Does it feel like pulling teeth to get your kids to go outside to play for just 20 minutes?
The struggle is real for many parents. Some are so busy and tired of hearing the complaining. They don’t even suggest it anymore.
There’s no denying the many benefits of spending time outside. Great for physical and mental health. It is so good to take in sunshine, fresh air, and enjoy the beautiful nature that God has created.
This post is all about awesome activities to get your kids to spend more time outside and actually enjoy it!
Why Don’t Kids Enjoy Being Outside?
- With screens and phones and the business of life now, it is easy for kids to sit inside. They say “There just isn’t anything fun to do outside.”
- Parents get so frustrated with the struggle, that they stop encouraging kids to go outside. Which makes the habit harder and harder to break.
- It is funny how habits build with out us even realizing it. It is so easy for kids and adults for that matter to forget how fun it can be outside.
Tricks for Getting Started
Some moms are super motivated and work towards 1000 hours per year outside. That is amazing, but can be overwhelming if you are just getting started.
As always, it is best to start small and try to keep it consistent. Kids get used to routines faster than we think. Even if they whine at first, if you stay consistent, they will come to expect that outside time is nonnegotiable.
Try to stick it out, even if the weather isn’t just right.
“There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” –Alfred Wainwright
If you start making excuses why “we’ll just skip outside time today,” your kids will pick up that habit too. Of course, if it’s 30 below, stormy, hail, or 30mph winds that is one thing. That is pretty rare though. Most of the time, something can be figured out to play outside for at least 15-20 minutes.
After a while, they will learn to get more and more creative. They will end up spending more time outside than you asked.
Awesome Outdoor Activities
Here are some awesome activities that will help get your kids to enjoy being outside more!
Check out this post explaining the benefits of outside time for kids.
Scooter/Bike/Rollerblade
- These are great exercise and can be fun for parents to join in too!
- They are also great for coordination. You can even pair this with sidewalk chalk and draw roads on your driveway.
- We love these scooters.
Sports
- Basketball, baseball, volleyball
- Badminton
- Jump Rope
Nature Walk
- Go for a walk with your kids.
- Chat while you enjoy and learn about nature.
- This is a great way to spend some quality time with your kids.
- If you want more tips for spending quality time with your kids, check out this post.
Scavenger Hunt
- You can walk around the yard looking for rocks, leaves, wildlife, or even worms.
- You also can pair this with the nature walk and see if anyone can spot any wildflowers.
Workout Outside
- It is so fun to work out outside. You can pull up a simple workout on your phone. You can also take some exercise bands outside or do some bodyweight exercises.
Sidewalk Chalk
- This one can get a little messy. Be careful to have kids wear older clothes and wash their hands right after.
- Chalk can be so fun! Take turns tracing each others bodies on the ground. Make roads for biking. Color pretty pictures.
Bubbles
- This one can also get a little messy too. Make sure you are prepared with a hose or rag. Give the kids some instructions. It is totally worth it.
- Here is a DIY bubble recipe. It makes great bubbles!
Visit a Park
- I love that there are so many parks out there. A lot of them have super fun activities. Some even have scavenger hunts built right into the playset.
Read/Draw
- This can be tricky if it is windy.
- Usually you can bring out a lawn chair and find a spot near the house that is protected.
- Try it for 15 minutes. If it gets too frustrating, try another activity.
Conclusion
- Fresh air is good for the soul. It is a great way to slow down and enjoy life more. Make a habit of going outside for at least a small chunk of time each day.
Once you get solid with your small habit, add to it. It is so fun to spend more time outside and enjoy watching our kids reap the benefits too!
