The weather is finally starting to warm up – a sure sign that Spring is around the corner! That means it’s time to start getting outdoors more and blowing off some energy. We’ve talked before about relaxing and mindful activities you can do with your kids, and one of the best ways to be more mindful and to live in the present moment is to spend time outside.
Being in nature allows you to focus on what is happening right in that very moment, from the way the trees blow in the breeze to the sound of birds chirping.
So, if you need some good excuses to get outside this Spring, I’ve got you covered! Make sure you’ve got all the right supplies for any kind of weather – a jacket, the right shoes for play (you can use this Footasylum discount code to get new kicks for the season!), and plenty of snacks for your active kids.
Once you have everything prepared, use these three suggestions to kickstart your sunny season.
- Get Creative With Sidewalk Chalk
Whether your child is a little artist or just likes to get messy, sidewalk chalk is a great way to spend an afternoon drawing in the driveway! You can draw pictures, write names, or even create games like hopscotch or tic-tac-toe. Your kids will love using all different colors to create their masterpieces.
The best part? Sidewalk chalk will wash away after it rains, or you can rinse it off with the hose, so it’s endless Spring and Summer fun that you and your kids can do again and again.
- Grow a Vegetable Garden
Do you have a picky eater on your hands? Try growing a vegetable garden at home, and let your little one help you decide what to plant. You might be surprised at some of the vegetables kids typically like once they’ve given them a try.
As it is with cooking, kids are more likely to try something for the first time if they’ve had a hand in the process. So, let your child help you dig in the dirt, plant seeds, water and watch the growth process, and finally harvest your veggies! It’s a great way to teach them the importance of farming and nutrition all at once.
- Go Camping in Your Back Yard
About 40 million people go camping each year in the U.S. alone! But, there are no rules when it comes to where you have to camp. If you can’t pack up the car and head to your favorite campsite this Spring, why not pitch a tent in your backyard?
Most kids love sleeping out beneath the stars when the weather is nice. You can really play up the whole camping experience by building a little fire, roasting marshmallows for s’mores, and even reading stories by flashlight in the tent. You’ll have the comfort of the home only a few feet away, so you’ll be getting the best of both worlds on your little “adventure.”
Hopefully, these ideas get you started on many outdoor excursions this Spring and Summer. Spending more time outdoors will help you to feel more focused, keep your children active, and can even help you to feel less stressed.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
