love creating the shop counter out of sand, finding shells to use as money, serving customers, and pretending to run the ice cream shop. 

    22. Creature hunt

    This activity is my favorite game on the beach, even as an adult. Exploring tide pools or walking along the rocky edge of the shore, you will undoubtedly find small sea creatures who call the beach home. You may find starfish, hermit crabs, sea worms, or even small fish! Make it a game by challenging your children to identify what they find, see who can find the most hermit crabs, etc. Remember to release animals you catch or just look instead of capturing them. However you play this game, you will undoubtedly find something fascinating!

    23. Water balloon fight

    There’s nothing better on a warm summer’s day than getting competitive with a water balloon fight! And this can definitely be taken with you to the beach! We recommend reusable and refillable water balloons, so there’s no mess to clean up or potential plastic harm to the environment. You could also use water balloons for other games, including water balloon baseball!  

    24. Beach books

    Another favorite beach activity for me is reading, but I know that is only sometimes a child’s favorite thing to do at the beach. Create a cozy nook for your kids to read a book; it might be more appealing. We like to bring a pop-up tent and our favorite beach blanket to make a cozy rest area, and this would be the perfect spot to read a book. Bonus points if the books are beach-themed! For babies or toddlers, consider bringing the waterproof style books that you can use in the tub; this way, they won’t be damaged by the water and can be easily cleaned up if they get sandy. 

    25. Kan Jam

    Kan Jam is a great game to take to the beach! Played similarly to cornhole or horseshoes, the object of this frisbee game is to toss the disc toward the goal (a can with a hole in the side) and, with the help of your partner, Jam it in the Kan! First to 21 points WINS. This is a lightweight and durable disc golf set that travels well and is easy to set up so you can play in seconds.

    26. Paint shells or beach rocks

    Painting can be a great activity anywhere, but it’s super fun at the beach! Most of the time, we use acrylic paint so it will stay on the rocks and not wash away. However, when we take this activity to the beach, I recommend using non-toxic watercolor paint! This way, there won’t be a mess, and you won’t harm sea life with toxic paint. The watercolor will not stay on the rocks, but the painting process is entertaining enough!

    27. Hula hoop games

    There are so many fun ways to play with hula hoops at the beach. You can definitely use a hula hoop in the traditional way around your waist, but that’s just the beginning. You can organize a friendly hula hoop contest to see who can keep the hoop spinning the longest. Try different tricks and techniques to keep things exciting. Use the hula hoop as the limbo bar. Have participants take turns bending backward and trying to pass under the hula hoop without touching it. Set up targets in the sand and challenge each other to toss the hula hoop and land it around the target. Assign different point values to each target for added competition. Create a ring toss game using the hula hoop as the target. Toss smaller rings or pool noodles to try and ring the hula hoop. Play a game of Twister by laying the hula hoop on the sand and designating different colored spots. Hold the hula hoop horizontally and swing it like a jump rope. Challenge each other to jump through the rotating hoop without touching it.

    28. Skipping stones

    Skipping stones is a fantastic beach game for children and adults alike. Ask your children to hunt for the best stones, the ones that are flat and smooth, and show them how to toss them parallel to the water to create the best skipping effect. With older children, make it a challenge to see who can get the highest number of skips! Another idea is to collect stones ahead of time from your yard, the park, etc., and bring them to the beach to have a skipping competition! 

    For more information on this fun beach activity, check out our full post on Skipping Stones with Kids. 

    29. Cornhole

    Cornhole has become a trendy lawn game in recent years; why not take it to the beach, too? Make sure that if you’re bringing it to the beach, the materials it is constructed with can withstand water and outdoor elements! We like this version that’s collapsible and folds up small (because you’re already packing a LOT to go to the beach with kids). Cornhole is one of those fun family beach games that you can play again and again. The first team to earn 21 points wins! You can even host a cornhole tournament on the beach if you have enough people!

    30. Pebble tower

    One thing you’ll probably find an abundance of at most beaches is rocks. You can practice your balance and test your steady hand by trying to stack the rocks to create cairns or pebble towers. See who can construct the tallest tower! But remember, you must disassemble your towers before you leave the beach, so make sure to snap a photo of your creations and then put the rocks back where you found them. 

    31. Simon says

    Play a game of Simon Says with beach-themed commands, like “Simon says jump like a dolphin” or “Simon says make a sand angel.” “Simon says jump over the pretend waves.” or “Simon says balance on one leg like a flamingo.” Remember to keep the commands light-hearted and creative to make the game more enjoyable. The beach-themed Simon Says game adds an interactive and imaginative element to your beach day, promoting active play and laughter among kids of all ages.

    32. Cloud gazing

    If you need a break from these fantastic beach games and activities, consider this lazy activity that requires you to lie down! Lie on your back in your beach chair or towel, and gaze into the sky to see what cloud shapes you can find! This activity works best on semi-cloudy days, but wear eye protection regardless of the weather. You never know what you might find, a dragon, a bunny wearing a top hat, or even a pirate ship!

    33. Crabbing

    This specific activity might only work for some beaches, but it works very well if there is a rocky jetty along the beach you are visiting. You will need a piece of string, a clothespin, and some deli meat to create a crab fishing line. Tie the string to the end of the clothespin, and clip a small piece of deli meat in the clothespin. Lower the fishing line into the crevices in the jetty and see who bites! We have caught green, lady, and even an occasional blue crab this way. We do not keep the crabs we catch but release them after checking them out. They are surprisingly exciting creatures!

    34. Blow bubbles

    What kid doesn’t like blowing bubbles? This activity can be a great beach game for kids if the wind isn’t too strong! Remember that the bubbles will float down the beach, so keep your neighbors in mind! My favorite thing about blowing bubbles on the beach is that the mess is not a problem. Jump in the water to wash off the bubble solution if there is a spill. My kids like to make it challenging to see who can blow a giant bubble. 

    For more bubbletastic fun, bubble accessories, and DIY bubble solution, be sure to check out our full post on Bubbles with Kids.

    35. Obstacle course

    So now that you’ve lugged all your beach toys, boogie boards, and towels onto the beach, why not create a game using all the pieces at once? Challenge your kids to create their obstacle course! Jump over shovels, fill a pail with sand, roll over your beach blanket, and crawl under the beach tent. This activity is engaging and can spark their creative side!

    36. Beach limbo

    Grab a stick and challenge kids to limbo! Take turns letting the kid go under the stick (walking forwards and bending backwards) as the height gradually decreases. The last person to make it under without falling over wins! 

    37. Tic-tac-toe

    Draw a tic-tac-toe board in the sand and challenge your kids to a classic game! Tic-Tac-Toe is one of those games that’s easy enough for preschoolers, yet is still competitive enough to entertain older kids and adults.  You can use sticks to draw the board in the sand and then use seashells or rocks as game pieces. Just wipe the board clean and start over when someone wins. 

    38. Beach relay races

    Beach relay races will add some laughter and friendly competition to your day at the beach. Create your teams or set up individual challenges. Have the kids race each other to the finish line forward, backward, sideways, and doing crabwalks. If you have enough people, set up a water bucket relay where you pass a plastic cup of water and fill a bucket at the end (the team that spills the least and goes the fastest wins). 

    39. Spikeball

    There’s a reason Spikeball is one of the fastest-growing games you think of when you think of beach games. It’s like beach volleyball, except that you bounce the ball on a mini trampoline rather than over a net. Also, you don’t have to worry about staying on your side of the court! It’s easy to set up anywhere and can be transported in a light drawstring bag.

    40. Uno Splash

    For the beach, we also love UNO Spash, which is all the same rules as traditional UNO, only in a waterproof package. Now you don’t have to worry about ruining your cards with sand or water damage. It comes on a convenient clip that is great for keeping track of all of the cards and hooking them to your beach bag. 

    Best beach games and activities for kids

    I hope some of these ideas for beach games and activities will help you and your kids have a wonderful time at the beach. Having an arsenal of the best games and activities ready is a fun way to ensure everyone has a good time. But the best part about a day at the beach with your family and friends is the priceless time you will spend together and the memories you’re creating!

    Are you ready for a day of beach games with your kids?

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod.” Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • MCFAMILY, PARENTING, SUMMER

    5 Things That Are Working for Me This Summer

    As any parent knows, summer can be both the BEST and the worst. All the things that make summer great – long hot days,  lots of activities, relaxed schedules, a break from routines – can also make it tricky. As I former full-time working (out of the house) mom now turned work-from-home mom, this summer has been a big adjustment for me. This is the first summer I haven’t had any hired help with the kids, so we’re still trying to figure it all out. We’re not really doing camps or much traveling, so it’s all on me to supply entertainment and activities. I’m loving it, but (in all honesty) there’s not much actual work from home being done. That’s been tough on me (Enneagram 3). 

    While not everything runs smoothly, there are some things that are working well for our family this summer. Here are my top 5 summer parenting hacks that are working really well for us right now. I hope some of them will help you figure out ways that your summer might run a little more smoothly too! 

    1. Alphabet Days

    The kids and I are doing alphabet-themed adventures this summer, which is helping us explore our surroundings and check out places we might not have otherwise tried. About once I week we brainstorm all the things we could do that start with that letter. This includes activities, as well as visiting places that start with that letter, or eating food that starts with that letter.

    For example, for “B” day we went bowling (fun!) and tried boba tea (yuck!). We also considered going to the botanical gardens or the butterfly house. Or, we could have chosen to go boating or have ice cream at Baskin Robbins. You get the point. 

    What’s great about this is the kids get to help brainstorm and pick the activity, so they’re vested. I’ve heard way less complaining about what we’re doing. Sometimes I make an executive decision about our daily activity and they have been great about going along with it.

    It’s also been a great way to compile a huge list of all the fun things to do in our area, which I’ll keep and refer back to when we need ideas. Anytime we’re out and think of something fun or discover a new place, I add it to our list.

    Here’s what we’ve done so far (and you can see photos from all our alphabet adventures on my personal Instagram feed – @sara_mccarty): 

    • A = Aquarium + Andy’s
    • B = Bowling + boba tea
    • C = City Museum & Circus Flora
    • D = Dinner at the duck club
    • E = Echo Bluff in Eminence
    • F = Foraging at Forest Gully Farms
    • G = Grafton
    • H = Horseback riding + Hi Pointe hamburgers
    • I = Ice cream farm tour

    2. Sunscreen battles

    First of all, I’ll start by saying I despise sunscreen. Like, hate hate hate it. The kids and I are fair and freckly, so we need it, but I hate putting it on myself, I hate putting it on the kids, I hate how it feels, I hate that it always breaks me out, I hate reapplying, I hate wrestling and fighting with the kids about it, I hate that it’s so expensive, I hate all the chemicals. HATE. 

    It’s no fun to hate something that much that you have to do every day. It was making me cranky and constantly putting me in a bad mood, so something had to change. For the last couple of years, I’ve been slowly collecting tips and tricks to make this whole sunscreen process a little easier. What used to send me into a fit of rage now is only mildly annoying, so I’m going to call that a win.

    Here are a few things that have changed my attitude on the sunscreen situation:

    Find a sunscreen you don’t hate

    After hearing everyone rave about it, I finally made the switch from the crappy sunscreen I bought at Target to the good stuff. I now use BeautyCounter sunscreen on myself and the kids. And I love it. 

    Yes, it’s spendy, but it takes away a few of the things I listed above that hate about sunscreen (no nasty chemicals (reef safe), feels light, doesn’t break me out), so that makes it worth it to me. This is slightly embarrassing to admit, but I love it so much that I signed myself up to sell it (mainly so I could get it myself at a discount, if I’m being honest). I love it that much. Get yourself some right now. (Oh, and the BC deodorant is also life-changing. I’ll stop now.)

    Use a sponge to apply to faces

    This is another game changer. I bought these cheap makeup sponges and use them to apply sunscreen to the kids faces. It SO much easier than using your fingers. It applies evenly and doesn’t leave the kids faces white (which they hate). 

    Wear a rashguard

    Less skin exposed means less skin to apply sunscreen to. I’m a huge fan of rashguards and try to put my kids (and myself) in them as much as possible. It’s not always their favorite, so if they want to wear something else, I bring them along, and they can put them on later. This a win for them because they’d usually much rather put a rashguard on than get out of the water, dry off, get sunscreen reapplied to them, wait for it to dry, then get back in the water. 

    3. Meal planning and snacks

    Ugh, does just the thought of making another meal make you want to cry, too? It’s a never-ending battle to keep up with meals and snacks over the summer with the kids home all.the.time. and always hungry. If we’re home, someone is asking me for food. It drives me bananas. Again, I knew this going into summer, so I tried doing things a bit differently. Not everything has worked (I’m still schlepping snacks out left and right), but here are a few things that have helped.

    Snack station

    I’m not a big fan of giving my kids unmonitored access to snacks because they will go hog wild, but I also don’t want to have to dole out every single snack they have all summer long, so I needed a compromise. I went to Trader Joe’s and stocked up on “healthy-ish” snacks that I didn’t mind them eating on their own (applesauce, dried fruit, fresh fruit, granola bars, pretzels, popcorn, yogurt, cut veggies, trailmix, cheese, crackers, etc.) and then set everything up in a spot in the basement fridge that’s easily accessible to them.

    I also added glass flip-top reusable water bottles that I run through the dishwasher and refill a few times a week (like these). I’m always looking for more goodies to add to this list, so if you have any ideas, let me know. 

    Hello Fresh meals

    I signed up again for Hello Fresh meal kits. Each week, I pick four meals (dinner) and get the ingredients delivered, which has been a huge time saver for me when it comes to meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal prep. I order the meals for 4 people (even though there are 5 of us) and usually add extra meat to the meal (because my husband eats enough for 3), which gives us plenty for dinner and a little leftover for lunches.

    I switch up the orders each week (although we do have favorites – lettuce wraps, moo shu pork, street-cart chicken bowls), and it’s seemed to work really well. I wouldn’t say they’re the fastest meals to make each evening (probably around 30-45 minutes from start to finish), but I like the cooking part (just not the planning part), so this saves me from having to figure out what to each multiple nights each week, and thus, saves my sanity.

    There are a lot of these types of meal kit services out there (pick your favorite!), but if you want to try Hello Fresh, this link will get you some free meals. 

    4. Summer reading

    The kids and I are all doing a summer reading challenge through our local public library. I’ve been plowing my way through some great books lately, but I’m trying to be more intentional about sitting down and reading a physical book in front of the kids. I’ve heard over and over that kids will read more if they see parents reading. I read a ton, but I realized I wasn’t really doing it in front of my kids.

    I’m always reading multiple books at once. I’ll be listening to an audiobook (although some may not consider this reading) in the car or doing chores around the house, and I also have books downloaded to my phone (which sometimes just looks like me playing on a screen to my kids). My physical books sit on my bedside table and I read every night before bed (which the kids don’t see because they’re asleep). I realized this needed to change, so I’ve been trying to be more intentional about reading during the day in front of them, whether that’s at home, at the pool, at the farm, or creekside. If I have a few minutes, I read. 

    I don’t know if it’s making any difference yet, but I’m enjoying it! If you’re interested, you can see what I’m reading here. I’d love to hear what you’re reading! 

    5. Sober summer

    This one’s probably not going to be for everybody, but in early May, I decided to cut out all alcohol for the rest of the summer. Yes, I know, it sounds awful (and sometimes it is), but for the most part, I’m so glad I did this. I was really tired of feeling SO.TIRED. all the time and wondered if my evening cocktails were making feel worse in the long run, despite feeling better in the moment. What I was thinking was a stress reliever was actually causing me more stress because I was just feeling cruddy all the time. Here’s what I’ve noticed after 2+ months of not drinking:

    • I feel better, but I’m still tired. I know I’m sleeping more (going to bed much earlier than I was) and sleeping better (according to my SleepNumber sleep score), but I’m still exhausted all the time. I think this is just normal for being mid-40s and trying to keep up with 3 little kids. I’m old, I’m working through it. Ha!
    • My skin looks much better and I (finally) lost a couple pounds. These were unexpected side effects that have been pleasantly surprising. I’ve noticed I haven’t been breaking out as much (even wearing sunscreen every day!) and (after two months) I’m down a few (around 5) pounds. I mean, I’m not anywhere close to pre-baby weight, but at least moving in the right direction again. 
    • Social situations are a bit awkward, but not that bad. And it’s totally me being awkward, not others. For the most part, when I tell people I’m not drinking for the summer they’re super supportive. Although, I do get a lot of “good for you, but that’s not for me” responses, which is totally fine! I’m not trying to push this agenda on anyone and I certainly don’t care if people around me drink. I already know I’m socially awkward, so (again), I’m just working through it. 
    • I’ve swapped out my evening cocktail for spa water (I use that term very loosely). Whatever fruit I can find in the house or garden I throw in this infuser pitcher with  some water (or sparkling water)  and viola! I’m plowing through my rouge mint patch from the garden and trying to figure out how to grow a lemon tree! Strawberries, watermelon and lemons are great (bananas, grapes and apples…not so much). 

    About Sara

    Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child (runwildmychild.com), a resource website, online community and podcast all about getting kids off screens and outside, one adventure at a time. She’s a mom of 3, wife, and a corporate securities lawyer. She grew up in the country, but now lives in St. Louis and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She’s passionate about reading, photography, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, SUMMER

    Creating a Summer Bucket List with Kids

    As the warm, sun-kissed days of summer approach, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about and planning a summer filled with outdoor adventures that will forge lasting family memories. Summer is a season brimming with opportunities to escape the confines of indoor routines and embrace the wonders of the great outdoors. Today, Courtney Cronin of Wild Migration Family will show you how to take advantage of this precious time and create a summer bucket list for your family, filled to the brim with exhilarating outdoor activities. She’ll guide you through the process of curating an enchanting summer bucket list that promises cherished moments and bonds that will endure a lifetime.

    Now is the time to create your summer bucket list

    As the weather begins to transition from the coolness of winter to the warmth of summer, there is a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air. Spring brings a renewed energy and a feeling of excitement, making it the perfect time to brainstorm and plan for the upcoming summer adventures. Summer will be here before you know it, so it’s time to get started on your summer bucket list.

    As a kid, summer felt everlasting. As an adult, it feels like we blink three times, and it’s over.  By starting to make your summer bucket list now, you can maximize your summer fun as you plan! You have ample time to research, gather information, and make necessary arrangements for the activities on your bucket list. Whether it’s booking campsites, researching hiking trails, or planning day trips to local attractions, having a head start allows you to secure reservations and ensure smooth logistics.

    In this post, you’ll find tips and tricks for creating a summer bucket list to help set your summer up for success– supporting memorable adventures and family growth. Whether you seek thrilling escapades, tranquil explorations, or moments of pure relaxation, the options are endless for a summer filled with outdoor adventure.

    What’s a summer bucket list?

    A summer bucket list is a collection of activities, experiences, and goals you and your family want to accomplish during the summer. It’s a way to create a roadmap of adventures, both big and small, that will make the most of the season. By involving your kids in the process of creating a summer bucket list, you not only empower them to have a say in the family’s activities but also foster their creativity, curiosity, and sense of exploration.

    Creating a bucket list together allows your kids to dream big and think outside the box while actively participating in the planning process. Making a summer bucket list together as a family not only builds anticipation and excitement but also strengthens the bond between family members as you embark on shared experiences and create lifelong memories. It encourages quality time spent together, away from screens and distractions, and enables you to discover new places, try new activities, and explore the beauty of nature together. It’s a chance to break away from routines, step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of the fleeting summer months.

    We are a bucket list family

    I am a BIG bucketlist person. We, collectively as a family, make one every season to ensure we are intentional about setting goals and carving out time for the things we value most. Bucket lists can help increase buy-in (from everyone), keep us on the same page, and help ensure we’re living our lives with intention. 

    If you’re new to bucket lists, summer is the perfect season to start. The long days and forgiving schedule of summer make bucket lists both exciting (for dreaming) and invaluable (for structure and planning). For me, it’s crucial that my bucket lists are diverse in both intensity and scope. I include goals that are big and challenging, and also the small, easy-to-accomplish glue-like pieces that keep us moving and happy. We need it all!

    How to make a summer bucket list together as a family

    We always make our seasonal bucket lists together as a family. In many ways, treat it as a code we’re committing to because in order for any of the stuff to happen, we all have to be on board, invested, and involved in the pieces. Everyone also naturally has their own ideas, interests, and priorities; sharing these can be really grounding as a family. 

    When planning your summer bucket list with your kids, it’s essential to foster open and engaging conversations that allow everyone’s ideas to be heard and considered. There are so many ways to frame this process, but essentially we just sit down and talk about what sorts of things we want to do and dig into this coming season.

    The planning process is an opportunity to bond, communicate, and create a shared vision for the summer. Encourage your kids to express themselves freely and embrace their imaginative ideas. By involving them in the decision-making, you empower them to take ownership of the summer bucket list and ensure a memorable and fulfilling summer for the entire family.

    How to plan and research your summer bucket list activities

    Researching and selecting activities for your family’s summer bucket list can be an exciting and enriching process. Here are some tips to help you research and choose activities that will make your summer truly memorable:

    Gather inspiration

    Start by gathering inspiration from various sources. Look for travel blogs, websites, magazines, and social media platforms that feature family-friendly activities and destinations. Follow outdoor adventure pages and explore hashtags (including #runwildmychild) related to family adventures and summer activities. Pinterest can also be a great resource for visual inspiration and ideas.

    Utilize online resources such as travel websites, outdoor recreation websites, and review platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about popular attractions, hiking trails, water parks, campsites, and other outdoor activities. Read reviews and look for activities that have positive feedback and align with your family’s interests.

    Seek local recommendations

    Reach out to friends, family, and local community groups for recommendations of things to do nearby. Ask for their favorite outdoor activities, hidden gems, unique attractions, or family-friendly events happening in your area during the summer. Local tourism websites or visitor centers can also provide valuable information on attractions and activities suitable for families.

    Consider age, interests, and skill levels

    Take into account the age, interests, and skill levels of your family members when selecting activities. Ensure that the activities you choose are suitable and enjoyable for everyone involved. Look for options that offer varying difficulty levels or have options for beginners and more experienced participants. Discuss your family’s shared interests in outdoor activities. Talk about the activities you enjoy as a family, such as hiking, biking, swimming, camping, or picnicking. Explore any new activities they might want to try, such as stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, or fly fishing.

    Weather and seasonal considerations

    Consider the weather and seasonal factors when planning your activities. Some activities, like swimming, boating, or water sports, are perfect for hot summer days, while others, like hiking or nature walks, may be more enjoyable during cooler parts of the day. Make sure to plan accordingly to optimize your experiences. 

    Mix thrills and tranquility

    Be sure to include a mix of thrilling and relaxing activities in your summer bucket list to cater to different interests and preferences within your family. This can range from adventurous activities like ziplining or kayaking to tranquil experiences like picnicking in a beautiful park, reading outside in a hammock, or stargazing on a clear night.

    Look for learning opportunities

    Look for activities that provide opportunities for learning and personal growth, for both adults and kids. This could involve visiting museums, historical sites, or nature reserves where your family can discover and appreciate new knowledge and perspectives.

    Our bucket list planning process

    There’s no right or wrong way to choose the activities on your summer bucket list. Some folks love websites and books for ideas and inspiration. We’re big map people, so inevitably, a map always gets pulled out somewhere in our planning process. 

    In planning our summer bucket list, we usually try to include the following activities:

    • 1-2 big summer adventures
    • 6-10 “can’t do summer without” type activities
    • 1-2 ongoing home-based activities
    • 4-8 challenges

    These numbers are obviously fluid and can be changed according to your family’s needs and desires. Every family has a different capacity and schedule. My husband is a teacher, so we have full-on open family summers. This means our summer bucket list goals are quite ambitious, to maximize our time together as a complete family unit.

    Consider what would work best for your family, both for your time and your budget. You want your bucket list to feel inspiring, not overwhelming, so while you can certainly get ambitious, don’t stress out about having to do it all. Make it manageable and set yourself up for success, so don’t layer on more than you can handle.

    Big summer adventures

    We usually add 1-2 “big summer adventures” to our summer bucket list. These are the adventures that push your edge and require more planning and prep. Usually, this means travel, reservations, potential gear investments, and vacation time taken from work.

    In order to hone in on what these should be, think about what you currently do that your whole family enjoys and is within your comfort zones, and then push into this. It’s incredible how habitual we can become, and how much we miss out on as a result. Use this summer to lean into what you love, and plan an adventure that will push you a bit further.

    • Do you always go to the same beach or trail? This summer, make a goal to check out some new places. Find trails using the Alltrails app or look up local Land Trusts.
    • Want to adventure with friends? Find a local playgroup or family meet-up, such as a Forest Playgroup or Hike it Baby branch, or set a day each week that you’re going to adventure with friends. Don’t have a group in your area? Start one! Be an adventure friend to others. 
    • Feel comfortable on day trips? Level up and plan an overnight camping trip! Check out a local campground. Don’t wait to make reservations as many campgrounds, particularly these days, book up and book up fast. If it’s your first time camping, chose a campground in an area you’re familiar with. We’ve got a great resource for parents camping with kids for the first time. 
    • Car camping pro? Why not try backpacking! Pick a hike-in site next time you make a reservation, or plan an overnight backpacking or canoe camping trip. Regardless of how many packing lists you check out, prepping for these trips will be a learning curve. Surrender to that reality and trust that once you can figure out how to go light in a way that makes sense for your family, the world becomes your oyster.

    Plan easily doable adventures

    It’s clutch to have easily doable adventures on your bucket list. These are the small activities or gatherings that don’t take a ton of planning or prep, but you want to make sure you don’t go the whole summer without missing! These can be the tried-and-true summer traditions that you do every year, or new small things you’ve been wanting to try. Write them down to make sure you don’t breeze past them.

    • Ice cream party (either at that favorite ice cream shop, or buy the supplies and have an ice cream party picnic somewhere)
    • Sunset picnic
    • Sunrise hike
    • Fish a nearby river
    • Explore a “new to you” park or hiking trail
    • Scenic bike ride
    • Baseball game 
    • Family movie night (in the backyard or at a drive-in)
    • Friend/cousin sleepover
    • Swimming at your nearby beach or pool
    • Pick-your-own fruit at an orchard
    • Fort slumber party
    • Beach BBQ with friends
    • Kids’ “yes” day (Pro tip: Set guidelines in advance to set them up for success)

    Map out some all-weather challenges

    Sure, sunshine and summer feel kind of synonymous, but there inevitably will be some not-beach-perfect days. With our changing climate, we never know just how many perfect summer days we’ll have each year. Therefore, we always plan for this by including some “all-weather” activities and challenges on our bucket list.

    • Go for a hike in the rain. (One further: After, have kids create a packing list for all the things they need when hiking in the rain.)
    • Search for amphibians in the woods on a wet day (One further: Do research on the species you found and create a bio card about it)
    • Fly a kite on a windy day (One further: Go to multiple fields on a windy day, track the windspeed at each site, and compare how the kite flew differently.)
    • Create a watercolor painting on a stormy day (One further: Track the clouds with timed watercolor paintings throughout the day.)
    • Build a leakproof fort outside when it’s raining (One further: Have them sketch their structure like an engineer.)
    • Track the sounds of nature when it’s storming (One further: Research how weather affects birds, and what clues you can tune into to know when a storm is approaching.)

    Engage in ongoing home-based activities

    While much of summer adventuring happens outside of the home, make sure to include some home-based activities on your summer bucket list. Having some creative and engaging projects can help make home time feel both slow and meaningful. 

    • Raise a monarch (One further: document its development with a monarch journal)
    • Plant a garden (One further: Make a garden map. Track growth and harvest on a calendar. Kids create a responsibility chart for garden maintenance.)
    • Make a recipe book (One further: Have kids illustrate step-by-step recipe instructions.)
    • Make art (One further: Visit an art museum and map out key features– artist bios, art piece descriptions, etc. Have kids chart out their own art show. Kids create invites, with bios, to invite family/friends. They write descriptions for their pieces. Design their art displays. Prepare hors d’oeuvres, etc)
    • Reading Challenge (Many local libraries have excellent summer reading programs. If yours doesn’t, make your own up. A simple board game blueprint with reading time goals and incentives along the way can be magic.)
    • Put on a talent show (One further: Let each kid choose their talent to perform for an audience. Let them create tickets and a program. Invite friends, neighbors, and family. Maybe they want to sell refreshments and set up seating arrangements.) 

    Curate some kid challenges

    Summer is a great time to build kid life skills and let your kids take on greater responsibility. What better way to do this than through fun challenges? We always love to think about what are some of the “next level” things our kids are ready for, and how we can get some practice through fun challenges.

    Integrate these into your bucket list by including a few “kid challenges.” Don’t name the actual task on the bucket list, but instead, write “kid challenge,” pick a day, and give them a card that maps out their challenge. They check off a kid challenge on the bucket list when they complete it. Some kids may need more help if these are new skills. There’s no cheating here; make a checklist of things they need to remember in order to succeed. 

    Here are some fun ideas for kid challenges that not only challenge them, but teach them skills in the process: 

    • Kids pack for the beach/a hike/an overnight sleepover
    • Let the kids plan and cook dinner (from making a grocery list to serving)
    • Kids bake a dessert for a friend or neighbor
    • Have them make and deliver breakfast in bed for the parents
    • Kids do their own laundry– from hamper to drawer
    • Build map reading skills by letting them plan a route for a family bike ride

    Support the spontaneous

    Part of the beauty of summer is having greater time and space for spontaneity. Allow your bucket lists to hold space for the magic of in-the-moment adventures and plan-making. If you have a hard time with spontaneous plan-making, include that in your bucket list as one of your challenges! Add “Say yes to a spontaneous adventure with friends” as one of your bucket list items. Just having that intention out there may make it easier to prioritize and make happen.

    Final notes on summers with kids

    At best, we have 18 summers with our kids. Sure, there are lots of variables there and different definitions, but I think about this A LOT. Particularly, as my oldest is just about to turn 10, which means we’re over the halfway mark. This keeps a lot in perspective and pushes me to really make the most of each day we have together. I think about all the ways that I want him and his sister to remember the seasons of their childhood, which are all too fleeting. And arguably, there is no season more memorable than summer. 

    This is the first summer in 5 years we’ll be in our home State of Maine. After traveling around North America and Central America over the last few years, I have decided that nowhere beats a summer in New England. (There’s something magical about loving where you live.) The weather is glorious, there are clean rivers and lakes, the ocean water is warm(ish), and there is a plethora of epic outdoor adventuring– from lobstering to hiking, and everything in between.

    Most importantly, Maine is home, so I know exactly when my favorite wildflowers are in bloom, what beaches have the sweetest tide pools, and the best spots to watch the sunset. The summer countdown is officially on, so we’re soon to be charting out our summer bucket list– tapping into the joys of home and making sure to discover new places and push ourselves to try different things. 

    What will you include in your summer bucket list?

    About the author

    Courtney’s the homeschooling mother of two wild and kind kids, the founder of 2 non-profit organizations, an avid traveler, and a passionate experiential educator. She has spent the better part of the last two decades traveling around the US and Central America – first as a part of her traveling high school, where she lived out of a converted school bus and slept in tents every night for 4 years, and, more recently, traveling with her family – from following animal migration routes to Mexico to fishing in Southeast Alaska. Rooted in Maine, she is passionate about immersive education. When not on the road with her family, she is busy organizing educational immersives, from tapping maple trees to tagging Monarchs and facilitating outdoor adventure programs, from hiking to ice fishing. Whether hauling lobster traps or monitoring salamanders, she works to make learning fun, engaging and interactive. She’s excited to share her love for nature, travel, and outdoor adventures with the Run Wild My Child community.

    You can find more from Courtney online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wildmigrationfamily
    Website: Wild Migration
    RWMC posts: Courtney Cronin

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, SUMMER

    Best Kid-friendly Beaches in Southern California

    If you’re planning a trip to Southern California with your family, hitting a beach should be on your to-do list! Southern California has some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the country. With so many beach options available, it can be hard finding the best beaches for kids and families. Today, Megan Haveelar, photographer and mom of four, is here sharing her family’s five favorite kid-friendly beaches in Southern California. Each of these beaches has its own unique qualities and should be a bit less crowded than many other beaches, making them great for kids of all ages. 

    5 best kid-friendly beaches in southern california

    Summertime in Southern California

    Yay, it’s summertime! And summer means fun in the sun and making memories with our loved ones! I’m sure many of you have some exciting summer travel plans. One popular destination happens to be Southern California. There are a variety of famous attractions that draw many people each year; from Hollywood to Disneyland, Sea World to Universal. There’s the the infamous Santa Monica Pier, Catalina Island, and the historic Pacific Coast Highway. The list could go on!

    Nevertheless, the place that families want to visit most while they are here is our stunning beaches! Warm, soft sand, cool water, salty air, and beautiful views! There’s really not much better than a gorgeous sunny day at a southern California beach!

    Best Southern California beaches for families

    Today, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite kid-friendly family beaches in Southern California. Each of these beaches are a little less touristy, so you don’t have to battle the crowds, and have their own personality. These are beaches our family visits regularly and they each have a uniqueness to them that makes them fun in different ways.

    If you’re looking for a beach to surf or boogie board, I got one for you! If you’re looking for a beach with beautiful crystal blue water and stunning views, I got one of those! Looking for a beach that offers more than just laying in the sand, I know of a beach with a beautiful hike up and down the seaside cliffs. As well as a beach named Pirates Cove and one named Treasure Island! I mean what kids wouldn’t want to visit a beach with a name like that! Whatever beach you choose, I highly recommend staying and watching the sunset at any of these locations, you will be so thankful you did!  

    Crystal Cove State Park

    Crystal Cove is located in Orange County between Newport and Laguna Beach. It’s one of the largest remaining areas of open space and natural coastline in Orange County. It’s a huge stretch of beach running 3.2 miles long and also 2,400 acres of wilderness. Because the beach is inside a state park, the hours are sunrise to sunset and there are also fees for parking.

    Crystal Cove State Park is definitely a must-see for any beach-loving family! From the seaside cliffs to the tide pools down below, this beach offers lots of space and fun for kids and families. The walk down to the beach can be long for little ones, but if you can make the hike, it’s so worth it. Crystal Cove also offers hiking and camping!

    Visit their website to find out more http://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/

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    Corona Del Mar/Pirates Cove

    The two beaches of Corona del Mar and Pirate’s Cove are definitely ones we visit a lot! They are connected by a rock jetty at the entrance to Newport Harbor in Newport Beach. While right next to each other, they have different features and personalities, so I’ll discuss them individually. 

    Corona Del Mar beach

    Corona Del Mar is also a state park beach. It’s about half a mile long, at the base of a seaside cliff with cool rock formations at the bottom. The parking lot is located at the bottom, and there is a parking fee. However, as you’ll see there is a stunning neighborhood up top with street parking that’s free. You can easily walk down the path to the beach. We love using our boogie boards here and checking out the sea life on the rocks. If you enjoy some beach volleyball there are plenty of courts to get your serve on! 

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    Pirates Cove

    Pirates Cove is a very unique spot! Located just to the right of Corona Del Mar, it’s an amazing beach for kids and families. You can either park in the lot or park above in the neighborhood. You cannot see this beach from the parking lot, you must climb over what looks like a hill of large boulders! Once you climb up and are at the top you will see a staircase that leads you down to a very secluded beach that looks across the channel of Newport Harbor.

    At Pirates Cove beach, you’ll find little caves to sit in and get out of the sun, as well as a giant boulder out in the water you can swim to and jump off. There is a lifeguard here during the summer months and they rope off the swim area so no one gets too far out into the channel. This is a fun place for kids to explore and swim! The water is very calm and shallow so it’s great for little ones! You can also watch the sailboats and yachts go in and out of the harbor. 

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    Treasure Island

    Treasure Island is a very beautiful, super unique spot that does require a bit of walking, but again, it’s so worth it! The beach is located at the bottom of the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach. It’s known for its crystal blue waters!  There is a small parking lot located on the southwest side of the resort, or you can also park on the street for free. There’s a beautiful path with lots of flowers and greenery on top, just behind the resort, and there are different staircases and ramps that lead to different parts of the beach.

    Our favorite part of this beach requires us to walk north all the way until we get to the little peninsula at the base of Goff Island. This is a great spot to snorkel and the sand here is so soft. The beach part is kind of rocky and gets deep quickly, so make sure your kids are good swimmers. My kids are between the ages of 7-11 and do just fine. Here you seriously feel like you are on a tropical island out in the pacific!

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    Torrey Pines

    Torrey Pines is located in San Diego. There are so many great beaches located in San Diego, but this is one that my family and I really enjoy visiting. It’s located just north of La Jolla and downtown San Diego. Torrey Pines is a State Reserve as they are protecting the Torrey pine trees that are specific to this one area of southern California. There is parking close to the beach or you can drive up to the top of the cliff where the Torrey Pines Lodge is located which is now a visitor center and ranger station. There are some cool things to learn at the visitor center about the Lodge and the history of the area.

    My family I like to park at the bottom in the beach parking and walk up the drive to the top, and from there we hike down to the beach. It’s a good way to get some steps in! I’ve done it with the small children and they do well, you might just need to take lots of breaks. The rocks hiking down can be slippery so be sure to hold onto those small hands. Also, if you go in the evening and catch the sunset on your way down…it’s breathtaking! We’ve also seen seals come right up to the beach here! 

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    Newport Beach

    The beach around Newport Pier is a great spot for surfing, boogie boarding, swimming, fishing, dolphin watching, and sand castle building! We enjoy Newport because the beaches are situated in neighborhoods so they don’t feel touristy, more like you’re around a bunch of locals. Parking is free on the side streets, but there is meter parking on the main street.

    Newport Beach is a great spot for families, as you could spend all day and never get bored! There is no shade here, so I definitely recommend bringing an umbrella or shade tent. The tide here is great for kids and adults learning to surf, but if you really want to see some professional surfers just head down to the Wedge, located at pier W, just down the way from Balboa Pier. I also highly encourage walking down the pier to see if you can spot some seals or dolphins. 

    There is a boardwalk perfect for jogging, bike riding, skating, or walking. You can rent bikes and scooters at places around the pier. There are also a couple of playgrounds located right on the sand between Newport and Balboa Pier. 

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    Best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California

    Okay, so there you have my top five recommendations for some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California! However, if none of these are in the area close to where you are staying in California, don’t worry, there are many more! Just visit the website below to find state beaches close to you and get some helpful information about beaches nearby and what each one offers. We enjoy state beaches over city beaches because they are usually cleaner and we like to support our state and the efforts they put into keeping our oceans and beaches protected and preserved!   https://www.parks.ca.gov/

    Best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California

    Which Southern California beach is your kids’ favorite?

    About the author

    Megan is a wife and a homeschooling mom of four. She is originally from Colorado, but has spent much of her life overseas. First in Eastern Europe, specifically, Hungary, where her first two kids were born. Secondly, in Ethiopia, where she and her husband adopted their second two kids. She and her family are now stateside, currently living in Southern California. She loves traveling with her kids, either on planes, road trips, or just in their local area! Most of her family’s outdoor adventuring includes water of some kind like beaches, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or pools. They especially love paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and even just going to the local park to play soccer or basketball. Megan also has a passion for photography and loves to bring along her camera to document all their adventures!

    Find more from Megan in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghavelaarphoto
    RWMC posts: Megan Havelaar

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    When planning a beach vacation, Michigan may not be the first place that comes to mind to visit. However, don’t rule out a family-friendly vacation to explore the Lake Michigan shore. A true hidden gem of the Midwest, southwest Michigan offers sugar-sand beaches, charming beach towns, and plenty of outdoor adventure for the whole family. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family shares why they love Southwest Michigan so much and all the amazing outdoor adventures to be found there. Read on to plan the perfect getaway for the whole family using this family travel guide to Southwest Michigan. 

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    Best times to visit southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan is beautiful any time of year. Spring brings blooming flowers and the famous tulip festival in Holland, Michigan. Fall means stunning drives and hikes among the colorful fall foliage. Winter is even a time of unexpected beauty when brave explorers can witness the lighthouses encased in ice. However, summer is the most popular time of year. While it never becomes unbearably hot, the summer temperatures are warm enough to take the chill off the cool Lake Michigan water. 

    Due to the proximity of southwest Michigan to Chicago, expect summer weekends, holidays, and big events to be busy with city travelers. If you can book a stay for during the week or the off-season, you will have more availability and lower lodging rates. Even if you do stay during a crowded summer weekend, there is still plenty of sand and shore for everyone. 

    Southwest Michigan BeachFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan BeachSouthwest Michigan BeachFamily-friendly places to stay in southwest Michigan

    Each of the major towns in southwest Michigan has its own vibe.

    • St. Joseph is one of the most kid-friendly with the beach, kid museums, a carousel, splash pad, and lots of restaurants all within easy walking distance.
    • South Haven is another great town to stay in, with a fun playground and splash pad, soft sand beaches, canal walk, and an interesting maritime museum.
    • The small town of Saugatuck is an artists haven and boasts one of the best beaches in the country.
    • Holland, Michigan allows you a glimpse of a European vacation without the travel. This charming town showcases its Dutch heritage in its architecture and attractions. 

    Each of these beach towns in southwest Michigan offers a variety of lodging options. For those who wish for a more rustic stay, there are many campgrounds available. Warren Dunes and Van Buren State Park offer tent and RV camping sites right along the Lake Michigan shore. There are also several KOA and private campground options. 

    There are numerous cabins, inns, and private rental homes available. Many of the private rentals do have minimum stay length requirements. Hotels line the interstate just east of the downtown areas. While traffic is never really much of an issue, keep an eye on the location of your lodging and check how far of a drive it is from the beach and other activities you have planned. 

    South Haven MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    The best beaches in southwest Michigan for families

    While the water of Lake Michigan is much colder than the gulf, you don’t have to worry about sharks or jellyfish! Lake Michigan water is also very clear and has that turquoise hint that appears tropical. You can find dozens of sandy shore options to relax, swim, or play, but these are our favorite options. 

    1. Silver Beach County Park

    Silver Beach is located right near the heart of downtown St. Joseph. This beautiful stretch of sand is very popular and boasts a playground, shower house, and views of the St. Joseph pier lighthouse. The beach is also a short walk from dining at Silver Beach Pizza or the attractions at Silver Beach Center. 

    2. South Beach

    This stunning beach is steps away from downtown South Haven and a popular place for swimming. The beach also has a playground, concessions, showers, and memorials explaining the local history. If you want a close-up look at the red South Haven lighthouse, this beach offers access along the pier. Each evening you can witness a gathering to watch the sun go down from this stretch of shore. 

    3. Pilgrim Haven

    While this isn’t the best beach for building sandcastles, this spot is the perfect place for rock hunters. The rocky beach offers endless opportunities to find some unique stone souvenirs. Up to 25 pounds of rocks per person per year can be legally collected in Michigan from state-owned and public trust lands such as Pilgrim Haven. So those little rock collectors can gather to their heart’s content!

    4. Pier Cove 

    Another great beach stop for rock collectors, this beach rests along the site of an old ghost town. What was once a bustling port town is now a quiet and hidden beach. While there are only about 10 parking spaces and no amenities, this beach offers a quiet option with a mix of sand, rocks, and a shallow creek. Keep an eye out for the unusual lightning stones that are often found here. 

    5. Oval Beach

    Oval Beach in Saugatuck is a gem that has been named one of the top 25 beaches in the world. This long stretch of sugar sand offers plenty of space and amenities for families to explore. If you want a unique way to reach the beach, try taking the hand-cranked chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River from downtown Saugatuck. It is thought to be the only such ferry still left in existence. 

    6. Holland State Park

    The Holland lighthouse, known as “Big Red,” towers over this beautiful beach. Part of a state park, visitors can enjoy many activity options at this popular beach. 

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganTravel guide to southwest MichiganPilgrim Haven Michigan

    Family travel guide – what do in southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan offers so many great options for the whole family to enjoy. While the beaches are the big draw to this region, there are numerous other activities to discover.

    1. Hiking in Southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan has several state and county parks that offer miles of trails. Warren Dunes State Park is one of the most beautiful places to hike with eight different trails that ramble through the woods and over the sand dunes. Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers 13 miles of trails to choose from and plus the perfect beach for cooling off after your trek. If you wish for a hike that is more woods than sand, check out Warren Woods State Park.  For a stroller-friendly option, check out the 0.75-mile paved nature trail at Grand Mere State Park. Just remember that any trails through sand will be much more difficult than hiking on solid ground!

    There are also several great county parks and nature preserves to explore. The Fernwood Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve offers several kid-friendly trails, an adventure garden, and even a miniature garden railway exhibit.  Sarrett Nature Center has a cool elevated boardwalk to make you feel as though you are walking in the treetops. The DeGraff Nature Center in Holland offers short trails, many of them stroller friendly. Gallien River County Park is another great family option with extensive boardwalks and canopy trails over a wetland marsh.  

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSarrett Nature CenterWarren Dunes State Park MichiganWarren Dunes State Park Michigan

    2. Pedal or walk a bike trail

    Kal-Haven State Park is a 33-mile bicycle trail that runs between South Haven and Kalamazoo. The converted rail-trail winds through gorgeous scenery along streams, through wooded areas, and past farmlands.  Starting at the South Haven end allows the option to pass through a covered bridge about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. A shorter biking option is the paved Van Buren Trail leading from South Haven to Van Buren State Park. 

    Kal Haven Trail Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    3. Visit a playground or splash pad

    The Kid’s Corner playground in South Haven is one of our kids’ favorites. Not only is the wooden castle playground amazing, but the park also offers free parking with direct beach access! If you wish for a more natural play option, check out the brand new Sally Smoly Nature Playscape in Holland. This state-of-the-art nature playscape features climbing walls, logs, boulders, slides, nets, and sandboxes.

    If you want some water fun without the sand, check out the brand new splash pad in downtown South Haven. This fun play area opened in 2020 with a giant ship to climb and spray water. Meanwhile, the Whirlpool Compass fountain in St. Joseph is the largest splash pad in all of Michigan. Watch out for those automatic spray cannons!

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganWhirlpool Compass Fountain St. Joseph Michigan

    4. Southwest Michigan museums

    There are several great museum options for kids to learn about history, STEM, or culture in southwest Michigan. The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven is a great option with a mix of interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visitors can learn about maritime history, boat-building, and explore various vessels.  They even offer the option of taking a ride on several types of boats. The museum is currently closed for construction and expansion but is set to reopen in early summer of 2022.

    For those rainy days when you need an indoor option, there are four different children’s museums in the area to explore. St. Joseph contains two different locations of its Curious Kids Museum. One is downtown while the other is located at Silver Beach Center, next to a replica historic carousel and other attractions. Fennville and South Haven each have sister locations of the Forever Curious Kids Museums. All of these museums offer great exhibits focused on pretend play and STEM activities. 

    South Haven Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSilver Beach Center St. Joseph

    5. Southwest Michigan’s unique outdoor attractions

    Holland contains two must-see Dutch-themed attractions. Windmill Island Gardens is a beautiful oasis featuring gardens, canals, a children’s play area, and a hand-painted Dutch carousel. One of the most unique features at Windmill Island is the original working Dutch windmill brought over from the Netherlands in 1964 which is available for tours. After exploring the gardens, head over to Neils’ Dutch Village for even more kid-centered rides and attractions including a play area and petting zoo. Both of these attractions are especially beautiful in May when the tulips are in peak bloom. 

    The Outdoor Discovery Center near Holland is on our list to explore on our next trip to southwest Michigan. This site contains a visitor center, trails, a nature playscape, wildlife exhibits, and a birds of prey center. There are so many great options at this center to learn all about nature.

    A hidden gem attraction, Eden Springs Park in St. Joseph is the location of a former resort and amusement park. The structures and grounds are slowly being restored by volunteers to their former glory. Visitors can roam the grounds and also take a fun miniature train ride. 

    Holland Michigan Windmill GardensEden Springs Park Michigan Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    6. View a lighthouse

    Did you know the state of Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state? In southwest Michigan, you can beautiful lighthouses in St. Joseph,  South Haven, and Holland State Park. The St. Joseph lighthouse is even open to climb inside! Saugatuck also features a charming lighthouse although it is a replica to represent several light stations that once served the area. 

    If you wish to walk along the pier for a closer look at the lighthouses, please do so carefully. Keep a close eye on children and do not attempt when the water is rough. 

    Silver Beach Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSouth Haven lighthouse

    7. Pick some fruit

    Michigan is known for having the perfect climate for growing many types of fruit. Cherries, blackberries, blueberries, and apples especially flourish at orchards all over the state. Head over to one of several southwest Michigan orchards such as Crane’s in Fennville, or DeGrandChamp’s and Overhiser Orchards in South Haven. Many of the orchards offer gift shops and kid activities. 

    Travel guide to southwest michigan

    8. Watch a sunset

    No Michigan vacation is complete without at least one evening of watching the sun drop below the horizon. Some of our favorite spots to watch the sunset are at Silver Beach in St. Joseph, South Beach in South Haven, or Holland State Park. With a west-facing shoreline, however, there really are no bad sunset viewing spots!

    Silver Beach Michigan sunsetSouth Haven Sunset

    Southwest Michigan family-friendly travel

    We hope this little family travel guide to Southwest Michigan has inspired you to check out all the amazing outdoor adventures to be had right here in the Midwest! There are so many great options for places to stay, things to do, and ways to explore this gorgeous stretch of freshwater shoreline. If you’re craving a summer beach getaway, but don’t want to deal with the heat and humidity of the South, put Michigan on your list of places to check out! We promise you’ll be impressed! 

    Have you ever explored Southwest Michigan?

    About the author

    Sara has been married to her high school sweetheart for 17 years and together they have two children. Sara spent many childhood hours outside on her grandparents’ farm and strives for her kids to have similar carefree kid adventures. Based in the St. Louis area, she loves to share on her blog and social media all the scenic and fun places to explore around the St. Louis area and beyond. Hiking is the most popular activity for her whole family followed by hitting up the best local playgrounds. Photography is also a passion of Sara’s and she continues to be amazed at the natural beauty and wonder of God’s creation. When she is not hitting the trail, Sara works as a civil engineer.

    You can find more from Sara online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @midwestnomadfamily
    Facebook: Midwest Nomad Family
    RWMC posts: Sara Lesire

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    How to Get Started Skimboarding With Kids

    Skimboarding is a fun, active, and affordable way to keep your kids entertained on the beach. Skimboarding is gaining in popularity, and for a good reason. It’s a safe way to introduce your kids to the ocean, challenge their abilities, boost their confidence, and let them have fun! Today, Wendy Cox, photographer and California mom of four, is here sharing everything you need to know to get started skimboarding with kids. She’ll walk you through the benefits of skimboarding for kids, how to skimboard, tips for choosing the right skimboard for kids, and so much more! This post will make you want to get to the beach as soon as possible! 

    beginner's guide to skimboarding with kids

    Skimboarding with kids

    Going to the beach as a parent is a far cry from the days when all you needed was a towel and a good book. Now, a trip to the beach means you’re schlepping shovels, buckets, towels, sunscreen, chairs, snacks, water bottles, an umbrella, and so much more through the hot sand. And then, when you get to the beach, your kids are either nervous of the water and afraid of the loud waves crashing on the shore or so interested they can’t stay out of them! And in the latter case, maybe it’s you that’s nervous about sending them out into the deep blue.

    Either way, if you want to find a happy medium where your kids can play in the water but not be way out in the depths of the ocean, the solution you’re looking for is a skimboard. Skimboarding is a great way for kids to stay close to the shore in shallow water but still have fun.

    What is skimboarding?

    Skimboarding is a water sport, similar to surfing, where you can skid or slide across the surface of the water close to the shore on a small flat board. Skimboards are much smaller and thinner than surfboards, and they do not have any fins. Skimboarding happens in shallow water on the water’s edge, so there’s no need to go out into the water and wait for a wave, as you would when surfing. 

    girl holding skimboard - skimboarding with kids

    5 reasons to let your kids try skimboarding

    1. Size of the skimboard is manageable

    A skimboard is small and easy to carry. Have you ever tried carrying a surfboard from the car to the waves? It is not easy! Surfboards are large and heavy (and expensive). When carrying, I have to constantly readjust the surfboard and try to find a way to make it comfortable. However, skimboards are much more manageable for parents (and kids) to bring to the beach. Plus, storage is less of an issue with a smaller board, and they’re more affordable. 

    2. Skimboarding gets kids familiar with the ocean

    Skimboarding is a good introduction to the ocean for any kids (or parents) who might be apprehensive about surfing or swimming in the waves. For anyone not comfortable with waves and surf, skimboarding is the perfect introduction to help your child (and the parent) get more comfortable with the water and confident in their skills.

    Skimboarding allows you to stay right at the shoreline. You can get a feel for the ocean without getting all the way in. Skimboarding is a great way to allow your kids to get a feel for the waves and how they break while still being able to touch the ground and stay close to the shore. They will feel the pull of the ocean and understand better how strong the water can be, while remaining safe.  Skimboarding is a great introduction to spending time in the ocean.

    3. Cold weather approved

    Skimboarding doesn’t require you to submerge yourself in the water like surfing or swimming. You can skimboard on a cold day and not get completely soaked or frozen. Once you have the hang of it, you can skimboard without even getting very wet. My kids have even gone skimboarding while wearing a sweatshirt! I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that, but it can be done. Our beaches on the West Coast can get chilly in the fall and winter, but often we can still skimboard in the off-season. 

    skim boarding in a sweatshirt - how to skimboard with kids

    4. Skimboarding is great for most ages

    Skimboarding is great for kids age 6 years old and up. The basic techniques are relatively easy to master and you don’t have to be a proficient swimmer to be able to skimboard. When skimboarding, you don’t go very deep into the water, so it’s an activity that kids can enjoy before they’re advanced swimmers. We always recommend a life jacket or other floatation device and vigilant parental supervision for any child playing near water that can’t swim. 

    The light weight and smaller size of a skimboard also make it easy for kids as young as 6 to use. Skimboards are much smaller than surfboards, so they can easily be used by kids 6 and older. If you have a child that’s younger than six that really wants to skimboard, it’s doable! Smaller boards are easiest for little ones to toss when getting started. You know your child best, so if they are younger but have good balance, athleticism, and agility, then let them give it a go.

    5. Skimboarding is inexpensive

    You can purchase a beginner skimboard for less than $25. While a professional skimboard can get extremely pricey, you don’t need the best skimboard on the market when you’re just getting started. Skimboards for a beginner are relatively inexpensive and will last for years when well taken care of. See our tips below for choosing the right skimboard for your child and what you should know before buying a skimboard. 

    tips for learning to skimboardholding skim board

    Buying a skimboard

    Now that we’ve covered the basics of skimboarding and all the benefits, hopefully, you’re convinced to give skimboarding with your kids a try! If you’re ready to purchase a skimboard, there are a few things you should know and take into consideration. First, you’ll want to consider the size, weight, type, and shape of the board, as well as the size, age and skill level of the person who will be using it.

    Skimboards come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll want to match the skimboard sizes to the rider’s height and weight, and ability. Here’s a good skimboard size chart with some great info on how to get the proper skimboard fit. When just getting started, let a professional at the surf shop can help you choose the right board, to ensure the child’s success, and maximize the purchase. Many shops offer this service free of charge.

    In addition to size, you’ll want to consider the material of the skimboard. High-quality boards will last much longer and be less dangerous to use. Cheaper wooden skimboards can splinter, break, and can be dangerous to use. The main types of skimboards are wood boards coated in epoxy, foam boards, carbon fiber boards, and fiberglass boards. These are a bit more expensive than plain wood boards, but they are much safer and last for many years.  If a new board is out of your price range, try searching online resale groups for used boards.

    Our family has two skimboards. They both have a foam surface on the top in order to get better grip and to avoid having to use wax. These beginner skimboards have worked well for us for many years. As my kids get older, we’re just now considering getting larger boards. 

    how to choose the right skimboard for kids

    Teaching kids how to skimboard

    The most typical way to skimboard is to glide over a thin layer of water with the board parallel to the waves. This is the best way for kids to learn how to skimboard. Skimboarding can be easy to learn and pick-up on your own, but if you’re really into it, many surf shops offer group and private lessons, as well as skim camps. 

    To skimboard by gliding, here are the steps you’ll need to take:

    1. Stand in shallow water where there are at least a few inches of water between the surface and the ground.
    2. Hold the skimboard in both hands, with your dominant hand on the base (bottom) of the board and your other hand on the top of the board.
    3. With the board parallel to the surface of the water, take a few steps and swing the board, then release it in front of you. The board should skim over the surface of the water. (It’s sort of like skipping a giant rock on the water with two hands.)
      • You’ll want to throw the board hard enough that it’s moving and doesn’t lose momentum when you step on, but not so hard that you can’t quickly jump on after a few steps. This part takes a lot of practice to perfect. 
    4. Take a few running steps behind the board and step onto the board with your non-dominate foot in front and your dominant foot in the back. You’ll want to step into the skimboard gently and not jump on top of the board (which will sink the board and kill the momentum). It’s similar to sliding on hardwood floors in your socks. 
    5. Now skim across the surface of the water! Repeat, repeat, repeat! 

    young child skimboarding - kids skimboarding basics

    Skimboarding into the surf

    The more advanced way to skimboard is to skim yourself into deeper water and directly into the oncoming waves. This type of skimboard wave riding is great fun for older kids. You use the same technique as mentioned above but point the nose of the skimboard into the ocean. My 12-year-old prefers to skimboard this way. He loves to try new tricks, like getting air as the white water comes in. We’ve seen advanced and pro skimboarders do all kinds of spins, flips, and tricks this way. It’s something to work up to for sure!

    skimboarding towards wave - skimboarding for older kids skim boarding at the beach

    Skimboarding spills and falls

    When your kids are just starting out with skimboarding, it’s important to let them know that they will inevitably fall down. Spills and falls happen. A lot. Many times when trying to step onto the skimboard, it pulls your feet right out from underneath you, and you end up flat on your back in the water. Expect some falls and prepare your kids for not only the crash (in the sand), but the fact that water and sand may get in their mouth, eyes, and nose. It can be scary for kids the first few times it happens. 

    The plus side to falling off a skimboard is that, unlike skateboarding, the fall won’t be on a hard concrete surface. Wet sand is considerably softer than concrete, but can still hurt. Falling down is an important part of life in general though, so celebrate the fact that they keep trying even when it gets hard.

    kid falling off skimboard

     

    Choosing the best beaches for skimboarding

    Some beaches are better for skimboarding with kids than others. Try to avoid beaches with rocky shores. Falling on a rock is not pleasant! Beaches with a lot of seaweed on the shore are also not ideal for skimboarding because the seaweed can inhibit the board from skimming smoothly over the water. You’ll also want a beach that isn’t super crowded so you have space to run and skim without running into others.

    The best type of beach will have a long, soft sandy stretch of shoreline. Also, beginner skimboarders will have the best success at low tide.

    Here in Southern California, we have some really great soft sandy beaches, but we also have rocky ones. We have to be choosy when we know we’ll be skimboarding. 

    girl skim boarding

    Benefits of skimboarding for kids

    Skimboarding has so many health benefits for kids (and even for you)! Some of these benefits of skimboarding include:

    • increased balance
    • stronger legs and core
    • greater coordination
    • improved awareness of ocean/wave patterns
    • exposure to Vitamin D
    • strengthening of smaller muscles in the feet by running on the uneven surface of the sand

    running with skimboard

    Enjoying the beach while kids skimboard

    I am currently reading a book by Wallace J. Nichols titled Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do. How about that for a claim and title?! 

    Do you remember how Jo took Beth to the seashore in Little Women when she was sick? In Jane Austen’s Emma, Emma’s sister Isabella wanted to take her children to the seashore for their health after a recommendation from her doctor. I think Mr. Nichols and all of those doctors were on to something!

    I don’t know about you, but being near the ocean just makes me feel better and helps me to think more clearly. The ocean is both soothing and healing. It helps relax and inspires creativity. Just being near the water is good for your mood, spirit, and health. 

    And while I sometimes wish I could take my kids to the beach just to sit and enjoy the beauty of it in peaceful silence, that’s unrealistic for parents of small kids. However, we’ve found that everyone is a thousand times happier when they have something active to do at the beach and we still get the benefits of being there, despite the chaos and all the activity! Going to the beach is always worth it for us. 

    happy child skimboarding at the beach child skim boarding

    Multi-purpose skimboard

    My kids really enjoy skimboarding when we’re at the beach. It keeps them active and entertained for hours! It’s something that all of my kids can do, and it fits so easily in the beach wagon. However, we’ve also found many uses for our skimboards other than skimboarding! When no one is using the board to skim around, it can also be stuck in the sand as a makeshift backstop for a game of wiffle ball. The board is the perfect surface to put your beach treasures on, like all of these sand dollars my kids found in Morro Bay. We’ve used our skimboards as a tabletop for picnic lunches on the beach. 

    skimboard as backstop on the beach holding skim board with sand dollars

    Additional beach planning resources

    The beach has so much to offer families! It’s a fun destination with the potential to make some unforgettable memories. Before your beach day, check out a few of our favorite posts about all things beach:

    I hope you’re able to add skimboarding to your kids’ repertoire of things to do at the beach.

    kid skim boarding at dusk

    Have your kids ever tried skimboarding?

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out of doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as a garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, SUMMER

    Skateboarding for Kids 101

    Skateboarding is a fun and active way to spend time outside. It’s not only a great full-body workout, but it helps build core strength, balance, and confidence in kids. It’s one of those fast-action sports that are not only fun to watch, but a blast for kids to participate in. Today, Chelsea Furlong, a Virginia Beach photographer and skateboarding mom of two, shares all her tips for skateboarding with kids. Chelsea shares everything you need to know, including how to choose the right skateboard, best skateboarding gear, skateboarding safety tips, advice for parents, and more. 

    skateboarding 101 - teaching kids how to skateboard

    Skateboarding obsession begins

    A couple of years ago my kids asked for skateboards for Christmas. They were using small plastic mini boards made for toddlers but they were ready for something bigger and better. My brothers got them their first real skateboards for Christmas that year and our family’s new obsession began. Within a few months of receiving those gifts, my kids absolutely fell in love with skateboarding. That love eventually became a full-blown obsession. We currently don’t have a single day that goes by without some kind of skateboarding involved. Even on the days when the weather is terrible, they’ll practice in our garage, watch tutorials and youtube videos, or practice tricks on their TechDecks. Skateboarding, for us, has become a lifestyle. 

    Tips for parents - how to teach kids to skateboard

    Becoming a skateboarding mom

    Many people reach out to me on a regular basis with their questions about skateboarding and how to get their kids started. It’s common for a mom to send me a message on Instagram saying something like, “My child is interested in learning how to skateboard. I’m a little terrified, and I don’t skateboard, so I have no idea where to start. Can you help me?”

    Let me start by saying, I don’t skateboard, either! That’s right. My kids tell me they feel more comfortable riding a board at this point than they do walking on their own two feet. But their mother is a totally different story! Haha!

    The good news is you do NOT have to know how to skateboard to help your kids get started skateboarding. All you have to do is grab the basic equipment, get them outside and support them on their journey as they practice and get better. It’s not always easy (rarely is anything involving kids easy), but it’s worth it. Skateboarding has become such a vibrant passion for my kids, a fun and active activity that gets us all outside and keeps us on our toes! It’s been a great way to teach my boys valuable life skills and has allowed them to make amazing friendships with a diverse group of skaters. 

    how to skateboard

    Benefits of skateboarding for kids

    Skateboarding is a full-body workout. Observe your kids on a skateboard and you’ll quickly realize that they use a variety of muscles and movement skills to propel, stop, steer and manipulate the board. Riders exercise their feet, legs, arms, and torso as they twist and balance with each trick and turn. Skateboarding is great for helping develop coordination and core strength. It takes a long time to get good at skateboarding and doing tricks, so it’s a great activity for teaching kids about practice and perseverance. It’s becoming a more popular sport by the day and is really fun to watch, as well as participate in. Skateboarding is a healthy screen-free outdoor activity that gets kids plenty of fresh air, sunshine, exercise, and Vitamin D. 

    Best age for getting started skateboarding

    Like nearly any sport, there’s no perfect age to get them started. You’re never too old to learn to skateboard (although, your body may disagree after a few spills!), and even young kids can give it a try. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that kids under 5 not skateboard. Mainly, this is because their tiny bodies can’t take the impact and you don’t want to risk broken bones and injuries for kids this young. Kids of all ages participate in this sport. But no matter what age your kids are, at first they’ll need close adult supervision and support. 

    How to get started skateboarding - learning to skateboard with kids

    What do we need to get started?

    You don’t need very much to get started skateboarding, but the gear is important. Here are the few basic pieces of skateboarding equipment you’ll need to get your kids off and rolling:

    I get lots of requests for brand and equipment recommendations for families just jumping into skating. This has been a trial and error process for us, and what works best for my kids may not be what your kids prefer. However, I’m happy to share what works for us!

    Kinds of skateboards

    There are many types of skateboards available for lots of different kinds of riding. The list includes longboards, penny boards, carve boards, classic boards, cruisers, popsicle double kicks, etc. Maybe you didn’t realize there are lots of different kinds of boards? Me either! It’s ok if you don’t know what your kids will want or need at first. I’m here to help! 

    We currently have a few different types of skateboards lined up in our garage: longboards, cruisers, double kicks, and a carve board. For this post, I’ll be mostly focusing on the popsicle double kicks board. This is because that’s what our kids use the most, and that’s likely the kind of skateboard you’re most familiar with as well.

    The popsicle double kick is the kind of skateboard most people have in their minds when they think of skateboarding. It’s a board shape with two rounded ends and both of those ends are bent upward. This kind of skateboard can be used for street skating and transition (or bowl) skating. My kids skate both transition and street, and that’s the kind of skateboard deck they both use. It’s a good beginner skateboard and a good choice for shape if you’re looking to purchase your first skateboard.

    skateboarding supplies and gear for kids

    How to choose a skateboard for kids

    When you’re choosing the best skateboard for a new rider, you’ll want to consider the age and size of the rider. If you’re starting a toddler or a very young child, you’ll want a mini-board. These are a much smaller size and are best for the tiny feet of younger skaters. Once your kids are a little older, they can handle a larger board.

    In addition to the different styles of skateboards, there are also different sizes. My kids are ages 7 & 9. They both wear a kids’ size 3 shoe. They’re currently riding size 7.75 skateboard decks. For reference, my oldest son will likely be moving to a size 8 board within the next year. 

    The next bit of important information is that when you’re buying a skateboard, I recommend starting with a complete skateboard set. This just means that all of the skateboard parts are already there and assembled! Again, beginners may not know this, but there are several different parts to a skateboard that can change a lot about the ride. As my kids have become more advanced, they now fully customize their boards according to what/how they want to ride. However, a beginner skater doesn’t need to worry about any of that, so opt for a complete set.

    We started out with a complete board from CCS. This is a quality skateboard for a beginner. You can even customize the design on the board with your own artwork or a photo of your new skater! 

    Skateboarding with kids - how to choose the right skateboard for kids

    Protective gear – skateboarding helmets and pads

    The proper gear when skateboarding is essential. Just as you wouldn’t let your child ride a bike without a helmet or ride in a car without a seatbelt, don’t let your skater ride with a helmet and pads. Biking helmets and skateboarding helmets are made completely differently! There are some helmets that are now formulated for both, but we recommend having separate helmets for our kids for biking and skateboarding.

    Yes, you can absolutely use a bike helmet for your child who’s just starting out if you don’t have a skate helmet. It’s certainly better than no head protection at all. But, if your child really starts to get into skating, you’ll want a high-quality helmet. We use the Protec brand because they’re highly regarded in the skate community as one of the best quality, safest brands of skating helmets. Be sure to get the correct size for your child, too. If you’re not sure about sizing and fit, head to your local skate shop and someone there should be able to check it for you!

    There is a LOT of falling involved in skateboarding, so I also recommend getting a set of pads for your child, as well. You’ll want both knee pads and elbow pads at the minimum. Or, you can get a full set of pads which also includes wrist guards. We use 187 Killer Pads because they’re high quality, but again, any pads are better than no pads when you’re just getting started! You can always upgrade later, if/when your kids decide that skateboarding is life! My kids are trying some pretty crazy tricks at this point, so we need gear that can handle the constant blows day after day!

    Skateboarding shoes for kids

    Beginner skateboarders don’t need any particular brand of skateboarding shoes, but it’s important that your child wears comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good tread or rubber on the bottom. You definitely don’t want them slipping around on the skateboard. Also, the grip tape on a fresh board can be hard on open skin. Occasionally, I accidentally drag my hands or arms on my kids’ boards when I’m moving them around and that grip tape is no joke!

    how to skateboard - skateboarding shoes for kids

    Additional skateboarding gear suggestions

    After a year and a half of serious (and I mean serious) hours put in at our local skateparks, I’ve learned to have a few other items on hand! You may not need these items early on in the process, but if you find yourself spending more and more time skating, it’s a good idea (actually, it’s a great idea) to keep these items handy and closeby: 

    • Medical kit – You’ll want to have bandages available from the very beginning. As your little skater progresses and attempts more difficult tricks, you’ll want to have a more substantial kit on hand. We use ours almost every trip to the skatepark, whether for our own kids or to share with other skaters getting injuries. 
    • Skate tool – This is a tool used to tighten or loosen the trucks (the metal part that the wheels are on)
    • Extra shoe laces – Once your skater starts to attempt different tricks, they’ll also start to snap their laces! There were some skatepark days where we went through several sets of laces in a single day!
    • Shoe Goo – This is great for fixing shoes that are getting torn up for skating! It’s a great trick for extending the life of your shoes.
    • Camera (with video capability) – My kids are constantly asking me to take photos and videos of their runs and tricks. They like to see how they look (and how they can improve). They analyze the videos later and adjust accordingly. It’s an amazing process of self-awareness. 

    We keep all of these items in our skate bag so we have everything we may need all in one place!

    how to skateboard - what you need to get started skateboarding with kids

    Getting started as a skateboarding parent

    Once you have all of your gear purchased and ready to go, it’s skate time! Personally, I think skateboarding is MUCH harder than it looks. It takes a lot of time to get good at a new sport like skateboarding and takes way more hours of practicing than you can ever imagine. However, if you have determined little ones that love the activity, you’ll be amazed by how quickly they improve and how strong and brave they can be. Here are a few tips and suggestions for parents when your kid is learning how to skateboard. 

    Get mentally prepared

    I’m going to say it again: Your child WILL fall. They will get hurt. Hopefully not terribly hurt, but they will get some scrapes and bruises along the way. It’s best to prepare yourself for that fact early and be prepared to remain calm and encouraging for your child as they learn this new skill. Just like they fall off bikes sometimes (or out of trees or off the swingset), they’ll also fall off of their skateboards! It’s inevitable.

    It’s important to keep a calm and confident attitude throughout this learning process because you are the model for your child. If you act nervous, stressed, and terrified, your child will also feel nervous and afraid. If you panic every time they fall off the skateboard, they will panic and be afraid to step back on the board. Your little one will look to you for praise and encouragement, so be ready for it! Provide positive feedback and keep an upbeat attitude about conquering new skills. You’ll be impressed with how quickly they’ll be able to brush off falls when they’re determined and encouraged. 

    learn to skateboard - visiting a skatepark with your kids

    Find a safe place to start

    When your child is first learning how to stand on and ride a skateboard, start them on a flat, smooth surface. Your flat surface can be a paved path, parking lot, driveway, etc. Whatever you have available to you will work! If you see lots of rocks and debris, sweep or remove it so your little one doesn’t get caught on it. For your very first time on a skateboard, you might even want to start in the grass or on carpet. That’ll keep the board from moving out from beneath your little one’s feet until they feel comfortable standing on it. 

    Balance and push

    Next, it’s time to practice balancing. Some children will want you to hold their hand as they begin and some will want to do everything on their own. Once the child has practiced balancing on the board, it’s time to push off. The best way is to teach them to push off with their back foot. My kids both skate mongo, which means they push off with their front foot. It’s not hindering their progress greatly, but they really should be pushing off with the back foot instead! Some tricks can be a lot harder to master when you push mongo, so it’s just easier on the skater to learn how to skateboard using that back foot to push. 

    how to skateboard with kids

    Hit the skatepark

    Once they can balance and push themselves around, that’s really all there is to it! The rest is up to them to progress and try new things and a few basic tricks. I’d also recommend checking out a skatepark in your area if you have one. A lot of public parks don’t allow skateboarding, so designated skateparks are a great place to get the feel for the sport.

    Get to the skatepark early in the morning when it’s less crowded and give your kids some time to practice new things. If they can ride on a flat surface, move on to slants, ramps (or mini ramps), and inclines. These are far less tricky than dropping in on transition and they teach kids how to balance their weight and keep the board moving. Even if your kid is just riding around the flats, it’s good to get them comfortable at the skatepark and start teaching them skateboarding etiquette.  

    Practice, practice, practice!

    The most important thing my own kids needed as they learned how to skateboard was lots of time. People often comment on how “naturally talented” our kids are. And while they do have talent, it’s really been the amount of time they spend practicing that has propelled them forward.

    If you’ve read the book “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell, you’ll be familiar with the “10,000 hour rule.” That’s what I mention to people when they comment on our kids’ skateboarding and scootering abilities. On a good skate day, my kids will put in a solid 6 hours of practicing. And that’s not because it’s forced; it’s because they truly just love it. When it comes to learning how to skateboard, I always use the phrase, “Practice makes progress!”

    If your kids want to take their skills to the next level, there’s also the option of private lessons, skate camps, and group coaching. A lot of these options will meet your skater at their skill level and help them advance to the next with tips and advice that’s sometimes easier to hear from a pro than mom or dad. 

    skateboarding 101 - how to teach your kids to skateboard

    Are your kids interested in learning how to skateboard?

    About the author

    Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing our best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived. Chelsea is also the Run Wild My Child Sustainability Expert and helps spearhead our efforts at reducing our carbon footprint and leads our Eco-Challenges.

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

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Boogie Boarding with Kids

    Boogie boarding is such a fun way to enjoy a day at the beach. Not only is it affordable and fun, but it’s an easy activity for kids of any age. Boogie boarding has physical benefits, as well as helps kids become confident swimmers. Today, Creative Team member and Las Vegas mom of four, Megan Havelaar shares all the tips, tricks, and advice you need to know to get starting boogie boarding with kids this summer! 

    Boogie Boarding with Kids - tips and advice on how to get started.

    Boogie boarding with kids

    Are you heading to the beach this summer? Are you looking for something different for your kids to do besides just swimming and playing in the sand? Let’s talk about boogie boarding! I have found boogie boarding is a fun summer activity for kids of all ages. Our family enjoys it because it’s a relatively inexpensive activity and easy enough for the kids to get the hang of quickly. You don’t need a lot of equipment to try it out and you can learn at any age!

    Benefits of boogie boarding for kids

    Boogie boarding is a great outdoor physical activity for kids. Not only does paddling for waves require a substantial amount of arm, chest, and upper body strength, but you’ll also gain core strength as you balance on your board. Kicking to gain extra speed to catch waves works out your leg muscles. Water has a calming effect on the mind, and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine means extra Vitamin D. It’s also great because kids can do it with a level of independence, and helps to build their confidence in the water. 

    How to get started boogie boarding with kids

    Boogie board or bodyboard?

    There’s no real difference between the act of boogie boarding and bodyboarding. Boogie Board is technically a brand name for a foam bodyboard trademarked in the 1970s. The term has now become synonymous and representative for nearly all bodyboards, even those made by other companies. You can still buy official “Boogie Boards” at lots of retail stores. It’s totally up to you whether you want to call it boogie boarding or bodyboarding; as long as you’re having fun, no one will mind! 

    Boogie boards for kids

    Let’s talk about the boogie boards. This can get as expensive or inexpensive as you want. I have found that they range anywhere from $5 to over $100. I have four kids, so when we originally started boogie boarding it was because we found some on sale for $5 at our local retail shop. At a cost of $20 total for a board for each kid, it was well worth the investment. We are now entering into our third summer with those same boards! For those that would like to invest in a different style, higher performance board (with channels or bottom fins), there are some really nice, quality boards you can get if your kids are really into it. 

    How to choose the right boogie board for kids

    When you’re picking out your boogie board, size is the most important feature. Most boogie boards come in a range of sizes, so pick the best size for your little rider. If you’re a beginner, it’s better to choose a bigger and wider board. It’ll give you more control in the water as you get used to riding the waves. A 33″-37″ boogie board is the best option for smaller kids (under 85 lbs). A board that’s around 40″ or larger is better for bigger kids, teens, and adults (over 90 lbs). 

    Best boogie boards for kids

    Here are a few recommended boogie boards for kids: 

    Beginner's Guide to Boogie Boarding with Kids

    Other boogie boarding gear

    Boards also come with a leash that attaches to the board on one end and has a wristband on the other. This will keep the board attached to your rider and prevent it from getting away. You can also purchase swim fins that will help your child practice their kicks, and if they have sensitive skin a rash guard is great for protection from the sun and friction from the board. 

    Best age to start boogie boarding

    What’s the right age to teach a kid how to ride a boogie board? Well, like a lot of outdoor activities, it depends on the child. There is no minimum age for learning to boogie board. As soon as a child can walk and swim, they’re ready to hit the waves (maybe around the age of four). Parents are usually the best judge of knowing whether or not your child is ready to give boogie boarding a try. You know your child’s skill level, swimming expertise, comfort with the water/waves, and temperament best. It also may depend a lot on your location and the size of the waves. 

    Boogie boarding tips and advice for beginners

    The right beach for boogie boarding with kids

    I recommend going to a beach where the waves crash a little away from the shoreline, and one that stays shallow a good distance out. You also want to make sure your kids can touch the bottom. Familiar beaches are great for building confidence for beginners. And warm water is best for little kids (so they don’t get cold), but rashguards and wetsuits can help if you’re at a beach with colder water. 

    Wherever you are, it’s always important to watch the waves and continue to be observant while you’re near the water. I try and take notice if there are a lot of surfers on the waves because it could be an indication that the waves might be a little too big. Along with that, consider your comfort level with their ability to swim in those conditions. If the beach is too crowded, it might be worth it to wait for the crowd to die down, especially if your kids are young or it’s their first time. 

    How to boogie board

    Boogie boarding is a great introductory beach sport for kids. It features many of the attractive elements of surfing, but on a smaller scale. Like surfing, you’ll want to be where the waves break and then ride them in towards the shore.

    I recommend that kids start in water that’s around waist-deep. When you see a wave you want to ride, you’ll move onto the board with your stomach lying flat across the board. As your wave approaches, kick your feet and paddle with your hands to gain momentum. The current will do some of the work for you, but the kicking will add speed for more experienced boogie boarders. Once you reach the shore, grab your board and head back out to catch another wave!

    How to choose the right boogie board for kids

    Coaching boogie board beginners

    Even if it’s something you never have done, boogie boarding is pretty easy to teach kids. If your little one is just getting started, here are a few tips to make the experience easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

    Start by making sure you put the wristband on the child’s wrist. That way they won’t lose the board if they take a spill. Next, you’ll want to position your kids in the best sport for catching a wave. Go out to where the waves are breaking or just in front. Walk out there with them so you can feel whether there’s an undertow and gauge the depths of the water. 

    Once you see a wave start to break (maybe explain what that means if they don’t know), have them hop on their boards belly down, eyes up, and face the shore. They should start to kick their feet. Once they start riding the wave to the shore they can stop kicking and just enjoy the ride!  Now, just keep repeating this process.

    After the kids get the hang of it they can pretty much do it all on their own, or until you feel comfortable that they are confident in the water. You can always grab a board of your own and join in on the fun with them! I love grabbing my camera or phone, and capturing those smiles and laughs as they ride wave after wave into the shore. 

    Boogie Boarding with kids

    Enjoy spending time at the beach

    Lastly, I thought I would share some benefits I’ve seen in my children as we have spent time at the beach. There’s nothing quite like spending time outside and a day at the beach means you’re surrounded by nature AND water! There is so much sensory play to be found at the beach, between the sand, water, and if you’re at a beach with rocks and tide pools. There are always little creatures to be discovered, shells and rocks to be collected, sandcastles to be built and waves to jump. 

    Saltwater has so many healing properties, and the sound of the waves is very calming. The beach is a great place to socialize, meet and make new friends. It sparks a lot of curiosity and you will probably get asked a lot of questions! You may, or may not, have the answers to them, but you’ll be impressed by your kids’ curiosity and imaginations! Keep that spark of learning about the ocean and beach going at home by reading books about the sea. And lastly, you are making wonderful memories with your kids! 

    More fun ways to enjoy the water

    If you’re looking for even more fun ways to get outside and enjoy the water this summer, check out a few of our other favorite water posts! 

    Have you tried boogie boarding with your kids?

    About the author

    Megan is a wife and a homeschooling mom of four. She is originally from Colorado, but has spent much of her life overseas. First in Eastern Europe, specifically, Hungary, where her first two kids were born. Secondly, in Ethiopia, where she and her husband adopted their second two kids. She and her family are now stateside, currently living in Las Vegas, Nevada. She loves traveling with her kids, either on planes, road trips, or just in their local area! Most of her family’s outdoor adventuring includes water of some kind like beaches, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or pools. They especially love paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and even just going to the local park to play soccer or basketball. Megan also has a passion for photography and loves to bring along her camera to document all their adventures!

    Find more from Megan in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghavelaarphoto
    RWMC posts: Megan Havelaar

  • Cooking, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, RECIPES, SUMMER

    Outdoor Pizza Night: Cooking Pizza Outdoors with Kids

    Pizza is almost always a family favorite, even amongst the pickiest of eaters. And eating outdoors is an easy way to get kids outside in the summer! Plus, everyone knows that eating outdoors somehow makes the food taste better, right? If you love the smell of wood-fired pizza and you love eating outdoors, you’ll delight in our ideas for outdoor pizza cooking with kids! Jemma, Creative Team member, high school teacher, and mother of four, shares all about using an outdoor pizza oven and cooking pizza outside with kids! If you are looking for a fun way to change up mealtime,  tried and true pizza topping ideas, or different ways to make a pizza oven, then this post is for you!

    Cooking Pizza Outside - outdoor pizza night with kids

    Cooking pizza outdoors with kids

    If you’re looking for ideas to spend more time with kids outdoors, cooking with kids is a fun way to spend time together outside whilst also doing an activity they love. Making, kneading, and even proving the dough is an outdoor activity idea for the whole family. It can also be a great way to keep kids of all ages occupied if you’re entertaining. Why not even try cooking outdoor pizzas as a party activity or a fun science experiment?

    Why pick pizza?

    Cooking outside with kids can be wonderful and there are many ideas out there! Here are a few other ways you can spend time outdoors cooking with kids. But with so many fun options for meals and foods to make outside, why pick pizza? What’s so great about cooking pizza outside and why should you give it a try? Here are so reasons that may convince you just how fun and versatile pizza can be.

    Pizza is fun and easy

    Pizzas are really easy for kids to make! If your kids love cooking, outdoor pizzas are a great way to get kids to do something different outdoors. Plus, it gets them involved in the cooking process, which is something kids love to be a part of.

    Pizza gets kids to try new foods

    The choice in toppings will likely lead to trying new foods. Kids will love making their own dough and picking their own toppings. The free element of choice means that they are more likely to choose things they may not usually eat. Yes, that even means vegetables (maybe even vegetables from your own garden). Kids that don’t usually try new foods can often be encouraged to try them as a pizza topping because they’re in smaller quantities. See below for our favorite pizza toppings with a ton of healthy ideas for kids too!

    Healthy pizza options

    Pizza makes choosing healthy options easier. While pizza may not automatically sound like a healthy choice, it absolutely can be! It’s easy to get healthy toppings and ingredients into pizza, which makes it a good choice for parents! Try using a cauliflower-based crust or wholemeal flour crust to make your pizza even healthier. Veggies are easy to sneak onto a pizza too, especially things such as peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms! If your kids don’t like seeing their veggies, you can puree them into the pizza sauce for hidden nutrition. 

    Create memorable moments

    Cooking outside is a memorable experience in and of itself! Taking the meal prep, cooking, and eating outside is a simple change, but one that your whole family is sure to enjoy. Changing things up every once in a while can make a regular meal seem much more exciting and will create lasting memories!

    Outdoor Pizza Oven - cooking outside with kids

    Outdoor pizza oven options

    Pizza is one of the easiest and quickest things to cook outdoors if you have a pizza oven. The extreme heat of a pizza oven and its open flames help to produce the unique flavor and texture of a Neapolitan pizza. For anyone looking to replicate this style of pizza, then a pizza oven is what you need!

    There are a few different options for outdoor pizza ovens. You can buy a pizza oven, build your own pizza oven, or even use an existing gas grill! Any of these methods will produce incredibly delicious mouth-watering pizza, right in your own backyard! Here’s a little bit about each option.

    Buying a pizza oven

    If you’re looking to buy a pizza oven, our favorite outdoor pizza oven is the Roccbox from Gozney (also available here from Amazon). Although they are expensive, they’re a great investment for social events and parties because they cook pizzas in just 60 seconds! Yes, you heard that right! You’ll always be able to knock out something quickly to feed hungry guests and an outdoor pizza is a perfect thing to create quickly after a long day out on a family adventure!

    Building a pizza oven

    If you have some time on your hands and are looking for a long-lasting option, you can also build your own pizza oven for your backyard or garden. See here for a great tutorial to help you build your own outdoor pizza oven. If you want to create a temporary and fun family DIY cardboard pizza oven and use the summer sun to cook your dinner, then this Solar Pizza Oven tutorial is for you! 

    Using a gas grill as a pizza oven

    Not everyone has a pizza oven or the time to make one, but many of you may already have a gas grill! Turns out, this is perfect pizza oven equipment! There are a few different ways to convert your gas grill into an easy-to-use pizza oven. The folks over at Baking Steel share one way to use a gas grill as a pizza oven and it is so easy! Or, you can place your pizza dough directly on the grill to par-bake it, then flip and add toppings and finish cooking. Pizza on the grill is simple and fun! 
    outdoor pizza cooking with kids

    Pizza dough recipe

    Making and kneading the dough is my kids’ favorite part of pizza night. Sometimes we’ll buy pre-made dough from a grocery store or even use the dough from a can, but the very best dough is the kind you make yourself. It’s easier to make than you might expect and kids love being involved in the process. 

    Pizza dough ingredients

    • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast or 1 packet of pizza crust yeast
    • 2 cups lukewarm water
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 5.5 – 6 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

    Pizza dough instructions

    1. Dissolve the sugar, yeast, olive oil, and salt in the lukewarm water. If you’re using instant yeast, you can skip this step.
    2. Measure your flour by gently spooning it into a measuring cup, then sweeping off any excess (do not pack it down).
    3. Add the flour, starting with 5 1/2 cups and adding more as necessary to make a soft, smooth dough.
    4. Knead the dough with your hands until it’s smooth and elastic, about 7 to 10 minutes.
    5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl or other container, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours, whatever fits your schedule.
    6. Gently deflate the dough, and divide it into four pieces, for medium-crust pizza; or three pieces, for thicker crusts.
    7. Use a rolling pin to roll each piece, on a lightly greased surface, into a circle to fit a 12″ pizza pan. Let the dough rest several times to relax it and make it more cooperative. 

    Assembling your pizza

    1. Place the dough on pizza pans, baking sheets, or on parchment (if using a pizza stone).
    2. Preheat your pizza oven to 450°F. While it’s heating, get out your toppings, which you’ve prepared ahead. 
    3. Brush each crust with a bit of olive oil, sauce and toppings of your choice. Sprinkle the top with grated cheese.
    4. Bake the pizzas for 15 to 20 minutes, until they’re golden brown, the toppings are hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted. Remove the pizzas from the oven.
    5. Immediately transfer pizzas to a cooling rack, so their bottoms don’t get soggy. After about 10 minutes (to allow the toppings to set), slice and serve.

    Cooking Pizza Outside with Kids -best outdoor pizza ovens

    Pizza topping ideas for kids

    We asked our Creative Team members what their (and their kids) favorite pizza toppings were. See below for their fun and creative pizza topping answers!  Use these ideas to create some new pizza topping combinations in the future!

    • BBQ chicken with cilantro and red onion
    • Pineapples, chicken, barbecue sauce
    • Pepperoni and olive (a classic)
    • Roasted red pepper and goat cheese
    • Mushrooms and olives
    • Garlic and ricotta cheese
    • Sweetcorn and goat cheese
    • Broccoli and olives
    • Red sauce and olives only (some kids just don’t like cheese)
    • Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella
    • Pineapple and ham (or Canadian bacon)
    • Taco pizza – taco meat, tomatoes, lettuce, salsa, cheese and black olives
    • Feta, sundried tomatoes, and turkey kielbasa
    • Potato and goat cheese
    • Bacon, egg and arugala

    Not seeing your favorite or your child’s favorite topping choices above? No worries! Making pizza with your family is all about having fun! Offer different topping options, including those you know will be chosen by your family members, but also new toppings too! Let each person create their own topping combinations and then share the different outdoor oven-baked pizzas. This isn’t just a meal, it is a way to get outside while making memories!

    Outdoor pizza oven tips and tricks

    For pizza with a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings, high heat is required. This is where purpose-built pizza ovens shine since they can withstand temperatures far greater than those of regular home ovens. How long it takes to cook your pizza will depend upon your oven’s internal temperature, and can vary from as long as 10 minutes to as quickly as just 90 seconds! Once your oven is up to temperature, you’ll need to actually put your pizza in the oven.

    We don’t advise throwing a raw pizza into your oven with your bare hands, so a trusty pizza peel will be a valuable investment in your outdoor baking arsenal. A pizza peel is a flat, wide tool that helps you move pizza pies around. Some pizza peels are better designed to transfer a pizza from the countertop to your pizza oven while others are better for turning the pizza while it’s cooking in the oven. 

    Since the pizza dough can be a bit sticky, you’ll need something to keep it moving freely on the peel. You can use another sprinkling of flour or cornmeal on your pizza peel to prevent the dough from sticking and help it slide off the peel and into the oven in one swift movement. 

    You can cook all kinds of other food in your outdoor pizza oven, not just pizza. Try cooking and serving roasted vegetables, focaccia bread, cinnamon rolls, or even peach cobbler, all of which cook up amazingly well in an outdoor oven.

    Make outdoor pizza night a summer tradition

    We hope you’ll enjoy making pizza outdoors with your family  – it may even become a tried and tested household summer tradition. If your kids have got the outdoor cooking bug, then you’ll love our outdoor skills posts. Have a read of this one here giving tips for fire safety to help kids know how to use fires safely. 

    If you liked reading our ideas for pizzas you’ll love our other ideas for camping cookouts with kids! 

    Caution: You must be careful when using outdoor pizza ovens near kids. Pizza ovens are exceptionally hot and you should take extra care when using them around kids.

    Outdoor pizza night for kid - pizza dough recipe and kid-friendly pizza topping ideas

    What pizza toppings will you choose?

    About the author

    Jemma lives in London, England with her husband and kids. Her all-time favorite thing to do is take photos and capture memories of her family. She’s on a mission to ensure parenthood doesn’t rush by so quickly by creating mini family outdoor adventures and hopefully some big adventures too, one day! She’s a mum to four and an English teacher to many. She loves sharing her passion for storytelling, adventures, and nature crafts on her blog and here. 

    Find more from Jemma in the following locations:
    Instagram: @thimbleandtwig
    Blog: http://www.thimbleandtwig.com
    Facebook: @thimbleandtwig
    Etsy shop: ThimbleandTwig
    RWMC posts: Jemma

  • CRAFTS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Squirt Gun Painting with Kids

    Summer has arrived and this means even more outdoor fun activities with our little ones! But, what to do with our creative little ones? The ones who want to create, draw, paint the entire day? Arts and crafts are great for creative kids, but sometimes art activities can tend to keep your little ones indoors more often than you’d like. If you are looking for a fun way to combine art and some family fun outside, look no further. Today, Creative Team member Tine Voeten, a European traveler and mother of two, is taking her kids’ art projects outside and sharing all about squirt gun painting with kids.

    {This post contains affiliate links.}

    Squirt Gun Painting with Kids

    Painting is just another way of keeping a diary” – Pablo Picasso

    The fun of squirt gun painting

    Squirt gun painting is the perfect combination of two of our favorite summer activities: art and playing outside! We geared up with this combo in mind and took our squirt gun painting in the wild! Today, I’m here to share everything you need to know to get start squirt gun painting with your kids. This is a fun summer outdoor activity for kids that’s sure to entertain them for hours and make beautiful memories. 

    Why painting is healthy?

    Everybody knows that the act of painting is relaxing. But, did you know that painting has many advantages to improve mental health and overall quality of life? Here’s a quick reminder of the benefits of painting:

    • Painting stimulates creative growth. Not only creative people should paint. By painting, less creative people can stimulate their creative growth. Practice and focus allow people, young or old, to learn creative skills.
    • It reduces stress and gives you the ability to cope with stress better.
    • Painting sharpens the mind and improves memory through conceptual visualization.
    • It cultivates emotional growth. Creating art helps kids and adults to express their emotions.
    • Creating beautiful art through painting encourages a more optimistic approach to life.
    • It builds problem-solving and helps develop fine motor skills in your child’s hands. 

    When you combine these advantages with going outdoors, this is a family activity that should be on every family’s monthly activity list! I am very sure it will become one of your top summer activities!

    Squirt Gun Painting supplies and setup

    Squirt gun painting supplies

    • Paint (tempera or liquid watercolors)
    • Water squirt guns
    • Water 
    • Funnel or a plastic bottle cut in half
    • A big piece of plastic, preferably something you can reuse afterward (optional)
    • Canvas or strong paper (poster board)
    • Painters tape (optional)

    All of your gear can be bought on a budget or repurposed from what you already have at home. We bought our squirt guns in a discount shop and they work perfectly. Same for the canvas we bought in the same shop. Everything else we already had at home. 

    Squirt Gun Painting - summer outdoor activities for kids

    What kind of paint to use for squirt gun painting?

    You can use either tempera paint or liquid watercolor paint for squirt gun painting with kids. Both work just fine. However, I wanted to make sure our materials were all safe to use outdoors and easy to clean up. We opted for tempera paint, the most common natural, and child-friendly paint. Another advantage parents will appreciate is that it is easily washable from clothes and skin. Our choice was made! 

    Best squirt guns for painting

    You don’t need fancy squirt guns for squirt gun painting. Actually, you probably want to go as cheap as possible on these because the paint may end up rendering them unusable for regular squirt gun play (although, we had no problem washing the paint out completely). We choose inexpensive squirt guns from a discount shop and they worked great for our purposes. Try to find ones with an easy trigger for your kids, especially if they’re really little. If you don’t want to have to wash out your squirt guns between each color, get a variety pack of squirt guns so that each squirt gun can contain its own color. 

    How to set up your Squirt Gun Painting area

    Squirt gun painting set up

    Here’s the step-by-step tutorial on squirt gun painting with kids that covers everything you need to know to make this the most fun summertime outdoor art activity for kids.

    Step 1: Prepare your squirt gun painting area

    Protect your yard and nature

    Whether you are water squirt gun painting in your own garden or on location (in the woods, on a hike), you may like to cover some of the delicate areas for paint drops. If you’re concerned about the paint staining or ruining a surface, you may want to take this activity onto the grass or protect the area under/behind the canvas with a large tarp or sheet of reusable plastic. Also, prepare a small table with a cover to put guns and paint down whenever you need to reload, without making a complete mess. And believe me, the first load of paint goes fast, thanks to the enthusiasm of our young ones.

    Decide how to hang your canvas

    If you have an outdoor easel, you can use it for the best result. You can also hang your canvas on the fence, a tree (like we did), or even just prop it up a bit.

    Find the perfect squirt gun art location

    We decided to go to a forest we love so much, located very near to our home. We took our water squirt gun painting gear with us as the sun was setting with the goal: create squirt gun paint art and have a blast! All packed with a bag full of guns, paint, another bucket of water, and a blanket/plastic to cover our work area, we took our chance to catch the most beautiful moment of the day. 

    Be prepared

    We prepared extra paint and water in case the guns would empty fast. At home, all of our materials were ready to use. In the forest, we had to be a bit more creative when it came to setting everything up. In the end we put everything on a blanket in close range. It was perfect! 

    Best Squirt Guns for PaintingBest paint to use for squirt gun painting

    Step 2: Fill your water guns with paint

    Once your area is set up for painting, you’ll want to make the paint and fill your squirt guns. We recommend using a funnel to help get the paint into the squirt guns to cut down on the spill and mess. You can also use plastic baggies to mix/make the paint and then snip off a corner and squeeze/squirt the paint into the gun. If the plastic stopper hinders your efforts, cut it off and then recap the squirt gun once the paint is in. Shake your guns well before using.

    How to make squirt gun paint

    Start with basic tempera paint. You’ll want to dilute your paint so that it’s not super thick and squirt/runs better on the canvas. The paint should be a 50/50 split between paint and water. You can either fill the squirt gun with the paint and then added water and shake it up. Or, you can mix the paint and water together (before putting it into the squirt gun) in a cup to get the right consistency. Either way works just fine! Use a funnel when pouring paint into the squirt gun.

    Squirt Gun Painting

    Step 3:  Squirt on the canvas

    Once your water squirt guns are ready the game is on! Make sure every child has enough space to squirt his or her own canvas. And let them squirt all over. They will love it! The little artists can paint at close range, a technique that is easier for our younger kids. This gives a great effect on the canvas and on the child!

    If your children know how to use the water gun, they can stay further away and fire paint across the garden.

    When all the squirt gun painting is complete, let the canvas dry outside or in a safe space overnight (or until the paint is fully dry to the touch). Then bring it in to hang on the wall or give as a gift!

    Different ways of squirt gun painting

    There are so many fun and different ways to paint with squirt guns. There’s no right or wrong way to do it! Just have fun and create! Here are a few different ideas to get your creative juices flowing. 

    • Painting on the canvas with only a squirt gun (no attributes or anything else)
    • Relief painting with tape and stickers – Add forms and figures on top of the canvas to create fun art when they’re removed. For example, use painter’s tape to make a shape or the first letter of your child’s name on a canvas. When the paint is dry, you can remove the stickers or tape gently. This results in the greatest birthday gifts for grandparents! 
    • One child standing in the front of the painting to squirt a silhouette. Canvas and paper might be too small, but this is great fun with a white sheet! Oh, and don’t forget to put on some play clothes, ready to get dirty! 

    how to paint with a squirt gun

    Paint and create – watch the fun unfold

    That focus when the children start pumping their guns! The enthusiasm when they paint squirts out of the guns onto the canvas! The astonishment of how fast the paint squirts onto it and the beauty of the colors when they spatter and drip all over the fabric! This is such an amazing activity for kids. My girls just couldn’t get enough of it. I suppose most of the time this will be the case with kids, so I advise you to bring some spare canvas with you. They wanted to create more and more! 

    Aisha, our oldest daughter was fully focussed on her art piece and kept adding layers till she was happy. Our youngest daughter, Sienna, decided to use her hand to let the colors blend even more. In the end, when she noticed there wouldn’t be any contrast on her painting, she decided to paint her nose instead! They were having so much fun! 

    Squirt Gun Painting tips and adviceoutdoor nature crafts and art projects for kids

    Squirt gun painting trial and error

    I have to admit, we first did a try-out of our squirt gun painting before we got it right. Doing a trial run (not on your canvas) is a step I highly recommend. First of all, it is just so much fun, so the extra squirt gun painting was entertaining. But also, this activity does require a bit of preparation (as we needed to find a spot in the woods to do this), so I’m glad we tried it out at home before hitting the trail with our gear. 

    We powered up in the garden and measured how much paint and water needed to be added to get the best result. Our trial check let us know that we added too much water the first time. This resulted in very pale-colored paint drops that didn’t even stick to the canvas at all. If this happens to you, no worries, you can always add more paint on the spot, if you bring your funnel and paint to your own outdoor art studio. 

    Clean up time

    But exactly as it is at home, after the fun comes clean-up! In the forest, we made sure everything was in the same conditions as when we arrived there. We had enough water in the bucket to clean the paint in the area. All plastic we brought to the painting fiesta we of course took back home. Nothing was left behind. 

    And what did we win from this adventure? Lots of fun and in total four amazing paintings from the greatest artists in the house! 

    Squirt Gun Painting - art projects for kids

    Have you ever squirt gun painted with your kids? 

    About the author

    Tine is a natural-born adventurer from Belgium. She met her husband, soulmate, and the father of her two girls while working and living in the Dominican Republic. Nine years ago they moved back to Europe and are still exploring European grounds. Her happy place is wherever her kids are, but she spices up life by discovering unknown places, planning new adventures, and going outdoors as much as possible. Having kids added a big value to her life, because seeing life through the eyes of her little ones lifted it to a completely different dimension. Their family goal is to travel the world, living a location-independent lifestyle. The family is now working on a couple of projects to make this dream happen! In the meantime, they keep on exploring and Tine keeps on writing and inspiring other families to explore just like them. 

    You can find more from Tine online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @kidsdelmundo
    RWMC posts: Tine Voeten
    Website: http://www.kidsdelmundo.com

  • INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    How to Keep Kids Cool in the Summer

    Summer is officially here and it’s already a HOT one! We’ve had a heat advisory all weekend and it’s just now July. We’re hoping you and your kids get a chance to spend a lot of time outside this summer, but we also want to make sure you stay safe. Being outside and active in the heat can cause your body’s internal temperature to rise, which can lead to heat rash, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. We’re here to offer some tips and advice on how to beat the heat and stay cool in the hot summer sun with kids.

    beat the heat how to keep kids cool this summer

    How to beat the heat with kids

    Summertime is one of the best times to be outside and active with your kids. Beautiful sunshine, no school, and lots of things to do make summer the perfect time to get out and explore, all day long. But, the heat can be brutal. This year is no exception. There are heat advisories across the US already and it looks like it’s going to be a very hot summer across the globe. Of course, we want you to get outside, but we also want to keep you safe. We’re excited to share some of our favorite ways to beat the summer heat with kids, keep cool and make the most of your long summer days.

    Tips for beating the heat with kids in the summer

    1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate (cold water or sports drinks)
    2. Eat cold/frozen foods (popsicles, frozen fruit, smoothies, salads)
    3. Stay in the shade (go into the woods)
    4. Avoid peak heat hours (11:00 am – 2:00 pm)
    5. Dress accordingly (light, loose, airy clothing)
    6. Get wet! (pools, creeks, lakes, sprinklers)
    7. Cool you hot zones (the areas of your body that get hot quicker)
    8. Make the most of early morning and evening hours when it’s cooler
    9. Know what the signs of heat rash, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are

    Image credit: @brandimarkham

    Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

    I’m sure everyone knows that staying hydrated is one of the best ways to beat the heat. But did you know that drinking super-cold beverages in the heat can make your stomach cramp? Or that alcohol and drinks with caffeine or lots of sugar could actually cause you to lose more body fluids?

    Liquids are a must in the super-hot summer heat. Plain water is great, as are sports drinks with the right mixture of salts, sugars, and electrolytes.  Offer drinks often to kids and make sure they’re getting enough. Have them each pack their own water bottle and keep an eye on how much they’re consuming.

    Any liquid is better than no liquid. However, make sure you’re not drinking coffee, as it’s a diuretic and can have dehydrating effects. 

    Image credit: @groovybananaphotography

    Cool foods for the win

    In addition to drinks, you can stay hydrated with cold treats and foods. Freeze a mix of liquid (plain water, juice, or coconut water) and fruit into popsicle molds (or ice cube trays) and let the kids eat these. Make smoothies with fruits and juices. Or just freeze fruits and eat them as snacks – frozen grapes or frozen chunks of fruit like watermelon, pineapple, mango, banana or strawberries are delish! 

    For more on this, check out this great post about how to make healthy fruit popsicles with kids. 

    how to stay cool in the summer heat

    Stay out of direct sunlight

    If you can, try to stay out of direct sunlight. One of the best ways we’ve found to do this is to go into the woods! The upper tree canopy blocks out a lot of the harsh sunlight and keeps moist cool air low to the ground. Summer is a great time for hiking, so take advantage of that tree cover and check out some wooded hikes.

    Otherwise, be on the lookout for other ways to avoid the harsh direct sun when you’re out. Find shady spots for outdoor picnics and look for park playgrounds located in the shade.

    how to keep kids from overheating

    Dress accordingly

    Make sure you and the kids are dressed properly for the hot sunny weather.  A tank top and shorts might seem like the best choice but keep in mind the fabric, material, and how much skin is exposed. Even without sleeves, many thick or heavy fabrics can trap warmth and make you hotter. Bare arms could leave you exposed to a nasty sunburn.

    Loose-fitting, light-colored breathable fabric is best. Choose airy clothes that let air flow through and not get trapped. Also, look for clothing with built-in UV protection for days when you’ll be spending time in direct sunlight.

    how to keep kids cool in the summer heat

    Get wet

    Everything’s cooler if you just add water! Staying wet is a great way to stay cool in the summer and there are million different fun ways for kids to play in the wettest way. Try any of the following:

    • have a water fight with the hose
    • set up a baby pool in the backyard
    • explore a creek
    • place a sprinkler under the trampoline
    • set up a slip ‘n slide
    • go for a swim at the pool
    • take a dip in a cool bath indoors
    • make water balloon pinatas
    • set up a water table for little ones
    • wash the car
    • set up a “car wash station” and let the kids wash their outdoor toys (bikes, etc.)
    • water balloon fight (or use wet sponges for less mess)
    • rinse a pair of cotton socks in cold water and wear
    • squirt gun battle

    If you’re out and about and need to cool off, wet a long strip of fabric and tie it loosely around your child’s neck.  Or, keep a spray bottle filled with water in a cooler for quick face spritzes.

    beat the heat how to keep kids cool this summer

    Cool your “hot zones” 

    There are pressure points in your body that can quickly add to the heat your body is producing. When you’re super hot, try applying a little ice pack or a bottle filled with iced water to these specific spots and that will help you cool down immediately.

    • Temples
    • Neck
    • Ankles
    • Behind the knees
    • Wrists
    • Bends of your elbow

    Keep things calm during peak heat

    The coolest parts of the day are the morning and evening, so try to plan your outdoor adventures during those times of the day. The very middle of a super-hot summer day is the perfect time to rest and take a break from the heat. If you know it’s going to be a scorcher plan ahead for getting out of the heat during the middle of the day.

    Instead, go to an air-conditioned cinema, play center, or museum during the day. At home, plan craft or coloring activities indoors. Read a book, set up a tent in the basement, and have an indoor camp. Or pull down the blinds, make up some frosty drinks, turn on the fans, and have a movie day at home. The less your body has to do during the brutal midday heat, the better!

    how to keep your kids cool in the summer heat

    The signs of heatstroke in kids

    Babies and toddlers have an increased risk of overheating as they are not as efficient at regulating their body temperature. It’s important to know the first signs of heatstroke or heat exhaustion and constantly be on the lookout for any symptoms if you’re going to spend time in the summer heat.

    The symptoms of heat exhaustion can include stomach and leg cramps, thirst, being tired, or cool moist skin. Touch your children often to feel the texture and temperature of their skin. If you notice any of these things, act immediately to cool your child down to prevent heat stroke.

    The symptoms of heatstroke in children include:

    • skin that is hot, dry, and red
    • a high temperature of 103F (39.4 C) degrees and above without sweating
    • headache, which can cause irritability
    • restlessness
    • lethargy
    • vomiting
    • breathing that is shallow and quick
    • unconsciousness
    • dizziness or confusion

    Remember that sweating, being red-faced, thirsty, and warm are normal reactions to heat. It is when your child shows any abnormal reactions (as those listed above), that the situation becomes incredibly dangerous. Act immediately to get your child help.tips for staying cool in the summer heat

    Stay safe from the heat this summer

    We hope this information will help keep you safe and cool this summer when you’re out and about adventuring with the kids. There’s so much fun to be had in the summer sun, but just remember to be prepared, be sensible and be safe out there! 

     

    How do you beat the heat in the summer?

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, GOOD FOR NATURE, HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    West Coast Road Trip: California to Oregon with Kids

    Family road trips are some of my fondest childhood memories and should be experienced by every kid at least once. There’s something extra special about a road trip, where the journey is just as much (if not more) fun and important than the destination. Road trips are wonderful opportunities for families to reconnect and experience new things together. Today, Araceli Gonzalez, a California mom of three, shares her family’s West Coast road trip from Northern California to Oregon. She shares her favorite spots along the way and reminds us just how magical a road trip can be. 

    West Coast road trip from California to Oregon with kids

    I love road trips. And I especially love road tripping with my little people. I’ve spent a significant amount of my life on the West Coast and there’s always more to do, to see, and to explore. Driving the coast is a great way to immerse yourself in all the wonders and adventures this area has to offer.

    Last summer, we set out on an EPIC West Coast family road trip. Our seven-day adventure had a jam-packed adventure itinerary, filled with fun outdoor activities for the family. We traveled from California to Oregon and had some amazing adventures along the way, making memories and enjoying our time together. From Northern California, where we paid a visit to the magnificent California Redwoods, on up the Oregon Coast, this road trip was amazing.

    West Coast Family Road Trip - welcome to California sign

    Planning your west coast road trip

    There was so much to see and do. We could have spent an entire summer exploring this area! We made the most of our road trip by planning each stop and outlining exactly what we wanted to do at each location along the way.  Yes, it takes a bit of planning, but it’s worth it. And chances are, if you’re traveling with kids, things won’t always go according to plan and you’ll have to make changes and adjustments along the way. The good news is that no matter where you visit along this part of the West coast, you will be sure to find gorgeous spots to explore, trails to hike, beaches to comb and so many observation points along the way. 

    My kids described each stop and place we visited as epic! Every hike topped the next.  It was definitely a memorable adventure and one that would be fun and easy for other families to do if you’re looking for a fun West Coast road trip with kids. 

    Redwood National Park with kidsKid Friendly Hikes in Redwood National ParkRedwood National Park hiking with kidsExploring Redwood National Park with kidsCalifornia Road Trip Stop - Redwood National Park

    Exploring the California Redwoods with kids

    Our first stop was to see and explore the magnificent California Redwoods in Redwood National Park. We are from California and we love to visit the beautiful redwoods as often as we can.  Walking through the redwoods feels like you are walking into an enchanted forest, each hike is better than the next.  Each trail more beautiful than the last.  Our kids have a rating system for each hike, fun, super fun, epic, and LEGENDARY.  This place is LEGENDARY by all standards.  

    You will find creeks filled with huge redwood tree trunks, making it the most magical playground around.  We could spend hours exploring this magnificent place. If you are road tripping and have the chance to drive the length of the park, there are some really great options and things to do to fill an entire fun day (or more). Some do require that you drive on narrow, windy, dirt roads, so just be prepared for that. 

    Redwood National Park with kids

    Boy Scout Tree Trail

    If you’re looking for a moderate hike on the Northside Redwood National Park, try the Boy Scout Tree Trail. This trail is challenging, but so rewarding! It may take you a while to do this one, especially with kids, as it’s a 5.5 mile round trip trail. But if your kids are experienced hikers, they can handle it. The trail goes through fun creeks and falls and you’ll see lots of very big trees! 

    Each one of our kids is responsible for their own backpack. They carry water, snacks, and often a change of clothes. If you need to know what to pack, here’s a great post on the 10 hiking essentials for families.

    Hiking is one of our family’s favorite activities. I enjoy observing their expressions, seeing the magic and the look in their eyes as they find a new cave or a new giant tree trunk to climb.  There is nothing like it.  Pure joy.  Childhood played out in all its glory.  It is always worth all the effort.  

    Family Hikes in Redwood National Park

    Trillium Falls Hike

    Another favorite hike is the Trillium Falls Hike. This one is located on the Southside of the national park and is really family-friendly. There’s plenty of parking, bathrooms, picnic tables, trash cans, and more. This hike will take you past some gorgeous super huge trees, beautiful flowers and ferns, and even a couple of small waterfalls if you go after a rain. Plus, there’s a chance you may see elk on this trail! They’re definitely around – be sure to look for evidence (have you ever spied elk poop)? The full loop is just under 3 miles, but there are turn-around points at various locations if you don’t want to do the whole thing. 

    This redwood forest is the perfect combination of everything a kid could possibly dream of; lush jungle-like vegetation, cold crisp creeks, glorious redwoods, vast canyons, and a ton of SLUGS!  We love discovering new trails, seeing what is around the corner, and losing ourselves in the magic that the forest offers. 

    Southern Oregon coast

    After spending some time in Redwood State and National Parks, we made our way up the 101 to the Southern coast of Oregon. This area is full of amazing places to visit and we had a hard time narrowing down what we wanted to do and see. There are so many wonderful lush hiking trails with spectacular views followed by sand dune-like beaches.

    If you have the opportunity to travel through this gorgeous state I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.  It surpassed all our wildest expectations.  We have plans to explore other parts of this state and cannot wait to visit again. 

    Southern Oregon coast - west coast road trip ideas for kids

    Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

    In southern Oregon, there’s an area known for amazing sand dunes and adventure. The Oregon Dune National Recreation Area is a 31,500-acre portion of the Siuslaw National Forest and is one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world. 

    Our hikes normally take hours because there are distractions such as these.  We pause to roll down sand dunes and it means everything to me to see my kids enjoying the great outdoors.  I have seen their love for these places grow a little more with each adventure.  This is why we make the effort.  My hope is that this will remain in their heart forever, that they will always treasure these places. 

    Southern Oregon coast - Sand DunesOregon Dunes National Recreation Area - West Coast Road Trip IdeasOutdoor Oregon Ideas for Kids

    Oregon waterfalls

    Oregon is full of these grand waterfalls.  Millions of years ago, geologic activity created the diverse landscapes of southern Oregon and created some of the most beautiful alpine lakes, rushing streams, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. If you have the opportunity, you must visit the Cascade Mountain Range in southern Oregon. You’ll find some of the most incredible waterfalls, including those in the Umpqua National Forest.

    Waterfalls in the Umpqua National Forest

    You are almost guaranteed to be mesmerized throughout your time in Oregon, particularly if you’re a waterfall chaser. The waterfalls in Umpqua National Forest have been labeled by my kids as LEGENDARY.  Every single one of them. The fascination is like no other. There are so many great hikes within Umpqua National Forest and the prize for getting down them is usually a stunning view of an Umpqua waterfall. Trust me, each one is worth the effort! 

    Best Oregon Waterfalls - west coast road trip ideas for kidsWaterfalls in the Umpqua National Forest

    Keeping up on hikes is easy for kids when you are greeted by a beautiful waterfall at the end.  I find that our little guy is keeping up with the rest of us easier here than anywhere else.  He is learning the art of exploration first hand from his sister and brother and I can’t think of a better way to spend our time. 

    And if you want an even bigger reward at the end of a long day of hiking, be sure to unwind in the revitalizing geothermal hot springs of Umpqua National Forest. The terraced pools of warm water provide a fabulous view overlooking the Umpqua River. It’s an incredible way to relax, rest your legs and reward yourself for a hike well done. 

    Chasing Waterfalls in the Umpqua National Forest with Kids

    West coast family road trip

    A west Coast family road trip is like no other. Along the way, you can explore jungle-like forests, discover historic lighthouses, spot whales and elk, peer into tide pools, find secret sand-dune beaches, and stared up into towering cascading waterfalls. The west coast really is amazing and diverse and beautiful. I hope our adventures have inspired you to plan a trip out west to see what you can discover!

    Check out this post for advice on how to road trip safety during the pandemic.

    Happy road-tripping from our family to yours. 

    West Coast Road Trip Ideas - Oregon

    Is a west coast road trip on your summer bucket list?

    About the author

    Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation of a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty, and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places and she loves documenting their adventures.

    Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
    Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
    All RWMC posts: Vista Verde Ranch (Colorado), Winter Crabbing with Kids, California Tide Pools, Sun River Resort (Oregon) 

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FARM, INFORMATION, SUMMER

    Summer On the Farm with Animals

    Everyone loves springtime on the farm – baby animals everywhere and they’re so cute and cuddly! (Even baby vegetables are adorable!) By fall, many farm animals are fully grown – or at least close. What you may not realize is that there is a magical time between spring and fall which seems like animal childhood. Summer! This is when the animals develop their distinct personalities, find their tribe, and learn whatever it is they are supposed to learn. Just like children, animals often learn through play. Today, we have Ginny Yurich, founder of the 1000 Hours Outside challenge, here to walk us through the growing up months of farm animals! As a first-year farmer, she’s been fascinated to learn so many new things she was never expecting to learn. Are you curious about summer on the farm with animals is like? Read on!

    Summer on the farm - raising and learning about animals with kids

    Little farm animals have big personalities

    Springtime on a farm is so exciting, everything is bursting forth with new life. It can also be a challenging time as new farm babies don’t always make it. There are high highs and there are very low lows. However, once springtime passes into the summer months, there are a lot of new little animals to take care of and I was surprised to see all sorts of individual characteristics emerge. Summer on the farm with animals is a really magical time of year – particularly if you get to experience it with your kids.

    Prior to living on a farm and being around farm animals, I would’ve thought there wasn’t much distinction from one goat to the next. Who knew chickens had such distinct personalities? Turns out, farm animals have all sorts of personalities and unique characteristics. Summertime is when those personalities start to emerge and you get the opportunity to meet your new crew and learn all about them.

    summertime animals on the farm with kidsChickens and Turkeys

    Birds of a feather flock together

    Fun fact: There are over 20 billion chickens in the world. Beyond chickens, there are other birds in the same animal order (technically called “Galliformes”) that include turkeys, quail, pheasants, peacocks, guineafowl, and more! Often the chicks can be raised together in the same incubator; a space where they are kept warm for the first several weeks of life.

    As they grow older, even though they don’t know what they look like, they gravitate to the birds of their own kind. It’s incredible. The turkeys hang out with the turkeys. The guineafowl run with the other guineafowl. And the chickens all roost together at night. Sometimes, a few chickens may team up with a guinea or two, or any other combination of these chicken-like birds. But by the end of the summer, they all have separated on their own to be with birds who have the same characteristics. Summer on the farm is when important decisions are made in the life of a bird. 

    summertime on the farm - learning about animals

    Learning about chickens, turkeys and guineafowl

    We’ve learned so much about our birds this past year and summer on the farm has been a great time to observe them. As chickens, turkeys, and guineafowl grow up they are busy establishing a pecking order. If you have a lot of poultry-type birds you can watch this sophisticated process unfold. The birds start to group together almost like little gangs! There always tends to be one who leads the pack when they run around the chicken run or when they free range. How do they keep this all straight? Well, chickens are able to differentiate between more than 100 chicken faces of their own species! It helps that they can see in full color. It’s remarkable.

    The personality of chickens

    Some chickens like to stay put near their coop. They are satisfied to have food and water brought to them daily like royalty. Others are foragers, doing what they can to escape their confines to explore nearby property. They look for bugs and dig small holes to sit in to stay cool. At night, some birds will enter the coop like clockwork, ready to roost and rest to prepare for the next day. Others try their best to get into available trees, also roosting but in actual branches instead of on poles in the coop.

    One thing we didn’t know when we first got chicks is that it can take up to six months before they actually begin laying eggs. Some will lay eggs a little earlier depending on breed. Even once they begin laying it takes them a while to get into a groove. The first eggs can be small and may not even have a shell! Where will you find the eggs? Possibly in a nesting box in your coop. But, if your chickens are free-range, there is no end to where they may lay them. In fact, one of our hens was hiding an entire clutch of amongst some long grasses for three entire weeks! We only found them because they hatched and six little chicks were out following their mama around.

    Mama hen and her chicks - learning about baby animals on the farm

    Oh, the life of a pig!

    Summer on the farm with pigs has definitely been interesting! Before we got pigs I had read that they don’t smell all that bad. In my opinion, that turned out to be false. Pigs definitely have a distinct odor and most would find it quite unpleasant. Piglets themselves are very strong. At just 30 pounds they are hard to control, imagine when they grow ten or more times that size! Some pigs can grow to over 700 pounds. 

    During the summer pigs do what you would expect them to do – they eat. And then they wallow in the mud to keep themselves cool. And then they sleep. Oh, the life! Pigs are extremely intelligent animals. Ours have escaped their pen more than once by lifting the gate entirely off its hinges. You’ve gotta be quick with pigs around. If they are out for long, they will root up your entire lawn. You’ve also gotta be quick with pigs because pigs are fast runners! On those short little legs they can run a seven-minute mile!

    Three piglets - summer on the farm with animalsBaby goats

    Raising goats

    There isn’t anything much cuter than a baby goat. Did you know baby goats can be up and walking within minutes of birth? As they grow, goats develop unique and distinct personalities. Some are calm, while others are more active and wily. Some try and escape time and again, while others are fine to stay put. Eventually, if you breed a female goat (also called a doe or a nanny) and she gives birth you may be able to milk her. Certain goats are fine with the milking process while others kick and jump the entire time.

    Just like humans, goats need companionships. Unlike dogs, where a family could own just one, it would be unhealthy to own just one goat. A group of goats is called a herd (ok, not that surprising), but if you’re going to have goats…go with the herd mentality. Get a bunch!

    Baby goats jump and frolic and as they grow they become very good at climbing. Often farms will have small goat playgrounds for the goats to jump around on. Below is a photo of our only goat escapee, Spirit. She is constantly squeezing out of her pen to forage for new weeds while her mama (Willow) and brother (Spark) are fine to stay put. The good thing is that she’s still small enough to be lovingly carried back to the barn.

    Baby goatGoat on farmBarn cats

    The barn cats (and kittens) have been such a delight for us this summer! At birth, kittens weigh about the same as a lemon. For the first one to two weeks of life, they cannot see or even hear! Both their eyes and ear canals are closed when they are born.

    It takes about four weeks for a kitten to begin to play. Just like in children, this play helps them learn the skills they need to learn in order to survive. Kitten play looks like running, climbing, pawing, chasing, and pouncing. They often play with their siblings (some of whom may be half-siblings, see below). Kitten play will help them develop social skills as well as predatory skills, both of which are needed if the kittens remain outdoors.

    One of the most interesting things I’ve ever learned about kittens is that all of the kittens in a litter aren’t necessarily from the same father. Each egg is fertilized by one single sperm. And if there are several male cats (“toms”) around, each egg may be fertilized by a different tomcat. This may account for the variety of colors, patterns, and personalities that emerge from one single litter of kittens. 

    Barn catCat in a basketSummer on the farm

    Summer on the farm is like a sped-up version of childhood. It is such an exciting experience to watch our farm animals grow and observe their personalities and unique characteristics emerge and shine. Those individualities make it a little harder if a particular animal passes, which can be a common experience due to all sorts of factors such as parasites or predators. Still, the animals that do grow up on your farm can become like little family pets. Once the springtime rolls around again, many farm animals will be old enough to reproduce themselves and the beautiful process of life begins all over again! 

    farm kitten

    What is your favorite farm animal?
    Are there farms near you that are open to having visitors?

    About the author

    Ginny is a Michigan homeschooling mother of five and the founder of 1000 Hours Outside. She is a thought-leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children. Her 1000 Hours Outside Challenge spans the globe and many people from all walks of life look to her for inspiration as well as practical tips on how to put down the screens and get outside. Ginny has a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Michigan and is also a children’s book author and illustrator. Her book, The Little Farmhouse in West Virginia was published in February 2019.

    You can find more from Ginny in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.1000HoursOutside.com
    Instagram: @1000hoursoutside
    Facebook: @1000hoursoutside
    RWMC posts: Ginny Yurich

  • 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

  • BEACH, CANOE/KAYAK, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    How to Stand Up Paddleboard with Kids

    Summer will soon be coming to an end soon, but right now there’s still plenty of time to get out on the water! One of the most fun outdoor water activities for families is stand up paddleboarding (SUP). Not only is stand up paddleboarding a great work-out, but standing upright on a paddleboard lets you look down into the water and really connect with the nature around you. Today, we have Chelsea Furlong, a professional photographer and (new) homeschooling mom of two, here with tips on how to stand up paddleboard with kids and everything you need to know to get started. 

    how to stand up paddleboard with kids

    Benefits of stand up paddleboarding (SUP)

    Paddleboarding is a great way to spend time with your family outdoors. You get fresh air and sunlight, which we can all use during stressful times, as well as plenty of full-body exercise. SUP promotes balance, increases arm, leg and core strength, and improves endurance as well. The balancing works on your foot, leg, and core, while the paddling is great for your arms and shoulders! Paddleboarding is also a great way to build confidence in children. They get so excited when they’re able to stand securely and do it themselves. Being on the water is also amazing for stress release, which we could all use more of right now. Being outside and in nature is imperative to your family’s mental health.

    SUP during COVID

    Because of the pandemic this year, there’s been a boom in individual sports that allow for fresh air and physical activity, while still following social distancing guidelines. Biking, skateboarding, hiking, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding are popular outdoor, COVID-friendly family activities. While the beaches may be closed during the pandemic, stand up paddleboarding gives you an opportunity to enjoy the water without using the beach! Our city allowed the residents to exercise outside during quarantine, so stand up paddleboarding was a great option!

    advice on how to SUP with kids

    What do I need to stand up paddleboard with kids?

    The supplies needed for stand up paddleboarding are minimal! You’ll need a stand up paddleboard, a paddle, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each person. There is a fairly wide range when it comes to the price of paddleboards, depending on the size, material and brand. We have two solid paddleboards, but many people now are purchasing inflatable stand up paddleboards (iSUP) because they are easier to store and transport!

    When picking a stand up paddleboard, it is important to note the size and weight limit of the board. Wider boards are easier to balance on and great for doing yoga and toting kids along! They usually have a higher weight limit as well. The thinner boards can be more difficult to balance on but are better for SUP surfing! If you have young children that you plan riding with, be sure that the board you pick can handle the weight of you both!

    Some SUPs come with a paddle, but if you are purchasing the board and paddle separately I recommend an adjustable paddle. With an adjustable paddle, you can make it smaller for the kids when they’re paddling and then make it larger for you when it’s your turn to paddle. 

    If investing in your own SUP isn’t in the budget, look for a local SUP rental company! Renting equipment is a great option for those just getting started to see whether they’ll like it.

    Other items to bring along

    Another great item to have, but isn’t necessary is a waterproof bag that can attach to your board. We have one like this that I’m able to clip right to my board. We usually keep bug spray, sunscreen, car keys, and a cell phone in there in case of an emergency. You obviously run a risk of the bag detaching and losing your keys/phone in the water, so always double-check that it’s securely fastened. When we have our whole family on the water, we feel having a way to call someone during an emergency is definitely worth the risk of the bag detaching and falling in the water.

    tips for how to paddleboard with kids

    How to get started stand up paddleboarding with kids

    Once you have your gear, the only other things you need are water and a sense of adventure! Learning how to stand up paddleboard may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t take long before you’re on your board cruising through the water. Here are a few more tips for getting started. 

    Where to go to stand up paddleboard?

    You can technically try stand up paddleboarding in any body of water. However, I’d recommend that beginners start on lakes and ponds and avoid the open ocean or rivers. This way you don’t have to worry about large waves or fast-moving currents. The more confident and comfortable you are, the easier it will be for you to start transitioning to moving water and the open ocean. 

    Get comfortable on your board first

    Before you get your children involved, you’ll want to be sure YOU are comfortable stand up paddleboarding. You should feel comfortable balancing, paddling, falling and climbing back up on the board. When you add children to the mix, you’ll have to manage all of that PLUS assist them in the water and back onto the SUP if they fall. If you’re brand new to the sport, I recommend taking some time on your own to get the hang of it. Start on your knees and then work your way up to standing.

    how to get started paddleboarding with kids

    Practice in shallow water

    Once you’re feeling ready, it’s time to add in the kids! Before you toss your kids on a paddleboard and head out of a long adventure, you’ll want to be sure they’re comfortable in the water and on the board. You’ll want to help them practice in shallow water so you can stand beside them, hold the paddleboard, and assist them as they become more comfortable. It may take quite a few spills and retries before they figure it out.

    Make practicing fun for the kids

    Before taking our kids out on adventures, we made games for them to play on our stand up paddleboards. It’s important that your children feel comfortable falling off the board, swimming back to it, and climbing back up on it. We let our kids practice by standing up on the boards and jumping off into the water! Kids LOVE doing this! It’s like having your own dock to jump off.

    The other game they play is a made-up game called “Paddle Battle.” This is better for older children. Both kids stand up on a paddleboard facing each other, a few feet apart. I call out, “3, 2, 1..Paddle battle!” and they each use their legs to rock the SUP back and forth until someone falls off.  The last one standing is the winner! This is great for balance and stability practice, and they get used to the feeling of falling off the board and then climbing back on. 

    stand up paddleboarding with kids - games to play on the paddleboard

    SUP with younger children

    For younger children, you’ll want to have them feel what it’s like to sit on the board. You can have them explore the paddleboard on land and in the water. Have them sit on the board while you stand next to them holding the board and give them a nice, slow, calm ride around a shallow spot. Once they’re comfortable with that, you can try kneeling on the SUP with them sitting in the front, and paddling from a kneeling position. That way you’re still nice and close to them, and able to provide comfort and encouragement. 

    Practice paddling

    When the kids are comfortable on the stand up paddleboard, you can then have them begin to practice paddling! You’ll want to start in a shallow place so that you can stand next to them and help them navigate. If they’ve been kayaking, learning to paddle on a SUP will be easy! Make sure your children are comfortable paddling in a straight line as well as making turns before you head out too far. My kids like to paddle forward fast and then stop the paddle in the water to make quick turns. 

    sunset paddleboarding and kayaking with kids

    Get out there!

    Once you and your children are all comfortable on your stand up paddleboard, it’s time to adventure! Depending on the ages of your children, you may choose to have them sit on the stand up paddleboard with an adult paddling or have them paddle on their own.

    Pro tip: Our children are at an in-between age right now. They’re older and able to paddle alone, but not for long distances. So they use these children’s kayaks for longer adventures and paddle in their kayaks while my husband and I use our SUPS. The small kayaks are lightweight and easy to carry. They’re also very easy to turn so it’s great paddling practice. It’s a wonderful way for all of us to have a great experience on the water during a longer journey! 

    Find what works best for your family and head out exploring! The memories you make together will be priceless, and you’ll all go home feeling rejuvenated. 

    Have you been stand up paddleboarding with kids?
    What’s your favorite tip?

    About the author

    Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing our best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived.

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