Citizen science is a great opportunity for kids to participate in hands-on or observational activities that help the natural world (and science!), all while spending time outdoors. If you’ve heard the term citizen science, there’s a chance that you felt intimidated, unqualified or unprepared to participate. “I’m not a scientist!” (Unless you happen to be one.) Or, “My kids aren’t scientists!” (Even…
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Morning exercise is a great way to help your kids prepare for the school day ahead. For those of us with children in traditional schools, preparing our children for the school day can be challenging. We can cross everything off our checklist (wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, pack bag, get to school on time), but what else can…
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Rich in loose parts, colors and textures, Autumn outdoor activities are endless fun for kids and encourage them to spend even more time outside. There are so many outdoor activities for kids that are especially enjoyable in Autumn, beyond jumping in leaf piles and visiting an orchard. Autumn is a great time to spend outdoors and provides us with an…
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Every season is a great time to be outside, but you could argue that Spring is particularly exciting with its theme of renaissance and rejuvenation. Just as the butterfly and tadpole undergo amazing transformations, so does nature itself. There’s so much to observe and so much to do! As days get longer, nature gets greener and the weather gets warmer,…
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Gardening is a valuable activity that benefits kids in many ways, and helps them grow alongside the plants they care for. Kids love to dig in the dirt and watch things grow, and gardening is a natural extension of these interests. In addition to dirt under their nails and smudges on their knees, kids can gain so much from gardening…
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Rainy days should inspire outdoor play, not provide excuses to stay indoors. Whether your child is an aspiring engineer, meteorologist, artist, biologist, musician or builder, they’re sure to find a reason to stay outside once you read this list of fun rainy day outdoor activities for kids. Get out there and meet the wet day with joy! Is your child…
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Despite frequent resistance or distraction, it’s more important than ever for teenagers to spend time outdoors. We have a few ideas on helping make that happen! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links through which I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our web hosting fees. As kids get older, their schedules fill up,…
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Relaxed summer schedules usually allow more time for more outdoor play, from dawn to dusk and beyond. Free nature play is always encouraged, but when you find yourself scrambling for ideas or want to arm yourself with inspiration, check out this list of summer outdoor activities for kids. summertime activities scientific discoveries Play Sink or Float. This game is simple…
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Kids can play a role in helping to save native bees and may be eager to start once they learn how important these super pollinators are! (This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and purchase the item, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.) “Save the Bees!” You and your children may…
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Kids can play a role in the protection of our native bee populations by building backyard bee hotels for these important pollinators. Native bee populations are under threat, putting at risk the vital role they play in a healthy ecosystem. But don’t dismay — your kids can help! There are many ways your kids can help native bee populations, including…
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Whether your child is a reluctant or enthusiastic adventurer outdoors, scavenger hunts are a powerful tool to encourage their connection with nature. Some kids need an extra push, some kids need an extra challenge, but either way, scavenger hunts are a great way to re-invigorate outdoor play. HOW DO SCAVENGER HUNTS ENHANCE OUR OUTDOOR TIME? LET’S PLAY A GAME The…
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