Incorporating More Outdoor Time and Independence for Kids

Find some online inspiration for offline activities!

We could all probably use a little inspiration to get outside more often and sometimes as parents we just need a little nudge to encourage our kids to explore more in nature. There are many websites showing ideas to infuse nature into your life from getting crafty to neighborhood exploration. Here are just a few of our favorites:

Want to encourage your kids to have more independence and free play? Check out The Let Grow Experience, for a FREE curriculum for students and parents (2 versions: one for K-8th and 8th – 12th) to give some meaningful challenges to the young people in your life.

How about exploration of nature in a city block or the great outdoors?  The Screen Time Action Network’s Nature & Play Work Group has created the Children & Family Nature Inspiration Guide, a free resource to spark your child's outdoor play this summer!

Neighbor time!  It’s always good to get reacquainted with the neighbors so why not plan a community gathering. Vanessa Elias has created Block Party USA as a movement and powerful tool for positive change.  Visit https://www.blockpartyusa.org/ to get a free guide to make it easy to get the block party rolling.

Looking to get crafty?  Visit Ashley Koshimizu’s website Woodlark for waldorf inspired ideas living deeply rooted in the seasons and nature. You may also enjoy Little Pine Learners from Tara Rondinelli, a mom and early childhood educator who has created a website loaded with lots of crafty ideas for spending time in the great outdoors with your littles.