Personally, I get outside as often as I can.
During Covid, when we were mostly avoiding other people, I started implementing “Take a Hike Tuesdays” in my summer camps. It was basically just a short hike through a local park.
Mostly, I just wanted to get outside and breathe some fresh air, but it became so frustrating. The kids weren’t used to it and they complained about everything, saying, “It’s hot, there’s mosquitoes, I’m allergic to ants, can I take my phone, I need sunscreen, and bugspray, and water…”
As a group, we made entirely too much noise to see much wildlife, but there were always birds and lizards, the occasional butterflies or a turtle. And at the end, usually some type of playground. Suddenly, it was fun outside. We’d play chase or hide-n-seek.
It is so important for kids to learn to connect with nature. Now, more than ever. Scott Sampson published “How to Raise a Wild Child.” I recommend checking it out.
I know that some of my kids from years ago still visit and remember those trips.
Build memories.
Make an impression.
Play.
Leave a Reply