What’s a holiday to you?

If you ask the average mum how her family spends their main summer gateway, you’ll most likely hear that they book an all-inclusive holiday package to somewhere tropical and sunny. She might tell you that’s because it’s easy, convenient, insured, and child-friendly. And all of that would be true. For many families, all they want while on vacation is pretty water, warm sand, guaranteed sunshine, great food, and no worries or hassles. And that sounds like a good holiday, indeed.

However, every vacation or holiday doesn’t have to be the same. Has it ever crossed your mind that your precious time away, as a family, could be a little bit more experimental and adventurous? Rugged and exciting? 

There’s definitely room for those picture-perfect tropical beach trips, but I’d also like you to consider adding some good old-fashioned fun to an upcoming holiday by taking a family road trip! 

The tempting taste of adventure

Before we had kids, backpacking and minimal preparation was the way to go for us. We hitchhiked, used local transport, slept in cheap hostels, and had very flexible itineraries. Even our honeymoon was a hitchhiking trip through nine European countries, with a small, cheap tent, and on a very low budget. And what an adventure it was!

However, with the arrival of our children, we realised it was time to be a bit more reasonable with our vacations. We still craved adventure, both for ourselves and for them, but it looked different than what we were used to.

Our first road trip experience with kids

When our older son, Stefan, was 13 months old, we braved a little road trip around the southern part of Norway. We saw a lot, and it brought back so many lovely memories. However, that trip included a hospital visit. One of any parent’s biggest fear is that their children will get sick or hurt while travelling. And it did actually happen to us. It was very scary, but, in retrospect, I can say that this experience was valuable, and it gave us a lot of courage for the future. 

It showed right away that we could handle hard things. We realised that if we need help, it will be there (having insurance and knowledge of how to use it is a must). I feel it’s important and fair to mention that experience here, because a road trip is a self-made and self-get-out-of-the-possible-trouble affair. Things can go awry on a trip like this, forcing you to adjust, be flexible, adapt, and figure things out as you go. But it’s also a lot of fun! 

The “why” of taking a family road trip

Road trips with kids take a lot of planning and research. They also require a lot of patience, grace, and determination. So, why do we “torture” ourselves with hours of research and preparation? Why is it that we crave the adventure of a road trip, despite how many unknowns there are and unexpected things that could happen?

Well, I actually think that planning and preparing for an adventure is an adventure in itself. For me, I truly enjoy the process of choosing and planning an adventure for my family. It gives me so much to look forward to and makes the experience so much more valuable and meaningful to me when I put in the work and love to plan our holiday. I enjoy searching the internet and reading blogs about places we could visit and accommodations where we could stay. I like that we get to decide where we are going and how we will spend our time there, based on our family’s interests and personalities. Road trips give us so much independence, and I love the thrill of it.

I choose road trips because I want to create memories that are only ours. Memories that are unique to our family and our experiences. I want my children to grow into adults with stories to tell. And I want my children to grow into adventurous adults that try new things.

Sometimes, when I tell people about our adventures, they say, “I wish I knew how to do that.” Here is a simplified guide on how you can do it.

Where to go on your family-friendly European road trip

The first step in planning a European road trip is to figure out where you’d like to go. You probably already have some inspiration and an idea of places you would like to visit or an event you would like to attend. Determine where you would like to go and why. Get the whole family involved in the planning process. Ask the kids where they’d like to go, what they’d like to do, and what they’re interested in seeing. You might be surprised by their answers! 

You can get inspired to travel in many different ways. Examples of road trip inspirations in our family include (1) trip to visit family, (2) an Instagram post that fascinated me, (3) a blog article I read, (4) a photo that piqued my interest, and (5) a story I heard from a friend about a destination. 

Next summer, our adventures will include a visit to the Colosseum in Rome because it’s my younger son’s dream. He learned about the Roman Empire at school and wanted to see the Colosseum ever since. My older son wants to go back to Chamonix in the French Alps, which we visited last summer. And finally, we will be going home to visit our families in Poland. So, we already have 4 big dots (our parents live in different parts of Poland) on the map of Europe. Nearer the time, we will find places in-between and connect these dots.

Consider your interests and do your research

If you still don’t know where you’d like to go, consider the things that interest you the most. Do you enjoy the beach, the mountains, or forest locations? Is there any particular time period or historical figure that fascinates you? Do you speak a language you’d like to practice? Is there a particular food you’d like to try? Have you read about an area you’d like to experience first-hand? Are your kids studying anywhere in school that would interest them? Are there super inexpensive flights to anywhere that interests you (and then you could rent a car)? 

Once you’ve chosen an area, start researching the location. YouTube has videos from most countries and regions in the world and there are many great travel blogs out there dedicated to kid-friendly trips and vacations. Simply type in “best places to see/visit in…” or “child-friendly activities in…” and voila! I’m sure something will catch your eye sooner or later.

When planning a road trip with children there are certain things we like to fit into our daily schedule to help break up the hours on the road and give the kids things to look forward to. My number one tip is to include ice cream and a playground stops into your daily routine. This combo definitely allows them to stretch, play, burn some every, enjoy a sweet treat, and forgive us for the long hours in a car.

My favourite travel destination since we became parents is Scandinavia. It’s such child child-friendly part of the world and easy to travel to. The nature is spectacular and their campsites are well equipped.  Everywhere we went in Norway, there were waterfalls (kids loved spotting them) and even some trolls (wooden, not real). When we needed medical help, it was easy to find and very straightforward. Everywhere we went, we felt genuinely welcomed.

When to start planning

There’s no right or wrong time to start planning a road trip, but in my experience, the sooner you start planning your adventure, the better. Giving yourself more time to plan can help you feel more comfortable and confident on your trip. We’ve taken plenty of trips where we didn’t do much planning, but the ones we plan for always seem to go much better and smoother.

Depending on your mode of transport (your own car or flying somewhere and then renting a car), you will need to prioritise your steps. If you need to fly to your destination country, you will need to book your airplane tickets first. Then, the ticket dates are your trip dates, then you need to book a car and then plan your route and accommodations. Depending on your budget, time frame, and number of places you want to see, you might need to adjust your route.

The sooner you start looking at your trip and planning, the more choices you will have. My hack for starting booking a summer holiday is the time just before Christmas. This is usually far enough in advance for us to have a lot of options to choose from regarding activities and accommodations. Having choices is always important to us as it allows us to choose our accommodation rather than having to pick from what is left. It’s more flexible when travelling with a tent, but when looking for bargains and places which are interesting to stay, starting reservations early has always worked for us.

Transportation considerations

One of our favorite ways to explore a new location was to fly to a destination and rent a car there to explore. Flying somewhere and then renting a car is a great way to explore an area that’s further away, giving you more time in and around that location than you’d have if you had to drive there from home. We loved to look for inexpensive flights to locations that interested us and then book a car. Sometimes, it’s worth booking a flight and car bundle via the airline’s website, but not always. 

However, this is not currently an option for us anymore. Our autistic son became very anxious about flying, and so we are now restricted to our car and where we can drive from our home location. Over the years, we’ve had some fantastic road trips in our everyday car (although we’re looking into the possibility of getting a van for our adventures this summer).

The advantage of skipping the plane and leaving straight from home is that we could load it up with the stuff we needed and didn’t have to pay for a plane ticket or a car rental. The big disadvantage is time. A flight could give us an opportunity to road trip in another part of Europe within a two-week timeframe. However, we are restricted to countries close to the UK. A car journey from the UK to mainland Europe has a ferry crossing in a package. Again, it’s a good idea to book it well in advance so you have options. For us, stopping near a ferry port in the evening and taking a ferry early in the morning works well.

Accommodations while on a road trip with kids

There are a lot of different accommodation options when you’re traveling on a road trip. First and foremost, family-friendly hotels provide spacious rooms and amenities that often include play areas, kid-friendly menus, and sometimes even organized activities to keep the little ones entertained. Vacation rentals or serviced apartments offer home-like environments with fully equipped kitchens and separate bedrooms, fostering a sense of routine and comfort. Campgrounds and RV parks provide a nature-centric option for families seeking adventure, allowing children to explore the outdoors and engage in activities like hiking and camping. Additionally, themed resorts with on-site entertainment, water parks, and recreational facilities ensure an unforgettable experience for young travelers. 

Camping road trips

We’ve done two road trips with our boys where we relied entirely on sleeping in a tent and one where we used a tent partially. For the rest of our road trips, we stayed in under-some-sort-of-roof accommodation. My children love camping, and we enjoyed the flexibility of traveling with a tent. Opting for campgrounds during a European road trip allows families to immerse themselves in nature while keeping accommodation costs in check. Setting up tents or parking RVs in campgrounds not only maximizes outdoor time with nature hikes and campfire evenings but also provides an economical lodging alternative, freeing up your budget for more memorable family activities and experiences along the road.

Unique accommodations

Looking for accommodation is an art (and a lot of fun!) in itself. We always have a limited budget, but we love to find interesting places to stay. To give you a few examples, we have experienced sleeping in:

• a barrel-shaped hideaway in Scotland, where an old whisky barrel from their local distillery transformed into a loo
• farm accommodation where our children were invited to feed farm animals and spend time with them
• an apartment in France that had discrete, modern touches but looked like out of a 1920’s movie
• a converted horse box (with cute mini pigs to pet)
• organic farm with an outdoor kitchen on the Orkney Islands

Researching accommodations

We use the big websites to search for accommodation as well as focus on the area where we want to stop and use the search engine to find places that choose not to advertise themselves via big brands. Example: you can type “Keswick” (a lovely town near us) as your destination using well-known websites, then check keswick.org for “where to stay”  and simply enter “Keswick accommodation” into the search engine to find individual websites of people who offer accommodation but opt of selling them under the umbrella of large marketplaces.

When travelling abroad, it’s worth visiting various blogs to see how things work where we are going. On our two separate Norwegian road trips, we’ve nailed it! We slept in simple wooden cabins that were cheap, well-kept, and well-equipped all because we discovered the Norwegian word “hytte” (which means “cabin”), so we were able to use that when searching online for accommodations. A little play with the English-Norwegian Google translation gave us access to so many more cabins/hyttes than the English sites would. Their prices were also lower.

Scandinavia amazes me with its camping amenities (tent and cabins). Wherever we stayed, we had access to a proper kitchen (in the UK, that isn’t the case) so cooking was always easy and available. 

Choosing your road trip route

The road trips we go on aren’t crazy long. Both of my boys have always made it clear that they don’t enjoy very long distances in a car and get bored with long hours on a motorway. Therefore, we try not to drive more than 6 hours in one day. Also, if we stay somewhere for one night, we try to stop for two or three nights in the next place.  This schedule works well for us.

Not driving very long distances also allows for some flexibility, which is such an important element of road trips. When we drive from one place to another, we find a place where we can stop for a while to stretch our legs and try to do some sightseeing. Europe seems to be dotted with little, beautiful towns and interesting places, where just walking around, taking it in, and having an ice cream seem to make us all happy.

Finding pretty little towns along the way

If you don’t know how to find a pretty town or village, do a Google search for “pretty town in [region].” You’d be amazed at how well that works! I like to have an idea of where nice places are before we set off. Not only does this help with planning stops, but also because I wouldn’t like to miss something obvious while travelling.

Likewise, we usually like to have some expectations about the places where we stay for a bit longer. We want the accommodation to be decent and interesting and to be in an area where we can see something. The first example that comes to my mind is our three-night stay near the Trolls Road in Norway. We had time to explore the area and enjoy the winding road each day. Similarly, staying on an organic farm on Orkneys allowed us to explore the islands as well as enjoy our time on the farm.

Ideas for what to see with kids on a European road trip

Because my autistic child gets sensory overload in big cities, we avoid too many urban areas in our travels. If we go to a city we make sure we can compensate for the stress by spending some time outdoor and in quiet nature afterward.

A few of our favorite outdoor kid-friendly things to do and places to explore on road trips are nature reserves, small museums, open-air museums, visitor centers, working farms open to the public, castles, street art exhibitions, small towns, places where we can hike, forests, beaches, places where we can see some animals.

We also pay attention to what we don’t have at home. We look for different architecture, new experiences, or something unique to the area. For example, we loved making the most of chairlifts and gondolas in Chamonix Valley in the French Alps, visiting a Dinosaur-themed amusement park in Poland, and exploring the biggest aquarium in Europe in northern France. We don’t do too many “big things” within one trip, but these were all worth it. 

Making it fun for the kids

The first and obvious element of organising a road trip with children is to ask them what they would like to do and see. To keep everyone happy, we usually do our research first, and then give them a few options to choose from. I think it’s important they feel included and that they have a say.

On the other hand, we want to expand their world and knowledge as well as see places that interest us, too (otherwise, we would end up visiting train stations and dinosaur parks all over Europe). Visiting a melting glacier in the Chamonix Valley wouldn’t have been their first choice, but my autistic child loved a train ride there and back, while his brother found being inside a real glacier fascinating. It was a win-win for everyone. 

Their choice of activity in the area was to go swimming in a nearby lake each evening, which we happily agreed to and all enjoyed very much. As I have already mentioned, a daily visit to a playground and a nice ice cream is something that is interweaved into our daily holiday routine.  

What to take with you on a European road trip with kids

In addition to obvious items like passports, cameras, phone chargers, and clothes, we usually pack the following items for a family road trip:

• Cooking – some pots and pans (even when flying, we took one each and left them, after asking if that’s ok, in communal kitchens after our last sleep in the country)
• Medicines – including children’s cold meds/painkillers, plasters, a thermometer (bulky, but we never regretted taking a thermometer)
• Toys – a ball, some board games (Monopoly was our last summer’s hit), trivia for the car, some books
• Activity packs – paper and crayons (believe me or not, we had to buy A4 paper for our boys one year, as they insisted on a drawing session each evening)
• Snacks – their favourite snacks from home, it’s so much easier (and cheaper) to have their favourite selection on hand and at the ready
• Autism specific items – Stefan misses home on holidays, so we go around the house and garden and take photos which he can look at while away. We also take small sensory toys, his favourite blanket and a plush toy.
• Tablets – we take kids’ tablets too; nothing beats a bit of Minecraft when we need to keep them busy

Dangers and how to avoid them

Where there are children, there is chaos. Where there is chaos, unexpected things could happen. We like to be as prepared as possible for unexpected situations and have a game plan ahead of time for how we’ll handle them. 

Elopement

As parents to an autistic child, one of our greatest fears is that our child would walk away unnoticed (it’s called elopement). Walking away while their adults are busy is a skill that autistic children are excellent at. While in the UK, we use a sunflower lanyard (which is voluntarily worn by people with hidden disabilities), so that members of the public are aware that our child is vulnerable and might need help. We make sure to bring that lanyard with us and that Stephan is wearing it when in public places. 

Overstimulation

Another danger that is relatable to both of my children is overdoing it. Many times, seeing them being excited about something, indulging in their excitement, and missing subtle signs of overstimulation, we ended up with unnecessary upset. Meltdowns and tantrums happen, but I’m pleased to say that with age, they’ve learned how to manage their own emotions and we became more vigilant to signs of tiredness.

Going over budget

And for adults, sticking to a budget and not overspending is a concern while vacationing. We try to have our main expenses covered before we set off (e.g., accommodations, renting a car, pre-booking expensive attractions) and to have an idea of how much money we might spend on average per day. Nobody likes thinking too much about money while enjoying their well-deserved time away. However, it’s good to be prepared. Good car insurance, travel insurance, and having our car checked before leaving home are the basics we should take care of to avoid stress and unwanted expenses.

Money-saving, budget-friendly road trip tips

If your budget is tight, but you still want to have an amazing adventure, it can absolutely be done! Below are some tips on how to plan a road trip on a budget:

• Bring your own car.
• Pack a cooler and bring lots of food and snacks that the whole family enjoys to keep you away from “hunger stops.”
• Take water bottles (in the UK kitchen, tap water is safe to drink), so you don’t have to buy water.
• Take long-life shelf-stable food from home (e.g., jars, cans, and tins) and top up with fresh food in local supermarkets. Don’t eat out at restaurants often. You can cook quick meals on your own with your staples.
• Invest in a tent and camp. Campsites vary throughout Europe in terms of facilities. In Scandinavia, every campsite we went to had a kitchen with cookers. Some had ovens and even some pans and pots.
• Buy a camping cooker. It will allow you to heat up ready meals and boil water for hot drinks.
• When going in a specific region it’s worth planning what you want to see. For example, if you want to visit Scotland, known for its many beautiful castles, you might want to consider buying a Historic Scotland membership and having unlimited access to the castles under their scheme.
• Make sure you pack all your clothes, medicines and equipment, as buying when needed might cost more than you usually pay.
• We take our bicycles with us. Buying a bike rack was a good investment; renting bikes for a family of four would be expensive.

Experiencing a road trip through the eyes of your child

As adults, we all have our unique sets of experiences. Those of us who have been to certain places experience travelling differently than those who do it for the first time. And, if you are a child, everything new or different can be exciting.

Here are examples of what I have rediscovered through our family road trips and being a part of my kids’ experiences:

• Don’t underestimate how simple everyday activities are new and different in a new place. A simple visit to a supermarket in another country is fascinating and can take hours. My children are absolutely fascinated by different layouts and products in shops abroad. I never would have imagined that years later we’d still be talking about these visits and that they remember the names of these shops. 
• People dress differently in different countries. Kids are observant and can be very interested in what people wear in different places you travel. 
• The vehicles on the road can be vary different from country to country. For example, there are so many bicycles in the Netherlands compared to the huge variety of campervans in Norway.
• Climate and temperature differ, even in the same month/season. Summer swimming in Poland is a very different experience than swimming in Sweden in the same month.
• No two places are ever the same. And no two visits to the same place are the same. Every visit and every place provides a different experience. 
• Foreign languages while abroad are fascinating. From listening to the people using the language to foreign language on road signs. Us trying to communicate in places where people don’t speak English is also hilarious to our children. 
• The feeling of being a guest somewhere is such a special and unique experience. 
• All these little mistakes and mishaps we have on our adventures sometimes turn out to be the funniest stories and memories (e.g. shops being closed on Sundays in some countries or places where you can only pay with cash…oops.)
• Driving our car on the right side of the road, while it’s on the left in the UK, is a whole other experience! 
• Different accents across the UK are so interesting. 
• The ability to decide what we want to do and how and the freedom to change our mind is priceless.

Are you ready for a road trip yet?

Trying something new can be both overwhelming and exciting. And that’s absolutely fine. Travelling with kids is a full-on experience; it requires effort, but it’s very exciting, too. Having a unique, self-designed, and self-made adventure can be truly rewarding, and that’s just what a road trip is!

As I write this article, we are slowly planning our next year’s adventure, which fills me with excitement about the adventures to come. I hope, that having a simple “what to do and how” guide will encourage you to try something new and will help you to create your own family road-trip adventure.

Would you consider going on a European road trip some day? 

About the author

Anna is a mum of two energetic boys and the wife of Cezary. Before they started a family, they enjoyed backpacking and hitchhiking. Once the kids arrived, they adjusted their lifestyle and settled down in the beautiful Lake District, in the northwest of England. It’s often foggy and rainy where they live, but, they are outdoors in any weather. Anna is an ultramarathon runner, and Cezary loves triathlons, so, the children grow up being involved in hiking, trail running, cycling, all-year-round wild water swimming, and camping.

Stefan is 12 years old and has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Antek is a neurotypical 10-year-old. Anna believes in positive psychology, in creating good moments and capturing memories. She believes being outdoors brings them together as a family and advocates for children with additional needs to be encouraged to explore and play outside. She trusts nature is a natural playground, enriches and stimulates the senses, and this is where she sees her children happiest. 

You can find more from Anna in the following online location:
Instagram: @celebrating_my_boys_journey
All RWMC posts: Anna Stopinska-Lewucha

The post How to Plan a Kid-Friendly European Road Trip appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Sunflowers are the flower of summer

The sunflower is the ultimate symbol of summer. Whether growing wild on the side of the road or carefully cultivated in a field, the sunflowers’ vibrant yellow blooms not only delight bees and bring smiles to faces, but they create a gorgeous backdrop for photos. However, sunflower fields are often wild (just like your kids!), so you have to consider the elements when planning a trip to a sunflower field to capture some photos. 

Why take photos in a sunflower field?

Visiting a sunflower field in the summertime for family photos can be a fantastic idea for so many reasons. The vivid colors of the sunflowers can create a visually appealing and cheerful backdrop for your family photos. Sunflower fields offer a natural and picturesque setting that can add a touch of beauty and charm to your family photos. Sunflowers are often associated with positivity, happiness, and warmth. Incorporating these symbols into your family photos can infuse a sense of joy and optimism into the images.

In addition, summer is a time of growth and abundance, and sunflowers are quintessential summer flowers. Capturing your family in a sunflower field can help evoke the essence of the season and create a timeless memory. Sunflower fields can provide a playful and adventurous atmosphere for family photos. Children can enjoy running among the sunflowers, which can lead to candid and spontaneous moments that result in charming photos.

Visiting a sunflower field with your family can be a memorable and enjoyable outing in itself. The experience of being surrounded by nature’s beauty and spending quality time together can be cherished by both parents and children. Sunflower fields can serve as a natural playground for them, making it easier to capture genuine smiles and expressions in the photos. Being in a sunflower field can help your family feel more connected to nature and the environment. This connection can be reflected in the photos, adding depth and authenticity to the images.

How to plan the perfect sunflower field photo session for your family

Taking quality photos at the sunflower field with your family requires planning and patience. It also takes a little research into the weather, temperature, wildlife, and lighting at the time you’re planning your outing. For nine summers straight, I have loaded up my family to explore sunflower fields – both commercial and wild – in four states (Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri). After countless sunflower field adventures and escapades, I feel I have made enough mistakes to help you make your family’s visit to the sunflower field go smoothly!

A little planning goes a long way to ensure your trip to the sunflower field with your family leaves you with gorgeous pictures and fond memories. Here’s everything you need to know to take amazing photos of your family at the sunflower fields this year. 

From bugs to vines, you never know what you will find on the sunflower blooms.

How to find a sunflower field near you

Finding local sunflower fields when they’re in bloom can be difficult if you don’t know where to look. Oftentimes, sunflower fields that you may see when out driving are on private property and, thus, unavailable to use for photos. Here are some effective ways to locate accessible sunflower fields open to the public in your area:

1. Online searches: Use search engines like Google to search for “local sunflower fields” or “sunflower fields near me.” This might lead you to websites, blogs, or news articles that provide information about the nearest sunflower fields and their blooming schedules. 
2. Social media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter often have local users/influencers/photographers who share their experiences visiting sunflower fields. Use relevant local hashtags to find posts and images from people who have visited sunflower fields in your area. Join local photography groups or forums to see if anyone has shared information about sunflower fields in your area.
3. Local event listings: Check out local event listing websites, community forums, or Facebook event pages. Sometimes, sunflower field owners, farms, orchards, parks, or organizations hosting events around sunflower blooms will promote these on such platforms.
4. Farm directories: Websites that list local farms and agritourism destinations often provide information about sunflower fields and other seasonal attractions. Examples include LocalHarvest and PickYourOwn.org.
5. Local news: Keep an eye on local newspapers, news websites, and TV stations. They often highlight popular seasonal attractions like sunflower fields when they’re in bloom.
6. Local tourism websites: Many cities and regions have official tourism websites that showcase local attractions, including seasonal events like sunflower blooms.
7. Botanical gardens, nature reserves, conservation areas: Check with your local botanical gardens, nature reserves, conservation areas, or parks, as they sometimes plant sunflower fields for visitors to enjoy.

8. Word of mouth: Ask friends, family members, coworkers, local photographers, or neighbors if they know of any sunflower fields in the area. Personal recommendations can be valuable for finding the best local places from those in the know.

When is peak sunflower bloom season?

Peak sunflower bloom times can vary depending on your location and climate. Generally, sunflowers tend to bloom during the late summer and early fall months. In the Northern part of the US (and Canada), sunflowers tend to peak at the end of July and the first few weeks of August. In the Midwest, August is a great month for sunflowers. And in the Southern US, blooms could go into September.

If you’re not in the US, here’s a rough guideline for peak sunflower bloom season in different regions:

Europe:

• Western Europe: July to September
• Central and Eastern Europe: August to September

Australia:

• Southern Australia: January to March (summer)
• Northern Australia: April to June (dry season)

Asia:

• Depending on the country, the sunflower bloom season can range from July to September.

Keep in mind that these are approximate timeframes and can vary due to factors like local weather conditions, specific sunflower varieties, when the sunflowers were planted, and agricultural practices. It’s a good idea to monitor local sources such as farm websites, social media, and news outlets as the season approaches to get more accurate information about the bloom timing in your area.

How to prepare for your family’s visit to the sunflower field

Like most adventures with your family, a bit of planning will make things run smoothly. Here are some things to consider and do before heading to the sunflower field with your family to explore the fields and/or take photos. 

1. Research the sunflower field’s rules

It’s important to remember that these fields are on someone’s property, and these people rely on this crop for their livelihood. 

Most fields have a social media presence, and their rules can be easily found on their Facebook or Instagram. For example, our favorite field here in eastern Kansas posts every year on its Facebook page their “rules of engagement.” Here the owners clearly, and humorously cover everything from bathrooms to behavior expectations when visiting the field. 

If a sunflower field does not have its rules listed in one place, here are a few common considerations and etiquette tips for visiting sunflower fields with your family:

• Remember that sunflower fields are often on private property or owned by farmers. Always respect the property and follow any posted rules or guidelines.
• Stick to designated paths and walkways to avoid damaging the sunflowers or trampling on the plants. This helps preserve the beauty of the field for others to enjoy.
• While it might be tempting to pick sunflowers, it’s important not to pick any sunflowers (unless you’re authorized to do so) or damage the plants. Farmers might have plans for the sunflowers after they bloom, such as using them for seeds or other purposes.
• Leave no trace and pack out everything you bring with you, including trash and litter. Keep the field clean and beautiful for others to enjoy.
• Be respectful of the local wildlife, animals and insects that call the field home.
• Be considerate of other visitors by keeping noise levels down, giving people space for photos, and waiting your turn for popular photo spots.
• If you’re taking photos, be aware of other visitors who might also want to capture the beauty of the field. Be patient and allow others to take their shots as well.
• Some sunflower fields might have entry fees, prices for cutting sunflowers, and/or specific visiting hours. Check online or contact the field owner in advance to get information about any requirements. Know what kind of payment they accept. 
• Get pertinent information about parking. If you visit an established farm that has other events like pumpkin patches or berry picking, expect to find a designated parking lot. You may have to park on the side of a road for wilder sunflower fields. Either way, find out whether parking is paved, gravel, or dirt (mud!) and plan accordingly.
• Know the bathroom situation. If you’re visiting a farm that hosts other events, they probably have a bathroom of some kind. If you plan to visit a field only open to the public during the sunflower bloom season, then have a “bathroom” plan for your family. 

Sunflower blooms do not last long once cut, but you can take some home to use for crafts or to harvest seeds to start your sunflower field next year. Make sure you know ahead of time whether the field charges per bloom cut or accepts donations. 

Think through your expectations ahead of time and then discuss them with your kids about their behavior before you head to the sunflower field so no one gets lost.

2. Set expectations before visiting the sunflower field with your family

Like any adventure with your kids, it’s important to set clear expectations of their behavior and educate them on what to expect. The sunflowers will most likely stand taller than your children, and if the sunflower field is large, staying together may be difficult. If someone wanders too far, what’s the plan? Is there a place on the edge of the field to head to, like a large rock or a tree? 

Before you head out, remind your kids that cut sunflowers don’t survive long. While it’s fun to cut them (if allowed), take only 1-2 and leave the rest in the field for other families to enjoy. Scroll down for fun activities to do with your sunflowers after you cut them. 

“Leave No Trace” principles apply to the sunflower field. Keep in mind this is someone’s land, and the sunflowers are their livelihood. The owners will need to run a tractor through the field to harvest all the sunflowers when the time comes. Things that do not help their tractor run include dirty diapers, keys, cell phones, trash, and large items you drug out there but were too lazy to drag back. Leave the field better than you found it. Pick up any trash lying around, and pack out whatever you pack in.

If your kids are willing, coordinating your outfits will help your family photographs at the sunflower field look polished.

What to wear to the sunflower field with your family

If you plan to include your family in the photos at the sunflower field, put some thought into what everyone wears, just like with any family photo shoot. Take into consideration the weather and dress accordingly. Sunflower season tends to be sunny, hot, and often humid. 

While it looks fantastic having your kids dressed up in photos, my family opts for comfort over style. I know it will help my kids enjoy the experience, which means they will cooperate with my (seemingly incessant) photo requests. My kids and husband wear synthetic shirts or polos (usually Under Armor), and I wear a workout top that will not show sweat easily. 

Also, take into consideration color choices and choose clothing that will complement the yellows and greens (and not clash with them). Stick with complementary colors like blues, whites, browns, and oranges. I always lean towards blue. We tend to go in the evening so navy and royal blue work well. If we go midday I choose a lighter blue.  As far as color scheme, you want your family to stand out amongst the flowers, but not completely steal the show. Also, try to avoid wearing clothing with logos, sayings, patterns, and characters. Stick with neutral solids in complementary colors. 

Whatever your family wears, make sure that you don’t mind them getting dirty, your kids feel comfortable wearing them, and they can move easily. 

Consider dressing in blues, whites, browns, and even orange to compliment the colors of the sunflower field.

Packing list for family photos in the sunflower field 

The weather, time of day, and the size of the field, and the accommodations available will affect your packing list. Water and snacks are mandatory for every family adventure. Here is our list of things to bring to ensure your trip to the sunflower field with your family goes smoothly.

Bug repellant

There will be bugs. Prep your kids for an abundance of pollinators zooming around the sunflower blooms. Also, because it’s a field, expect mosquitos, ticks, chiggers, and other bitey insects. We always shower and do a thorough tick check when returning home from the field. 

Sun protection

Whatever you use, bring them (sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, protective clothing). You can always remove hats and sunglasses for photos. Consider a non-toxic reef-safe sunscreen if you’re going to be touching plants and/or wildlife. 

Change of clothes/shoes

From toileting accidents to unexpected mud, pack a bag with extra clothes and shoes to ensure comfort on the ride home. Feel free to leave your change of clothes in the car; no need to lug it out to the sunflower field with you. 

Mentally prepare your family for the high number of bugs at the sunflower field.

If there’s mud, they will find it! Packing a change of clothes and extra shoes will make the ride home from the sunflower field much more comfortable.

Toileting supplies

Do bring these out into the field with us. My backpack includes wet wipes, tissues, a diaper or two, a Kula cloth, and plastic bags. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles – pack everything out.  

Camera

Whatever camera you’ll be using, make sure to bring it along. While we love a beautiful DSLR image, you can get some pretty spectacular photos using just your smartphone. If you need photography tips and tutorials, be sure to check out these tips for how to take better photos of your outdoor adventures using your iPhone. 

Tripod

Optional, but odds are, you want to be in the photos with your family. A tripod, along with a timer or remote, will allow you to set up your photos and appear in them. I recommend bringing a tripod with adjustable leg heights.

Come prepared to the sunflower field with your family. Use a stool as a prop or to help you change your point of view. Pack extra toileting supplies just in case.

Stool

Changing your angle makes a big difference when photographing sunflower fields. Having the ability to stand on an elevated surface can help hide double chins and allow you to show how vast the field is by being able to see over the tops of the flowers. A gardening stool or even a Squatty Potty will work. I attach my collapsible stool to my backpack with a carabiner to make carrying it easier. 

Props for photos

People bring all sorts of things to pose with in the sunflower fields: decorative chairs, bicycles, baskets, umbrellas, and even bubbles. You may want to load everything up into a wagon, like one you would use to haul things to your kids’ sporting events. Or you could use a wagon to haul things, and as a prop in the images, so something like an old metal Radio Flyer wagon would look great.

Let your kids pick out something fun to bring as well. Mine love to bring binoculars, a favorite hat, stuffed animals, magnifying glasses, and an old point-and-shoot digital camera so they can take photos as well. 

Sunflowers are heliotropic, meaning they follow the sun until fully bloomed. Therefore, you may find sunflower blooms facing different directions early in the season.

Tips for photographing sunflowers with your family

Fun fact to share with your kids about sunflowers: they are heliotropic. Sunflower heads follow the sun as they grow until they fully bloom. As they grow, they face east in the mornings to greet the rising sun and slowly follow the sun across the sky as the day progresses. Overnight, they return to facing east ready for the sunrise. 

1. Know the best time to take sunflower photos with your family

Understanding heliotropism comes in handy when planning a visit to the sunflower field with your family.  If you’re familiar with the sunflower fields, consider what will be in the background in that direction at the time you’re visiting. If you visit the field in full bloom, expect the majority of the blooms to face east.

Try to avoid visiting the sunflower field with your family during midday if you can. It’s hotter during this time, and most sunflower fields don’t have shade. The sun sits overhead, resulting in blown-out backgrounds, sun streaks, and harsh shadows (like the photo below). Harsh is usually not an adjective we want to describe our family photos. 

Aim to visit the sunflower field with your family in the early morning or the golden hour (1-2 hours before sunset). If you go in the early morning, the sunrise will illuminate the front of the sunflower blooms and your subjects (if you pose them in front of the flowers). If you can’t make it at these times, try visiting on a cloudy day. Cloud coverage will keep the harsh shadows at bay. 

If you visit during the golden hour, the sunset will backlight the blooms, which will create a glowing effect around them, as well as help you capture the vivid colors of the sky as the sun sets. As nightfall approaches, you may need help to illuminate the sunflower blooms and your subjects.

Unless you love to edit, stick to early morning or the golden hour for photographing your family at the sunflower field.

The sun setting behind the sunflower blooms will create all sorts of cool effects on the flowers and your family as well.

2. Get creative with different angles when photographing at the sunflower field

For me, it’s tempting to take all close-up shots of sunflowers (and my family) because I love the different textures and patterns of the flower and stem. However, variety is the spice of life and getting creative in the different angles and perspectives you can use in your photos will give them each a unique look and feel. Besides close-ups, here are some different ways to photograph sunflowers and your family in the field. 

Pull back

If you’re at a larger field, try to capture the endlessness of the blooms by widening your shot. Use hills to your advantage for this, if your field has them. Experiment with standing at the base of the hill, photographing up, and standing atop the hill shooting down.

Experiment with aperture

Widen your depth of field (using a lower/small aperture) if using a DSLR to blur the flowers in the background. You can also do this on your smartphone using portrait mode. Crop trees out as you frame your shot, as they interrupt that endless feeling unless the field is ginormous and trees mark the boundary of the field. 

Play with the light

You can also get creative when utilizing the sunlight in your images. In the evening hours, experiment with the sun shining through the sunflower blooms. Adjust how you frame the image to have the sunburst peak between flowers or have a bloom block it to create a glowing effect.

Change your perspective

Here’s where the stool and change of clothes will come in handy. Use a foldable gardening stool or Squatty Potty to get more sunflowers in your frame by elevating yourself. This works especially well for fields with taller sunflowers. Elevating your camera will also reduce the appearance of double chins.

Or, try getting really low and shoot up into the sunflowers. Crouch or even sit down and aim your camera up at the blooms. Experiment with this to see if you find a perspective you like. Finally, remember that the backs of sunflowers look beautiful as well. Don’t forget to shoot different sides of the sunflowers. 

Don’t be afraid to widen your shot to capture the vastness of the field.

Don’t be afraid to get dirty yourself – that’s why you packed an extra set of clothes after all. Crouch or sit down in the field to capture your child’s perspective.

Sunflowers are beautiful from all sides, just like your family.

Getting your kids to leave the sunflower field can be hard once the photo shoot ends. Cut a bloom, or two, to take home to enjoy and interact with even longer.

Things to do after you visit the sunflower field 

The fun doesn’t have to end once your family leaves the sunflower field. Here are three crafty projects you can easily complete with your kids in the days following your visit to the sunflowers to keep the excitement alive.

Sunflower portraits

There are lots of options with making your own sunflower portraits, with no right or wrong way to do this fun sunflower activity, as long as everyone has fun.

Take photos of the sunflowers you cut from the field and stage them in a vase on your table or the ground (inside or outside). Poll your kids to see what mediums they want to use to create their sunflower portrait. Chalk on dark-colored construction paper is always a hit at our house. Or, have your kids use a permanent marker to outline the shape of the flower, and watercolor paints to color in their sunflower.

Don’t stress too much about supplies for this craft. Even a box of regular crayons or markers paired with scratch paper from around the house produces memorable work. 

Once they finish, you can frame and display your kids’ creations alongside the photos you took in the sunflower field to create a unique and memorable gallery wall. Or stick them on the fridge.

Continue the sunflower photo shoot at home

Back at home, hand over your camera (or phone) to your kids and allow them to orchestrate their sunflower photoshoot with the stem(s) you cut from the field. Use a cardboard box to create a homemade studio. Allow your kids to find things around the house or yard to use as props and backgrounds. Teach them to play with lighting. Taking photos near a window will create different shadows and colors than if they use a flashlight or lamp as a light source. The possibilities are endless. 

You can also continue the photoshoot at home. Remove the sunflowers from their natural environment and photograph your family with the cut blooms out of the field for a unique twist. 

Don’t feel like you need to do this photoshoot as soon as you return home from the sunflower field. You can wait until the sunflowers dry out. Hang them upside down in a dry location for 4-5 days, before taking photos. Try converting their digital images to black and white. The textures on dried sunflowers look even more impressive in high contrast. 

Take the sunflower out of the field to continue the photoshoot.

Harvest your sunflower seeds 

Cut sunflowers only last so long before they begin to droop due to the weight of the bloom. You can harvest the seeds to plant in next year’s garden, bake them for a tasty snack, or use them as bird feed. Pair a bag of seeds with a sunflower portrait or photo your child took for the perfect gift for friends, family, or teachers. 

To harvest your sunflower seeds, find a dry place to hang the blooms upside down. The flower petals will wilt and begin to fall off, and the backside of the sunflower will brown. Continue to dry the sunflower until the seeds begin to loosen from the head. When the sunflower is completely dry, brush the seeds with your hand to remove them. Use tweezers to remove stubborn seeds. 

Rinse the sunflower seeds and thoroughly dry them. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them. We have a spot in our pantry where we store our seeds, up high and out of the way (but brightly labeled so I don’t forget about them).

The importance of family photos

Capturing your family’s memories through photos is one of the best ways to tell your story. No, not just for Instagram, but for your family’s posterity and future.  While social media might make it seem as if photo taking and storytelling are trendy here and now, photos are forever. Each one is a frozen moment in time you can go back to again and again. I am in it for the long-term payout. 

Not only are photos a wonderful way for parents to remember the big and small moments and details, but they’re a way to pass down those memories to your children and grandchildren. I want our memories, stories, and adventures to be stamped into the soul of our family. I want them to bring us joy for years and serve as the roots that keep us all grounded and connected.

Sunflower family photos

In the radiant embrace of a sunflower field during the summer, an opportunity for captivating gorgeous family photos comes to life. With their vibrant petals stretching toward the sun, the sunflower’s cheerful blooms set the stage for a backdrop that resonates with positivity, happiness, and the very essence of the season. Amidst the sea of golden hues, children’s laughter blends with the rustling of leaves, creating a playful and heartwarming atmosphere that encapsulates the joy of familial bonds.

Over the years, these images become more than just photographs; they are portals to cherished memories of a day spent amidst nature’s beauty and the warmth of your loved ones. In capturing the love, laughter, and togetherness within the sunflower field’s embrace, you immortalize not only the moment but also the unique spirit of summer and the irreplaceable moments shared by your family. I hope this post will inspire you to get out into a sunflower field soon and capture some memories!

Have you ever visited a sunflower field for photos?

About the author

Writer, editor, photographer, teacher, and mama. Sarah Boles resides near Kansas City, Missouri, and escapes into the woods whenever she can. Her professional and personal mission is to help families get outside by increasing access to the outdoors for everyone. When she’s not creating or teaching, Sarah’s playing outside, usually with her kids. She loves to climb, hike, run trails, snowshoe, paddle, jump in puddles, garden, and pick up trash.

You can find more from Sarah online in the following locations: 
Instagram: @on_belay_edits
RWMC posts: Sarah Boles

The post How to Take Photos at a Sunflower Field with Your Family appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Fun beach games and activities for kids

There’s no denying the sheer magic of a day at the beach. The sand beneath your toes, the salty breeze tousling your hair, and the boundless horizon stretching before you – these are the ingredients for a perfect family getaway. And what better way to infuse even more joy into your seaside beach vacation than with a medley of exciting beach games that will have your kids giggling, splashing, and creating memories to last a lifetime?

In this sun-soaked realm of endless possibilities, we’ve curated a treasure trove of awesome beach games that promise to transform ordinary sand into a canvas of laughter and adventure. Whether your little ones are aspiring sandcastle architects, curious beachcombers, or budding athletes ready to conquer the shoreline, we’ve got a game for every beach-loving heart.

So, grab your sunscreen, pack your buckets, and let’s dive into a world where imagination knows no bounds and the only rule is to have an absolute blast under the sun! Take your next beach trip up a level with these fun games and activities.

40+ beach games for kids

1. Building sandcastles
2. Beach scavenger hunt
3. Play catch
4. Journey to the center of the Earth
5. Ladder golf
6. Beach bowling
7. Make a mermaid
8. Sand angels
9. Seashell hunt
10. Fly a kite
11. River at the beach
12. Beach clean up
13. Cross net
14. Boogie boarding
15. I Spy
16. Towel tug of war
17. Buried treasure
18. Mandalas
19. Surfer dudes
20. Musical towels
21. Ice cream shop
22. Creature hunt
23. Water balloon fight
24. Beach books
25. Kan Jam
26. Paint shells
27. Hula hoop games
28. Skipping stones
29. Cornhole
30. Pebble tower
31. Simon says
32. Cloud gazing
33. Crabbing
34. Blow bubbles
35. Obstacle course
36. Limbo
37. Sand tic-tac-toe
38. Relay races
39. Spikeball
40. Uno Splash

1. Building sandcastles

What is a more quintessential beach game than building sand castles? Kids of all ages (including adults) love getting creative and building sandcastles. You can use beach buckets to form castles or get creative with your tools! My boys have used Tupperware from home, plastic cups, or even filling empty shells with damp sand to create castles. Another favorite way to make sandcastles is to use the “drip method” by using very watery sand; drip a mound of sand until it resembles an abstract castle. Decorate your castles with shells, seaweed, or driftwood!

For amazing tips from sandcastle-building experts, check out this post on Sandcastle Building with Kids. 

2. Beach scavenger hunt

Plan and print out a scavenger hunt for the beach. This is a fun and easy game for younger kids and all family members. We’ve included a free beach scavenger hunt in our Scavenger Hunt Bundle! If you’re familiar with sea life, you can create a nature-themed one yourself using common marine life in your area. Another beach treasure hunt could include a list of items commonly found at the beach, such as boats, beach umbrellas, lifeguard towers, or other similar items. Kids will have a blast checking things off their lists while exploring their surroundings. What other nature-themed items could be included in a beach scavenger hunt?

3. Play catch

Catch is a fun game for the whole family that can be played anywhere, with just about anything. This activity is a simple game, but it appeals to all ages! Whether you bring a football, a tennis ball, or even a baseball and your gloves, it will keep the kids busy and entertained for hours! My kids like challenging themselves to see how many passes they can make without dropping the ball. Here is a fun beach set that we recently purchased and my kids love! Throw it in your beach bag and break it out whenever the kids are ready for some action!

4. Journey to the center of the Earth

This is a fun game for kids of all ages. The object of the game is to see who can dig the deepest hole! That’s it! Grab your shovels and get to work! Guaranteed to be fun, entertaining, and wear those kids out! Just be sure to fill the hole in before you leave so no one accidentally falls in! 

5. Ladder golf

If you haven’t heard of ladder toss before, maybe you’ve been living in that giant hole you just dug! Ladder toss (or ladder golf) requires that each player toss a set of two rubber balls attached by a string (called a bolo) across 15 feet to land around one of the three rungs on the ladder. The first player (or team) to reach exactly 21 points wins. The tricky parts are not going over 21 points and expertly aiming for each rung since they each have different point values: The top is worth 3 points, the middle is worth 2 and the bottom is worth 1.

6. Beach bowling

This is a simple game that can be played a few different ways. One way would be to have the players dig a set of small holes and roll a ball into one of them. Award points according to the difficulty of getting to a hole, and be sure to use a lightweight ball to increase the level of difficulty. Or, if you fill and set up plastic water bottles and roll a ball to see how many pins you can knock over (like traditional bowling). 

7. Make a beach mermaid

Create your mermaid sculpture in the sand by carving out her tail and long beachy locks with your hands. You can even bury someone up to their arms in sand and create the mermaid effect on their bottom half. Add shells for decoration, seaweed hair, rocks for eyes, or any other creative additions you can think of! The kids will let their imagination flow, and you will be impressed with how different everyone’s mermaids look! Bonus points if you give your mermaid a beach-themed name! 

8. Sand angels

Making sand angels is one of the easiest and most fun activities for kids. All you have to do to make sand angels is simply lay flat on their backs and flap their arms to make angel wings. If you want to take it to the next level, decorate your angel’s wings with shells. 

9. Seashell hunt

For this fun beach game, challenge the kids to search the beach and collect as many different shells as possible. You can also make it a competition by challenging the kids to get the biggest shell or the maximum number of shells. Once you’ve collected shells, you can identify them and learn about them through a shell ID app. 

10. Fly a kite

Is the weather forecast predicting a breezy day at the beach? Then you’re in luck because a bit of wind makes a perfect day for flying a kite! Kiting is a healthy and active outdoor activity for kids that is usually very low-cost and budget-friendly. Spending time outside means that kids get a healthy dose of Vitamin D from sunlight. Flying a kite also provides exercise for your child’s body as they chase. It’s wonderful for hand-eye coordination, kinesthetic awareness, and gross motor skills. Kite flying also helps strengthen the eyes, as they focus far and near, observing and controlling the kite’s flight. 

For more information on the best way to fly a kite, the best kites for kids, and more, check out our full post on Kite Flying with Kids. 

11. River at the beach

Provide your kids with beach shovels and buckets and have them dig a river on the beach! Kids will love digging narrow trenches on the sand close to the water to create a river that will hold water and float objects to the sea. Use the buckets full of water to make a flowing stream through the trenches and float a small boat (or ball or piece of driftwood) down the river. Get creative and make it curvy, or add a sand dam to hold the water back and release it all at once.

12. Clean up the beach

Wait! Before you ignore this suggestion, consider the fantastic example you will set for your children by participating in an activity that shows them how to take care of our oceans. Fostering a love of nature and caring for our planet is so important; why not make it fun by doing a beach cleanup? Your kids will be proud of themselves, and mother earth will thank you. Remember to bring hand sanitizer, gloves, and your trash bags. You’ll have a great time, inspire other beachgoers to do the same, and make your beach day feel great! 

13. Cross net

Cross net is when beach volleyball meets four square. This game is a ton of fun for older kids and adults. It’s set up for 4+ players; the first to reach 11 points is the winner. While this set is definitely a bit bigger to lug around than some of the others, it’s still relatively easy to assemble and carry, so you can take it with you as long as you have a little extra space. 

14. Boogie boarding

Surfing on the waves or floating in the tide pools is a great way to spend the day at the beach. Boogie boards are great for all ages and are generally inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to carry to and from the beach. We even use our boards as makeshift seats when having our picnic lunch. I recommended the boogie boards with the Velcro wrist strap so the board doesn’t float away into the open ocean. This strap is also helpful for giving each other rides on the boogie boards in the shallow water.

Check out our full post for more information on Boogie Boarding with Kids. 

15. I spy

An “I Spy” game can be played anywhere, but somehow it can be the most fun at the beach! With younger children, we like to play the color version of this game (“I spy, with my little eye, something orange!”), and for older kids, the letter version is also fun (“I spy, with my little eye, something that starts with the letter L”). The first person to guess correctly gets to pick the next object. There are SO many things to find at the beach, from seagulls to crabs, lifeguards, beach toys, and maybe even an ice cream truck. 

16. Towel tug of war

Kids love playing tug of war. At the beach, you can stir up their competitive side with mention of this challenge. You’ll need at least two players to get this game started, but it’s more fun with four or more people. Start things off by putting a marker on the sand — a stick, line in the sand, or pool noodle can be ideal. Now both teams try their hardest to pull the towel hard enough to pull the other team across the line. The best of 3 out of 5 rounds wins!

17. Buried treasure

Round up your little pirates and have them spend some time searching for buried treasure. You can use play or real coins and bury these in the sand, or even go the extra mile and find a makeshift treasure chest that you can fill with goodies. Give the kids shovels and let them dig to find the treasure. To make the game feel more authentic, create a treasure map with clues and hand one out to each participant.

18. Make a mandala

With all the bits and bobs you can find at the beach, why not create ephemeral art with them? Collect rocks, shells, feathers, seaweed, driftwood, and even pieces of molted crab shells into your beach bucket. All these beach finds would be great additions to a mandala. Use what you find to create a circle or art, in any way that floats your boat! But quick, take a photo of your mandala before the tide washes it away. You can ask your kids to create their mandalas or work on a large one together; either way, you will produce a great memory by creating this piece of art!

For more information, check out our full post on Making Nature Mandalas with Kids. 

19. Surfer dudes

Surfer Dudes are an award-winning surf toy that’s so much fun for kids to play with at the beach. All you need to do is toss the Surfer Dudes into the waves and watch them go! The little surfer dude surfs the waves and (like boomerang magic) comes right back to you on shore! No batteries or wind-up is required – uses the energy of the surf. 

20. Musical towels

Remember the age-old game of musical chairs? Well, this one is very similar! Spread out your beach towels in a circle, and play some music. Have the kids circle the towels, and when the music stops, everyone has to jump onto a towel. Whoever is left without a spot to sit is OUT! Make it fun for the ejected player by allowing them to control the music on the next round. If you don’t have enough kids in your own family to play this game, consider inviting other beachgoers to participate! Making friends at the beach makes these beach games even more fun!

You can also play this game with beach chairs, if you have enough. 

21. Ice cream shop

My kids LOVE playing imagination games, and “restaurant/ice cream shop” at right up there at the top. We love this set of ice cream shop beach toys, which the kids use to inspire hours of imaginary ice cream shop play. They love creating the shop counter out of sand, finding shells to use as money, serving customers, and pretending to run the ice cream shop. 

22. Creature hunt

This activity is my favorite game on the beach, even as an adult. Exploring tide pools or walking along the rocky edge of the shore, you will undoubtedly find small sea creatures who call the beach home. You may find starfish, hermit crabs, sea worms, or even small fish! Make it a game by challenging your children to identify what they find, see who can find the most hermit crabs, etc. Remember to release animals you catch or just look instead of capturing them. However you play this game, you will undoubtedly find something fascinating!

23. Water balloon fight

There’s nothing better on a warm summer’s day than getting competitive with a water balloon fight! And this can definitely be taken with you to the beach! We recommend reusable and refillable water balloons, so there’s no mess to clean up or potential plastic harm to the environment. You could also use water balloons for other games, including water balloon baseball!  

24. Beach books

Another favorite beach activity for me is reading, but I know that is only sometimes a child’s favorite thing to do at the beach. Create a cozy nook for your kids to read a book; it might be more appealing. We like to bring a pop-up tent and our favorite beach blanket to make a cozy rest area, and this would be the perfect spot to read a book. Bonus points if the books are beach-themed! For babies or toddlers, consider bringing the waterproof style books that you can use in the tub; this way, they won’t be damaged by the water and can be easily cleaned up if they get sandy. 

25. Kan Jam

Kan Jam is a great game to take to the beach! Played similarly to cornhole or horseshoes, the object of this frisbee game is to toss the disc toward the goal (a can with a hole in the side) and, with the help of your partner, Jam it in the Kan! First to 21 points WINS. This is a lightweight and durable disc golf set that travels well and is easy to set up so you can play in seconds.

26. Paint shells or beach rocks

Painting can be a great activity anywhere, but it’s super fun at the beach! Most of the time, we use acrylic paint so it will stay on the rocks and not wash away. However, when we take this activity to the beach, I recommend using non-toxic watercolor paint! This way, there won’t be a mess, and you won’t harm sea life with toxic paint. The watercolor will not stay on the rocks, but the painting process is entertaining enough!

27. Hula hoop games

There are so many fun ways to play with hula hoops at the beach. You can definitely use a hula hoop in the traditional way around your waist, but that’s just the beginning. You can organize a friendly hula hoop contest to see who can keep the hoop spinning the longest. Try different tricks and techniques to keep things exciting. Use the hula hoop as the limbo bar. Have participants take turns bending backward and trying to pass under the hula hoop without touching it. Set up targets in the sand and challenge each other to toss the hula hoop and land it around the target. Assign different point values to each target for added competition. Create a ring toss game using the hula hoop as the target. Toss smaller rings or pool noodles to try and ring the hula hoop. Play a game of Twister by laying the hula hoop on the sand and designating different colored spots. Hold the hula hoop horizontally and swing it like a jump rope. Challenge each other to jump through the rotating hoop without touching it.

28. Skipping stones

Skipping stones is a fantastic beach game for children and adults alike. Ask your children to hunt for the best stones, the ones that are flat and smooth, and show them how to toss them parallel to the water to create the best skipping effect. With older children, make it a challenge to see who can get the highest number of skips! Another idea is to collect stones ahead of time from your yard, the park, etc., and bring them to the beach to have a skipping competition! 

For more information on this fun beach activity, check out our full post on Skipping Stones with Kids. 

29. Cornhole

Cornhole has become a trendy lawn game in recent years; why not take it to the beach, too? Make sure that if you’re bringing it to the beach, the materials it is constructed with can withstand water and outdoor elements! We like this version that’s collapsible and folds up small (because you’re already packing a LOT to go to the beach with kids). Cornhole is one of those fun family beach games that you can play again and again. The first team to earn 21 points wins! You can even host a cornhole tournament on the beach if you have enough people!

30. Pebble tower

One thing you’ll probably find an abundance of at most beaches is rocks. You can practice your balance and test your steady hand by trying to stack the rocks to create cairns or pebble towers. See who can construct the tallest tower! But remember, you must disassemble your towers before you leave the beach, so make sure to snap a photo of your creations and then put the rocks back where you found them. 

31. Simon says

Play a game of Simon Says with beach-themed commands, like “Simon says jump like a dolphin” or “Simon says make a sand angel.” “Simon says jump over the pretend waves.” or “Simon says balance on one leg like a flamingo.” Remember to keep the commands light-hearted and creative to make the game more enjoyable. The beach-themed Simon Says game adds an interactive and imaginative element to your beach day, promoting active play and laughter among kids of all ages.

32. Cloud gazing

If you need a break from these fantastic beach games and activities, consider this lazy activity that requires you to lie down! Lie on your back in your beach chair or towel, and gaze into the sky to see what cloud shapes you can find! This activity works best on semi-cloudy days, but wear eye protection regardless of the weather. You never know what you might find, a dragon, a bunny wearing a top hat, or even a pirate ship!

33. Crabbing

This specific activity might only work for some beaches, but it works very well if there is a rocky jetty along the beach you are visiting. You will need a piece of string, a clothespin, and some deli meat to create a crab fishing line. Tie the string to the end of the clothespin, and clip a small piece of deli meat in the clothespin. Lower the fishing line into the crevices in the jetty and see who bites! We have caught green, lady, and even an occasional blue crab this way. We do not keep the crabs we catch but release them after checking them out. They are surprisingly exciting creatures!

34. Blow bubbles

What kid doesn’t like blowing bubbles? This activity can be a great beach game for kids if the wind isn’t too strong! Remember that the bubbles will float down the beach, so keep your neighbors in mind! My favorite thing about blowing bubbles on the beach is that the mess is not a problem. Jump in the water to wash off the bubble solution if there is a spill. My kids like to make it challenging to see who can blow a giant bubble. 

For more bubbletastic fun, bubble accessories, and DIY bubble solution, be sure to check out our full post on Bubbles with Kids.

35. Obstacle course

So now that you’ve lugged all your beach toys, boogie boards, and towels onto the beach, why not create a game using all the pieces at once? Challenge your kids to create their obstacle course! Jump over shovels, fill a pail with sand, roll over your beach blanket, and crawl under the beach tent. This activity is engaging and can spark their creative side!

36. Beach limbo

Grab a stick and challenge kids to limbo! Take turns letting the kid go under the stick (walking forwards and bending backwards) as the height gradually decreases. The last person to make it under without falling over wins! 

37. Tic-tac-toe

Draw a tic-tac-toe board in the sand and challenge your kids to a classic game! Tic-Tac-Toe is one of those games that’s easy enough for preschoolers, yet is still competitive enough to entertain older kids and adults.  You can use sticks to draw the board in the sand and then use seashells or rocks as game pieces. Just wipe the board clean and start over when someone wins. 

38. Beach relay races

Beach relay races will add some laughter and friendly competition to your day at the beach. Create your teams or set up individual challenges. Have the kids race each other to the finish line forward, backward, sideways, and doing crabwalks. If you have enough people, set up a water bucket relay where you pass a plastic cup of water and fill a bucket at the end (the team that spills the least and goes the fastest wins). 

39. Spikeball

There’s a reason Spikeball is one of the fastest-growing games you think of when you think of beach games. It’s like beach volleyball, except that you bounce the ball on a mini trampoline rather than over a net. Also, you don’t have to worry about staying on your side of the court! It’s easy to set up anywhere and can be transported in a light drawstring bag.

40. Uno Splash

For the beach, we also love UNO Spash, which is all the same rules as traditional UNO, only in a waterproof package. Now you don’t have to worry about ruining your cards with sand or water damage. It comes on a convenient clip that is great for keeping track of all of the cards and hooking them to your beach bag. 

Best beach games and activities for kids

I hope some of these ideas for beach games and activities will help you and your kids have a wonderful time at the beach. Having an arsenal of the best games and activities ready is a fun way to ensure everyone has a good time. But the best part about a day at the beach with your family and friends is the priceless time you will spend together and the memories you’re creating!

Are you ready for a day of beach games with your kids?

About the author

Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod.” Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

The post 40 Beach Games for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Nature books that inspire adventure

Now that you know many wonderful ways to use your public library for outdoor adventuring, let’s highlight some of the best nature books for going on outdoor adventures. In this post, we’ll delve into a handpicked selection of the best 25+ nature books for kids that are tailor-made to ignite the spirit of adventure and foster a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.

These literary companions aren’t just meant to be read – they’re designed to inspire adventure and provide valuable insights, fascinating facts, and imaginative tales that will make every step feel like a page turned in real life. These books can be used to prepare for an adventure or to take along with you to your outdoor activities to enhance nature appreciation and play.

Whether our kids are preparing to try a new outdoor activity, or they are getting excited for an adventure tradition, books can bring joy and fun to the experience. Books can give kids a chance to view an experience from the outside looking in. They can help a child explore how they might feel or act in the situation. Through the lens of the characters, our kids can imagine themselves solving problems, exploring, or jumping in water in similar situations.

Where to find the recommended books

Of course, I love public libraries and will always support them by checking out books. However, if you’d like to purchase any of these recommendations, this post contains affiliate links, so your purchase helps RWMC earn a tiny commission (with no extra cost to you), which our small business really appreciates! Or finally, if you would like to support independent and local bookstores by buying these books, we recommend Bookshop!

Best nature books for spring & summer outdoor adventures

In this post, I have gathered some of the best books that highlight outdoor adventures to be done in the spring and summer. We are enjoying the warm weather and all the unique experiences we can have as a family during this time of year.

I love these books because they are beautifully made and capture exactly what we want our kids to see and experience on our outdoor adventures. There are so many different climates, situations, locations, etc., that nature books can highlight. I have compiled a wide variety of those.

I have also chosen these books because they cover a wide variety of attitudes, emotions, and approaches to nature adventures. There are board books for babies, early chapter and non-fiction books for older kids, and picture books for all. There is problem-solving, appreciation and celebration, sensory processing, and fun.

And finally, there is inclusion. If we want kids with many different identities to enjoy the outdoors, they must be able to see someone like them enjoying it as well. This opens a world of possibilities and thrills they might not have connected with otherwise. 

How to use these nature books

Before an adventure (preparing for an adventure)

Use these books leading up to your adventure to prepare and enhance! Start reading the selected books with your kids in the weeks leading up to your planned outdoor adventure. Make it a family activity by setting aside dedicated reading time. Encourage discussions about the topics covered in the books, and let your kids ask questions and share their thoughts. This shared exploration will build excitement and anticipation for the upcoming outdoor adventure.

When we take kids to an outdoor adventure they have never experienced before, we want to prepare them to know what to expect. Just as you might pretend-play going to the doctor with your kids, you can read books to help kids imagine the experience. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall can help calm your child’s nerves before swimming. And This Beach is Loud! by Samantha Cotterill can help give you and your child some calming tips when sensory overload threatens to derail an adventure. With tools and examples found in these nature books, our kids can feel confident in themselves as they head out to a new adventure. 

During an adventure

Bring the books onto your adventure so your kids can read them on the long drive, while taking a break for lunch, or relaxing outdoors. Give your kids one of these books when they have some downtime on an adventure, and simply observe how they might use the world around them to build off of the story.

During the actual outdoor adventure, encourage your kids to reference the books they’ve read whenever they come across a plant, animal, or landmark they recognize. Discuss the real-world connections between what they’ve learned from the books and what they’re experiencing firsthand. Engage in conversations about the environment, ecosystems, and conservation based on the themes explored in the books.

Incorporate activities and challenges inspired by the books into your outdoor adventure plans. For example, if you’ve read about tracking animals in the wild, make it a game to identify animal tracks during the hike. If a story mentioned building a shelter, try constructing a simple one together during your camping trip. These interactive experiences will make the adventure feel like a real-life extension of the books and encourage hands-on learning.

After the adventure

After the adventure, set aside time to reflect on the experience together. Have your kids write or draw in their journals, documenting the things they discovered, the challenges they overcame, and the moments of awe and wonder they experienced. This reflection process reinforces the lessons learned from the books and helps cement their newfound appreciation for nature.

Nature books for kids of all ages

There are many picture books, some board books, and some early chapter books. Whether your kids are pre-readers, new readers, or venturing into books all on their own, there is something for everyone on this list. Besides, the research shows that reading out loud with kids of ALL ages is beneficial to their retention.

Toddlers and preschoolers

For the youngest adventurers, I’ve included some beautifully illustrated picture books that showcase the diversity of nature. When reading these books with your little ones, point out animals, plants, and landscapes in the pictures, sparking their curiosity and vocabulary. You can also engage with the book through tactile experiences like touching leaves or feeling textures. Let them mimic animal sounds or movements mentioned in the book, encouraging playful learning.

Elementary school age 

For elementary school kids, I’ve included some books that dive deeper into specific nature-related topics like rocks, weather, or animal behavior. If they want to go beyond the book, have them research the ecosystem of the adventure site, making them feel like junior naturalists. Feel free to also utilize beginner-friendly field guides that focus on local wildlife, trees, and insects. Teach them how to use the guide to identify species, and encourage them to make their own nature journal.

This is also a great age to start reading adventure novels set in the great outdoors. These stories can inspire imagination and creativity, while also teaching valuable lessons about teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental awareness.

25 of the best nature books for outdoor adventures

Books about national parks

1. All Aboard! National Parks by Kevin and Haily Meyers
2. The Sequoia Lives On by Joanna Cooke
3. Oliver: The Second Largest Living Thing on Earth by Josh Crute
4. National Parks of the U.S.A. by Kate Siber

There are many National Parks to explore, and these books can provide you and your kids with information about the history and the uniqueness of each one. If you are taking a road trip or flying to a National Park this summer, bring these books along to get ready. The Sequoia Lives On and Oliver both showcase the mystery and awe of trees. All Aboard! Nationals Parks is a board book and contains basic information on National Parks and National Parks of the U.S.A. is a lovely and more in-depth look at each park. 

Books about camping

1. Fatima’s Great Outdoors by Ambreen Tariq
2. The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann
3. C is for Camping by Greg Paprocki

All three of these books can help you are your kids prepare for a camping trip. Camping requires a lot of arrangements, and these books will give your kids the chance to gather and pack their own gear and supplies, as well as prime them for the things they can help with and do once you are at the site. They also highlight the many fun things they might do on the camping trip- like hiking and making s’mores.   

Books about hiking

1. Cece Loves Science and Adventure by Kimberly Derting and Shelli R Johannes
2. Hike by Pete Oswald
3. The Hike by Alison Farrell

We hike weekly with our friends, and each of my kids finds something different to enjoy on these adventures. We can be on a trail for hours and only travel one mile because of the many climbing, stick-collecting, and building stops we make. Other times, we can summit a hike and feel so accomplished as we take in the beauty. These books showcase the wonderful experience of heading outdoors and starting and stopping along a path in order to see the interesting things around you. 

Books about visiting the beach and swimming

1. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
2. The Whale in My Swimming Pool by Joyce Wan
3. Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins
4. Bluey: The Beach
5. This Beach is Loud! by Samantha Cotterill
6. Day at the Beach by Tom Booth

Swimming and heading to the beach are great group and family outings, and each of these books celebrates the joy and confidence that kids can find through water play. Our Pool encapsulates an exciting summer day spent at the pool with games and snacks, and all-around fun. All the other books present problem-solving scenarios for kids to learn from, prepare, and even laugh through with imagination. Every book here would be an entertaining addition to your pool or beach trip.   

Books about collecting and observing bugs, animals, natural objects

1. Look What I Found in the Woods by Moira Butterfield
2. Hank’s Big Day by Evan Kuhlman
3. Howl Like a Wolf by Kathleen Yale
4. Billy Loves Birds by Jess French
5. What’s in Your Pocket by Heather L. Montgomery
6. The Bug Collector by Alex G. Griffiths
7. Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro

Do your kids love to come home with pockets full of rocks or watch bugs in the yard? Do they know a lot about different animals or want to keep journals of all the things they learn? Any of these books would thrill your kids! 

Each of these books help kids know how to safely, ethically, and interestingly connect to the living world around them. Look What I Found is a series, and I love that there are non-fiction and seek-and-find pages mixed into the story. Zoey and Sassafras is an early chapter book series that mixes scientific facts and processes with mythical creatures living around Zoey’s house. Howl Like a Wolf even encourages kids to act like animals through games as they learn about animal behaviors.   

Books about exploring different environments (series)

1. Over and Under the Canyon by Kate Messner
2. Over and Under the Pond by Kate Messner
3. Over and Under the Rainforest by Kate Messner
4. Over and Under the Waves by Kate Messner
5. Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner

This series highlights multiple environments, from your own backyard garden to the rainforest. The books draw specific attention to sights and sounds above the water or below the dirt of a canyon. Find the book that best fits the environment you will be visiting to help kids familiarize themselves with the unique things they might see on your adventure. 

Nature books enhance adventures

Just as important as gathering all the gear for an adventure is enhancing our kids’ imagination *on* the adventure. If we read books about swimming at a pool or the beach, our kids can imagine themselves there as well. They will have a well-rounded picture of what they could or want to experience. When we read with our kids, we are encouraging their imagination, inspiring creativity, eliminating some apprehension, and helping them prepare for getting outside and exploring. 

I have seen firsthand how reading has prepared my kids for our outdoor activities and adventures. I’ve watched them reenact or extend the story from a book we’ve read while they are outdoors, which is just amazing to see! After reading The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann, we went on a nature trail with friends. My toddler and her friends built pretend fires and “warmed” themselves. And the older siblings dragged logs together to build forts or bed platforms. The information from the story I had read them combined with their own imaginative play led to hours of entertainment and cross-age playtime. They engaged in cooperative and imaginative play that wonderfully included everyone. This led to a more immersive outdoor experience because they were using the nature around them to make the game possible.  

How will you use these nature books?

About the author

Emily and her family have moved across the US multiple times, and the best things about each state have been the outdoor adventures and the public libraries! Now living in Utah, Emily has continued her love for both. She explores both mountain and city outdoor spaces weekly with her three kids and friends and attends library story times, as well as leads a local story time. Emily has a passion for children’s literature. She uses books to educate, promote inclusion, understanding, and justice, and inspire adventure and creativity. Emily loves how reading and being outdoors overlap in so many exciting ways!

You can find Emily online in the following locations:
Instagram: @inclusivelibrary
RWMC Posts: Emily Liebel

The post 25 Best Nature Books for Outdoor Adventures appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

While not everything runs smoothly, there are some things that are working well for our family this summer. Here are my top 5 summer parenting hacks that are working really well for us right now. I hope some of them will help you figure out ways that your summer might run a little more smoothly too! 

1. Alphabet Days

The kids and I are doing alphabet-themed adventures this summer, which is helping us explore our surroundings and check out places we might not have otherwise tried. About once I week we brainstorm all the things we could do that start with that letter. This includes activities, as well as visiting places that start with that letter, or eating food that starts with that letter.

For example, for “B” day we went bowling (fun!) and tried boba tea (yuck!). We also considered going to the botanical gardens or the butterfly house. Or, we could have chosen to go boating or have ice cream at Baskin Robbins. You get the point. 

What’s great about this is the kids get to help brainstorm and pick the activity, so they’re vested. I’ve heard way less complaining about what we’re doing. Sometimes I make an executive decision about our daily activity and they have been great about going along with it.

It’s also been a great way to compile a huge list of all the fun things to do in our area, which I’ll keep and refer back to when we need ideas. Anytime we’re out and think of something fun or discover a new place, I add it to our list.

Here’s what we’ve done so far (and you can see photos from all our alphabet adventures on my personal Instagram feed – @sara_mccarty): 

• A = Aquarium + Andy’s
• B = Bowling + boba tea
• C = City Museum & Circus Flora
• D = Dinner at the duck club
• E = Echo Bluff in Eminence
• F = Foraging at Forest Gully Farms
• G = Grafton
• H = Horseback riding + Hi Pointe hamburgers
• I = Ice cream farm tour

2. Sunscreen battles

First of all, I’ll start by saying I despise sunscreen. Like, hate hate hate it. The kids and I are fair and freckly, so we need it, but I hate putting it on myself, I hate putting it on the kids, I hate how it feels, I hate that it always breaks me out, I hate reapplying, I hate wrestling and fighting with the kids about it, I hate that it’s so expensive, I hate all the chemicals. HATE. 

It’s no fun to hate something that much that you have to do every day. It was making me cranky and constantly putting me in a bad mood, so something had to change. For the last couple of years, I’ve been slowly collecting tips and tricks to make this whole sunscreen process a little easier. What used to send me into a fit of rage now is only mildly annoying, so I’m going to call that a win.

Here are a few things that have changed my attitude on the sunscreen situation:

Find a sunscreen you don’t hate

After hearing everyone rave about it, I finally made the switch from the crappy sunscreen I bought at Target to the good stuff. I now use BeautyCounter sunscreen on myself and the kids. And I love it. 

Yes, it’s spendy, but it takes away a few of the things I listed above that hate about sunscreen (no nasty chemicals (reef safe), feels light, doesn’t break me out), so that makes it worth it to me. This is slightly embarrassing to admit, but I love it so much that I signed myself up to sell it (mainly so I could get it myself at a discount, if I’m being honest). I love it that much. Get yourself some right now. (Oh, and the BC deodorant is also life-changing. I’ll stop now.)

Use a sponge to apply to faces

This is another game changer. I bought these cheap makeup sponges and use them to apply sunscreen to the kids faces. It SO much easier than using your fingers. It applies evenly and doesn’t leave the kids faces white (which they hate). 

Wear a rashguard

Less skin exposed means less skin to apply sunscreen to. I’m a huge fan of rashguards and try to put my kids (and myself) in them as much as possible. It’s not always their favorite, so if they want to wear something else, I bring them along, and they can put them on later. This a win for them because they’d usually much rather put a rashguard on than get out of the water, dry off, get sunscreen reapplied to them, wait for it to dry, then get back in the water. 

3. Meal planning and snacks

Ugh, does just the thought of making another meal make you want to cry, too? It’s a never-ending battle to keep up with meals and snacks over the summer with the kids home all.the.time. and always hungry. If we’re home, someone is asking me for food. It drives me bananas. Again, I knew this going into summer, so I tried doing things a bit differently. Not everything has worked (I’m still schlepping snacks out left and right), but here are a few things that have helped.

Snack station

I’m not a big fan of giving my kids unmonitored access to snacks because they will go hog wild, but I also don’t want to have to dole out every single snack they have all summer long, so I needed a compromise. I went to Trader Joe’s and stocked up on “healthy-ish” snacks that I didn’t mind them eating on their own (applesauce, dried fruit, fresh fruit, granola bars, pretzels, popcorn, yogurt, cut veggies, trailmix, cheese, crackers, etc.) and then set everything up in a spot in the basement fridge that’s easily accessible to them.

I also added glass flip-top reusable water bottles that I run through the dishwasher and refill a few times a week (like these). I’m always looking for more goodies to add to this list, so if you have any ideas, let me know. 

Hello Fresh meals

I signed up again for Hello Fresh meal kits. Each week, I pick four meals (dinner) and get the ingredients delivered, which has been a huge time saver for me when it comes to meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal prep. I order the meals for 4 people (even though there are 5 of us) and usually add extra meat to the meal (because my husband eats enough for 3), which gives us plenty for dinner and a little leftover for lunches.

I switch up the orders each week (although we do have favorites – lettuce wraps, moo shu pork, street-cart chicken bowls), and it’s seemed to work really well. I wouldn’t say they’re the fastest meals to make each evening (probably around 30-45 minutes from start to finish), but I like the cooking part (just not the planning part), so this saves me from having to figure out what to each multiple nights each week, and thus, saves my sanity.

There are a lot of these types of meal kit services out there (pick your favorite!), but if you want to try Hello Fresh, this link will get you some free meals. 

4. Summer reading

The kids and I are all doing a summer reading challenge through our local public library. I’ve been plowing my way through some great books lately, but I’m trying to be more intentional about sitting down and reading a physical book in front of the kids. I’ve heard over and over that kids will read more if they see parents reading. I read a ton, but I realized I wasn’t really doing it in front of my kids.

I’m always reading multiple books at once. I’ll be listening to an audiobook (although some may not consider this reading) in the car or doing chores around the house, and I also have books downloaded to my phone (which sometimes just looks like me playing on a screen to my kids). My physical books sit on my bedside table and I read every night before bed (which the kids don’t see because they’re asleep). I realized this needed to change, so I’ve been trying to be more intentional about reading during the day in front of them, whether that’s at home, at the pool, at the farm, or creekside. If I have a few minutes, I read. 

I don’t know if it’s making any difference yet, but I’m enjoying it! If you’re interested, you can see what I’m reading here. I’d love to hear what you’re reading! 

5. Sober summer

This one’s probably not going to be for everybody, but in early May, I decided to cut out all alcohol for the rest of the summer. Yes, I know, it sounds awful (and sometimes it is), but for the most part, I’m so glad I did this. I was really tired of feeling SO.TIRED. all the time and wondered if my evening cocktails were making feel worse in the long run, despite feeling better in the moment. What I was thinking was a stress reliever was actually causing me more stress because I was just feeling cruddy all the time. Here’s what I’ve noticed after 2+ months of not drinking:

• I feel better, but I’m still tired. I know I’m sleeping more (going to bed much earlier than I was) and sleeping better (according to my SleepNumber sleep score), but I’m still exhausted all the time. I think this is just normal for being mid-40s and trying to keep up with 3 little kids. I’m old, I’m working through it. Ha!
• My skin looks much better and I (finally) lost a couple pounds. These were unexpected side effects that have been pleasantly surprising. I’ve noticed I haven’t been breaking out as much (even wearing sunscreen every day!) and (after two months) I’m down a few (around 5) pounds. I mean, I’m not anywhere close to pre-baby weight, but at least moving in the right direction again. 
• Social situations are a bit awkward, but not that bad. And it’s totally me being awkward, not others. For the most part, when I tell people I’m not drinking for the summer they’re super supportive. Although, I do get a lot of “good for you, but that’s not for me” responses, which is totally fine! I’m not trying to push this agenda on anyone and I certainly don’t care if people around me drink. I already know I’m socially awkward, so (again), I’m just working through it. 
• I’ve swapped out my evening cocktail for spa water (I use that term very loosely). Whatever fruit I can find in the house or garden I throw in this infuser pitcher with  some water (or sparkling water)  and viola! I’m plowing through my rouge mint patch from the garden and trying to figure out how to grow a lemon tree! Strawberries, watermelon and lemons are great (bananas, grapes and apples…not so much). 

About Sara

Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child (runwildmychild.com), a resource website, online community and podcast all about getting kids off screens and outside, one adventure at a time. She’s a mom of 3, wife, and a corporate securities lawyer. She grew up in the country, but now lives in St. Louis and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She’s passionate about reading, photography, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.

The post 5 Things That Are Working for Me This Summer appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Now is the time to create your summer bucket list

As the weather begins to transition from the coolness of winter to the warmth of summer, there is a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air. Spring brings a renewed energy and a feeling of excitement, making it the perfect time to brainstorm and plan for the upcoming summer adventures. Summer will be here before you know it, so it’s time to get started on your summer bucket list.

As a kid, summer felt everlasting. As an adult, it feels like we blink three times, and it’s over.  By starting to make your summer bucket list now, you can maximize your summer fun as you plan! You have ample time to research, gather information, and make necessary arrangements for the activities on your bucket list. Whether it’s booking campsites, researching hiking trails, or planning day trips to local attractions, having a head start allows you to secure reservations and ensure smooth logistics.

In this post, you’ll find tips and tricks for creating a summer bucket list to help set your summer up for success– supporting memorable adventures and family growth. Whether you seek thrilling escapades, tranquil explorations, or moments of pure relaxation, the options are endless for a summer filled with outdoor adventure.

What’s a summer bucket list?

A summer bucket list is a collection of activities, experiences, and goals you and your family want to accomplish during the summer. It’s a way to create a roadmap of adventures, both big and small, that will make the most of the season. By involving your kids in the process of creating a summer bucket list, you not only empower them to have a say in the family’s activities but also foster their creativity, curiosity, and sense of exploration.

Creating a bucket list together allows your kids to dream big and think outside the box while actively participating in the planning process. Making a summer bucket list together as a family not only builds anticipation and excitement but also strengthens the bond between family members as you embark on shared experiences and create lifelong memories. It encourages quality time spent together, away from screens and distractions, and enables you to discover new places, try new activities, and explore the beauty of nature together. It’s a chance to break away from routines, step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of the fleeting summer months.

We are a bucket list family

I am a BIG bucketlist person. We, collectively as a family, make one every season to ensure we are intentional about setting goals and carving out time for the things we value most. Bucket lists can help increase buy-in (from everyone), keep us on the same page, and help ensure we’re living our lives with intention. 

If you’re new to bucket lists, summer is the perfect season to start. The long days and forgiving schedule of summer make bucket lists both exciting (for dreaming) and invaluable (for structure and planning). For me, it’s crucial that my bucket lists are diverse in both intensity and scope. I include goals that are big and challenging, and also the small, easy-to-accomplish glue-like pieces that keep us moving and happy. We need it all!

How to make a summer bucket list together as a family

We always make our seasonal bucket lists together as a family. In many ways, treat it as a code we’re committing to because in order for any of the stuff to happen, we all have to be on board, invested, and involved in the pieces. Everyone also naturally has their own ideas, interests, and priorities; sharing these can be really grounding as a family. 

When planning your summer bucket list with your kids, it’s essential to foster open and engaging conversations that allow everyone’s ideas to be heard and considered. There are so many ways to frame this process, but essentially we just sit down and talk about what sorts of things we want to do and dig into this coming season.

The planning process is an opportunity to bond, communicate, and create a shared vision for the summer. Encourage your kids to express themselves freely and embrace their imaginative ideas. By involving them in the decision-making, you empower them to take ownership of the summer bucket list and ensure a memorable and fulfilling summer for the entire family.

How to plan and research your summer bucket list activities

Researching and selecting activities for your family’s summer bucket list can be an exciting and enriching process. Here are some tips to help you research and choose activities that will make your summer truly memorable:

Gather inspiration

Start by gathering inspiration from various sources. Look for travel blogs, websites, magazines, and social media platforms that feature family-friendly activities and destinations. Follow outdoor adventure pages and explore hashtags (including #runwildmychild) related to family adventures and summer activities. Pinterest can also be a great resource for visual inspiration and ideas.

Utilize online resources such as travel websites, outdoor recreation websites, and review platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about popular attractions, hiking trails, water parks, campsites, and other outdoor activities. Read reviews and look for activities that have positive feedback and align with your family’s interests.

Seek local recommendations

Reach out to friends, family, and local community groups for recommendations of things to do nearby. Ask for their favorite outdoor activities, hidden gems, unique attractions, or family-friendly events happening in your area during the summer. Local tourism websites or visitor centers can also provide valuable information on attractions and activities suitable for families.

Consider age, interests, and skill levels

Take into account the age, interests, and skill levels of your family members when selecting activities. Ensure that the activities you choose are suitable and enjoyable for everyone involved. Look for options that offer varying difficulty levels or have options for beginners and more experienced participants. Discuss your family’s shared interests in outdoor activities. Talk about the activities you enjoy as a family, such as hiking, biking, swimming, camping, or picnicking. Explore any new activities they might want to try, such as stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, or fly fishing.

Weather and seasonal considerations

Consider the weather and seasonal factors when planning your activities. Some activities, like swimming, boating, or water sports, are perfect for hot summer days, while others, like hiking or nature walks, may be more enjoyable during cooler parts of the day. Make sure to plan accordingly to optimize your experiences. 

Mix thrills and tranquility

Be sure to include a mix of thrilling and relaxing activities in your summer bucket list to cater to different interests and preferences within your family. This can range from adventurous activities like ziplining or kayaking to tranquil experiences like picnicking in a beautiful park, reading outside in a hammock, or stargazing on a clear night.

Look for learning opportunities

Look for activities that provide opportunities for learning and personal growth, for both adults and kids. This could involve visiting museums, historical sites, or nature reserves where your family can discover and appreciate new knowledge and perspectives.

Our bucket list planning process

There’s no right or wrong way to choose the activities on your summer bucket list. Some folks love websites and books for ideas and inspiration. We’re big map people, so inevitably, a map always gets pulled out somewhere in our planning process. 

In planning our summer bucket list, we usually try to include the following activities:

• 1-2 big summer adventures
• 6-10 “can’t do summer without” type activities
• 1-2 ongoing home-based activities
• 4-8 challenges

These numbers are obviously fluid and can be changed according to your family’s needs and desires. Every family has a different capacity and schedule. My husband is a teacher, so we have full-on open family summers. This means our summer bucket list goals are quite ambitious, to maximize our time together as a complete family unit.

Consider what would work best for your family, both for your time and your budget. You want your bucket list to feel inspiring, not overwhelming, so while you can certainly get ambitious, don’t stress out about having to do it all. Make it manageable and set yourself up for success, so don’t layer on more than you can handle.

Big summer adventures

We usually add 1-2 “big summer adventures” to our summer bucket list. These are the adventures that push your edge and require more planning and prep. Usually, this means travel, reservations, potential gear investments, and vacation time taken from work.

In order to hone in on what these should be, think about what you currently do that your whole family enjoys and is within your comfort zones, and then push into this. It’s incredible how habitual we can become, and how much we miss out on as a result. Use this summer to lean into what you love, and plan an adventure that will push you a bit further.

• Do you always go to the same beach or trail? This summer, make a goal to check out some new places. Find trails using the Alltrails app or look up local Land Trusts.
• Want to adventure with friends? Find a local playgroup or family meet-up, such as a Forest Playgroup or Hike it Baby branch, or set a day each week that you’re going to adventure with friends. Don’t have a group in your area? Start one! Be an adventure friend to others. 
• Feel comfortable on day trips? Level up and plan an overnight camping trip! Check out a local campground. Don’t wait to make reservations as many campgrounds, particularly these days, book up and book up fast. If it’s your first time camping, chose a campground in an area you’re familiar with. We’ve got a great resource for parents camping with kids for the first time. 
• Car camping pro? Why not try backpacking! Pick a hike-in site next time you make a reservation, or plan an overnight backpacking or canoe camping trip. Regardless of how many packing lists you check out, prepping for these trips will be a learning curve. Surrender to that reality and trust that once you can figure out how to go light in a way that makes sense for your family, the world becomes your oyster.

Plan easily doable adventures

It’s clutch to have easily doable adventures on your bucket list. These are the small activities or gatherings that don’t take a ton of planning or prep, but you want to make sure you don’t go the whole summer without missing! These can be the tried-and-true summer traditions that you do every year, or new small things you’ve been wanting to try. Write them down to make sure you don’t breeze past them.

• Ice cream party (either at that favorite ice cream shop, or buy the supplies and have an ice cream party picnic somewhere)
• Sunset picnic
• Sunrise hike
• Fish a nearby river
• Explore a “new to you” park or hiking trail
• Scenic bike ride
• Baseball game 
• Family movie night (in the backyard or at a drive-in)
• Friend/cousin sleepover
• Swimming at your nearby beach or pool
• Pick-your-own fruit at an orchard
• Fort slumber party
• Beach BBQ with friends
• Kids’ “yes” day (Pro tip: Set guidelines in advance to set them up for success)

Map out some all-weather challenges

Sure, sunshine and summer feel kind of synonymous, but there inevitably will be some not-beach-perfect days. With our changing climate, we never know just how many perfect summer days we’ll have each year. Therefore, we always plan for this by including some “all-weather” activities and challenges on our bucket list.

• Go for a hike in the rain. (One further: After, have kids create a packing list for all the things they need when hiking in the rain.)
• Search for amphibians in the woods on a wet day (One further: Do research on the species you found and create a bio card about it)
• Fly a kite on a windy day (One further: Go to multiple fields on a windy day, track the windspeed at each site, and compare how the kite flew differently.)
• Create a watercolor painting on a stormy day (One further: Track the clouds with timed watercolor paintings throughout the day.)
• Build a leakproof fort outside when it’s raining (One further: Have them sketch their structure like an engineer.)
• Track the sounds of nature when it’s storming (One further: Research how weather affects birds, and what clues you can tune into to know when a storm is approaching.)

Engage in ongoing home-based activities

While much of summer adventuring happens outside of the home, make sure to include some home-based activities on your summer bucket list. Having some creative and engaging projects can help make home time feel both slow and meaningful. 

• Raise a monarch (One further: document its development with a monarch journal)
• Plant a garden (One further: Make a garden map. Track growth and harvest on a calendar. Kids create a responsibility chart for garden maintenance.)
• Make a recipe book (One further: Have kids illustrate step-by-step recipe instructions.)
• Make art (One further: Visit an art museum and map out key features– artist bios, art piece descriptions, etc. Have kids chart out their own art show. Kids create invites, with bios, to invite family/friends. They write descriptions for their pieces. Design their art displays. Prepare hors d’oeuvres, etc)
• Reading Challenge (Many local libraries have excellent summer reading programs. If yours doesn’t, make your own up. A simple board game blueprint with reading time goals and incentives along the way can be magic.)
• Put on a talent show (One further: Let each kid choose their talent to perform for an audience. Let them create tickets and a program. Invite friends, neighbors, and family. Maybe they want to sell refreshments and set up seating arrangements.) 

Curate some kid challenges

Summer is a great time to build kid life skills and let your kids take on greater responsibility. What better way to do this than through fun challenges? We always love to think about what are some of the “next level” things our kids are ready for, and how we can get some practice through fun challenges.

Integrate these into your bucket list by including a few “kid challenges.” Don’t name the actual task on the bucket list, but instead, write “kid challenge,” pick a day, and give them a card that maps out their challenge. They check off a kid challenge on the bucket list when they complete it. Some kids may need more help if these are new skills. There’s no cheating here; make a checklist of things they need to remember in order to succeed. 

Here are some fun ideas for kid challenges that not only challenge them, but teach them skills in the process: 

• Kids pack for the beach/a hike/an overnight sleepover
• Let the kids plan and cook dinner (from making a grocery list to serving)
• Kids bake a dessert for a friend or neighbor
• Have them make and deliver breakfast in bed for the parents
• Kids do their own laundry– from hamper to drawer
• Build map reading skills by letting them plan a route for a family bike ride

Support the spontaneous

Part of the beauty of summer is having greater time and space for spontaneity. Allow your bucket lists to hold space for the magic of in-the-moment adventures and plan-making. If you have a hard time with spontaneous plan-making, include that in your bucket list as one of your challenges! Add “Say yes to a spontaneous adventure with friends” as one of your bucket list items. Just having that intention out there may make it easier to prioritize and make happen.

Final notes on summers with kids

At best, we have 18 summers with our kids. Sure, there are lots of variables there and different definitions, but I think about this A LOT. Particularly, as my oldest is just about to turn 10, which means we’re over the halfway mark. This keeps a lot in perspective and pushes me to really make the most of each day we have together. I think about all the ways that I want him and his sister to remember the seasons of their childhood, which are all too fleeting. And arguably, there is no season more memorable than summer. 

This is the first summer in 5 years we’ll be in our home State of Maine. After traveling around North America and Central America over the last few years, I have decided that nowhere beats a summer in New England. (There’s something magical about loving where you live.) The weather is glorious, there are clean rivers and lakes, the ocean water is warm(ish), and there is a plethora of epic outdoor adventuring– from lobstering to hiking, and everything in between.

Most importantly, Maine is home, so I know exactly when my favorite wildflowers are in bloom, what beaches have the sweetest tide pools, and the best spots to watch the sunset. The summer countdown is officially on, so we’re soon to be charting out our summer bucket list– tapping into the joys of home and making sure to discover new places and push ourselves to try different things. 

What will you include in your summer bucket list?

About the author

Courtney’s the homeschooling mother of two wild and kind kids, the founder of 2 non-profit organizations, an avid traveler, and a passionate experiential educator. She has spent the better part of the last two decades traveling around the US and Central America – first as a part of her traveling high school, where she lived out of a converted school bus and slept in tents every night for 4 years, and, more recently, traveling with her family – from following animal migration routes to Mexico to fishing in Southeast Alaska. Rooted in Maine, she is passionate about immersive education. When not on the road with her family, she is busy organizing educational immersives, from tapping maple trees to tagging Monarchs and facilitating outdoor adventure programs, from hiking to ice fishing. Whether hauling lobster traps or monitoring salamanders, she works to make learning fun, engaging and interactive. She’s excited to share her love for nature, travel, and outdoor adventures with the Run Wild My Child community.

You can find more from Courtney online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wildmigrationfamily
Website: Wild Migration
RWMC posts: Courtney Cronin

The post Creating a Summer Bucket List with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

We’ve put all the outdoor scavenger hunt ideas into one fun FREE printable bundle for you! Click the button below to download the entire bundle of 20+ free outdoor scavenger hunts! The free printable bundle includes the following scavenger hunts for kids:

1. Alaphabet Scavenger Hunt
2. Color Wheel Scavenger Hunt
3. Beach Scavenger Hunt
4. Hiking/Forest Scavenger Hunt
5. Holiday Walk Scavenger Hunt
6. Halloween Scavenger Hunt
7. 4th of July Scavenger Hunt
8. Sensory Scavenger Hunt
9. Texture Scavenger Hunt
10. Park/Playground Scavenger Hunt
11. Spring Scavenger Hunt
12. Summer Scavenger Hunt
13. Fall Scavenger Hunt
14. Winter Scavenger Hunt
15. Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
16. Creature/Critter Scavenger Hunt
17. City Scavenger Hunt
18. Farm Scavenger Hunt
19. Creek Scavenger Hunt
20. Camping Scavenger Hunt
21. Road Trip Scavenger Hunt
22. Indoor Scavenger Hunt (for days when you cant’ get outside)
23. Zoo Scavenger Hunt

FREE SCAVENGER HUNT BUNDLE

Great activity for all ages

Scavenger hunts are great for kids of any age. The great thing about scavenger hunts is that there are so many ways to make them adaptable, not only for kids of all ages, but for whatever location and adventure you want to have. Use the printables like traditional scavenger hunts for the little ones. Younger kids love the thrill of finding something on the list of items and checking it off. If you have older kids and want to take it up a notch, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt and let them take a picture of each item they find. Older kids can also help out the little ones and show their reading skills and leadership. Scavenger hunts don’t have to take up much time and can help kids get comfortable in new locations. 

Alphabet scavenger hunt for kids

“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” – Fred Rogers

With school-aged children, use their knowledge of the alphabet as a starting point for a scavenger hunt. This simple scavenger hunt idea allows the children to find objects that coordinate with each letter of the alphabet and can adapt to any location or environment you are exploring. This activity can be done outside on nature trails, running errands, or in the grocery store with your young kids. Our free printable list of scavenger hunts includes an alphabet page for kids to cross off each letter as they find something outside that starts with that letter. 

Color wheel scavenger hunt for kids

“Colors are the smiles of nature” – Leigh Hunt

Nature is a rainbow of elements, colorful, vibrant, and ready to be explored. Use our color scavenger hunt for kids to inspire your children to get outside and identify all of the colors mother nature produces. This will help younger children identify colors and name them. You may even be surprised by what colors you can find that are purely natural!

Beach scavenger hunt for kids

“When two roads diverge, take the one that leads to the beach!” – Hannah McKinnon

Do you have the privilege of living near a beach? Or plan to visit one on vacation? If so, keep our beach scavenger hunt for kids in mind. Your child can add shells, rocks, tiny sea creatures, driftwood, or even an unfortunate litter to their search. Collect smaller items with a paper bag or bucket if you’d like, but remember to leave any living creatures at the beach!

Forest/hiking scavenger hunt for kids

“Into the forest, I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” – John Muir.

I love this quote because it shows the healing power of the woods, where children can play freely and reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. So why not facilitate a scavenger hunt in a beautiful forest? Hit the trails and keep your kids entertained while hiking with our forest/hiking scavenger hunt.

Many items can be found on a scavenger hunt in the forest. Mushrooms, insects, flowers, a variety of trees, colorful leaves, pine cones, bird nests, stones, and animal tracks are just some of the treasures you may find. 

Holiday scavenger hunt for kids 

“May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve” – Unknown

Not all scavenger hunts with your kids need to be physically collecting items. The holidays, specifically winter holidays, can be a great time to participate in a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in your town or neighborhood. Take a drive or walk around and see what sights you can find. Christmas trees, wreaths, blow-up lawn decorations, rainbow light displays, the grinch, and a snowman wearing a top hat are just some items you can seek out. 

We’ve also included free scavenger hunts for Halloween and the 4th of July! 

Five senses scavenger hunt for kids

“My five senses are a doorway to the present” – Unknown

While most of these scavenger hunts utilize your child’s eyesight solely to find treasures, you can also do a scavenger hunt based on your other senses. Go on a nature walk and listen for a bird chirping, feel something wet, smell something pretty, taste a wild blueberry. This sensory scavenger hunt will help kids feel completely immersed in nature and aware of all the wonderful things around them.

Texture scavenger hunt for kids

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” -Diane Ackerman

A texture-based scavenger hunt is an engaging, outside-the-box option for your child to explore the outdoors. Find something soft (moss, a bird feather, a cattail). Look for something rough (bark, pavement under your feet, a rock). Find something smooth (birch bark, a rounded stone, an acorn). Can you find something prickly (holly leaves, pinecones, butterflies feet)? Or silky (water, mica, beetle wings)?

Playground or park scavenger hunt for kids

“It is a happy talent to know how to play” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

A playground at your local park is a great place for outdoor fun and to initiate a scavenger hunt. Include the other young kids at the park for even more fun! Our playground scavenger hunt will have your kids looking for swings, a slide, a water fountain, a trash can, a sign, a tree, etc. 

Seasonal scavenger hunt for kids 

“There is a beauty to be found in the changing of the earth’s seasons, and an inner grace in honoring the cycles of life.” -Jack Kornfield

Each season comes with beautiful changes, many visible to the keen eye of your children. Changing leaf colors, snow or ice, new sprouting flowers, or leaf buds are signs of change. You may even weave your scavenger hunt activities into your homeschool curriculum if you homeschool your children. Our free printable scavenger hunt bundle includes a separate scavenger hunt for each of the four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. There are specific items to find in each season, relating to the change of the seasons and weather. 

Backyard scavenger hunt for kids

“Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein

No need to travel to initiate a scavenger hunt! If you have an outdoor space where you live, head outside! Or go for a walk around your local neighborhood. Look for garden tools, toys, and even small animals or insects that live near your house. This is a great way to explore your own backyard with your kids! 

These scavenger hunts are perfect activities to use at a birthday party, a local park, and with kids of all ages. You can set a time limit or adjust each hunt depending on your child’s skill level. I hope you enjoy these printable scavenger hunt lists and exploring with your family!

Neighborhood scavenger hunt for kids

“We become neighbors when we are willing to cross the road for one another” – Henri J. M. Nouwen

Get outside and explore your neighborhood with your kids! This fun scavenger hunt gives you many different things to look for: fire hydrants, mailboxes, stop signs, pets, flowers, and even wild animals can be found in your neighborhood. A fun walk through your neighborhood is a great option for an easy dose of fresh air and one of our favorite outdoor activities for families. 

Creature/critter scavenger hunt for kids

May we raise children who love the unloved things–the dandelion, the worms, and spiderlings. – Nicolette Sowder

What is more fun than finding small animals and insects? Birds, bugs, chipmunks, deer, or foxes could be found! This scavenger hunt is perfect for kids who love all creatures of the world and teaches us how to care for the critters that live in our environment. 

City scavenger hunt for kids

“To live in a city is to live the life it was built for, adapt to its schedule and rhythms, and move within the transit layout made for you during the morning and evening rush, winding through the crowds of fellow commuters. To live in a city is to consume its offerings.

Do you live in a bustling city? Will you be visiting one soon? Scavenger hunts can be so fun in an urban environment and are a great option for keeping kids entertained when traveling through the city. Keep an eye out for buses and taxis, pigeons and dog walkers, and don’t forget to seek out the elements of nature that are always present, like trees and flowers!

Indoor scavenger hunt

Yes, I know we’ve mentioned multiple times that these scavenger hunts are designed to help kids, and families get OUTSIDE. But, as parents, we know that’s not always a possibility. When you need a fun indoor activity on a rainy day, we’ve got you covered. We included a free printable indoor scavenger hunt in our bundle with items kids can easily find around any house. 

20+ free printable outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

We hope this free PFD printable scavenger hunt bundle for kids will help get you outside with your kids and keep them entertained and on the lookout for nature all around them! Scavenger hunts are a fun outdoor activity for the whole family. Spending time together outside and in nature is always worth it! Download your free copy of our printable scavenger hunts today and let us know which one is your kids’ favorite! Happy hunting! 

Which scavenger hunt will you choose first?

About the author

Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

The post Free Outdoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

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Things to consider when purchasing a surfboard

When buying a surfboard for your child, you’ll need to take two important things into consideration: (1) your child’s size and (2) their surfing ability. The size of your child and his or her ability will be the two most important factors used to determine what board you want to buy.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all surfboard for kids. The right board for a teenager will be very different than the right board for a 6-year-old. Size and weight matter. You’ll also need to think about the skill level of your child. Is your cowabunga baby a daredevil that is excited to try turning down the barrel? Or maybe your little surfer is a bit more reserved and will most likely stick to riding the whitewash. Both of those scenarios are wonderful, but the surfboard that suits each child will be different. 

Sizing of surfboards for kids

As a general rule, the older, larger, and more skilled the child is, the larger the surfboard should be. This is a very loose guide to help you determine what size surfboard would be best for your child. However, this sizing chart does not take into account a child’s skill level. For kids with advanced skills and experienced surfers, we highly recommend heading to your local surf shop and speaking with one of their experts about the best board for your kid. 

Foam surfboards are great for kids

Foam boards (aka foamies or soft-tops) are ideal choices for kids and beginner surfers because they are soft, buoyant, and light. Not only does this make them easier to carry, but easier to hold and ride. Soft boards are also easier for kids to paddle and stand up on, adding to their success of catching a wave. A soft top board will also be quite a bit lighter than epoxy surfboards or a fiberglass board, which means it won’t hurt your little surfer quite so much if they get hit by their own surfboard. 

Where to buy a surfboard for kids

There are quite a few places you can go to purchase a new surfboard. Prices for new foam surfboards range from $100-$500, depending on the quality, size, style, and performance attributes. Local surf shops will probably have a nice variety of surfboards for different ages, sizes, and skill levels. Their qualified experts will be able to help you find the exact right size surfboard for your child. You can also purchase a board from any of the big online retailers, outdoor specialty shops, or even on Amazon. Be sure to double-check the shipping costs before making the purchase. Surfboards can be fairly expensive to ship due to their large size and shape!

If you’re looking for a super affordable option, surfboards can also be purchased second-hand from online marketplaces, consignment shops, or used sporting goods stores. A used surfboard in decent condition will still have a lot of life left. Be sure to inspect the board before buying and check for extensive damage or signs that it was buckled or folded.

Best surfboards for kids under 6 years old

For kids under 6 years old, surfing is less about riding the waves and more about getting comfortable in the water and familiar with the waves. Your little one should start small and work towards building skills such as balance, coordination, and confidence in and on the water. Some kids may be nervous around waves or reluctant to go into the water with much surf. That’s totally normal and ok! Waves can be intimidating, and the last thing you’ll want to do is push your child beyond their comfort level (they’ll never want to try this again). 

The best surfboard for kids under 6 isn’t even a surfboard; it’s a boogie board (or body board). Kids this age need something that’s easier to handle and better suited for their small size. Little kids can learn all the basics of surfing on a boogie board! 

Here’s everything you need to know to get started boogie boarding with your kids. 

Best surfboard for children ages 6-9

If your child is a young surfer, around the ages of 6-9, I highly recommend this South Bay Board Co. Guppy beginner surfboard. This surfboard comes in 3 different sizes (5′ / 6′ / 8′ sizes), 3 different color choices, includes a leash, handle for easy transport, and safe round edge fins. This smaller board is the best beginner board for many reasons; here are a few of them:

Weight

A heavy surfboard is not ideal for a variety of reasons. First of all, it’s hard for kids (and adults) to carry. Secondly, if a heavy board hits you when you’re surfing, it will hurt more. A lighter board won’t cause as much damage. Finally, it’s also easier for kids to get past breaking waves with a lighter board. The South Bay Guppy Beginner Surfboard is known as a “foamie” (foam board). This soft surfboard is generally much lighter and easier for kids to maneuver than fiberglass boards. 

Shape/width

The Guppy has what is called a squash tail. This means that the tail of the board has a square shape but with more rounded corners. The squash tail allows the surfer to have both stability on the board as well as maneuverability. Some tail shapes will work better in bigger waves and others better in smaller waves, but the squash tail is made to perform in both bigger and smaller waves. It makes surfing easier for beginners.

The nose of the surfboard is also important. Nose shape can make it harder or easier for a board to float. The rounded nose of the Guppy makes it easier to stay afloat, and makes paddling easier. 

The Guppy has a wide chest area. One of the hardest parts of surfing is learning to stand up on the board. Popping up from being on your stomach to a standing position, and all while the board is moving, is difficult. Narrower surfboards are more difficult to pop up on. The wide chest area on the Guppy gives beginning surfers a hand up when they’re learning to stand on the board, and will help them catch surf quicker. 

Easy transport

My favorite feature of this surfboard is the built-in handle. Carrying a surfboard can be extremely difficult (especially for little kids)! Sometimes just getting to the shore with the board is enough to deter someone from trying to surf. The built-in handle on this board makes it easy for even the smallest little shredder to carry. Plus, because it’s a soft foam board, it’s lighter than traditional fiberglass boards. 

Price

It might be hard to believe, but this amazing little surfboard is less than $200. In the world of surfboards, it really doesn’t get better than that. It’s a really good option for any kid starting out with surfing and looking for their first board. The great board comes with a leash as well as the fins, which is not the case with every surfboard. 

Best surfboard for teens and older kids (ages 10 and up)

The weight limit on the Guppy is 125 pounds, so it’ll still be a great choice for your child for many years. However, if your child, tween, or teenager is approaching that weight you’ll be better off choosing a bigger board.

The best surfboard for kids older than 10 (and reaching/exceeding 125 pounds) is the Wavestorm Classic 8-foot surfboard. If you’ve been at any surfing beaches in the last several years, you’ve probably seen these boards multiple times. Possibly one of the best perks of this board is that the weight limit is 200 pounds. Even adults can have a great time using the Wavestorm! They are carried at local big box stores as well as Amazon and are extremely popular among beginning surfers, and here’s why.

Weight

Similar to the Guppy, the Wavestorm is a foam board, also called a soft top. It doesn’t have the built-in carrying handle like the Guppy does, but the weight of the Wavestorm makes it hassle-free to carry for your older child or teen. This board weighs in at only 12.5 pounds. Again, the light weight of the board is an advantage because if it hits you the impact will be milder. 

Shape

The rounded nose and square tail of the Wavestorm make it ideal for beginners. Both of these details help your little surfer dude or dudette stand up easier and stay on the board longer. No one wants to go surfing only to fall off the board time and time again without ever standing to ride the waves. Other tail or nose shapes make standing up more difficult, but not on the Wavestorm. 

Fins

Another perk is that the Wavestorm has removable fins and can be used with 3 fins or 1. Using all three fins is best for a beginner, but once your surfer feels more comfortable on the board, you can remove the 3 fins and purchase a specialized single fin. The single fin increases speed and makes for a completely different ride.

Waxing

The Beach Boys sang about waxing down their surfboards, and now your kids can have that opportunity, too. Some foam boards aren’t meant to be waxed, but the Wavestorm isn’t one of those. It can be used either with or without wax, but your child will be able to stand up on a waxed board easier. Just be sure to wear a rash guard or wet suit because surf wax can cause a rash on the skin quickly. Ask someone at the local surf shop what wax they recommend. Different water temperatures require different types of wax.

Price

Surfboards can cost several thousand dollars. You’re getting a steal with the Wavestorm at a price typically just over $200. You might wonder about the quality of a board so relatively inexpensive, but even professional surfers use this brand. It really is one of the best surfboards for kids and adults as they begin their surfing journey.

Teaching kids how to surf

Now that your child is ready with a board, it’s time to get your little grom on the water! (*Grom is short for grommet and means a young person that enjoys extreme sports.) In areas where surfing is a popular activity, you can usually find surf schools, surf lessons, classes, or surf camps taught by professional and experienced surf instructors that will go out in the water and teach you or your child what to do. You might even have a friend or family member who has more experience and can guide you through the learning process. 

Start in the whitewash

My kids learned how to surf by starting in the whitewash. This is the area near the shore where the waves have already broken and the white water is moving rapidly towards the beach. While still powerful with small waves, this type of water won’t smash you into the sand like some of the bigger waves can. They’re less intimidating and perfect for beginners.

Take your newbie into the whitewash and point the board with the nose towards the shore. Have your little surfer lay on his or her tummy on the board, centered on the width but closer to the tail than the nose. You will stand in the water while holding the tail of the board, and when that whitewash comes, give the board a good push. Before you know it the wave will be carrying some precious cargo right along with it!

Don’t worry if the first several attempts entail your child simply laying on the board. You could even encourage that so that they get a sense of what it feels like to be pushed by the wave. If your child has boogie boarded before, they will be familiar with the sensation. Laying down on the board a few times can still be helpful because the surfboard is bigger and a little harder to hold on to than a boogie board. 

Move from laying on the surfboard to standing

When they’re ready, the next step can either be to get up on their knees or go straight to standing. You know your child, and you can probably guess which one he/she will choose to do. The more adventurous child will probably try standing from the get go, but a more reserved and cautious child might be completely happy with the knee position for a while. 

Next up in the surfing process will be letting your child catch the whitewash without you pushing him. This is where paddling comes in.

Paddling on the surfboard

Surfing is a whole-body workout. Your surfer will use his arms for paddling, legs for standing, and core strength for balancing. Strong arms are essential for surfing. If a wave hits a static surfboard, the board might topple over or just keep floating where it is instead of riding with the wave. Paddling gives the board momentum that propels it with the wave and provides the speed needed to “catch” the wave.

Surfing the larger waves

Once the whitewash is no longer a challenge, it’s time for the real waves! Now you can go past the whitewash, which sounds much easier than it actually is. Getting out past where the waves are breaking is not easy, especially with a surfboard attached to you.

Getting past the breakers

The best strategy for getting past the wave break is to watch the waves for a little bit. They typically come in sets or in a series of waves, one right after the other. After the set of waves, there will be a lull. Teach your child to notice the sets and the lulls, then time it so that he/she moves out into the waves during a lull.

Getting out past the breaking waves is sometimes impossible without first getting hit by the wave. Walk into the water until about waist deep. There are a few methods you can use to get past the break, but I’ve found that the “turtle roll” method works pretty well. You can learn how to do that here. Be sure to keep the board pointed straight into the waves. This is so the momentum of the wave doesn’t slap into the broad side of the board and push it back towards the shore. 

Surfing technique for kids

The technique to surf the actual waves is similar to surfing the whitewater, but it’s important to watch the swell of the ocean and learn the correct time to start paddling. I found this video incredibly helpful. It addresses a variety of topics, from how to get past the waves to the best way to fall off of a surfboard. If you’re heading to Southern California and need some beach suggestions, this blog post has a list of 5 great beaches to consider.

Now is also the time to get your camera ready because that smile is going to be priceless once she catches her first wave!

Surfing with kids

Marcel Proust wrote, “The real voyage of discovery consists not so much in seeking new territory, but possibly in having a new set of eyes.” Surfing opens a child’s eyes to a new view of the ocean. It allows the child to see the ocean from above, to almost walk on the water. The power of the sea is harnessed beneath her feet. She is immersed in one of the most beautiful environments.

I hope this post has helped you find the best surfboards for kids and made surfing with kids a little less intimidating. Surfing truly is a magical experience and I’m so excited for your surfing journey to begin!

Additional resources

If you’ve got a child interested in surfing, here are a few other posts that may interest you:

• Boogie boarding with kids
• Skateboarding with kids 101
• 15 ways to get outside and ACTIVE on the water
• Beginner’s guide to stand-up paddleboarding with kids
• Skimboarding with kids
• 35 fun pool games to play with kids

About the author

Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out of doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as a garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

The post Surfing 101: The Best Surfboards For Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Our recommendations for the best life jackets for kids

All our analysis, safety features, and full product reviews are below, but if you’re ready for us to get to the point right NOW, here are our recommendations for the best life jackets for kids:

• Best overall life jacket for babies – STEARNS Puddle Jumper Hydroprene Infant Life Jacket 

• Best life jacket for chunky babies – O’Neill Wake Waterski USCG Infant Life Vest 
• Best life jacket for kids – Full Throttle Rapid Dry Neoprene Life Jacket (33-55lbs) and Full Throttle Rapid Dry Youth Life Jacket (55-88lbs)
• Best life jacket for kids that hate wearing life jackets – Puddle Jumper 2-in-1 Life Jacket and Rash-guard
• Best fashionable life jacket – Body Glove Paddle Pals 33-55lbs

• Best life jacket for water sports – O’Neill Child Reactor Life Vest (30-50lbs) or O’Neill Youth Reactor Life Vest (50-90lbs), or O’Neill Teen Reactor Life Vest (75-125lbs)

Safety always comes first 

There are so many fun water activities that are great for your health, but no matter what you’re doing, when water is involved, safety precautions must be taken. Water wings, floaties, and other blow-up toys and floatation aids are fun (and often very affordable and easy), but they are not life-saving devices in emergency situations. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, drowning is the number one cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 to 4.  

The good news is drowning is preventable with constant supervision and a reliable personal flotation device, like a life jacket. However, not every life jacket is made for every situation. Shopping for a life jacket can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; we’re here to help! We’ve got the best kids life jacket recommendations for your little swimmer. 

*It’s important to note that children should still be constantly supervised when in or around water, even with life jackets on.

Life jackets are a summer staple

Life jackets are a quintessential part of our summer wardrobe. Lake days are our favorite family activity in the summer and safety is our utmost priority. I think it’s safe to say most families find themselves in or around water sometime during the summer. Water is fun for the whole family, but it can often be stressful for parents trying to find the right gear to keep kids safe AND comfortable.

Whether you are in the pool swimming, on the lake fishing, on the beach playing, or behind a boat riding a wake, life jackets for kids must be a part of the fun. But in order for it to be fun, the life jackets need to be comfortable and safe. We are here to help you find the right life jacket for kids, no matter what the age of your kids or the situation, so everyone can safely enjoy the water. 

If you are looking for fun ways to get in the water, check out these 15 kid-friendly ways to get active on the water. 

What to look for in a kids’ life jacket

When trying to decide on a life jacket for kids, there are a lot of factors to consider. Here are a few factors that will affect the type of life jacket you need:

• Where will your child be wearing a life jacket?  Pool, lake, or ocean? 
• Will they be doing a lot of swimming or just hanging out on the boat/beach? There are different types of life jackets for different activities. 
• What material does your child prefer? Life jackets are made of nylon, neoprene, or vinyl. My kids prefer neoprene as it is softer and does not cause chafing after a long day of swimming, but it can be more expensive.
• What is the size and body type of the child wearing it? Life jackets Are usually sized by weight, but the ranges can vary by brand. Always check the sizes and be sure that your child fits the size parameters for the life jacket at the time they’re wearing it.

Another variable to consider is the color of the life jacket. I try to look for brands of life jackets with bright neon colors that will contrast against both a pool and the lake. Neon colors help to increase supervision and safety. 

When does your child need to wear a life jacket?

It is important to know when your child should be wearing a life jacket. If you are planning a trip to a lake or river, be sure to check that area’s rules and regulations. As a general rule for lakes and rivers, children should ALWAYS have their life jackets on when under 12 years old, even if your child is a capable and confident swimmer. This applies whether your child is in a canoe, kayak, or a boat under 16 feet in length.

In many places, boating laws require lifejackets to be US Coast Guard-approved (see below for more info on that). If you are renting a boat, make sure to ask if they provide baby or child-sized life jackets or if you’ll need to bring your own. Before going to a pool, check to make sure lifejackets are allowed and if they also need to be Coast Guard approved. 

Coast Guard-approved life jackets

If/when the U.S. Coast Guard stops you on the water to do a safety check, they will almost always check whether you have the right life jackets onboard. Not all life vests or flotation devices are approved USCG life jacket types. If you need a USCG-approved life jacket, be sure to check the label for all pertinent information before buying a life vest. The label of all US Coast Guard-approved life jackets contains a statement that it is approved, with an approval number.

There are 5 categories of United States Coast Guard life jacket types, which will be labeled Type I through IV. Most of the life jackets we cover in this post are “USCG Type III” (flotation aids). Each type corresponds to the type of activity your child will be engaged in. Type I are offshore life jackets; Type II are near-shore vests; Type IV are throwable devices; and Type V are special-use devices. It is important to have the right life jacket for the right activity. 

Life jacket sizing for kids

Life jackets for kids usually come in 3 different sizes, but that can vary by brand and purpose. Picking the right size life jacket for your kids is the most important factor when choosing a life jacket. Kids should fit properly in the life jacket they’re wearing at the moment. Do not buy a life jacket that your child will grow into. Buy one that fits their size and weight right now. Kids’ life jackets are sized according to weight, not chest size (adult life jackets are sized by chest circumference). 

• Infant/Toddler: 8-30 lbs
• Child: 30-50 lbs
• Youth: 50-90 lbs

Proper life jacket fit for kids

A life jacket must fit properly in order for it to be safe and effective. It should have a secure, snug fit. If it’s too tight, it won’t provide sufficient flotation (you’ll need to move up a size). A fastened life jacket or vest should never rise above the face when a child is in the water. It’s important to make sure the adjustable straps are secure and the crotch strap is tight enough to prevent the life jacket from riding up. If the life jacket does rise up, it’s likely too large (go down a size). 

Try the life jacket on before leaving the house

Before heading out to the pool or the lake, have your child try the life jacket on at home to make sure it fits properly and familiarize yourself with how to secure it. Most life jackets have a lot of different zippers and buckles. Many have leg straps, a crotch strap, and a snug-fit that kids need to get used to. It’s helpful to know how it goes on prior to getting on an unsteady boat or when your child is already slippery with sunscreen or sand.

When you’re doing the life jacket try on, get excited and talk it up to your kids! Some kids are not always excited about having to wear a life jacket, so any enthusiasm on your part will help make it a better experience. When trying it on beforehand, talk about how cool it is, and explaining the importance can help make your day in the water a little easier. Let your child move around in it for a little while so you can see how comfortable they are in it, and if any adjustments should be made to make them more comfortable.

It is important to make sure your child understands that the lifejacket HAS to be worn, and no exceptions will be made. Try to keep your tone light and excited about all the fun you’re going to have on your adventure! Modeling a life jacket yourself is a great way to help them get excited or at least feel ok with their new gear. 

Best for life jackets for babies (0-30lbs)

When buying a life jacket for a baby, make sure there is good head support and a snug secure fit. Babies come in many different shapes, sizes and body types, and there are different life jackets to match. Babies may be uncomfortable in a life jacket at first, but a flexible and soft life jacket is key to it keeping them happy for long-term wearing. Don’t worry, they will get used to it, I promise! Here are our top picks for life jackets for babies and infants. 

• Best overall life jacket for babies – STEARNS Puddle Jumper Hydroprene Infant Life Jacket 

  • PROS: soft and comfortable hydroprene material, large head support, bright colors, USCG-approved, affordable, grab handle
  • CONS: 3 buckles and a zipper that can make donning difficult, can be tight on chunkier babies

• Best life jacket for chunky babies – O’Neill Wake Waterski USCG Infant Life Vest 

  •  PROS: wider neck and arm openings, bright colors, adjustable around the waist, USCG-approved
  • CONS: price, nylon material is not as soft or flexible as neoprene

Best overall life jacket for kids (swim/play/sports) 

Ready for the best all-around life jackets for kids? This rapid dry life jacket can go from the pool to the lake on the same day (we’ve done it!). It is super comfortable and flexible, great for hours of swimming or playing. It’s also well-made and holds up over the years. We’ve had ours for 3 years now, and there are no tears or loose stitching. It’s very affordable for the quality!

• Full Throttle Rapid Dry Neoprene Life Jacket (33-55lbs)

  • PROS: comfortable/flexible material, rapid dry, neon colors available, USCG-approved, affordable, grab strap

• Full Throttle Rapid Dry Youth Life Jacket (55-88lbs)

  • PROS: comfortable/flexible material, rapid dry, neon colors available, USCG-approved, affordable, grab strap

Best 2-in-1 life jacket for kids that hate wearing life jackets (33 to 55 pounds)

Do you have a little escape artist? One of those kids that can wiggle out of any jacket or life jacket? My 4-year-old is notorious for this! However, we found a great solution. This two-in-one life jacket and rash guard combo will be a lifesaver (literally) for you and your kiddo. The back buckle and long sleeve rash guard make it impossible for the child to get off on their own. It’s a great toddler life jacket option as it’s also flexible and comfortable, so hopefully, after a while, they won’t be trying to take it off.

• Puddle Jumper 2-in-1 Life Jacket and Rash-guard 

  • PROS: SPF 50 for arms and torso, back zipper, USCG- approved, many designs/styles
  • CONS: no neon color options, price  

Best life jackets for fashionable kids (33 to 55 pounds)

Do you have a child who loves colors, characters, fashion, or just needs some bribing to put the thing on? Well, then the Paddle Pals life jacket might be a good option for your child. There are tons of (20+) characters, colors, designs, and even 3-D options. The shoulder straps help keep the floaties nice and secure. 

• Body Glove Paddle Pals 33-55lbs 

  • PROS: shoulder straps and back buckle keep the arm and torso floaties secure, so many colors and characters, USCG-approved, affordable 
  • CONS: arm wings can limit arm motion

Best life jackets for kids participating in water sports 

If your child is going to be tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding, you are going to want a life jacket that is flexible yet lightweight. If you are out on the water often enough for water sports, you will want to invest in a high-quality life jacket that is durable enough for spins and flips, and wipeouts!

• O’Neill Child Reactor Life Vest 30-50lbs 

  • PROS: flexible, comfortable material, minimal bulk, USCG-approved 
  • CONS:  price, no neon colors 

• O’Neill Youth Reactor Life Vest 50-90lbs

  • PROS: flexible, comfortable material, neon colors, strap between legs for added safety, USCG-approved 
  • CONS:  price 

• O’Neill Teen Reactor Life Vest 75-125lbs 

  • PROS: flexible, comfortable material, neon colors, minimal bulk, USCG-approved 
  • CONS:  price 

Best kids’ life jackets for swim training 

If you have a young child (ages 2 to 4) that’s just learning how to swim, you may want something different than your traditional life jacket. A swim training vest is lightweight and less bulky than most life jackets, yet still buoyant.  It can be used for training at the swimming pool when working on your swimming skills, or we use it for beach play. I have one child who is more interested in playing in the sand on the beach than getting in the water, so this swim vest works well for him because it allows him to play more comfortably but keeps him safe.

Please note that swim vests are NOT USCG-approved, so it’s best for pools or the beach and under high supervision. It’s designed to help kids swim in the prone (face-down) position, so it’s definitely not the right safety device if you’re out on open water.

• Swim School Swim Trainer Vest (2-4 years or max 33lbs)

  • PROS: easy to move in, flexible, easy on and off, neon colors available, very affordable 
  • CONS: not USCG-approved, less buoyant than traditional jackets

Best life jacket for kids when fishing 

When fishing from the dock or boating to a waterfowl hunting spot, this life jacket will keep your child safe and fit in with the rest of the camouflaged gear! Plus, everyone loves pockets, right? This life vest has pockets for all your bobbers and fishing gear. 

• Airhead Sportsman Life Vest with Pockets youth 50-90lbs

  • PROS: it’s got pockets, open sides for arm mobility, camouflage coloring, coast guard approved 
  • CONS: bulky, not great for swimming 

Comfort, safety, fun!

Nothing can spoil a beautiful summer day like a toddler meltdown due to an uncomfortable life jacket. We don’t want you to have that experience. We hope this post and these life jack recommendations help you be prepared with the most comfortable, most adorable, and safest life jacket for your water adventures.  Wearing a life jacket may take some getting used to, but once you find the right one, everyone can have endless and safe fun! (And you can have a bit more peace of mind.)

Where will your kiddos wear their life jackets for some water fun?

About the author

Meghan is a country-living mom of 3 kids in rural central Illinois. She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion for capturing her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.

You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
Instagram: @meghangarriott
Meghan’s RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

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Getting into youth sailing

Sailing is not only one of the oldest modes of transportation, it’s one of the oldest water activities for enjoyment. How to get started in youth sailing may sound like a mystery – some hidden gem of knowledge that you need a personal invitation to get into. However, that’s not the case! I have personally been in that exact position with my own children and can speak to how intimidating it can feel to get started. But, if you have kids who love the water and want to learn some new skills, sailing is a great activity, sport, and hobby. After going through this learning process with my own kids, I’m excited to be able to pass this info on to you! I’ve put together this article with all the details and resources you need to get started with sailing. I’m here to encourage you and help you introduce your kids to the adventurous new activity of youth sailing.

You don’t need an ocean to learn how to sail

It may come as a surprise that you can find youth sailing programs in all 50 states in America. The only things you really need to sail are a body of water large enough to hold dinghy size sailboats and a location where wind can be utilized. There are a lot of places that can happen, so don’t worry if you don’t live on the coast somewhere. While coastal areas have more sailing opportunities, even landlocked states offer places for young sailors to get their start. My son learned on a large man-made lake in South Carolina, nowhere near the coast. 

Where to get started in youth sailing

The best place to get a good start with learning how to sail is a youth sailing camp held at a local sailing club. Clubs that offer beginner sailing classes and lessons often have week-long camps for kids, designed to get them from zero to sailing proficiently in a week.

Some locations may not have a “sailing club” per se, but rather a marina with a few small crafts and a single instructor. My son first learned how to sail over the course of a week while at Boy Scout summer camp. There are a wide variety of summer programs for kids to learn about sailing. Summer is a good time to start because the weather conditions are most favorable.

Do your research to find a sailing club or camp

If your child is interested in learning how to sail, the first step is to do an internet search to find a sailing club near your home base. Alternatively, if your kids are ready to go away to camp, you may find a few sleep-away summer sailing camp options.

In my opinion, the two most important factors in choosing a program for new sailors are: (1) a focus on water safety and (2) a fun environment. The focus on safety is self-explanatory – your child needs to know how to stay safe when on the water. Making it fun is just as important, though. People who love sailing love for kids to learn sailing! Sailing instructors will work to teach kids because they want to pass on the skills and help others find the same enjoyment and love for the sport. Instructors that make sailing fun will make a huge difference in your child’s experience. 

The best age to get started in youth sailing

You will find most programs divide kids based on their ability levels and not necessarily by age. There are sailing kids who have been on boats from an early age, but most begin learning the basics of sailing between 7 and 10 years of age. However, plenty of adults are also learning how to sail, so you’re never too old to learn. 

Kids sailing lessons should only begin after a child can pass a swim test. Your child must be comfortable in the water on his/her own. Sailing instruction in a camp format will not always be one-on-one. So, if your child is not ready for group instruction, you may want to consider a few private sailing lessons first.

Consider the maturity level and attention span of your child

It is necessary for your child to have a good attention span and the ability to receive and pay attention to detailed verbal instruction. Expect light classroom instruction at the start of each day or lesson. However, sailing for children is best taught through hands-on, experiential learning. Kids will be shown a skill and then asked to show what they have learned.

Also, I think it’s best to have a conversation with your child to see how he/she feels about being in a potentially stressful situation. Most programs will put kids into a capsize drill and teach them how to respond for safety reasons. If you or your child is not ready for this, put off learning to sail for a bit until they are ready. 

What to expect from youth sailing camp or lessons

Youth programs focusing on sailing are usually divided by skill level, not by age. Youth sailing classes can be categorized in the following ways: (1) beginner, (3) intermediate, and (3) advanced. Depending on the children’s skill levels, here are a few things they may learn and focus on at each level. 

Beginner-level sailing lessons for kids

If your child is just starting out learning to sail and is brand new to sailing, you can expect sailing instruction to include both a foundation of basic sailing terms and a fundamental understanding of sailing. On-land seamanship, which includes boat rigging, basic sailing knots, and getting the boat ready to sail, are a part of beginner sailing. In addition, your child will learn how to get the boat into the water and how to handle it. This includes how to maneuver the sail lines, the rudder, and other technical skills.

Intermediate-level sailing lessons for kids

Intermediate sailing courses and camps will reinforce the sailing vocabulary and basic sailing rules. Then they add etiquette of boat handling around other boats on the water. Instructors will give intermediate youth sailors more experience out in the water. Weather and other circumstances beyond their control will challenge them. They will develop an understanding of the physics of sailing and learn how to sail upwind, downwind, and how to tack.

Advanced-level sailing lessons for kids

More advanced sailors will begin to learn about adventure sailing in more challenging conditions and may even begin to dip their toes into sail racing.  High school sailing can be for the joy of sailing or the sport of sailing, so many kids continue to develop their skills through youth sailing lessons and camps as they reach their teen years. Junior sailing programs and high school teams usually focus on racing teams competing in regattas. This type of sailing requires more advanced instruction that goes into depth all about sailing and develops racing skills. 

What gear do you need to get started sailing 

Every beginner sailing program will provide kids with the sailing equipment they need, including beginner sailing boats. The club will loan all aspects of the kids’ sailboat, such as ropes and sails, and a youth sailing life jacket as part of the program.

Initially, you’ll just need to provide proper clothing for sailing. The best clothes to wear sailing are materials that dry quickly and don’t allow the cold dampness to linger. You will also need to send a sailing wetsuit with your child if your child will be learning in cold water. 

As your child progresses in their sailing into experienced sailors, you may need to incorporate additional kids sailing gear. Sailing shoes and gloves will become necessary later. Depending on the climate where you live, you may need to invest in cold weather sailing gear, such as heavy waterproof jackets to keep kids warm and dry. 

Otherwise, all beginner sailing camps and lessons should take care of the major gear. Sun protection is a must, though, so send your kids with sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses. Hours on the water can take a toll!

Preparing kids for sailing camp or lessons

If your child is apprehensive about learning to sail, I would encourage you to check out a few books from the library and a few YouTube videos so he/she can visualize what is ahead. There are also some fun sailing movies that your child can watch (just make sure to watch them first and vet them – some sailing movies have intense weather scenes that can be scary for some kids). 

Benefits of learning how to sail

Youth sailing has many benefits, no matter how advanced a child’s skills become. The obvious benefits of sailing are the time outdoors and having an activity on the water that brings enjoyment. Basic sailing skills make this a lifelong benefit and an activity your child can enjoy for years and years. 

Learning to harness the wind and make it work for your purpose is an incredible hands-on experience in physics. Your kids will hardly know they are learning because they will be having so much fun. I’ve also seen firsthand the confidence it gives kids in and around the water. Confidence in boat handling is also a lifelong skill that is very important, especially if you live close to water. 

Young people love to learn new skills, and sailing is a skill that can get kids on a path to lifelong outdoors enjoyment. Sailing also comes with a lot of chores and responsibility. As much as kids can complain about tedious tasks, when you attach those tasks to something fun most kids enjoy the work aspect. There is a sense of pride in taking care of something you care about. As kids grow, they enjoy proving themselves in these ways. Watching kids pull their sailboats out of the water and de-rig their sailboats is rewarding as a parent, too.  

Moving beyond basic sailing

Kids who want to explore sailing with more advanced sailing instruction can prepare themselves for even more sailing adventures and take their skills to the next level. Some will go on to enjoy the competitive aspect of racing sailboats, which can be exciting for kids who may not be particularly athletic. However, kids will find the physical aspects of sailboat racing are still a part of the sport. It tends to be more of a thinking sport than athletic prowess. Racing sailboats is a really unique team sport that could allow your child to thrive in a competitive environment, learn good sportsmanship, and be a part of something amazing. It also opens up scholarship opportunities at some schools. 

Further explorations may open doors to family sailing trips where your child can take the rest of the family on adventures. It might also lead to a job. Perhaps some will get certified so they can bareboat charter for multi-day sailing in a really fabulous destination. 

Would your kids be interested in youth sailing?

About the author

Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20 years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!

You can find Jen online in the following locations:
Instagram: @gofamilyadventure
Website: Go Family Adventure
RWMC Posts: Jen Barnes

The post How to Get Started in Youth Sailing appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Summertime in Southern California

Yay, it’s summertime! And summer means fun in the sun and making memories with our loved ones! I’m sure many of you have some exciting summer travel plans. One popular destination happens to be Southern California. There are a variety of famous attractions that draw many people each year; from Hollywood to Disneyland, Sea World to Universal. There’s the the infamous Santa Monica Pier, Catalina Island, and the historic Pacific Coast Highway. The list could go on!

Nevertheless, the place that families want to visit most while they are here is our stunning beaches! Warm, soft sand, cool water, salty air, and beautiful views! There’s really not much better than a gorgeous sunny day at a southern California beach!

Best Southern California beaches for families

Today, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite kid-friendly family beaches in Southern California. Each of these beaches are a little less touristy, so you don’t have to battle the crowds, and have their own personality. These are beaches our family visits regularly and they each have a uniqueness to them that makes them fun in different ways.

If you’re looking for a beach to surf or boogie board, I got one for you! If you’re looking for a beach with beautiful crystal blue water and stunning views, I got one of those! Looking for a beach that offers more than just laying in the sand, I know of a beach with a beautiful hike up and down the seaside cliffs. As well as a beach named Pirates Cove and one named Treasure Island! I mean what kids wouldn’t want to visit a beach with a name like that! Whatever beach you choose, I highly recommend staying and watching the sunset at any of these locations, you will be so thankful you did!  

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove is located in Orange County between Newport and Laguna Beach. It’s one of the largest remaining areas of open space and natural coastline in Orange County. It’s a huge stretch of beach running 3.2 miles long and also 2,400 acres of wilderness. Because the beach is inside a state park, the hours are sunrise to sunset and there are also fees for parking.

Crystal Cove State Park is definitely a must-see for any beach-loving family! From the seaside cliffs to the tide pools down below, this beach offers lots of space and fun for kids and families. The walk down to the beach can be long for little ones, but if you can make the hike, it’s so worth it. Crystal Cove also offers hiking and camping!

Visit their website to find out more http://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/

Corona Del Mar/Pirates Cove

The two beaches of Corona del Mar and Pirate’s Cove are definitely ones we visit a lot! They are connected by a rock jetty at the entrance to Newport Harbor in Newport Beach. While right next to each other, they have different features and personalities, so I’ll discuss them individually. 

Corona Del Mar beach

Corona Del Mar is also a state park beach. It’s about half a mile long, at the base of a seaside cliff with cool rock formations at the bottom. The parking lot is located at the bottom, and there is a parking fee. However, as you’ll see there is a stunning neighborhood up top with street parking that’s free. You can easily walk down the path to the beach. We love using our boogie boards here and checking out the sea life on the rocks. If you enjoy some beach volleyball there are plenty of courts to get your serve on! 

Pirates Cove

Pirates Cove is a very unique spot! Located just to the right of Corona Del Mar, it’s an amazing beach for kids and families. You can either park in the lot or park above in the neighborhood. You cannot see this beach from the parking lot, you must climb over what looks like a hill of large boulders! Once you climb up and are at the top you will see a staircase that leads you down to a very secluded beach that looks across the channel of Newport Harbor.

At Pirates Cove beach, you’ll find little caves to sit in and get out of the sun, as well as a giant boulder out in the water you can swim to and jump off. There is a lifeguard here during the summer months and they rope off the swim area so no one gets too far out into the channel. This is a fun place for kids to explore and swim! The water is very calm and shallow so it’s great for little ones! You can also watch the sailboats and yachts go in and out of the harbor. 

Treasure Island

Treasure Island is a very beautiful, super unique spot that does require a bit of walking, but again, it’s so worth it! The beach is located at the bottom of the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach. It’s known for its crystal blue waters!  There is a small parking lot located on the southwest side of the resort, or you can also park on the street for free. There’s a beautiful path with lots of flowers and greenery on top, just behind the resort, and there are different staircases and ramps that lead to different parts of the beach.

Our favorite part of this beach requires us to walk north all the way until we get to the little peninsula at the base of Goff Island. This is a great spot to snorkel and the sand here is so soft. The beach part is kind of rocky and gets deep quickly, so make sure your kids are good swimmers. My kids are between the ages of 7-11 and do just fine. Here you seriously feel like you are on a tropical island out in the pacific!

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is located in San Diego. There are so many great beaches located in San Diego, but this is one that my family and I really enjoy visiting. It’s located just north of La Jolla and downtown San Diego. Torrey Pines is a State Reserve as they are protecting the Torrey pine trees that are specific to this one area of southern California. There is parking close to the beach or you can drive up to the top of the cliff where the Torrey Pines Lodge is located which is now a visitor center and ranger station. There are some cool things to learn at the visitor center about the Lodge and the history of the area.

My family I like to park at the bottom in the beach parking and walk up the drive to the top, and from there we hike down to the beach. It’s a good way to get some steps in! I’ve done it with the small children and they do well, you might just need to take lots of breaks. The rocks hiking down can be slippery so be sure to hold onto those small hands. Also, if you go in the evening and catch the sunset on your way down…it’s breathtaking! We’ve also seen seals come right up to the beach here! 

Newport Beach

The beach around Newport Pier is a great spot for surfing, boogie boarding, swimming, fishing, dolphin watching, and sand castle building! We enjoy Newport because the beaches are situated in neighborhoods so they don’t feel touristy, more like you’re around a bunch of locals. Parking is free on the side streets, but there is meter parking on the main street.

Newport Beach is a great spot for families, as you could spend all day and never get bored! There is no shade here, so I definitely recommend bringing an umbrella or shade tent. The tide here is great for kids and adults learning to surf, but if you really want to see some professional surfers just head down to the Wedge, located at pier W, just down the way from Balboa Pier. I also highly encourage walking down the pier to see if you can spot some seals or dolphins. 

There is a boardwalk perfect for jogging, bike riding, skating, or walking. You can rent bikes and scooters at places around the pier. There are also a couple of playgrounds located right on the sand between Newport and Balboa Pier. 

Best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California

Okay, so there you have my top five recommendations for some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California! However, if none of these are in the area close to where you are staying in California, don’t worry, there are many more! Just visit the website below to find state beaches close to you and get some helpful information about beaches nearby and what each one offers. We enjoy state beaches over city beaches because they are usually cleaner and we like to support our state and the efforts they put into keeping our oceans and beaches protected and preserved!   https://www.parks.ca.gov/

Which Southern California beach is your kids’ favorite?

About the author

Megan is a wife and a homeschooling mom of four. She is originally from Colorado, but has spent much of her life overseas. First in Eastern Europe, specifically, Hungary, where her first two kids were born. Secondly, in Ethiopia, where she and her husband adopted their second two kids. She and her family are now stateside, currently living in Southern California. She loves traveling with her kids, either on planes, road trips, or just in their local area! Most of her family’s outdoor adventuring includes water of some kind like beaches, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or pools. They especially love paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and even just going to the local park to play soccer or basketball. Megan also has a passion for photography and loves to bring along her camera to document all their adventures!

Find more from Megan in the following locations:
Instagram: @meghavelaarphoto
RWMC posts: Megan Havelaar

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