Adventure schooling

Adventure + homeschool = adventure schooling

Some moms might say homeschooling in and of itself is quite an adventure, but when you add a healthy dose of nature and exploration to the equation, you get something incredibly unique and special. 

In recent years, an increasing number of families have chosen to break away from the traditional education system, opting for a more personalized and adventurous approach to learning and homeschooling. Adventure schooling is an innovative educational model that goes beyond the confines of the traditional classroom and encourages families to get out there and explore the world around them and use the outdoors as their children’s classroom.

In this article, we will dive deep into the realm of adventure schooling and explore ways you can take your homeschool classroom outside. We’ll get perspectives from two moms about what adventure schooling means to them and the how and why behind their choice to “adventure school” their children. 

Photo Credit: Nichole Holze

Nichole’s adventure schooling story

Nichole – @coleyraeh

We decided to homeschool from the very beginning of our children’s education. While that’s the right thing for us, I will never claim that it is the best for everyone. Each family is wonderfully unique, and each child’s needs are equally unique. That said, our choice to homeschool was the catalyst for what I call adventure schooling.

From the time my youngest was only a few months old, I had a deep desire to get out of the house and disrupt the grip of postpartum depression that pulled at me. Our first adventures merely involved me successfully getting out of the house with both kids, snacks, water, and the diaper bag. We usually hit a nearly park or playground and may have only stayed at the park (which was five minutes away) for thirty minutes. But, with two small kids, this was a huge victory and as I kept going, with little adventures around town, I strengthened my adventure muscles so that we could do bigger and more adventurous outings. 

When we decided to homeschool, I already had plenty of experience taking my kiddos on adventures by myself. So, it was a natural progression for me to schedule adventure into our homeschool week. It’s all part of a process I call being responsibly brave. Now, years into our homeschooling experience, I still incorporate an “adventure day” into our schedule. 

In a nutshell, adventure day is one day per week that I set aside to chase shenanigans with my children. It’s not meant to be a field trip. It is not a day to play with friends (although friends are always welcome to come along). It doesn’t have to be an entire day. This can be in the morning, an afternoon, or even an intentional hour or two where our focus is on exploring or doing something together instead of schoolwork or other things on our to-do lists.  

These adventures can be anything from visiting a local park or trail, to a museum, a day trip, or even big day hikes or camping trips. It’s anything at all. Mostly, it’s an opportunity for us to connect through doing something together, and I am so grateful we started it. I have years’ worth of memories and photos of my kids with our various dogs under this one specific tree on a trail we hike almost weekly. It’s simple, but it’s beautiful.

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Lea’s adventure schooling story

Lea – @wildstokefam

I had no plans to homeschool my children. I was a full-time working Registered Nurse in the busiest hospital in town. But when my 4-year-old son was due to enter pre-school, my husband and I were nervous about him leaving the comforts of our sides and attending school every day. I was full of fear, anxiety, and excitement at the same time. I was excited that he would make friends, learn, and be surrounded by the fun of school. As a child, I loved school, which was filled with learning, fun, and friends. However, I was also a nervous wreck. He’s my baby, and the thought of sending him off to school for 7 hours on his own was overwhelming. How on Earth was I supposed to let him go to school all day?

But we swallowed our fears and got ready to register him for preschool. Only to be told that there were 15 children on the waitlist for preschool ahead of us. 15! The odds of him getting into preschool were not in our favor.  The next closest school with availability was a 25+ minute drive from our home, each way. And while that was technically doable, the thought of spending almost two hours every day in the car (with our littlest in tow), was mind-boggling. And this is where the idea of homeschooling first came into mind.

At first, I was terrified of the idea of homeschooling. I am a nurse by trade, so my expertise is in everything medical and human anatomy. Regarding homeschooling, I was really worried about failing him and not teaching him enough of what he was “supposed” to learn. I spent many long nights researching, reading, and studying how to teach my child preschool material in a way that worked for both of us. 

Soon, I discovered there were quite a few wonderful homeschool groups in my area. I fell in love with countless homeschooling books. And I dove deep into the idea of incorporating nature into our studies.  As a Type-A person who loves outlines and schedules, I knew I needed a curriculum and a plan. However, I also learned very quickly that a strict schedule does not always work with kids. But my Army training kicked in, and I became resilient and figured out how to adapt. I had to learn how to tailor the days to both of my kids and their interests while incorporating the necessary alphabet, phonics, math, etc.

Long story short, we all learned very quickly what worked for us and what didn’t. A designated room in the house was not a good idea (we cannot be contained). I also felt very distracted and a bit claustrophobic, spending our day inside. My patience runs thin with the mountain of laundry, toys and dishes needing to be tackled. I am a better mom (and a better teacher), when I am outside in nature with my children. And I noticed quickly that my son and 2-year-old daughter were more receptive to whatever I was trying to teach them when they were moving their little bodies, playing, and, most importantly, outside!

We put our classroom in a backpack and headed outside to explore. When we are outside running on the beach, or hiking a trail, we are all happy, engaged, and eager to learn. Thus, our adventure schooling began.

Photo Credit: Jackleen Leed

What does adventure mean to you?  

Nichole – @coleyraeh

I would say that adventure is a mindset. It’s changing how you think when you approach an activity. Adventure can happen right in your backyard as you look for worms after a good rain. Maybe it can be in your neighborhood when you walk each week and watch how the plants change with the seasons. Adventure can be biking the same trail in your city, over and over again. Or maybe it’s going on a big hike to a waterfall, or going camping, or going to a climbing gym. It can be big, or small, near or far. It’s choosing to view the world through a lens of wonder, wherever you choose to wander.

Lea – @wildstokefam

Adventure is defined as an exciting experience and exploration that deviates from the ordinary. The essence of adventure lies in embracing the uncertainty and the thrill of the unknown, often leading to memorable and transformative experiences. Simply reading under a tree at the park can be an adventure. As a society, we have gravitated towards a sedentary lifestyle. Even in traditional schools, kids don’t get the chance to spend much time outside or being active. The days of kids running wild and free and learning through play are limited. I saw this firsthand for myself when I was an elementary school nurse. The 4-year-olds seemed to spend more time waiting in lines and being contained in a group than actually playing outside or doing typical 4-year-old tasks. Nature is vital for kids and adults alike, as is adventure! 

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Incorporating nature into your schooling

Incorporating nature into schooling (whether homeschooling or traditional schooling), can be a transformative and enriching experience for both parents and children. By getting outside into nature and embracing the great outdoors, you not only provide a dynamic and engaging learning environment but also foster a deep connection with the natural world around you. 

Here are some creative ways to integrate nature into your homeschool curriculum, no matter the age of the child or grade level, put together by Lea (@wildstokefamily).

Math

• Measure items in nature
• Create a sundial outside
• Search for shapes in nature
• Complete arithmetic outside using rocks, twigs, leaves
• Build a fort and talk about angles, shapes, steps, etc.
• Visiting a farmer’s market and having a child weigh produce, count money, and learn values

Science

• Learn about the life cycles of animals. Observe the ones that can be found in your area in the wild or at a local nature center. Visit those that are a bit more exotic at a zoo, aquarium, or while traveling. 
• Creating a nature box with interesting items found outside and keep them in a keepsake box (e.g. feathers, seashells, sea glass, and dried insects like dragonflies and beetles)
• Nature journal: older kids can focus on more in-depth science investigation and learn scientific names, habitats, etc. 
• Forage in the woods, the beach, the city
• Do some nature-based outdoor STEAM activities and science projects
• Visit a local education center or outdoor children’s museum for hands-on science
• Start a garden (or visit a botanical garden) in order to learn about plants and the growing cycle
• Set up a weather station in your backyard with simple instruments like a thermometer, rain gauge, and wind vane. Keep a journal to record daily observations and weather patterns.
• Turn your backyard into a birdwatching haven. Provide binoculars and bird identification guides, and challenge your kids to identify different bird species. 

Art

• Painting outside (plein air painting)
• Creating art with leaves, twigs, and items found outside
• Nature journaling
• Making nature paintbrushes 
• Creating seashell crafts, such as necklaces
• Making mandalas using nature items, crafts, etc. 
• Paint kindness rocks
• Creating art structures out of recycled materials
• Making leaf and/or flower crowns

Language arts

• Nature journal, nature poetry
• Creating your own park review guides
• Writing a short story about an adventure
• Reading outside in your yard or at a park
• Visiting your local library
• Learning to spell with wooden or magnetic letters
• Spell outside with sticks, leaves, rocks

Photo Credit: Nichole Holze

Incorporating adventure into schooling

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate more adventures into your homeschooling (or simply add more adventure to your daily life), here’s a great starter list from Nichole (@coleyraeh) to help spark some ideas for ways to get out the door and learn in a whole new way!

Outdoor adventure – close to home

• Explore nature in your own backyard
• Plant a garden
• Go for nature walks in your neighborhood
• Visit a local nature trail or park
• Visit a garden center at different times of the year
• Visit a local farm or farmer
• Volunteer at a community garden
• Play at a skatepark
• Drive RC cars outside somewhere
• Go for a bike ride on a trail or around your neighborhood
• Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddle board if that’s available
• Go on a mural scavenger hunt around your town or city
• Try geocaching
• Play in a creek. Like this.

Indoor adventure – close to home

• Go to a movie
• Visit a local museum
• Take a tour of any local historic sites or homes
• Visit the library
• Try a new restaurant, especially if it’s a type of food that correlates to something you’re studying!
• Take “school” to a coffee shop
• Go to a play or musical
• Go see the symphony (many cities will have children’s theater days for shows and for the symphony)
• Check out trampoline park
• Go go an indoor climbing gym
• Visit a bowling center and/or arcade (pro tip – let them use their own money at the arcade, and don’t forget about Kids Bowl Free programs in the summer)

Outdoor adventure – bigger and farther

• Go camping at a campground or state park cabin or yurt
• Go on a bigger day hike to something neat like a waterfall
• Canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding
• Mountain biking on bigger trails or at a pump track
• Find a climbing club or group to go climbing outdoors with
• Try a via ferrata if there’s one nearby, if not, try an adventure obstacle course or zipline
• Visit a new to you state or national park
• Snorkeling – in a creek, a lake, or even the ocean
• Paddle camping – hauling everyhing you need to camp in your canoe or stand up paddle board. 
• Explore something unique to your state: like crystal digging in Arkansas.
• Visit a zoo or wildlife sanctuary
• Visit gardens and botanical centers
• Check the calendars for nearby state parks, national parks, historic sites, and cultural sites

Photo Credit: Sara Webb Lesire 

What does adventure schooling look like for you?

Nichole – @coleyraeh

My kids are now 12 and 9, so while we’ve been doing this a while, it doesn’t look that much different as we enter the teen and tween years, but our adventures are bigger. I think that it’s often easy to feel pressure to let go of the hands-on and experience-based learning as the kids get older and move closer to middle school and high school. However, in my experience, those are the opportunities for the adventures to get even bigger. It’s also when you begin to see some fruits of your labor from the years you put in when they were little, when they begin to make observations or recall things they’ve learned while out in the world.

As we’ve always done, we incorporate adventure schooling into our homeschooling schedule through our weekly adventure day, which is sometimes a canoe trip, a SUP trip, hiking, mountain biking, or perhaps even a trip to a museum or art gallery. These are bigger adventures than we did when they were younger. It’s taken us a while to get here and I’m so proud of the adventures that we’re now able to do. I intentionally set aside time for real world adventures and experiences, whether or not they’ll have any measurable academic value. Not all adventures need to be educational. Sometimes, they’re just for fun! Those experiences are what etch into our memories and keep the spark of curiosity burning.

Lea – @wildstokefam

Each week, we learn a new letter (my son is only at a Pre-K/Kindergarten level, so I tailor our work towards him and my 2-year-old). We go over the sounds and tie in a book and an animal or nature theme to that letter. I try to choose things that he is interested in because, at the end of the day, that’s how he will retain what I am teaching. Right now, my son loves fishing and wants to be a fisherman when he grows up, so we spend a lot of time on/near the water.

Not all of our time is spent outside. I do teach him in the house at the start of the week. We read our book, practice writing letters, do arts and crafts. Every Friday is our adventure day. We go on a field trip to either a learning center or simply outside. I create things to do in nature that still tie in with what we are learning during the week. He never complains and never thinks of it as “school.” He is simply out in nature, playing and learning at the same time. We fish almost every weekend already, so my next plan is to catch a fish large enough to keep, learn how to clean it, and make it for dinner. 

Every week is different, some harder than others, but I try my best to let my creativity spark fun ideas to incorporate school, outside. 

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Favorite adventure schooling gear and gadgets

Lea – @wildstokefam

I am a sucker for all the coolest homeschool gadgets and outdoor gear. I can write an entire article on my favorite gear but here are my top favorites. Don’t forget to shop second-hand. You’d be surprised what you can find at children’s consignment stores, Facebook Marketplace, and yard sales. 

1. Magnetic letters – we use these to help with phonics, learning new words, and spelling.
2. Julia Rothman collection – since we don’t have one set curriculum we follow, we plan my unit studies a week at time and incorporate nature studies from her books. The artwork is lovely, and the information is perfect for my son. 
3. Life Cycles Kit – we use them every week, and even my 2-year-old loves them. She focuses on matching them to their selective card while my son practices the actual life cycles.
4. Adventure kits – binoculars, nets, whistle, compass, flashlight, net 
5. Pocket microscope for kids – perfect to take with us on the go to get an up-close look at everything around us

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Adventure schooling for all

Adventure schooling, while usually referred to when talking about homeschooling, is not exclusive to homeschooling families. Learning through adventures is a versatile approach that can be seamlessly integrated into the lives of all families, regardless of whether children attend traditional schools or are schooled at home.

Embracing the spirit of adventure learning involves recognizing the educational potential in activities and outdoor exploration. Even for families with packed schedules, simple changes like turning weekend hikes into interactive biology lessons or transforming a camping trip into a history exploration can make a significant impact. The key is to view the world as a vast classroom where learning is not confined to textbooks but unfolds organically in the midst of nature’s wonders.

For families with children in traditional schools, you may need to reach out to your child’s teacher to plan adventures based on what they’re learning. As a parent, you can supplement their education by dedicating weekends or holidays to family adventures that blend recreational activities with educational components. Whether it’s a visit to a historical site, a day at the beach exploring marine life, or a camping trip under the stars, each adventure becomes an opportunity for hands-on learning. By weaving adventure into the fabric of family life, all children can benefit from a holistic education that transcends the boundaries of traditional schooling.

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Have you ever considered adventure schooling?

Nichole

Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Though she and her husband are originally from the Midwest, they’ve lived in Arkansas for ten years now and are thrilled to call it home. They have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They have a now 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, along with a one-year Direwolf Dog puppy. Nichole is an avid outdoor adventurer and road tripper and has been taking her kids on adventures by herself since they were infants, it’s all part of what she calls being responsibly brave. She is also on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child and has contributed to Wild and Free. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans.

Lea 

The post Navigating the World of Adventure Schooling appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Every day is Earth Day

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd that aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote actions that help protect the planet. Earth Day is the largest secular holiday in the world, with more than 500 million people taking part in 174 countries around the world.

While Earth Day can provide an opportunity for people to learn about the causes and impacts of climate change, it’s not the only day to take action to reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. Action needs to start with us and with teaching/showing the next generation how to protect the world they will grow up in.

We strongly belive that our incredible planet should be celebrated every day – not just one day a year. We hope this post will encourage you to choose to honor, protect, and preserve our planet throughout the year with your actions and teachings. We’ll show you how!  

Photo credit: @dimples.and.the.blonde

Get children involved in the process

Kids naturally want to be involved in the things we (their parents) are passionate about. Give your kids the opportunity to participate in your eco-friendly actions and help make decisions on sustainable changes for your home and life. Getting your child on board from an early age teaches them so many valuable lessons and makes eco-conscious decision-making second nature.

It’s never too early to start talking about sustainability with your children. Adults don’t give kids enough credit – they understand more than we often realize. When your child is stuck in a cycle of “I want,” it’s much easier to transition out of it when they realize the impact all those “wants” have on our planet. The more time we spend discussing how our actions can impact the world around us, the more our children will learn. Then we’ll have a whole generation of environmental thinkers and activists coming up after us…how wonderful would that be?!

Sustainability activities for kids

There are many ways to get involved in taking care of our planet; whether it’s by participating in local events, volunteering for environmental organizations, or making lifestyle changes that promote sustainability. No matter how you choose to be more sustainable and eco-conscious, we hope you’ll involve your children and teach them about each of our individual responsibility to care for our planet. 

Below, we’ve included a huge list of 60+ eco-friendly sustainability activities that you can do with your kids to make an impact. These are great hands-on activities that will help your child connect to the planet and teach them about the importance of sustainability from an early age. But, before we get to the list, there are a few action items that I want to talk about in a bit more detail: picking up trash, the 3 R’s, gardening, Junior Ranger programs, shopping small/local, and getting outside. Each of these things can have a huge impact on our planet and are easy to incorporate into our daily lives. 

Clean up trash when you’re out and about

Encouraging kids to pick up trash in nature is a great way to teach them about the importance of protecting the environment and its inhabitants. When plastic, glass, and other types of litter are left on the beach, in a river, or anywhere outside, they can harm local creatures, such as turtles, fish, and birds, who can mistake it for food or get tangled up in it. 

It is important to help kids understand the WHY behind what you’re doing. Why do people litter, and why is it important for us to clean it up? Talk them through scenarios and what the consequences of our actions (good and bad ones) are. For example, my son found this plastic bag on the beach. We discussed that a sea turtle could easily mistake this for a jellyfish, and he immediately sprang into action. He realized we needed to throw it away so the turtle wouldn’t get hurt. When children understand the why, they make it second nature to help, and they learn to teach others.

We hope you’ll add a clean-up bag to your adventure gear, so you can clean up trash anytime you’re out enjoying nature. This is an easy way to incorporate sustainability actions into your everyday activities. If you want to get more involved in an organized effort, research cleanups hosted by local organizations in your area and sign your family up to participate. By engaging in such activities, it instills a sense of community, responsibility, and stewardship in kids, encouraging them to take care of the planet and its natural resources.

*Adult supervision is always recommended so kids do not pick up anything dangerous.

Practice the three R’s at home

Teaching kids about sustainable living is crucial for building a sustainable future. One way to do this is by incorporating environmental education into their daily lives. By now, most people have heard of those three Rs…reduce, reuse and recycle. While it’s a catchy phrase and sounds amazing as an environmental campaign, we’ve relied too heavily on the recycling part, which is not the answer to our trash problems. We need to spend a bit more time also reducing our consumption and reusing what we already have. 

Reducing your consumption of consumer items is the very best way to reduce the amount of trash your family sends to a landfill. We cannot recycle our way out of excessive consumerism – we need to buy less stuff. Before purchasing something new, stop and ask yourself these questions: (1) Do I really need this? (2) Do I already own something that can be used in this item’s place? (3) Is purchasing this item worth the environmental costs of resources, production, shipping, and landfill space once it’s been discarded?

Reusing what you already have is the most eco-friendly option of all! And it’s budget-friendly. If you want to put the concept of reusing (or repurposing) items to good use, you might have to get creative! Before tossing something in the trash, think to yourself, “Is there another way I can use this item?” Not only does repurposing mean we get to reduce our waste, but we also find ways to be creative, active, and involved. Kids are super creative and great at coming up with new ideas and ways to use things! Be sure to get them involved. 

Photo credit: @sara_mccartyPhoto credit: @meghangarriott

Gardening

Gardening is another excellent way to teach kids about sustainable living, as it can help them learn about how plants grow and how to care for the environment. By starting and growing a garden, you can teach children about the natural world and where their food comes from. Kids can learn how to plant and care for seeds, how to compost and recycle, and how to use natural methods to control pests and diseases. Gardening is a fun way to help children develop a sense of responsibility and pride in their accomplishments as they watch their plants grow and thrive.

Growing their own food can also inspire children to try new vegetables and fruits, which can lead to healthier eating habits. By teaching kids to grow their own food, we can help them develop important life skills and instill a sense of respect and appreciation for the environment. Gardening can also help reduce food waste and cut down on food packaging waste and transportation costs. 

Photo credit: Anna Stopińska-Lewucha

Earn a Junior Ranger badge

Get kids excited about nature at a national park. Visit a national park in your area with your child. Many have activity books to follow while you explore. The Junior Ranger program is a great way to get kids involved in protecting and preserving local parks and natural areas. By participating in this program, kids can learn about the history, wildlife, and ecology of their local park or reserve and engage in fun, educational activities that help them develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The Junior Ranger program offers a wide range of unique and location-specific activities, from guided hikes and wildlife observation to ranger-led talks and interactive exhibits. Through these activities, kids can gain a sense of connection and responsibility to their local environment and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability. The Junior Ranger program is a fun and educational way to get kids involved in environmental stewardship and instill a lifelong love of nature.

Photo credit: @roaminggonzalez

Shop small and local

When you shop at small, locally owned businesses, you’re not only making an eco-friendly decision, but one that’s great for your local community. When you purchase at small locally-owned businesses rather than nationally owned, more money is kept in your community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers, and farms. Purchasing local helps grow other businesses as well as the local tax base.

Small local businesses usually set up shop in the town center, providing a centralized variety that is much friendlier to a community’s walk score than out-of-town shopping malls. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution. 

Teach kids about supporting small businesses. Shop local. Here in Florida, we have kids’ business groups that promote kids with small businesses, such as lemonade stands, and craft stands. It instills responsibility and a sense of pride. This helps to protect the Earth from mass-produced materials and aims to keep our landfills free of trash and waste.

We have recently started a small business that focuses on small batches of beach attire for the whole family. Our son loves helping us design and create our products!

Get outside

Perhaps the single most important thing you can do to make your child aware of the environment and want to protect it is to spend time in it with them. Show them the beauty of our planet and let them learn to love it on their own. Parents can also take their kids to parks, nature reserves, botanical gardens, arboretums, zoos, and other outdoor areas to teach them about the importance of protecting and preserving natural habitats and wildlife.

Need ideas on how to get outside or what to do…check out the rest of our website and sign up to get on our weekly newsletter, which is filled with outdoor activities and ideas! 

60+ eco-friendly activities for kids

1. Pick up trash at a local park (or on a trail, or in your neighborhood, etc.)
2. Set up a scrap paper reusing station in your home
3. Use a cloth bag at the grocery store
4. Set up a bird feeder (or make a DIY eco-friendly bird feeder)
5. Go for a family bike ride
6. Play in the water (lake, creek, beach, stream, etc.)
7. Start a compost bin (and compost something!)
8. Use a reusable water bottle
9. Start a nature journal (or add to an existing nature journal)
10. Make sculptures, art, or robots using items in your recycling bin
11. Plant something (e.g. garden, flowers, vegetables, tree, herbs, etc.)
12. Identify a new plant or animal (we love the Seek by iNaturalist app)
13. Watch a nature documentary
14. Check out books from your local library
15. Make your own DIY herbal cleaner
16. Attend a local Earth Day festival in your area
17. Go on a nature scavenger hunt
18. Use a magnifying glass or pocket microscope to view nature close-up
19. Go barefoot in the grass
20. Create a mandala using items found in nature
21. Donate unused seeds to a seed library
22. Go screen-free for the day
23. Wildflower bomb your yard
24. Enjoy a meal outside!
25. Visit a little free library (and leave a few books for others)
26. Donate gently used clothes/toys/books to charity
27. Make a terrarium
28. Visit a local farmer’s market
29. Recycle something
30. Go for a hike (or even just a walk around your neighborhood)
31. Forage violets for color-changing syrup
32. Make nature crowns (from leaves, flowers, shells, etc.)
33. Build a fort in the woods
34. Read an educational book about our planet, nature, or wildlife
35. Make seed paper cards
36. Build an insect hotel
37. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth
38. Swap out plastic containers for paper products
39. Repurpose something you were going to throw away
40. Shop local & small businesses
41. Visit a national park and earn a Junior Ranger badge
42. Eat a meatless meal
43. Watch the sunset
44. Turn off all lights in your home
45. Do a nature-inspired STEAM activity
46. Unplug devices you’re not using
47. Make your own nature paintbrush
48. Build your own rain barrel
49. Purchase something second-hand (instead of new)
50. Switch out 5 lightbulbs for LED bulbs
51. Shorten your shower
52. Visit an arboretum or botanical garden
53. Carpool to an event/activity
54. Grow your own herbs
55. Reuse glass jars
56. Eat ice cream from a cone (no spoon or bowl to throw away)
57. Sign a petition online for climate change
58. Donate to an environmental cause
59. Write to your congressman about protecting the Earth
60. Go geocaching at a local park
61. Practice yoga outside with nature poses
62. Display your nature finds in your home
63. Use no single-purpose plastics all day
64. Volunteer
65. Visit a refill station for shampoo, soaps, etc.

Photo Credit: @tiny.adventures.often

Getting kids involved in protecting the planet

We know there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to climate awareness, waste reduction, and recycling, amongst other environmental issues. Sustainability is a lifelong journey and one that we need to get our kids involved in. Sometimes the best way to start is, to begin with really small, manageable goals. One thing at a time. Take your time and continue your journey by making the next best choice.

While Earth Day is an important event that reminds us of our responsibility to protect the planet and preserve its natural resources for future generations, it’s not the ONLY time to take care of the Earth. By raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices daily, we can all play a role in creating a healthier, more sustainable world.

Let us take action today and every day to make a positive impact on our planet; it starts now, with us and with our children!

Additional resources

If you’d like some additional resources for learning about sustainability with kids and help with making small (but very important and impactful) eco-friendly changes in your house and life, check out the following:

• Run Wild My Child Sustainability Challenge & Action Guide
• Garbage Collecting & Recycling for Kids
• 15+ Activities to Celebrate Earth Day with Kids
• 20+ Outdoor Acts of Kindness for Kids & Ways to Be Kind to Nature
• Eco-Friendly Holiday Tips, Swaps & Gift Ideas

What are your favorite sustainability activities to do with kids?

About the author

Lea is a mom of two adventurous kids and wife to her surfer husband Brandon. She is an Army veteran, Registered Nurse, photographer, and small business owner. Lea has lived in Hawaii, New Mexico, and now resides in Florida, where she and her family are enjoying endless ocean adventures. She has traveled to Costa Rica, South Korea, and many states across the US. Lea and her family love to surf, fish, hike, skate, and travel to new places. She is passionate about teaching her kids about nature and protecting our planet.

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @oceanmamalea
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds

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Seashell crafts for kids

Florida is known for its warm and sunny weather, but did you know that it also experiences mild winters? While the temperatures may not reach the freezing point, the cooler weather and shorter days provide a perfect opportunity to enjoy making crafts. One of our favorite things to do is combine our love of the beach, with crafting.

Crafting with seashells is an activity that not only gets us outside, but lets us be creative, as well. Here in Florida, shells are abundant on the beaches, so there’s no shortage of supplies. Today, I’m going to walk you through my best tips for finding great seashells and guide you through the process of making simple and fun seashell crafts with your kids. 

Shelling with kids

First things first, you need to set off and find as many seashells as you can! Whether you have easy access to a beach all the time, or you’re visiting the beach on vacation, shelling is an engaging experience for parents and kids of all ages. It’s a free and fun way to spend a few hours outside! My kids love finding different shapes, sizes and colors of seashells. When the water is too cold to swim in, and the sky is cloudy, you can always spend your time at the beach seashell hunting! Grab a bucket or a sustainable ocean-friendly bag, your trusty bait net, and let’s hunt!

Tips for finding and collecting seashells

Finding seashells is often a matter of being on the beach at the right time. The best time, in general, is about an hour before or after low tide. High tide will bring those beautiful shells inland. As the tide recedes, you’ll be able to see the treasures the tide left behind. And if the tides are low early in the morning, this is even better! This is great for families, as little kids are often up early, and it’s a great excuse to get out of the house right away! We like to have breakfast on the beach in the morning, before the crowds arrive and we have the place to ourselves.

Shelling is especially good after strong winds or storms. Low spring tides during full moon or new moon periods can also bring in great shells. Here in Florida, any strong tides or Gulf storms can also bring plentiful shells to the Gulf area beaches. Most of the time, the best sea shells are found in or below the wrack line (where the debris can be found from the high tide the night before). If you venture up too high, you may find older sun-bleached shells (which can be beautiful). But, the bright colorful newer shells that just washed up the night before will be down closer to the waterline. 

Know the regulations

Be sure to check local laws and regulations to know the rules in your area regarding sea shell collecting. Some beaches allow shelling, and some don’t. If your child finds a shell that still has an animal living inside — gastropod, bivalve, or otherwise — tell them to leave it alone. In many places, including Florida, it is illegal to take a live creature from its natural habitat. If keeping empty shells is allowed, be sure to check to make sure they’re empty. Also, never take live sand dollars from the beach.

Cleaning and storing seashells

Once your child has found enough shells for your projects and crafts, you’ll want to properly clean them to bring out their full natural beauty. First, soak the seashells in plain warm water to remove any dirt, debris, and smell. Change out the water daily for a few hours or up to a week to fully clean your shells. You can use an old toothbrush to remove grit from the ridges and cracks if necessary.

We do not recommend using bleach. Bleach will ruin the color and vibrancy of your shell, and the shells will have a bleach/chlorine smell.

After your shells have soaked, you’ll need to thoroughly dry them. If your shells have particularly rough edges, you can smooth them down with sandpaper. And if you really want to bring out the color and brilliance of your shells, rub a small amount of mineral oil on a paper towel and buff the shells until they shine. This will ensure your shells look beautiful in any setting and last a lifetime.

Seashell wind chimes

Wind chimes made from shells are not only beautiful to look at, but they are an excellent way to bring a touch of nature into your home. Wind chimes are an easy seashell craft idea that can be made with a variety of materials, including driftwood, seashells, sea glass, bells, beads, etc..

Creating a wind chime made from materials you find at the beach is a fun and simple project that can be completed in a few hours. This is a great craft to make with kids that love sound and movement to commemorate your beach days. The resulting wind chime will be a beautiful and unique decoration that you can enjoy for years to come.

This section will guide you through the process of creating your own unique wind chime from natural materials. This is the perfect seashell craft for older kids. 

Shell windchime materials:

• Driftwood
• Seashells
• String (we used natural sisal, as it gives it a beachier look)
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Drill (if you want to drill holes in your shells)
• Optional: colorful beads, sea glass, shark’s teeth, etc.

Shell windchime instructions:

1. Collect driftwood and seashells of various sizes and shapes.
2. Cut strings to varying lengths, depending on the size and shape of the driftwood and seashells. We alternated the length of our strings. 
3. Choose your seashells. You can get as creative as you want. We decided we wanted it to look cohesive, so we chose multiple shells that matched and alternated them. 
4. Sand your driftwood (optional) for a beachier look. If you don’t have a sander, you can use a knife to shave the top layer of wood off. 
5. Drill small holes into each end of the driftwood. 
6. Thread string through holes and tie a knot at each end. You can create this piece as long or as short as you want. This will be the part that you hang. 
7. Now to decorating! We chose to drill a small hole into each shell and thread the string through. The easiest way to do this is to apply hot glue to the back of each seashell and glue it to the string. You can leave as much space between each shell as you would like. 
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 with the remaining seashells and strings, spacing them evenly along the driftwood.
9. Use hot glue to secure the knots and any loose strings.
10. Hang the wind chime in a location where it will receive gentle breezes, such as a porch or tree branch.

Tips for making wind chimes with kids:

• Experiment with different lengths and combinations of string and shells to create a unique and personalized wind chime. 
• If you have trouble finding driftwood, you can use other types of wood, such as bamboo or branches.
• To make your wind chime extra special, you can paint or decorate the driftwood or shells before assembling.

Seashell identification cards

Seashells are fascinating natural wonders that have captivated people for centuries. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and each one has a unique story to tell. To help children and students learn about these fascinating creations, educational cards made about seashells can be a valuable tool. This section of the article will guide you through the process of creating your own set of seashell identification cards.

Seashell educational cards are a great way to help children and students learn about these fascinating creatures and the important role they play in our ecosystem. The process of creating the cards is simple, yet educational and fun, and the end result is a valuable tool for learning and discovery. So go ahead and make your own set of seashell identification cards today!

Seashell identification card materials:

• Various seashell specimens
• Heavy cardstock or cardboard (we used an old shoe box)
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Scissors
• Markers or colored pencils
• Hot glue gun

Seashell identification card instructions:

1. Collect a variety of seashell specimens. Make sure to choose shells that are different in size, shape, and color.
2. Cut heavy cardstock or paper into 3 x 5-inch rectangles (this is the perfect size for little hands to hold).  You can make as many cards as you have shells.
3. Write the name of the seashell on the front of the card, along with any other information you wish to include, such as the location where it was found, its scientific name, or interesting facts about the species.
4. On the back of the card, write more in-depth information about the seashell, including its habitat, diet, and behavior.
5. Hot glue your seashell to the cardstock.
6. Organize them in a binder or box for easy access.

Tips for creating shell identification cards:

• Use a local field guide for shells, a local shelling website, or a shelling app to identify the shells you find. Let the kids help with this! 
• You can also include images or diagrams of the seashell’s anatomy or life cycle to enhance the educational value of the cards. You can print these off the internet or draw them yourself. 
• To make the cards more durable, you can laminate them or cover them with clear contact paper.
• Consider adding quizzes or games to the cards to encourage students to actively engage with the information and retain it better. You could even turn this into a memory-matching game. 

Seashell picture frames

Decorating picture frames with seashells is a fun and easy way to add a touch of the beach to your home decor. This project is perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their frames and create a unique piece of home decor. They make the perfect gift too!

Adding seashells to picture frames is a simple and creative project that can add a touch of the beach to any room in your home. Whether you use a single frame or multiple frames, this project is a great way to display your favorite memories while bringing the beauty of the ocean into your home. We created these as Christmas gifts for families this past holiday, and our families loved them. Nothing feels more personable than a personalized, DIY gift. 

Materials for seashell picture frames:

• Picture frame(s)
• Seashells (in a variety of sizes and shapes)
• Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks
• Scissors or wire cutters
• Optional: decorative ribbon, beads, or other embellishments

Shell photo frame instructions:

1. Choose your frame. Select a picture frame that fits the style of your home decor and the size of the photo you want to display. You can use a single frame or multiple frames for a more dramatic display.
2. Gather your seashells. Collect a variety of seashells from your local beach or craft store. You can choose shells that are similar in size and color to create a cohesive look, or a random assortment of different colors, styles, and sizes to create an eclectic look. 
3. Prepare the frame. Remove the glass, picture, and backing from the frame. Clean the frame thoroughly to remove any dirt or dust. If desired, wrap the frame with decorative ribbon or paint it with acrylic paints to match the seashells you have chosen.
4. Attach the seashells. Begin by hot gluing the largest shells first, starting at one corner and working your way around the frame. Make sure to apply enough hot glue to securely hold each shell in place.
5. Embellish.  Fill in the gaps as you add more shells, fill in any gaps with small shells or embellishments of your choice. You can also mix and match different sizes and shapes of shells for a more interesting and unique design. We added some awesome shark teeth, sea glass, and coral to ours. 
6. Finishing touches. When all the gaps are filled and you are happy with the overall look of your frame, it’s time to add any final embellishments, such as decorative ribbon or beads.
7. Reassemble the frame. Replace the glass, picture, and backing into the frame, making sure to secure it tightly in place.

And that’s it! Your seashell-decorated picture frame is now ready to display. These make great gifts for grandparents and teachers. You can also use this technique to decorate other items, such as mirrors or picture frames made from other materials, such as wood or metal. The possibilities are endless!

Mermaid crown and seashell necklace

A seashell crown or seashell necklace is a beautiful and unique accessory that can be worn on special occasions or simply as a fun, summery addition to an outfit. Creating a crown or neclace using seashells is a simple craft and a creative project that can be completed in just a few hours and with a few basic materials.

Shell crown and shell necklace materials:

• Seashells
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• String, floral wire, pipe cleaners, or headband

Shell crown/shell necklace instructions:

1. Gather your seashells. Collect a variety of seashells from your local beach or craft store. Make sure to choose shells that are similar in size and color to create a cohesive look.
2. Prepare your base. If using a headband, wrap it with ribbon to match your seashells and hot glue it in place. If using a wire wreath form, bend the wire into a circular shape to fit your head comfortably and cut off any excess wire.
3.  Attach the seashells. Begin by hot gluing the largest shells first, starting at the front and working your way around to the back. Make sure to apply enough hot glue to securely hold each shell in place.
4. Fill in the gaps. As you add more shells, fill in any gaps with smaller shells or embellishments of your choice. You can also mix and match different sizes and shapes of shells for a more interesting and unique design.
5. Finishing touches. When all the gaps are filled, and you are happy with the overall look of your crown, it’s time to add any final embellishments such as decorative ribbons or beads.

And that’s it! Your seashell crown is now ready to wear. You can personalize it further by adding feathers, beads, or even artificial flowers to match your outfit or occasion. Making a seashell crown is a fun and creative project that can be done by anyone, regardless of skill level. Seashell necklaces or a crown are a great way to bring a touch of the beach to any outfit, making you feel like a true mermaid or Aquaboy!

Seashell crafts for kids

There are countless crafts you can make with your kids using seashells. You can paint them, make personalized greeting cards with them, glue them to cups and make pencil holders or plant pots, even make one-of-a-kind jewelry! They provide hours of engagement, creativity, and hands-on learning for kids! We hope this post has inspired you to get out to a beach near you to look for shells and crate some beautiful art. Happy seashell crafting!

Have you ever made any crafts with seashells?

About the author

Lea is a mom of two adventurous kids and wife to her surfer husband Brandon. She is an Army veteran, Registered Nurse, photographer, and small business owner. Lea has lived in Hawaii, New Mexico, and now resides in Florida, where she and her family are enjoying endless ocean adventures. She has traveled to Costa Rica, South Korea, and many states across the US. Lea and her family love to surf, fish, hike, skate, and travel to new places. She is passionate about teaching her kids about nature and protecting our planet.

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @oceanmamalea
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds

The post Seashell Crafts for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

DIY nature crowns for kids

A beautiful nature crown should be a staple in any nature-loving child’s wardrobe. Nature crowns made from twigs and flowers can make your child feel like a wandering wizard or a frolicking fairy exploring the forest. Anyone who’s ever worn a crown before can attest to feelings of exhilaration, creativity, and mystical imagination. Not only are nature crowns fun and easy to make, but foraging for materials gets kids to spend time outside and piques their creativity. 

Nature crowns are also a wonderful way to engage children in outdoor and imaginary play! Add a crown to any outfit, and you turn your toddler into a prince! If you really want to take your child’s imaginative play to the next level, add some butterfly wings (moth wings) or a wizard robe to their ensemble, and let your child’s imagination run wild!

There are three common types of crowns that can be made with natural materials: 1) nature crowns made with sticks, leaves, and foliage, 2) wildflower crowns made with just wildflowers, and 3) traditional flower crowns. Today, we will learn how to make all three of these fun nature crafts! 

DIY cardboard nature crown

This gender-neutral nature crown is so fun to make and wear. Plus, all the materials can be found in your backyard and recycle bin! It’s an excellent option for creative kids that want to express their personality and display their favorite nature treasures and wild things. I love this type of crown because it helps teach our children the 3 R’s – Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle! 

These DIY cardboard nature crowns can be made using nearly anything! We’ve used the same process with paper strips to make leaf crowns using only colorful autumn leaves and fall foilage. We also love adding other fun items that give the crown lots of color and texture, like evergreen twigs, berries, sticks, flowers, and shells. 

My son had a blast making his own cardboard nature crown. We took a basket outside and frolicked through our yard, foraging for natural items to use for the crown. Once we had all of our natural elements, we gathered our craft supplies and sat down to create his crown. I helped him glue the pieces on, but he selected all the nature materials and created the patterns. It was so much fun to see what he picked and watch his vision come to life. 

When we were finished, he wore his crown and played in the forest and pretended to be a wizard. It brought so much joy to my heart to see him use his imagination to play. We made a fort with sticks and logs, which added a whole new dimension to his pretend play. My niece wore the flower crown I made (see below for instructions), making her feel like a forest princess! They played for hours, creating fairy houses out of sticks and observing different types of insects local to our area. 

Cardboard nature crown supplies:

• Durable cardboard or card stock (I used cardboard from a soda box)
• Nature materials (e.g. sticks, leaves, foliage, pine cones, pebbles, shells, etc.) 
• Hot glue gun
• Floral scissors

How to make a cardboard nature crown for kids:

1. Cut a piece of cardboard about 3″ in width. Measure your child’s head for the length and cut your cardboard strips accordingly. 
2. Lay the cardboard flat and begin designing your crown. Take into consideration the items you are gluing. We added small rocks, which added a lot of weight to the crown, so I had to adjust the size. 
3. Next, take your sticks, leaves, and other natural elements and glue them to your crown. If your kids are old enough, let them do this on their own. It’s a great way for older children to work on fine motor skills. Younger children will need more help. 
4. When you are done designing your crown, glue the ends together. 
5. Wear your crown and have fun playing in the forest!

DIY flower crown for kids (Haku Lei)

Traditional flower crowns are worn for a variety of special occasions and they have the uncanny ability to make you feel like a nature queen! In Hawaii, they are called Haku leis, and they are given to someone you love. These types of crowns are primarily seen at weddings, baby showers, and other special events. However, I like to wear them for holidays as well. History tells us that the circular shape of flower crowns represents power, glory, and eternity. When we add flowers and foliage, it represents love and celebration!

Making your own traditional flower crown is fun, easy, and opens up your creative outlets. This type of nature crown is perfect for the child in your life that loves color and flowers and likes to stand out in a crowd! 

I tend to choose flowers that will last a little longer, are bigger in size, and really pop with color! Roses, marigolds, daisies, and protea pincushions are my favorite. Each one of these are found in excess here in the Southwest. For those living in tropical areas, I know you have access to beautiful tropical florals! If you don’t have access to pick these types of flowers, you could also purchase a bouquet from your local flower shop, farmer’s market or grocery store to use in your flower crown. Alternatively, if you want your flower crowns to last a LONG time, you could even use artificial flowers. The same instructions below apply to all variations. 

So let’s get to it! Here are the steps and items needed to make a traditional flower crown. It should be noted these same steps apply for making flower crowns with artificial flowers. 

DIY flower crown supplies:

• Floral wire
• Floral scissors
• Floral tape or raffia (I like raffia because it is easier to control)
• Flowers 
• Greenery (hardy leaves, fern leaves, eucalyptus).

How to make DIY flower crowns for kids:

1. Take your floral wire and measure the crown of your head. Add a few extra inches. Create a loop at one end and wrap the loop a few times for security. Leave a few inches at the other end to loop through when your crown is complete. 
2. Trim your flowers. I cut so I have just enough stem to wrap around the crown. Remove leaves and extra stems. 
3. Trim your greenery/filler. Remove extra stems. 
4. Start with greenery and place it parallel with your wire. Wrap floral tape or rafia around the stem. (I usually wrap 3-4 times and sometimes more if it’s a heavier piece of foliage.) 
5. Next, choose your flower. Lay it on the floral wire in the same direction as the greenery, wrap around the stem.
6. Next, add another set of greenery and wrap the rafia.
7.  Continue this process until you finish your crown. Alternate between green leaves and flowers. 
8.  When complete, loop your extra wire into the loop we made and secure it based on your head size.
9. Twirl in the forest or on a beach and enjoy your flower crown!

Flower crown pro tips*

When making your flower crown, alternate between flowers and greenery. Think of the greenery as a frame and the flower as your photograph. Always place a flower in between greenery to frame the flower.

Place your flower crown on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator until you are ready to wear it. This helps to preserve it. When you no longer need your crown, don’t throw it away! Hang it up and let it dry out. They make beautiful art pieces for your home. 

When it comes to making crowns for infants, I find it best to use very small flowers and lightweight foliage, like baby’s breath. I made the one pictured above, which was a little too heavy for my 10-month-old. Still, she had so much fun playing in the woods while rocking her flower crown. 

*I should mention that I am not a florist or pro flower crown maker, or expert. I attended a few workshops when I lived in Hawaii, and now, I simply enjoy creating flower crowns for special occasions. Moreso, now that I have a daughter. Anyone and everyone can make them! 

DIY wildflower crown (no supplies needed)

Ask a handful of nature-lovers about their feelings regarding kids picking wildflowers and you’ll get a handful of mixed feelings. Many of us nature-lovers live by the Leave No Trace principles. One of the principles is to leave nature where it’s found. No picking the wildflowers, as that’s evidence that you were there. Wildflowers are a beautiful, beneficial and necessary part of nature. 

However, as parents, we know that in order to raise kids who love, appreciate and respect nature, they need to be able to feel it and touch it and understand it. It’s harder to love something from afar that you’re not allowed to touch or pick. There has to be a balance. Personally, I believe if you are picking the flowers to make something beautiful and are sharing in the appreciation of nature in a way that’s not harmful, overarching, or takes away from others, then why not.

If you’d like to make a DIY nature crown from wildflowers, please only pick what you need in an area where it’s permitted and allowed. Dandelions are a great option for wildflower crowns, as they’re usually very prevalent in your own yard and public areas. They work well for nature crowns due to their strong stems and ability to survive for several days. However, I could not find any dandelions near me, so I used these wildflowers from my backyard (which I planted) instead. 

DIY wildflower crown supplies:

• wildflowers (that’s it!)

How to make DIY wildflower crowns for kids: 

1. Frolick through your yard, a park, a forest, or somewhere that wildflowers grow.
2. Make sure you have permission to pick the flowers, and it’s not against any rules or regulations.
3. Pick just enough wildflowers to create your crown, making sure to leave plenty for the bees, butterflies, and others to enjoy.
4. Gather your flowers and remove any leaves along the stems.
5. See the photograph below on how to weave each wildflower. Little hands might need help with this process. 
6. Continue the process until your crown is complete!
7. Let your kids wear their own nature crowns and take some pictures enjoying the outdoors!

3 easy nature crowns for kids

And there you have it, three beautiful DIY nature crowns for kids that you can easily create! Whether you live in a city, near the mountains, or near a beach, you can create any variation of these nature crowns for your children. The next time you’re on a nature walk or hiking through the woods, take a look around you for potential nature items to use for this really fun craft. To this date, my son still asks to wear his nature crown any time we are headed for the woods. I am so excited to see what you can create! If you have questions, be sure to comment below or reach out. Tag us on social media (use the hashtag #runwildmychild), so we can see what magical crowns you create!

Have you ever made a nature crown with your child?

About the author

Lea is a dedicated wife, adventurous mother, Registered Nurse, and Army veteran. She is from New Mexico and strives each and every day to get outside with her wild toddler and newborn baby girl. She and her husband Brandon both served 8 years in the Army and it was during that time their love for the outdoors and seeing the world was born. When they had their son, that passion only intensified. They love to fly fish, overland in their Jeep, hike, surf, and capture these moments on camera. Lea is a professional photographer on the side and you can always catch her with her camera in her hand. Their goal is to influence more families in their rural state of New Mexico to explore the beauty of the SW while educating them on photography tips, medical tips like First Aid, outdoor safety and gear, etc. 

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildstokefam
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds

The post How to Make 3 DIY Nature Crowns for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Best baby carriers for hiking and outdoor adventures

Are you a parent new to adventuring and want to know what carrier best suits your baby or child?

Are you an experienced adventure parent that wants to upgrade or make changes to your current setup?

This article is for you! I’m so excited to chat with you today about the best baby carriers for hiking and adventuring. My husband and I have tried and tested many child carriers over the years. As military veterans and experienced adventurers, we’ve made it a priority to take our children on every exploration we set out on from the beginning. We now have two little ones that we adventure with, so we’ve got experience from newborn through toddler.

Choosing the best baby carrier for you

A good baby carrier can make adventuring with two littles not only possible, but fun! But there are a ton of options out there and it’s not always easy to know what you want or need. Plus, it’s hard to know what will last more than a few months (babies grow quickly) and what to spend your money on that will hold up to outdoor adventures and be comfortable. 

Today, I will talk about the pros and cons of three fo the best baby carriers for hiking and what ages they best suit. I’ll help you choose which baby carrier is the best for you, depending on what type of outdoor adventures you’ll be going on and the size/age of your child(ren). 

Each of the hiking baby carriers discussed below will help you be more comfortable and confident adventuring outside with kids. A good carrier can make all the difference and inspire you to get out there and have fun on the trail. That’s what adventuring with your kids should be right? So let’s get started!

The Osprey Poco Plus

The Osprey Poco Plus is probably the best hiking child carrier on the market. This carrier allows infants from the time they can hold their heads up to about 46 lbs. We have used this carrier with our son since he was an infant and now it’s used to carry our baby girl who is 6 months old. This carrier has a fully framed and padded cockpit area, which surrounds the adjustable seat for safety. It has a lightweight metal frame that allows for transitioning on and off the back easily and safely. Easy-to-use buckles and straps for adjustments. It’s made with soft flexible and breathable materials, with ventilated side panels for comfort when it’s hot.

Osprey Poco Plus pros:

The Osprey Poco Plus is very versatile and allows for maximum comfort for both the adult and child. It’s fully adjustable to my body frame (I am 5’3 and 130 lbs) and to my husband’s (5’9 and 170 lbs).  There are footrests on either side of the carrier, so that your child can have their feet resting instead of dangling like soft-shell carriers.

The storage on this carrier is phenomenal! There are two mesh pockets on either side where I put snacks and toys for my baby. There is a large compartment with a zipper at the bottom that I store my DSLR camera, diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes for baby girl. This completely eliminates the need to carry an additional backpack. It has a mesh back lining to keep you cool on those hot summer days and even has a hydration pack compartment.

It’s also easy to put on by yourself, which means I can hike solo with my child without needing someone to help me get the carrier on and off. It has a sunshade (stored when not in use) that has come in handy many times while we were hiking desert trails and fly-fishing up and down rivers. It also adjusts as your child gets bigger. The adjustable seat accommodates infants to toddlers.

I cannot rave enough about how much I love this carrier! It makes adventuring with babies so much fun! It’s a must for any parents with infants to toddlers. This carrier has taken us on some pretty epic adventures. We’ve hiked some steep trails, visited National Parks, fished some raving rivers and most importantly, we exposed our babies to the beauty of the world and all it has to offer. This carrier is perfect for pretty much any adventure!

Osprey Poco Plus cons:

This carrier can be heavy for those that are not used to hiking with a load. If you are not used to carrying a lot of weight on your back, you will want to practice and get used to the frame of this carrier. My husband and I have hiked with a lot of weight on our back in the Army so we are used to it, but if you are just starting out, it’s good to start with short hikes and adventures and build up to it. 

Although the maximum weight limit says 46 lbs (or 4 years old) it’s very heavy when carrying a toddler. The weight of the actual carrier itself is roughly 7 lbs. And then add a toddler’s weight to that (especially if you have a large toddler, like mine) and it can get really heavy. (Although, I should also mention that carrying a toddler in anything is hard. Once kids can walk, they really enjoy hiking on their own and don’t want to be restrained.) We do have a carrier for him that allows him to rest on long hikes (see below).

Another con to this type of baby carrier is that you have to wait until your infant can hold their head up before you can/should use this product. This carrier is definitely not meant for newborns or the littlest of hikers. You’ll need to use an alternative method of carrying your little baby (see below). 

Finally, the Osprey Poco plus is a bit pricy and may not be an affordable option for everyone. This carrier retails for $340. If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking with your kid(s) over the years (and will use this for multiple kids), then the price is definitely worth it. It will last a long time and can be resold for quite a bit of what you paid for it. We purchased our older version on Facebook MarketPlace for a fraction of the current retail cost. When buying used, make sure to check all straps, buckles, handles, etc. for holes, rips, wear, tears, stains, damage, etc. You’d be surprised what awesome gear you can find used.

Ergo Baby 360

The next carrier we will talk about is a soft-shell baby carrier called the Ergo Baby 360. There are several similar baby carriers out there, but we love this one. It is so comfortable and can sit baby in 4 different positions; facing parent, facing out, hip carry, back carry. We have used this one for each of our children when they were infants. It has taken us on some amazing adventures and I will continue to use it until its time comes to an end. This carrier is best suitable for hikes with newborn-toddlers, walks around the neighborhood, walks on the beach, and comes in handy when you have other children. 

Ergo Baby 360 pros:

The Ergo Baby 360 is very comfortable to wear and fully adjustable for different body frames. It’s really light-weight and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It can carry your baby in 4 different positions as they grow and depending on what’s comfortable for you both. It has a sun-shade cover to keep baby’s head out of the sunshine and comes with a pillow that allows newborns to be carried safely. We took our baby girl on her first hike when she was just 1-week old and if it hadn’t been for this carrier, we would have had to carry her or would have resorted to a paved trail that was stroller accessible. 

1 week-old baby in Ergo Baby 360

Ergo Baby 360 cons: 

The orginal version of this carrier is best suitable for colder weather. It can get a little toasty for baby in the summer (and we live in New Mexico, where it can get really hot). Ergo Baby does make a cool mesh version of this same carrier, which says that it keeps you and your baby cooler on hotter days.

It’s rated for up to 45 lbs but it’s definitely not as comfortable once they hit that weight, even on your back.  We transition to our Osprey Poco Plus once they outgrow this one.  This carrier is also a little hard to put on and load the baby by yourself. 

Tropical forest hike in Hawaii with our Ergo Baby 360.

Trail Magik Toddler Carrier

As our kids get older, we needed something to help us carry our toddler. The last carrier we use is relatively new to the market. It’s made by a family-owned company called Trail Magik. It’s a soft-shell carrier that is durable and specifically made with toddlers in mind. It retails for $95. During transit it’s folded to the size of a small water bottle & weighs just ounces. When needed, The Trail Magik Carrier can attach to the front of your backpacking backpack so you won’t miss a beat while your little hitchhikers get their rest on. It allows your toddler to rest comfortably, while not displacing your hiking backpack. 

Trail Magik Toddler Carrier pros:

This toddler carrier is very lightweight, foldable, and durable. Helps toddler rest on longer hikes, once they need a break. It also allows you to carry two children at once (if you’re feeling like Super Mom!).

We were skeptical of the claims of being able to carry your todder comfortably at first because we all know how heavy toddlers can be. The thought of attaching our 35 lb toddler to the front while carrying 45 lbs + on our back, seemed absurd, but we needed something specially made for toddlers. We purchased this carrier recently and tried it out on our strenuous 4-mile hike in Taos, New Mexico. With an elevation gain of 1,030ft. , we knew our toddler would not last the entire hike on his own so we knew we needed something to help him along the way. Our son made it to 3.5 miles before needing help and boy were we ecstatic to have this carrier.

My husband attached him to his pack and we made it the alpine lake. We enjoyed our alpine lake hike so much, we failed to capture photos of us hiking to the top with our son in this carrier. Here is a photograph of it from another hike. 

Steep, rocky climb with baby and toddler.

Trail Magik Toddler Carrier cons:

Unfortunately, the Trail Magik baby carrier is not great for prolonged use or really long hikes. You have to have weight on your back to counter the front weight this means wearing a carrier on your back or a hiking backpack with some good amount of weight in it. The weight of your toddler can cause shoulder discomfort if used for too many miles in one hike.  

Find the baby carrier that works for you

There is an abundance of baby and child carriers on the market. It is important to find the one(s) that best suit you and your family. Different carriers are made for different activities and the age/size of your children. Finding the most comfortable carrier is sometimes a lesson learned through trial and error. If possible, I highly recommend trying on and testing any carrier before purchasing. You can always try out a brand at the store and then buy it second-hand elsewhere. This gives you the option to ask questions about the product and get to know all the features before purchasing. 

My family and I love to hike, fish, and explore some pretty epic places. The carriers listed above have made it not only possible with our children, but fun! There is nothing better than the look on your child’s face when they reach the top of a steep and long hike, or reel in a fish and they are able to witness it right on your back. The right baby carrier allows you to continue doing the adventurous things you love while your children come along. I stand wholeheartedly in these carriers and know that they will continue to take us on epic adventures. 

Happy adventuring!

More resources about hiking with kids 

If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

• Best Hiking Shoes for Kids
• 10 Hiking Essentials for Families
• Making DIY Hiking Sticks with Kids
• Trail-Test & Kid-Approved Hiking Snacks
• Ultimate List of Outdoor Gear for Kids

Do you use a baby carrier for hiking?
Which brand do you recommend?

About the author

Lea is a dedicated wife, adventurous mother, Registered Nurse, and Army veteran. She is from New Mexico and strives each and every day to get outside with her wild toddler and newborn baby girl. She and her husband Brandon both served 8 years in the Army and it was during that time their love for the outdoors and seeing the world was born. When they had their son, that passion only intensified. They love to fly fish, overland in their Jeep, hike, surf, and capture these moments on camera. Lea is a professional photographer on the side and you can always catch her with her camera in her hand. Their goal is to influence more families in their rural state of New Mexico to explore the beauty of the SW while educating them on photography tips, medical tips like First Aid, outdoor safety and gear, etc. 

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildstokefam
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds

The post The Best Baby Carriers for Hiking & Outdoor Adventures appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring New Mexico with kids

New Mexico, or the Land of Enchantment, is a beautiful state situated in the Southwest that many around the nation have never visited. New Mexico offers a beautiful experience full of delicious Native American and Mexican food, a rich culture, and extraordinary places to see that you just can’t experience anywhere else. If you have ever wondered what New Mexico has to offer, here are my family’s top 3 places to visit with kids in New Mexico. I will list each wonderful place to visit, what to expect, the best time of year to visit, and include a basic packing list.  So let’s get to exploring the Land of Enchantment!

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The first place on our list is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! This event signifies the start of Autumn for us locals. Every October, our blue skies are filled with the colors of the rainbow as hundreds of hot air balloons soar through the sky. It’s the most magical time of year and kids absolutely LOVE it. The fiesta takes place at our very own Balloon Fiesta park where you can buy tickets, pitch a blanket or some chairs and watch the balloons air up and take off. Visitors come from all over the world to experience this hot air balloon site, it’s that magical! 

What to expect

The balloons take off at sunrise, so this is an event that requires a very early (maybe 3:00 a.m) wake-up call. The park opens up around 4:30 a.m. and starts filling up very quickly. There is an abundance of burrito stands, coffee stands, and local vendors to explore while you’re waiting for the event to kick off.

It’s important to get there early! Parking is organized by event personnel and fills up very quickly! The early wake-up call will be worth it!

The fiesta also has a night glow event where you can view the balloons light up after sunset. The balloons do not lift off into the air, but it’s a lovely event if you can’t make the sunrise. 

Pro tip: You can camp out in an RV to beat the morning traffic. 

Some folks prefer to see the balloons in the sky from different places around Albuquerque. The entire city is lit up with balloons, so no matter where you are in town during the week of the fiesta, you can’t miss the beautiful view. 

Best time to visit

The fiesta has a set time of year and only sticks around for a few days. It usually takes place at the beginning of October due to the weather being the perfect temperature for the balloons. Make sure to check out their website for more information on future dates. 

What to pack

1. Layers of clothing. Early morning temperatures are chilly so a jacket is a must, especially for kids. By the time the morning event is over, you will be shedding your layers into summer clothes. That’s New Mexico weather for ya!  
2. Blanket or foldable chairs. You’ll need somewhere to sit and station yourself. 
3. Stroller if taking babies or multiple kids. You can walk around the vast park and check out different balloon shapes, shop different local vendors, talk to the balloon pilots, etc.
4. Snacks, drinks for the family. 
5. Camera. You’re going to want to capture all those pretty colors! 

White Sands National Park

White Sands National park has been claimed to be one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. This park is comprised of miles and miles of decomposed gypsum crystals that glisten so beautifully with the sun’s light.

It is located near the White Sands Missile Range which is a historical wonder for the U.S Military. White Sands Missile Range was also one of the key locations of the Manhattan Project, which developed the first atomic bomb during World War II. But don’t worry, the national park doesn’t test bombs. It’s miles and miles of white, glistening sand that allow for a fun adventure. 

What to expect

There is an entrance fee per vehicle, so make sure you have money to purchase it at the entrance to the park or bring your national parks pass.

Pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash and you pick after them. 

There are small trails you can walk with your family or you can pull off on the side parking areas and walk onto the sand and explore on your own. We leave our shoes in our cars and explore the beautiful sand dunes barefoot. 

You can purchase a permit to camp overnight. 

Please do not take the sand or any plants from the park. Abide by leave no trace principles and make sure you take only photos and memories with you when you leave. 

For more detailed information visit the White Sands website.

Best time to visit

The park is open any time of year except for major holidays. Our family loves visiting in the Spring and Fall the most. Southern New Mexico is known for its hot temperatures and summer can be very hot for a  visit with small children. The sun reflects the heat off the white sands, and believe me, when I say, it’s hot, it’s very hot!

Spring and Fall have crisp temperatures that allow children to visit comfortably and not overheat. We also love visiting a few hours before sunset! Sunset at white sands is like no other! The sky turns an orange-pink color and creates a dreamy and majestic sight with the white sand.  

What to pack

1. Lots of water! 
2. Food. There are no restaurants in the park and the nearest ones are about a 20-minute drive. I recommend taking food, snacks, and drinks for the entire family. 
3. Toboggan for sledding down the sand dunes. They sell some at the park entrance but if you already own one, bring it along!
4. Camera.

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks

The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks is a National Monument located just 40 miles from Santa Fe. It’s famous for its cone-shaped rock formations. The rock formations are composed of pumice, ash, and tuff deposits from volcanic eruptions 6–7 million years ago. 

What to expect

There is an entrance fee, which can be purchased at the entrance to the park. The monument area has picnic tables, restrooms, and parking areas. No dogs are allowed. 

The tent rocks are on Native-American reservation land, so respecting the land and leaving no trace are common courtesies. 

There are two trailheads that are rated as easy (perfect for kids), which allow you to hike through the rock formations and explore their natural beauty. Both are short hikes, but I recommend having some experience, good shoes, and packing your hiking pack. There is no stroller accessibility. 

Best time to visit

As of the date of publishing (November 2021), the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is currently closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it’s usually open year-round. Again, I highly recommend exploring the area in the Spring or Fall due to cooler temperatures and less risk of heat exhaustion for kids. This hike has minimal shade and is situated in a desert area so it can get extremely hot. 

Also, I do not recommend visiting in the Winter due to the snowfall creating icy paths. Half of the trail is closed in Winter as well, due to unsafe conditions caused by ice. 

What to pack

1. Lots of water and snacks
2.  Camera
3.  Hat/sunscreen
4. Layers of clothing
5. Comfortable shoes

New Mexico magic

So there you have it, the top 3 places to visit in New Mexico with kids! We hope you’ll come visit soon and see how much beauty and history our state has to offer. While you’re here, don’t forget to stop at some authentic New Mexican restaurants! Our Spanish food is like no other state’s – mixing Native American and Spanish culture for delicious food that you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re in Albuquerque, Little Anita’s, Mac’s La Sierra, and Los Quates are the best in town. Remember, when you hear the motto, red or green, it’s referring to your chili flavor. If you’re new to chili, try both!

Happy adventuring in the beautiful Land of Enchantment, I know it will be magical! 

Have you ever explored New Mexico with kids?

About the author

Lea is a dedicated wife, adventurous mother, Registered Nurse, and Army veteran. She is from New Mexico and strives each and every day to get outside with her wild toddler and newborn baby girl. She and her husband Brandon both served 8 years in the Army and it was during that time their love for the outdoors and seeing the world was born. When they had their son, that passion only intensified. They love to fly fish, overland in their Jeep, hike, surf, and capture these moments on camera. Lea is a professional photographer on the side and you can always catch her with her camera in her hand. Their goal is to influence more families in their rural state of New Mexico to explore the beauty of the SW while educating them on photography tips, medical tips like First Aid, and outdoor safety and gear, etc. 

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildstokefam
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea

The post Top 3 Places to Explore in New Mexico with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Fly fishing with kids

Fly fishing has become very popular over the last few years.  It’s a beautiful and peaceful outdoor activity, but it can be intimidating at first. Beginner fly fishermen (and fisherwomen) are sometimes overwhelmed by the variety, abundance, and price of fly fishing gear. It’s hard to know what flies will work best in your area, how to tie knots and where to go fish.

Today, I am here to help answer all these questions and get you started fly fishing with your kids. I’m here to teach you the basics of fly fishing with kids, from gear to casting and reeling in that slithering fish. This post will cover 3 categories: (1) planning your fishing outing; (2) kid-friendly fly fishing gear; and (3) the basics of fly fishing.  

Planning your fly fishing outing

Before you ever set foot in the water, there are a few things you’ll need (and need to know) so that you can plan your fly fishing outing. A little research and knowledge about the activity and your local area will go a long way to making your fly fishing adventure fun and successful. Most of the information below can be found online (check your local conservation department’s website) or from the helpful folks at your local fly fishing shop. 

1. Get a fishing license

It all starts with the basics. If you’re going to fish, you need a fishing license. Do some basic research on what’s required to fish on your state’s website regarding fishing rules and regulations (fish and game). Most states don’t require a fishing license for kids under a certain age, but it’s important to make sure. But if you’ll also be fishing (or even just helping your kids cast and reel in fish), you’ll need to have one. 

2. Check your conservation department website

Conservation department websites are also a good place to find helpful information on a wide variety of fishing-related things. On your local fish and game website, there will be rules and regulations governing fishing and lots of helpful information, such as:

1. Fish limit (number and size)
2. What types of hooks you can use
3. What type of bait you can use
4. Whether we can keep the fish or we have to catch & release it
5. Designated fishing areas
6. Resources (casting videos, fly tying basics, etc.)
7. Fishing ethics
8. Fishing tips
9. Recipes (and how to clean and prepare fish for eating)
10. Fishing events (classes, meet-ups, lessons, etc.)

It’s super important to make sure you follow these rules (and teach kids to do the same) to protect our wildlife population and the sport of fishing.  This is a great topic to educate our kids so they learn to respect the wild and the rules our conservation departments and forest services have set in place. Lead by example and be a role model for your future little fishermen. 

Fly fishing gear for kids

Choosing the right fly fishing gear for kids can be intimidating (and expensive). However, for the most part, kids learning how to fly fish can usually use their parents’ gear. With the exception of waders/boots and clothing, there aren’t a lot of items that need to be specially geared towards children. That being said, giving a child their own fishing gear that’s their size and they’re proud of is a great way to get kids interested in going fishing.  This post will cover the basic gear you need to get started fly fishing with kids.

Kid-friendly fly fishing gear

Again, starting out can be a bit intimidating but if you head to your local outdoor or fishing store, experts can help you choose the best equipment for your skill level. Here are a few of our favorite recommendations for kid-friendly fly fishing gear. 

• Fly rod and reel
• Fishing net
• Water shoes or waders
• Hat
• Sunglasses (for eye protection and polarized to help spot fish)
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Fly pack
  • fly box
  • flies (see below)
  • pliers
  • nippers
  • floatant
  • tippet
  • strike indicators
• Life jacket

How to fly fish with kids

With fly fishing, it’s all about the movement of the fly or bait. We don’t sit in a chair while waiting for a strike on a distant bobber. There’s not a lot of downtime. It’s constant movement and angles and a million different shots. It’s trial and error and retrial. 

The art of fly fishing is making a successful cast, matching the water speed with a good drift, and mimicking your fly of choice on the water. It’s part art, part science, and part sport. This is what makes fly fishing so much fun! We are constantly moving around the river or riverbank, casting into different areas, and waiting for the bite! It’s non-stop, which makes it so much fun for kids (and adults), as you’re constantly on the move and actively fishing.

The basics of casting

The easiest way to picture a successful cast begins with an image of a clock. Consider 12 o’clock as right above your head. The fly rod is taken back to the 2 o’clock position in a “brisk” backcast, then take a slight pause as the fly line straightens out behind you. Next, make a “brisk” forward cast stopping at the 10 o’clock position to cast the line out in front of you. During the cast, it is important to keep the tip of the rod up.

How to choose the right fly

Fly fishing is different than “normal” fishing. Instead of using live bait, fly fishing uses artificial flies that replicate actual insects that fish eat in their environment. Knowing what’s local, what’s in season, and what fish will eat requires some research.

There are flies, worms, eggs, and even small fish replicas that we use in fly fishing. Several types of flies can be used year-round, while others are more season-specific. I recommend heading to your local fly shop or sporting goods store to purchase the specific flies you’ll need in your area. A fly shop will help you get to know what’s working well at the time and can make some recommendations based on where you’ll be fishing.

Sometimes, figuring out what the fish are eating is as easy as looking along the river banks or under rocks. You might be surprised to learn how easy it is to determine what bugs, insects, and larvae are active at the time, and find a fly that replicates what’s hatching or abundant.

The science behind choosing the fly

Another great way to learn what type of fliy to use is to go out into the river, pick up a big rock, and look on the bottom of it for insects. This is the perfect way to see what insects are in season (aka “hatching”) and what the fish are eating. Here, my husband grabbed a rock from the river we were fishing and underneath it, a stonefly appeared!

This is such a fun part of fishing to teach our kids! It’s about observation and discovery. It’s about getting to know your area and doing a little science experiment to figure out what’s working. Our little guy loves his dad’s “bug box” as he calls it. He picks the flies up individually and asks bug/insect each one is and then we try to find a live specimen and match them up.

Different types of flies for fly fishing

• Dry flies (parachute adams, elk hair caddis, blue wing olive, stimulator)
• Nymphs (hare’s ear, pheasant tail, prince nymph)
• Streamers (woolly bugger, mickey finn, muddler minnow)
• Wet flies
• Eggs
• Worms

Sink or swim

It’s important to know which flies are designed to float on the surface of the water and which flies should sink. Floating flies are mimicking a flying insect landing on the water’s surface. This requires us to apply floatant, which aids in the fly’s ability to remain on the surface of the water.

Your first goal when casting is having the fly land softly on top of the water, similar to how an insect would land. Then, the line and fly both drift at the same speed the water is flowing. If your fly line drifts faster than your fly, you may need to “mend” your line, which means gently whipping the line back a bit to allow the fly to drift naturally (without the fly line pulling it or scaring the fish off). During the drift, a nearby fish may look to the surface and see your fly. Suddenly, it begins to rise believing that a real insect is up for grabs and takes a bite!

If you are using a worm or even an egg pattern, you’ll want to allow this type of bait to sink beneath the surface. Then you allow the current to move your fly down the stream, hopefully right in front of a fish waiting for it! You may want to put a strike indicator on your child’s line so they can tell if/when they get a bite (this is kind of like a bobber). You can never go wrong using a worm or egg pattern, since most popular fishing spots for kids are fished using these types of bait. 

How to tie on your flies

Where to cast

Fish are smart when it comes to where they hang out in the water while waiting for their food. Look for these areas to cast your fly. 

• Shallow/shady pockets of water
• Where you see bubbles (oxygen=fish!)
• Sides of running water
• In front of rocks with water running down like a small waterfall
• Behind rocks or logs (fresh like a break from fighting the current)

Bites! How to reel in a fish

Now we’re ready for the fun part! When you feel that tug on your line or see your strike indicator submerge underwater, you know you have your catch! Now it’s time to hood and land your fish! Easier said than done.

To get a good hook set, quickly lift up on your fly rod to create tension, thus “setting the hook.” Maintain tension on the line with one hand, while you use the other to reel in your line. During this time, you can also use the drag setting on your reel to make things easier. A second option is to simply pull the line in without using the reel. Hold the line tight with the hand holding the rod and let it slip through your fingers as you pull the line with the other hand.

When you get the fish close, grab your net and position it downstream from your fish. Slowly pull or reel the fish in towards it and you got your catch! Gently remove the hook and remember to keep the fish wet at all times. As long as it’s not super hot, you can lift it out of the water for a super quick photo and then right back in. Don’t forget to enjoy the moment!

He was stoked when he helped reel this bad boy in!

They were excited to share the fish and hold them in the net

Releasing the fish

There is a proper way to release fish back into the water if you decide not to keep it for food. When you take fish out of the river to admire their beauty and take a photo, it’s important to remember time is critical. Don’t leave them out of the water to where they become stressed and deprived of oxygen. Out and back into the water as quickly as possible.

When you are ready to let the fish go, use your pliers to remove the hook from their mouth. Next, gently place them back in the water facing upstream so that the water flows into their mouth and through their gills. Hold them and allow them to re-energize and swim out of your hand. They may be slow at first and even in a bit of a shock, but after a few seconds, they should start to move their tail and will swim away. Don’t ever throw a fish back into the water, as this could kill the fish.

Fly fishing fish species

You can pretty much fly fish for any kind of fish: bass, catfish, saltwater fish, bluegill, trout, carp, etc. All of the tips above can be applied to any kind of fish.

My family and I fly fish for trout only. Today, I will describe the different species of trout native to New Mexico. Trout are our favorite type of fish, not only for their beautiful colors and patterns, but their deliciousness! Who doesn’t love some fish tacos?

Trout can be native to your location or stocked by local farms or conservation departments. Trout love cold water, so they’re more prevalent in cold-water streams. There are many different varieties of trout and they look different. you can catch one or multiple types based on your location.

We love when we catch different species of trout in one location, and it’s even more enjoyable teaching our kiddo the different names. We let him hold the fish and show him the different patterns and colors. He has learned how to gently hold a fish and even release it back into the water properly. Kids learn to love what they can touch, feel and experience. Fly fishing has given him an amazing opportunity to do just that!

Rainbow Trout: Distinct pink stripe along the body

Brown trout: Distinct red spots along the body

Cutthroat: Similar pattern to a rainbow trout, but has red cheeks and red jawline

Trial and error/patience

Fly fishing is all about trial and error. It’s important to be patient when starting out and to teach our kids the same. Fly fishing can require us to try several different types of flies, casts, and sections of water until we find the right one. Knots happen. Tangles happen. Flies are lost. Somtimes you’ll spend more time untangling line than actually fishing. It’s all part of the process. 

Fly fishing also requires a lot of moving, walking up and down the river, trying new spots and new shots. If your little one is too young to walk, consider a carrier or a backpack (we’ve used both). If your child’s old enough, you can practice cast with them every now and then. 

Keep your fly fishing outings light-hearted with no pressure. When your kids start to get frustrated or super wiggly, stop and do something else. Working with young children on casting basics and letting them experience catching fish on a fly rod are great at any age. The most important thing is to make it fun so they don’t get frustrated and completely give up before they’re patient enough to really enjoy it.

Leave no trace

Fishing is so much fun, especially when our kids’ eyes grow wide in amazement and they learn to love the sport. It’s important we teach our kids how to protect the fish and rivers. This is all starts with leaving no trace. Teaching our kiddos the importance of “pack out what you pack in”, cleaning up trash, and leaving the wild, wild. 

Fishing with your kids is an incredible way to teach them about nature and conservation. From the “circle of life” lesson that comes with using live bait to the “leave no trace” principle of cleaning up after people, fishing is a way that parents can instill a love of nature and a respect for the environment from a very early age. There are so many little ways to encourage your kids to appreciate the outdoors through fishing. Whether it’s by respecting the fish you catch (and keeping only what you’ll eat) to respecting the fish’s habitat. Teaching your kids to fish helps preserve our natural resources.

For more fish fun

If you’re interested in learning more about fishing with kids, be sure to check out a few of our other posts:

• Raising Kids that Love to Fish
• Fly Fishing with Kids
• Winter Crabbing with Kids
• Fly Fishing Location: Dry Run Creek, Arkansas

Have you ever taking your kids fly fishing?

About the author

Lea is a dedicated wife, adventurous mother, Registered Nurse, and Army veteran. She is from New Mexico and strives each and every day to get outside with her wild toddler and newborn baby girl. She and her husband Brandon both served 8 years in the Army and it was during that time their love for the outdoors and seeing the world was born. When they had their son, that passion only intensified. They love to fly fish, overland in their Jeep, hike, surf, and capture these moments on camera. Lea is a professional photographer on the side and you can always catch her with her camera in her hand. Their goal is to influence more families in their rural state of New Mexico to explore the beauty of the SW while educating them on photography tips, medical tips like First Aid, and outdoor safety and gear, etc. 

You can find Lea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildstokefam
Website: Wild Stoke Fam
RWMC posts: Lea

The post Fly Fishing 101: Fly Fishing Basics for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.