Must-have photos to capture this fall

As the leaves turn brilliant shades of crimson and gold and the air gets crisp, there’s no denying that fall is a season like no other. For outdoorsy moms, this is the perfect time to get outside with your family. But beyond fall color hikes and cozy campfires, there’s another opportunity that awaits you during this season: taking photos!

Capturing the essence of your little ones (and this gorgeous season) through the lens of your camera (or phone) is a must for many parents. Fall offers a unique (and beautiful!) backdrop for your kids to shine, and I’m here to guide you through the must-take photos that will become cherished memories for years to come.

Today, we’ll jump headfirst into a giant leaf pile of reasons why fall is such an incredible time of year for outdoor photos of your children. From the kaleidoscope of autumn colors to the playfulness of  pumpkin patches and the warmth of family gatherings, we’ll explore the many ways this season provides a stunning canvas for your kids to express their spirit and create unforgettable moments. So, grab your camera, bundle up your little adventurers, and let’s embark on a photographic journey through the magic of the season. Here is my list of all the must-have photos to capture this fall. 

1. Farms

We visit our local farms every year (multiple times a year, actually). One thing that is a must with each visit is seeing and saying hello to all of our furry and feathered farm friends. When it comes to photographing these experiences at the farm, there are so many fun angles that you can take. I love to pull back and capture photos of the kids and animals from a distance to include features of the farm, like the barn. I also love a good overhead shot that includes a nice close-up of children closely interacting with the animals.

2. Hayrides

Some of my favorite fall memories from my childhood include hayrides to the pumpkin patch. Traditional hayrides aren’t quite as popular where I live, but many farms still have tractor rides (without the hay…achoo!).

The ideal time to capture a hayride experience is once you board the wagon. This way, you can capture your child’s initial excitement as well as be able to hold that camera more steady. I like to use my 35mm or 24mm lenses for these shots because they allow me to capture photos of my kids while remaining close to them. When the wagon is a bit empty, I like to sit all the way in the back or all the way in the front of the wagon to include more of the wagon and tractor in the background of my photos. In late fall, our local farm decorates their wagons with lights to create an even more magical experience!

3. Corn maze

Another one of our favorite things to do at the farm is exploring the corn maze. I love documenting my children as they explore the maze. For these photos, I prefer using mid-range lenses like my 85mm lens. To add more layers to your images, you can try standing behind some of the corn to allow some of it to sit in the foreground of your images.

4. Pumpkin patch 

It’s not fall without a visit to the pumpkin patch! As your child explores and searches for a pumpkin, try to stay a little behind and capture photos of them walking through the fields. Then when they have found the perfect pumpkin, come in closer for those details shots. Photograph your little ones trying to carry a pumpkin too heavy for them, or a photo of their proud faces while holding “the best” pumpkin in the patch.

5. Sunflowers 

Exploring the sunflower fields is always on our list of things to do in early fall. These fields make for a great backdrop for photos and are so fun to run through. I prefer to use my 85mm or 135mm lenses when photographing my kids in the fields to help get a dreamy look. Look out for moments of little ones trying to reach for the tallest flowers, running through the fields, or smelling these large beauties. 

These are such popular photos that we have an entire post on how to take photos of your family at the sunflower field. 

6. Apple picking

Exploring apple orchards with children can be a really fun and educational experience. Not only do children get to learn about where their food comes from, but they also get to enjoy fresh nutritious snacks during and after their visit. When photographing my children at an orchard, I prefer to choose areas with red apples to add that pop of color to my photos. To add more layers to the images, I will position myself in an area where branches from a nearby tree can hang in the foreground of my images. 

Here’s another great post filled with tips on apple picking with kids. 

7. Pumpkin carving

Pumpkin carving is an activity enjoyed by both kids and adults. Take advantage of a crisp afternoon to transform your pumpkins into fun and spooky jack-o-lanterns. Be sure to document your kids’ expressions as they carve their own pumpkins. For extra fun, take a photo at night of your pumpkin lit up by candlelight! 

8. Foliage

One of my favorite things about fall is the beautiful display of bright reds, oranges, yellows, and greens among the trees. When photographing the foliage, it’s best to wait until the leaves are at their peak for color. This can vary by location. I like to choose locations where there are bright-colored trees in the foreground and the background. While my children are happily exploring this area, I typically just stand far away from them and try to capture as much of our surroundings as possible. 

9. Leaves

A colorful landscape typically means colorful leaves are in abundance. There are many fun ways to photograph leaves. You can create a huge pile of them and capture fun photos of your child playing in the leaves. An overhead shot of your child lying down on them could also make for a great portrait. One of our favorite ways to photograph leaves is to find a large one and play peek-a-boo with it. 

10. Fall treasures

My children collect treasures year-round. Fall brings in an abundance of different seeds, fruits, and mushrooms. On a short walk, we can easily fill a small basket with a good variety of different items. Then our favorite part is identifying what we found afterward. Photographing these sorts of details could be as simple as pointing the camera into your basket and taking a shot. Or you can dump it all out and take a good overhead shot of everything.

11. Fall bike ride

In early fall, we love hopping on our bikes and going for rides through our local trails. By this time, the summer heat has gone, but it’s still not too cold for longer rides. When I’m documenting our fall rides, I try to find trails with lots of colors within the bushes. I also try to dress my kids in bright colors to make them pop more amongst the greens and browns.

12. Fall hikes

We get out and hike year-round, but the fall is by far my favorite time to hike. When I’m documenting our hikes, I like identifying what landmarks and plant life are unique to that particular hike and then challenging myself to incorporate those things into a photo. I think all lenses work for hikes, but I definitely prefer my 135mm lens for most photos. If I’m hoping to capture as much of the forest as possible, then I will go for a wider lens. 

Here’s another great resource with fantastic tips for photographing family hikes. 

13. Lakeside

While fishing and water sports aren’t quite as popular in the fall, we still visit our local lakes often in the fall. My favorite thing about taking photos by the lake is that you sort of get double the amount of foliage in your images due to the reflection from the water. But even after the leaves drop, we still visit our local lakes for some fun in the sand. While the trees are bare, we still find lots of pops of color amongst the stacks of canoes and kayaks by our local lake.

14. Mountains

If you live near a mountain range, planning a hike up or near the mountains is a must for fall. Not only is it an enjoyable activity for the entire family, but the views are breathtaking at the top. If you can plan for a day when the leaves are at their peaks, you will not be disappointed. 

15. Fall sports

Many kids play sports such as football, baseball, or soccer in the fall. We look forward to fall sports, and I try really hard to make sure that I am capturing these moments every year. It’s nice to look back on these images to see just how much they’ve grown. Also, don’t forget to document spectating siblings during these games and practices.

16. Cozy attire

As the temperatures begin to drop and warmer clothing comes out, don’t forget to document those little details. A warm hat, glove, furry jackets, long, cozy socks, and boots all add a sense to fall warmth to a photo. 

17. Campfires

On those cool fall evenings, campfires are a must. Whether we are out camping or just hanging out in our backyard, we yearn for the warmth it provides. The next time your family gathers around a warm fire be sure to document those moments. 

18. Playground fun

The fall is our favorite time to visit the playground. While I don’t always bring my camera with me to the playground, I’ve never regretted the times that I have. I try to challenge myself to find unique angles and perspectives in the playground. For the second photo below, I sat on top of the highest part of the playground equipment and used my widest lens to capture my son as he climbed the steps prior to going down the slide.

19. Costumes

As we inch our way closer to Halloween, I try to set aside an evening to photograph my kids in their costumes for the year. My go-to lens for these sorts of images is usually my 135mm lens since I want my subject to stand out a bit more against the background. 

20. Trick or treating

My kids are obsessed with Halloween, so trick-or-treating is something that they look forward to doing every year. If trick or treating is something your family enjoys doing, definitely bring your camera along the next time you go to document this exciting day. 

21. Tree farms

Many families will visit tree farms soon after Thanksgiving Day to pick up their Christmas trees. And while this may have a “wintery” feeling, it’s technically still fall, so be sure to bring your camera along to document this moment. 

22. Holiday lights

My absolute favorite thing to photograph in late fall are all the holiday lights. Everywhere we go is decked out with lights galore. Drive-thru light displays are a must for us during the holidays. Not only are they a great way to kick off the holiday season, but they also make for great photo opportunities. I love capturing my children’s expressions as they marvel at the huge display of lights. I captured the image below by sitting on the window ledge on the passenger side and then using the widest lens I own which is my 24mm lens. 

The following two images were taken at a farm and our nearby zoo. Low-light images, such as these, can be tricky, but if you place your subject in a well-lit spot and bump up the ISO on your camera, you too could recreate these sorts of images.

Favorite fall memories

As we wrap up our exploration of the must-take photos for fun fall activities and share some invaluable photography tips, one thing is clear – the autumn season offers an abundance of opportunities for capturing the essence of your children’s outdoor adventures. With every leaf that rustles beneath their feet, every pumpkin they pick, and every smile that brightens their faces, you have a chance to freeze those precious moments in time.

Remember to embrace the natural beauty of fall as your backdrop, and let your kids be themselves. Encourage their creativity and curiosity to shine through your lens. The candid shots of joy and wonder, the playful interactions, and the vibrant colors of the season all come together to tell a heartwarming story.

Whether you’re enjoying a hayride, hiking in the woods, or carving pumpkins, these photos will serve as cherished memories that you and your children will look back on with fondness. So, don’t forget to capture these moments and create a visual narrative that celebrates the magic of fall, the love of family, and the spirit of adventure. Happy photographing, and may your autumn be filled with beauty, laughter, and unforgettable images!

What’s your favorite fall activity to photograph?

About the author

Crystal is a photographer who homeschools her two young boys alongside running a newborn photography business. If she’s not photographing babies, she’s out with her family photographing their adventures together. Together they enjoy hiking, exploring nearby cities, biking, camping, going to the beach, amusement parks, and, of course, gathering with friends and family. Getting out and exploring with loved ones is their favorite way to spend their days.

You can find more from Crystal online in the following locations:
Instagram: @exploringadventureland
RWMC posts: Crystal Sanchez

The post Must-Have Photos to Capture this Fall appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

“Mud is the most poetical thing in the world.” ~ Reginald Horace Blythe

Gardening with kids for connection

Gardening with kids is a wonderful way for families to cultivate a deep connection with natural spaces that are well within reach. Children, like plants, need sunshine, rain, fresh air, and mud to thrive. By spending time with them digging in the dirt, placing seeds just so, and observing their growth, children learn a sense of responsibility for a piece of Earth they call their own.

Children who grow up connected to and feeling responsible for nature become stewards of the planet. Gardening is a great way to establish that connection. It’s also an amazing time for kids to connect with their big people.

And let’s face it, children aren’t the only ones suffering from nature deficit disorder. We could all use a little more time outside nurturing plants and nurturing our own souls. 

Climbing and swinging helps build trunk strength and are fun backyard activities to include when gardening with kids.

Benefits of gardening with kids

There are loads of benefits to getting kids in the garden beyond taking in the ample fresh air. Kids learn through experiencing the world around them. Botany, zoology, ecology, and environmental science are much more effectively taught in the garden than behind a school desk. It’s incredible how sophisticated our little learners can be when the learning is done in the correct context.  

Child health and physical development

Children who learn to grow their food are much more likely to eat it, as well. Have a picky eater? Get them to grow something and watch their innate curiosity trump their skepticism of all things green. But, the health benefits go beyond the dinner plate.

Our bodies move differently in wide-open spaces. Children develop best when learning to navigate unstructured environments like those that can only be provided by the outdoors. Swinging and climbing build strong trunks. Balance is fostered by log hopping. Raking and digging yield upper body strength. 

Perhaps best of all, time spent outdoors is not time spent behind a screen or *cough* time spent fighting about being behind a screen. 

Log hopping is great exercise, and logs add a little whimsy to an outdoor garden space.

Problem-solving and life skills learned through gardening

Gardening teaches life skills. There isn’t a gardener in the world who hasn’t at least once in their life encountered a problem that needed solving. Gardening with children teaches problem-solving, teamwork, observation skills, and organization. 

Kids encounter various challenges in the garden, from dealing with pests and diseases to deciding on the right amount of water and sunlight for their plants. These challenges require them to think critically, come up with solutions, and adapt their strategies as needed.  Additionally, gardening teaches kids the value of teamwork. Whether they are gardening with family members, classmates, or friends, they must collaborate to achieve common goals. Tasks such as planting, weeding, and harvesting require coordination and cooperation. Working together in the garden not only fosters a sense of shared responsibility but also helps kids understand the significance of teamwork in achieving success.

Gardening teaches patience 

Want your child to grow up to be successful? Have them grow alongside a garden!

Foundational research at Stanford by Walter Mischel and colleagues has shown that the ability to delay gratification is strongly correlated with success later in life. All gardeners know that gardening requires patience and persistence. You can nurture your child’s ability to delay gratification, and they will reap the benefits throughout their entire lifetime through gardening. 

Adding a sliding board to a raised bed can go a long way in increasing the fun factor!

The ultimate guide to gardening with kids

Have I persuaded you to get outside with your kids? Leave perfection at the door (there’s no place for it when kids are involved). Just get messy and have fun. You may even learn a thing or two along the way! 

But just in case you aren’t sure where to begin, here’s a guide about all the ins and outs of gardening with the little ones in your life. You’ll learn how to add whimsy and magic to outdoor spaces, how to design garden spaces with kids in mind, basic gardening know-how (e.g., finding your zone, choosing plants that will grow, soil preparation, and all about compost), teaching moments that can be had along the way (STEM in the garden anyone?), and arts and crafts for the colder winter months (you can take a gardener out of the garden, but…). 

So let’s dig in, get dirty, and grow something.  

Select a garden spot and get started 

The right garden space can make or break a garden. That said, gardening can be accomplished nearly anywhere and everywhere. I’ve had tiny balcony gardens in the heat of Arizona, to raised beds in the Pacific Northwest. I rarely have the perfect South-facing plot with amazing sun and good drainage.

If you have a spot like that, by all means, get digging, but don’t let a lack of the “ideal” spot stop your gardening dreams from being realized. Truth be told, plants are tough and life finds a way. Plus, a good deal of the fun with gardening comes from experimenting and observing the results. You may be surprised, and that learning will not be lost in next year’s garden.

Companies like Vego Garden make modular raised beds that can be configured in loads of different ways. This gives so much more flexibility for garden spaces that are tight or awkwardly shaped. They even have kids’ beds and in-ground worm composters to add the good stuff back into your soil. They get bonus points for being so beautiful!

Modular beds grant extra flexibility in the garden space. Of course, don’t expect squash to be contained by anything unless you’re growing vertically.

Consider hardiness zones

When choosing the right spot for your garden, keep some basics in mind. For instance, you can find your hardiness zone here. Use your hardiness zone to choose plants that can survive year-round in your area. Hardiness zones are most important with perennial plants, though, as many plants that you place in a spring or summer garden shouldn’t be expected to survive the winter months. Still, it’s nice to have some plants come back year after year! Using native plants is also a safe bet, as native plants have already evolved to thrive in their respective environments. 

Growing seasons

When choosing annual plants, like many of the vegetables that grow in summer gardens, you’ll want to pay attention to your area’s growing season. That is the length between the typical dates of the first and last frosts. Use these as a guideline for what you can grow, as each plant has a number of days from the time the seed is planted before it can be harvested (you can usually find this right on the seed packet). If your growing season isn’t long enough, you’ll never get to harvest before the first frost sets in. Don’t let all the charts keep you from taking chances or experimenting, though! So much of gardening is learned only through trial and error. 

Accessible spaces for children

Probably the most important factor to consider when choosing the right spot for your garden is ensuring that your garden space is accessible to your children. Involving them in selecting the growing space gets immediate buy-in from them and sparks enthusiasm for the project. 

Keep your garden accessible to children, and everyone will reap the benefits.

Getting kids involved in plant selection

Consulting kids about what to garden is as important as where to garden. Beyond hardiness zones and growing seasons, certain plants are better than others at keeping kids engaged. For example, creating a foraging garden that includes plants that are good for grazing, like snap peas and cherry tomatoes, as well as herbs like mint and superfoods like moringa, encourages children to sample what they’ve grown and gets them excited about the prospect of harvesting. Let your kids each pick a type of plant to try growing. They’ll be much more invested in the outcome (and likely to eat it), if they were involved in the process.

Afraid your thumb isn’t green enough, but want an easy win? This post will give you a great start with five veggies that are easy for kids to grow.

Consider creating theme gardens 

Theme gardens can be a lot of fun. Below are some examples of types of gardens your child might be interested in growing.

Pizza garden 

What kid doesn’t love pizza? Have them grow their very own toppings and watch their green thumbs and their palate take off. Pizza gardens might include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, onions, garlic, artichokes, spinach, basil, and oregano. 

Salsa garden

Salsa is my favorite food group so this one might be more for me than my kiddo. A salsa garden might include cilantro, garlic, hot pepper, onion, sweet bell pepper, tomatillo, and tomato. 

Soup garden

Soup gardens are great for when the seasons start to change. Luckily, most of the contents are ready to harvest just when you might be craving a hot pot of it on the stovetop. A basic soup garden may contain garlic (basically every garden contains garlic), green beans, kale, chard, sweet corn, potatoes, onions, winter or summer squash.

Salad garden

Want your kids to eat the green stuff? Have them grow it! Salad gardens may contain beets, carrots (root veggies are especially fun to harvest since it’s like digging for buried treasure!), cucumber, lettuce, nasturtium (pretty edible flowers make magical fairy salads), radish, spinach, sweet bell peppers, and tomatoes.  

Gardening with kids can take place in all kinds of spaces. Here a child tends to a small balcony garden.

Three Sisters garden

This is a great garden to grow and can be coupled with storytelling!  Corn, beans, and squash are known as the Three Sisters and are central to Native American agriculture and folklore.  The corn provides tall stalks for the beans to climb.  Beans, like other legumes, are nitrogen-fixers adding it to the soil. The squash plants grow as a ground cover, keeping the soil moist and controlling weeds. All three store well and can be used as food year-round. The book “In the Three Sisters Garden” by JoAnne Dennee contains some beautiful stories to pair with planting a Three Sisters garden.

In the Haudenosaunee tradition, all three types of seeds were planted together in a mound. Planting a Three Sisters garden is a great introduction to companion planting, which is when plants are grown near together for the benefit of one or more. Companion planting can be a natural way of pest control, can help plants grow bigger and stronger and increase pollination, and can even make certain fruits and vegetables taste better. Here’s a great resource to learn more.

Potion garden

This one is as useful as it is magical. Your little witchlings will appreciate a space where they can harvest ingredients for any magic they may be conjuring. And you’ll be able to create an apothecary for your family at the same time. Some great medicinal plants to include are calendula, chamomile, comfrey, horehound, lavender, lemon balm, peppermint, and sage. Lemon balm and lavender make a child-friendly and soothing tea to have before bed. Calendula is amazing at healing diaper rash and other minor skin irritations.  

A butterfly or pollinator garden

Vegetables shouldn’t have all the fun! Creating a garden with pollinator-friendly plants will increase the presence of beneficial insects in your yard and garden space. A pollinator garden is also great for any fruits and veggies that you do have planted, as it attracts pollinators to your yard where they can find your vegetables and pollinate those as well.

But, pollinator gardens are fun in their own right. Butterflies are beautiful and honey and bumble bees are fun to watch. Kids love observing insects. This is a great opportunity to witness an entire life cycle in the backyard! Hummingbirds may even stop by. Most of all, creating a pollinator garden helps creatures that we depend on by giving them a safe food source.  

This calendula patch is perfect for creating soothing ointments and yields ample ingredients for kids’ potion-making.

Soil preparation

Preparing the soil is a crucial step when gardening and sets the foundation for a successful and enjoyable experience. Well-prepped soil provides the necessary nutrients, aeration, and drainage that plants need to thrive, offering children the opportunity to witness the direct correlation between soil health and plant growth. Moreover, involving kids in the soil preparation process is a valuable educational experience, as they learn about the importance of soil composition, organic matter, and pH levels, all of which are fundamental concepts in the world of agriculture and environmental science.

Composting

Gardens need nutrients, and that’s where composting comes in! Kids are inherently interested in the transformation of things. Teaching kids about compost is a great way to capitalize on these interests. Start by setting aside a second compost bin next to yours that is just for them. They can add their own food scraps to it and observe how it changes over time. Your little scientists may even want to record their observations.  

Kids love playing in the dirt, and will likely be equally as fascinated in the process of how dirt comes to be. Try a composting experiment to bring the transformation front and center. Replicate a small compost pile inside a plastic bottle to create a compost soilarium (instructions can be found here).

Here’s a fantastic list of children’s books all about composting to read more. 

Build a worm farm

Want to take composting and your garden’s health a step further? Consider creating a worm farm! The only thing that kids may love more than dirt are the things they find in it, including wriggly worms. And the worm castings they create are amazing soil amendments. All you need is a plastic storage container with a lid and some basic things that can be found around the house. 

Drill 10 or so small holes in the sides and bottom of the container. The holes allow air in and excess moisture out. Worms like to be moist, but not soaking. Make sure to cover the holes with a screen so your worms don’t get out. Fill the container halfway with strips of newspaper (children can cut the paper into strips), which serve as a comfy bed (and a snack) for your worms. Moisten the newspaper with a spray bottle. Add red wriggler worms.

Add food scraps to the newspaper (fruit and veggie peels, coffee grounds, pasta, tea bags, and foliage trimmed from the garden make great additions, but don’t add dairy, oil, or meat). Place the bin on a tray or pan in a warm spot out of direct sunlight. Add food and check on it regularly. 

Eventually, worm castings will start to build up, though it can take a while. Once you have enough castings, use a spoon to scoop them out and add them to the soil around the plants in the garden. An indoor worm bin (using red wrigglers) can be started at any time of year and is a great winter activity to get soil amendments ready for use in spring and summer planting.  

Create a soil horizon

Learn about the native soil in the areas you wish to plant by doing this educational activity with your kids. Creating a soil horizon provides information on how often you will need to water your garden and what kind of plants will grow best there. It’s also super easy!

All you need is a glass quart-sized jar with a lid, a hand trowel, soil, water, and a soil-type chart for making observations and comparisons. 

Start by filling the jar 2/3 full with water. Take a soil sample using the trowel to remove the top inch of soil from a small area where your future garden will live, then dig out soil from underneath and fill half the jar with soil, topping it off with water. Seal the jar and have your kids take turns shaking it vigorously. Then place it somewhere it won’t be disturbed for at least 24 hours. 

Encourage your kids to peek at it every once in a while and to observe any changes while using their eyes and not their hands. After 24 hours, you should see different layers of soil at the bottom of the jar. The very bottom layer is sand, with silt on top, and clay on top of that. Compare your soil horizon to a soil chart to identify what kind of soil you have in your garden. Feel free to repeat this experiment in other areas of your yard, or wherever you wish to grow something. 

Having kids water plants is a great way to involve them in age-appropriate garden tasks.

Getting kids involved in garden tasks

Involve children in soil preparation by having them use their tools to loosen it, adding their own compost for nutrients, and creating holes where tiny seeds will go. Guide them in planting seeds at the right depth and spacing, but don’t be a perfectionist about it!

If you are transplanting seedlings, teach them to be gentle with the plants. Let them give the plants a drink and encourage them to monitor their growth on a regular basis.

The best way to avoid garden pests is to catch and remove them early, and little gardeners can use their eagle eyes to find them. Introduce ladybugs in the garden to naturally control pests like aphids. Planting flowers for pollinators and parasitic wasps can also control pest populations naturally.  

Connecting with nature

Remember that one of the overarching goals of getting children in the garden is to cultivate a connection with and stewardship of nature. Choose garden chores that align with specific children’s ages and guide them as they take on new skills. But leave lots of room for unstructured play in the garden.

All work and no play will result in your child quickly losing interest. Kids were created to play and this medium fosters the most effective learning. So incorporate plants that can handle some foot traffic in play areas. Use borders to protect delicate saplings and to remind your own little saplings where their feet belong. And let loose in the garden a bit. Gardening is supposed to be a stress reliever after all! 

Quiet your inner gardener and let your child guide you in taking chances. I let Remy plant any seeds or seedlings he wanted to in his plot. Some of the seedlings looked quite scraggly (which is why they didn’t make it into my raised beds), but low and behold, they all took off when he got them into the ground. So take some chances and quiet the critical gardener who “knows best.”

A lightweight child-sized garden rake is perfect when little hands need to push mulch and soil.

Adding whimsy and magic to your outdoor garden space 

Adding a touch of whimsy and magic to outdoor spaces can transform them into inviting realms for children to play and explore. Incorporating elements like colorful, oversized garden ornaments, fairy lights, and hidden nooks can stimulate their imagination and create a sense of wonder. Enchanting pathways, secret garden doors, and miniature fairy houses can turn a simple garden into an enchanting world where kids can embark on exciting adventures and imaginative quests. These elements not only encourage outdoor play but also foster creativity and a deep appreciation for the natural world, allowing children to connect with the magic of nature in their own backyard.

All things mud

 If your child loves to dig (*enthusiastically raises hand*), create a digging-only bed where they can dig and play in the mud without harming seedlings. Add some earth mover toys and a pile of rocks and sticks for additional textures and to create mud gnome homes (note:  larger rocks are better for staying out of little mouths).

A mud kitchen is a great place to mix potions and make mud pies. Check out the book “Mud Pies and Other Recipes” by Marjorie Winslow for inspiration. Encourage your little ones to build fairy houses with natural objects so the pixies will help care for the garden.  

Mud kitchens allow kids to make messes in all the right places!

Places to hide

Incorporating living structures like squash tunnels, sunflower houses, and bean teepees into your garden can transform it into a captivating and imaginative haven for children. These living structures not only add a sense of enchantment to the garden but also provide fun places to hide, play, or curl up with a book. Squash tunnels create cozy hideaways where kids can explore the lush foliage and vibrant blooms while staying shaded from the sun. Sunflower houses offer a natural, sun-dappled retreat where young readers can immerse themselves in books amidst towering, sunflower walls. Bean teepees, with their climbing vines and leafy canopies, provide secret alcoves for imaginative play and offer a sense of seclusion within the garden’s green embrace. These living structures not only inspire a love for gardening but also nurture a child’s sense of adventure and wonder in the great outdoors.

Creature features

Include bird houses, bat boxes, feeders, and bee baths for lots of creature viewing and additional connecting with nature. You may wish to create a sit spot where your child can engage in the mindful practice of sitting quietly and observing. Have them select the spot, but it should be in a location that is good for observing nature with varied and interesting things to watch. Your child can return to the same spot as frequently as desired and note how wildlife changes throughout the year. This is a great practice to couple with nature journaling.   

Squash tunnels are space-efficient and a fun place for kids to hide.

Garden safety tips for kids

Don’t forget about safety! Always supervise children when they are in the garden, especially younger ones. Keep a close eye on them to prevent accidents and ensure they are following safety guidelines.

Teach kids how to use garden tools properly. Better yet, invest in small, lightweight child-sized versions of trowels, rakes, and watering cans to make gardening more fun and to get your kids invested as well. Ensure that any chemicals or fertilizers are stored out of their reach. This is a great time to go over proper hand washing, too. 

And finally, teach children not to touch or ingest any plants without your guidance. Some plants can be toxic if ingested or cause skin irritation upon contact. Familiarize yourself with the plants in your garden and educate your children about any potential hazards.

Sunflowers are beloved by children and pollinators alike!

Garden arts and crafts 

Crafts are a great way for your artsy child to put their mark on their garden. Have your child plant seeds in the shape of a design in the garden and watch their artwork literally come to life!

Let your child paint the sign for their garden to instill a sense of pride and ownership. Kids can create plant markers by painting river stones. Garden games can also be created with the use of river stones and acrylic paint. For instance, paint rocks as ladybugs and bumble bees for a fun game of tic tac toe on a tree stump.

When it’s especially cold and wet outside, inside garden crafts abound. Create mosaics by using a piece of cardboard, some glue, and some randomly- (or carefully-) placed seeds of different shapes, colors, and sizes. Envelopes can be decorated and labeled to collect seeds from the garden for planting the following year.

During the winter months, your budding artist can create a plant collage using an old seed catalog, scissors, glue, and poster board, to use while planning and dreaming up spring’s garden.

Seed mosaics and garden-themed books bring the outdoor learning inside when the weather is inclement.

Live your garden

Weave gardening into your everyday life, much like brushing your teeth. Collect some flowers for a small vase on your child’s play table. Let them pick the lettuce that will go on the sandwiches you make for lunch. Grow a pumpkin that will be carved for Halloween or made into a pie at Thanksgiving. Create a pizza garden that is utilized on Friday movie nights. When the garden is dormant in the wintertime, spend that time cozy in front of the fire with a seed catalogue dreaming about what will go in your plots in the spring. Have a garden party. Find garden-themed books and read them all year long (this list has some amazing titles, as does this one). 

Focus on your child’s passion and let them do some leading. What is their favorite thing to eat? Grow that! And don’t forget the very little ones.  Just being alongside you in the garden is enough to feed their interest for the coming years as their abilities allow them to participate more and more. It’s never too early to start!

Above all else, get outside, nurture, and be nurtured. 

Little hands love new textures and gardens provide all that and more!

Do you garden with your kids?

About the author

Jackie grew up in central Pennsylvania but is currently enjoying island life in the Salish Sea with her two teens, a pre-schooler, and identical twin baby girls. She specializes in soul-centered outdoor elopements on wild pieces of Earth, as well as soulful, nostalgic, and cozy storytelling photography for families wishing to reconnect with the Earth and with each other.

Jackie is a former forest preschool teacher with a Ph.D. in developmental psychology who whole-heartedly believes that Reginald Horace Blythe was right when uttering the words “Mud is the most poetical thing in the world,” and loves to spend her time in the thick of nature, usually with bare feet. Her greenhouse is her happy place. She also believes that children are big philosophers in little bodies and that we would all be better off walking through life as they do, with our eyes, ears, and hearts open to it all. To that end, she wishes to share photography as a means to live more fully and intentionally in each moment and in nature. Mostly, she just wants her children to grow up with a sense of wonder, to wander, and to have a strong passion for protecting this planet.

You can find more from Jackie in the following locations:
Instagram: @raising_little_naturalists
Website: Wild Women Wandering
RWMC posts: Jackleen Leed

The post The Ultimate Guide to Gardening with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Horseback riding lessons for kids

Are you curious about horseback riding lessons for kids? Horseback riding can be a fun and rewarding activity for children. And the good news is that you don’t need to own your own horse to get started!

It’s important to know what to expect before signing your children up for riding lessons. My children recently started taking horseback riding lessons (as one does when you live in Texas), and we were so impressed with how much there was to learn about horseback riding. I wanted to pass on the great info we learned about lessons to help other parents that might be considering them. 

So, here are a few things to keep in mind when signing up your child for horseback riding lessons.

Benefits of learning horsemanship for kids

Horsemanship is the art or practice of riding on horseback, but it also involves physically prepping and caring for horses, being knowledgeable about their habits and needs, and showing responsibility for the comfort and communication of horses.  Ultimately, being a great friend and partner to the animal before you ride, during your ride, and after you ride. The care of horses is a great lesson that all children can benefit from learning. 

There are many benefits of learning good horsemanship for kids. Here are a few benefits of horseback riding that your kids can learn during riding lessons: 

• Introducing horseback riding to young children can help them develop a love for horses and the outdoors.
• Horseback riding lessons can teach children important life skills, such as patience, discipline, and responsibility.
• Riding a horse is a great way for young kids to get exercise and spend time outside in the fresh air.
• Caring for another living being is a powerful lesson for children.  Not only does it teach them to care for animals, but compassion and care for horses also translate to compassion and care for each other.
• Horseback riding lessons offer something for everyone. Riders of all ages and skill levels will gain something from a horseback riding session. Easy-going children will enjoy an easy trail ride or therapeutic time with the horses.  Children who need sensory input will enjoy barrels or a bit more physically challenging ride. 

Horseback riding lessons

Different farms and ranches may offer different types of horse riding lessons. Some may only offer group lessons for kids, where they take lessons with other children the same age or skill level. Others may only or also offer private lessons (or individual lessons) so that your child can get one-on-one time with the instructor exclusively. Some offer lessons year-round, while others may only offer lessons during particular seasons (e.g. summer camps, horse camps, summer programs, etc.). Others may offer individual classes or lesson packages. 

Many ranches also offer a variety of classes based on riding style, skill level, age of kids, etc. If your child is just getting started with horseback riding lessons, look into “introductory” lessons. 

Types of horseback riding styles

There are many different styles of horseback riding classes available for kids. English riding lessons teach the basics of horseback riding, including how to sit in the saddle and hold the reins. Western riding lessons focus on more advanced skills, such as roping and barrel racing. Barrel racing is a popular event at rodeos, where riders race around barrels set up in a cloverleaf pattern. Many of these skills are demonstrated in horse shows that your child could participate in, if they reach the appropriate skill level. 

No matter what type of lesson you choose, your child will learn valuable skills and have a lot of fun!

Western vs. English horseback riding

There are a few key differences between Western-style and English-style horseback riding. Depending on what your child is interested in learning, you may want to choose a horseback riding lesson that leans toward one style or the other. Western lessons for young riders could be very different from English-style riding lessons. Both take practice and hard work to learn. Here’s what you need to know about each. 

Saddle differences

Perhaps the most obvious difference is in the saddle. Western saddles are generally much larger and heavier than English saddles, and they have a large horn on the front of the pommel. This horn is used for steering the horse, as well as for roping cattle. The stirrups on a Western saddle are also wider than those on an English saddle, which helps the rider to stay in the saddle when riding at a fast pace.

Western riding lessons may include:

• • Reining: This is a judged event where the rider guides the horse through a set pattern of circles, spins, and stops. The horse must be responsive to the rider’s commands and appear to be working willingly.
  • Cutting: This is another judged event where the rider works to keep a cow from returning to the herd. The horse must be able to maneuver quickly and smoothly to stay ahead of the cow.
  • Barrel racing: This is a timed event where the rider navigates a pattern of barrels. The horse must be able to turn quickly and smoothly to stay on course.
  • Pole bending: This is another timed event where the rider weaves in and out of a line of poles. The horse must be able to maintain a smooth pace and make sharp turns.

English riding lessons may include:

• • Dressage: One of the most common events, which is often compared to ballet on horseback. 
  • Jumping: Tests the horse and rider’s ability to negotiate a series of obstacles in a timely and efficient manner. 
  • Eventing: Another popular equestrian sport that combines elements of both dressage and show jumping. 
  • Horse racing: perhaps the most well-known of all the English horse riding events.

Equestrian Therapy

Equestrian Therapy is a form of therapy that uses horses to help people with physical, emotional, and mental disabilities. The therapist uses the horse’s movement to help the patient achieve their goals.

Equestrian therapy can help people with a wide range of issues, including:

• Physical: Equestrian therapy can help improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. It can also help people who have trouble walking.
• Emotional: Equestrian therapy can help people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress. It can also help people who have trouble controlling their emotions.
• Mental: Equestrian therapy can help people who have ADHD, autism, impaired cognitive ability, or other mental disorders. It can also help people who have trouble concentrating or remembering things.

Equestrian therapy is a relatively new field, but it has already helped many people with disabilities. If you think equestrian therapy might be right for you, talk to your doctor or therapist.

Finding the right place to take horseback riding lessons

Choosing a reputable instructor is important for both safety and your child’s enjoyment of the lessons. You want to be sure that the ranch you choose is an expert in horses AND in working with children. The lesson programs should be tailored for children, and the horses should also be accustomed to small riders. Both the lesson horses and the trainer need a special skill set and level of sensitivity that not everyone has.

If you are new to horseback riding,  this may mean a lot of research and discussions. While every school/farm/ranch has its own way of doing things, researching several places will give you a good idea of what is considered standard. It is important to remember that even though horses are generally gentle giants that they are large strong animals, and safety is number one, especially when small children are involved.

How to choose a reputable riding instructor

Here are a few ways you can choose a reputable horseback riding instructor:

1. Ask your communities for recommendations:  Don’t know where to go for lessons or the best places in the area?  Ask your local parent groups, co-op, or school communities.  A ranch with a great reputation is likely to be a good fit for you!
2. Meet and greet: If the farm/ranch offers a “Meet and Greet” or an opportunity for you to come in and tour, take it!  This is a great opportunity to get to know the teachers, horses, and staff in a low-pressure environment.  This is also a great time to see the recommended gear and ask questions face-to-face. 
3. Consider your goals:  Some ranches are focused on being more competitive, and some are more focused on riding for enjoyment. Both can be fantastic experiences, but you will want to know what your goal is when choosing. 

Horseback riding clothing and gear for kids

One of your first questions when signing up for lessons may be what to wear when horseback riding. Be sure to dress your child in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for horseback riding. Here are a few other things you should keep in mind when dressing your child for riding lessons.  

• Footwear: Riding boots aren’t just stylish; they actually have a function in the comfort and safety of riding. For younger riders,  you may be able to get away with cheaper boots, but ask your ranch instructor what their recommendations are.
• Helmet:  While some places may allow your child to ride with a bike helmet, equestrian helmets offer the best protection for kids when learning how to ride. Many ranches require them, especially for older and more advanced riders that are riding faster and taking more risks.
• Pants: Long pants are recommended to prevent rashes on their thighs.  Jeans seem to be the preferred type of pants, but anything that protects their legs will work.

Personal gear items, like helmets and boots, are usually your responsibility. However, when you’re first getting started, some places offer ones that you can wear while at your lesson.  This is great for the first couple of lessons so that you can test the gear and make sure your children really want to do the lessons before investing in their own set.

What to expect in horseback riding lessons

Most ranches believe in horsemanship and not just riding lessons.  This means that lessons at any experience level will include education on horses, instruction, and practice of caring for the horses, as well as riding lessons.  A typical lesson may look like the following:

1. Preparing the rider: Putting on boots, helmets, spurs, or any other gear that may be worn by the rider.
2. Preparing the horse: When interacting with a horse, it is important to communicate with the horse to let them know what you are doing and where you are, especially as you cross their body.  Being kicked by a surprised horse is not part of learning to ride. 
3. Cleaning and brushing the horse: This helps to make sure that the hose is healthy and comfortable with the saddle on. Brushing the horse’s back is essential for making sure there is no debris on them when you saddle them.
4. Saddling the horse: Placing the saddle pads, saddle, and bridle on the horse is an important part of learning how to ride properly. For younger riders, there may also be buddy stirrups if their legs do not reach the stirrups on the saddle. Some ranches have small horses that make it easier for children to saddle and ride on their own. 
5. Riding lesson: This will vary depending on the age and skill level of your rider. Consider your child’s age and abilities. Horseback riding can be physically demanding, so make sure the instructor is aware of any limitations your child may have. Introductory lessons will probably start (and stay) in the corral. More advanced riders may add trail rides or training with apparatuses. 
6. Caring for the horse after the lesson: Removing the saddle and bridle and cleaning gear. Some ranches may have you return the horse to a stable or shelter; others may have you leave them to enjoy the outdoors 

What to expect in horseback riding lessons for kids

Horseback riding is a great activity to teach your kids. It’s important to find the right lesson for them and to be prepared for the lessons before you start. And parents need to be prepared to take an active role in their child’s lessons. Some ranches may ask for help with grooming or tacking up the horse, and you’ll want to be there to encourage and support your child during the lesson. 

No matter how you choose to engage with horses, they can provide a fun and loving relationship for your child and family. With a little planning and preparation, horseback riding lessons can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your child. If you have horse-crazy kids, I hope this post has helped you understand the basics of what’s included in horseback riding lessons and prepared you for your child’s first lesson. 

Are your kids ready to ride? 

About the author

A city girl through and through, Tiana wasn’t always thrilled with outdoor adventures. However, learning the importance of nature + play through her journey to a Master’s in Early Childhood Education changed her heart. She still prefers the hustle and bustle of city life. She also has learned to love all that nature is and gives. Tiana has discovered unbelievably amazing North American destinations by traveling in a DIY converted Sprinter Van with her husband and two kids. She looks forward to new adventures and discoveries every day.

You can find more from Tiana in the following online locations:
Instagram: @usalongtheway
RWMC Posts: Tiana Kubik

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Apple season

Nothing says Fall quite like Apples. Their colors, smell, flavors, and orchard experiences are Autumnal staples. They have all the reds, greens, and golds of the changing fall leaves.  The smell and taste of caramel apples and apple pies brings me right back to the happy Autumns of childhood.

Harvest for these favorite fruits spans the whole fall season from August to November giving everyone plenty of time to enjoy the season. Today we are talking about all things APPLE and the many ways you can enjoy them with your kids!

Benefits of apples

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. We’ve probably all heard this saying, right? They may not be a cure-all but apples do have many health benefits in addition to being a delicious treat for all ages. Apples are are a great source of fiber and vitamin C. The fiber in apple skins helps to feed the good gut bacteria as well as keeping things moving through the digestive tract as they are supposed to. An apple a day was linked to 28% decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. So while it is a sweet snack, at only 90 calories, it’s one you can feel good about eating and feeding to the whole family. 

Types of apples 

There are so many types of apples. They vary greatly in their season availability and their taste. Below are some of the most popular varieties, what they are best used for, and when they are in season. Apple season runs from August to November for reference. 

• Gala – Early picking season. sweet flavor. Good for salads, snacking, and freezing.
• Red Delicious – Mid to late season picking season. Mild flavor. Good for snacking.
• Granny Smith – Mid to late picking season. Tart flavor. Good for baking and snacking.
• Fuji – Midseason picking. Very sweet. Good for snacking and salads.
• Honeycrisp – Early picking season. Juicy and sweet flavor. Good dessert apple.
• Macintosh -Mid picking season. Sweet and tart. Good for baking and snacking.
• Jonagold – Late picking season. Sweet and tart. Good for snacking salads and sauces.
• Pink lady – Late season picking. Sweet with some tart. Good for baking and applesauce.
• Ambrosia – Mid picking season. Sweet and Crisp. Good for baking and snacking.
• Golden Delicious – Mid picking season. Mellow and sweet. Good for snacking, salads and baking.

U-pick apple farms and orchards

Picking your own apples either at the store or at a local apple orchard is a great family activity. Visiting your local u-pick orchard it’s a great way to support local businesses and shop small. Our local orchard Okaw Valley Orchard grows a wide variety of apples and fresh fruit and veggies, and also carries many products from many other local businesses as well. Letting children pick out their own food items from the farm market can help children try new healthy foods or encourage picky eaters to give things a try. 

No matter where you live (in the US), there’s a good chance that you have a local apple orchard or pick your own farm nearby. Apples are grown all across the US and are usually available starting late summer through the fall (late October or early November). U-pick orchards are also everywhere. To find an orchard or u-pick farm near you, check out pickyourown.org and search by your state and region. 

What to know before you go apple picking

Before heading out to the orchard be sure to check out the orchard’s website, Facebook page or other social media channels. Different types of apples have varying seasons. Know what’s ripe in your area (and how you’ll use it), so you know what to pick (and how much). If you are in search of a certain variety it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for when they will be available. The orchard may also have specific times or dates for picking your own apples.  Many orchards host school tours and events. Checking their website or social media can help you plan your trip on a less busy day, and ensure you get all the products you are after.

You’ll also want to know if there’s an admission fee to pick apples, the price (per pound) of apples, whether they take credit cards, what’s available in the farm store, etc. 

Apple picking with kids

Apple picking with kids is a fun and easy outdoor fall activity for the whole family. Every year we make it a point to make a day trip to go pick apples and it’s become a family tradition that we all look forward to. Apple picking is easy enough for little kids (although, they may need some help reaching the high ones) and still fun and enjoyable for older kids (and adults). Apples are available around us from late August through early November, which means we could even go a few times a season in order to get the best varieties for our treats (see below) in a wide variety of weather. Our local apple orchard has a ton of fun activities for the kids that keep us busy all day. 

What to pack for apple picking with kids

The good part about apple picking is that you don’t really need any special gear or items. If you have a long drive, pack accordingly for your car ride (toys, entertainment, water, and lots of snacks). Depending on the weather, you may need layers, sunscreen, bug spray, a raincoat, boots, or a jacket. We always pack a change of clothes (because you just never know with kids) to keep in the car. And maybe bring along some cash and/or change for any events, rides, activities at the orchard. 

For the most part, the only thing you need to pick apples is a container to hold them. Most u-pick farms will provide bags, baskets, or buckets for holding your apple haul. However, check to make sure before heading out the door.

Finally, don’t forget to bring along a camera! Apple orchards make beautiful backdrops for pretty family photos. 

How to pick and choose your apples

When it comes to picking your own apples right off the tree, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure you get the best apples and to ensure the tree is unharmed so we have apples for years to come.  Kids tend to want to just pull the apple down until it comes off. Unfortunately, this method can damage or break branches on the apple tree. To pick effectively without damaging the tree remind kids to “twist, then pull upward”. This helps to loosen the stem and preserve the tree branches.  

Before twisting and pulling check the apple to make sure there are no openings in the skin and give it a little squeeze before picking to make sure it is firm and not squishy. Little ones might be tempted to fill their bags with apples from the easy-to-reach ground so you may want to double-check them to make sure they are free of soft spots. 

If you plan to do some baking keep an eye out for “seconds specials”. Seconds are apples that may not look great on the outside but are perfectly fine to eat. These ripe apples are best for baking, where their skin imperfections will go unnoticed. 

Exploring an apple orchard with kids

Most orchards have more to do than just picking apples, which is great because kids can sometimes be over the picking part quickly. Local apple orchards can offer a wide variety of games and activities, such as hayrides, bonfires, tractor rides, corn maze, pumpkin cannons, pig races, train rides, cider mill tours, pony rides, live music, pumpkin patch, scenic wagon ride, a petting zoo full of farm animals, farm stand, beer garden, wine tasting, food trucks, bounce houses, carnival rides, face painting, and more! The food is usually delicious too – bratwurst and burgers, funnel cakes, ice cream, apple cider doughnuts, and fresh apple cider, of course! 

Our local orchard has a playground outside and a lot of products to browse through on the inside at the market. Many of these products are made with or pair perfectly with apples like bbq sauce, cinnamon apple jellies, and ciders.  Our favorite thing to get inside our local orchard store is cider slushies and cider donuts! Local orchards are also a great place to start some of your holiday shopping with small gifts like soaps, home goods, and delicious canned goods. 

Kid-friendly apple recipes 

Visiting the orchard is fun but let’s be honest, the best part is eating! Apples can be sweet, savory, and even spicy. They can be used in so many different dishes. Here are a few recipes that kids will love to help out with and eat!

Sweet apple treats

Apple chips– Thinly slice a cored apple. Place slices on parchment paper. Sprinkle slices with cinnamon. Place slices in the oven at 200 degrees cooking low and slow for about 2-3 hours until they are nice and crisp. As an added bonus the house will smell delicious as these cook! 

Apple roll-ups– Using pre-made crescent roll dough sprinkle each dough slice with some cinnamon and sugar. Place one apple slice in the middle of the dough then roll up and bake as directed on the packaging. These make great afternoon snacks!

Apple nachos– These are very customizable and fun to make. Use apple slices as you would chips in traditional nachos. Then cover the slices with all your favorite toppings, we used peanut butter, chocolate, chocolate chips, and marshmallows. Nuts and caramel would be delicious toppings as well. 

Apple donut rings– Core and slice apples crossways. Decorate slices using peanut butter, Nutella or marshmallow cream for the “donut icing”. Then have fun with the toppings using chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. The “icing” can be difficult for little fingers to spread so it worked best for us if the adults did the spreading and the kids did the decorating. 

Apple butter– Check out this post on a fun family tradition of making a huge vat of homemade open-fire apple butter outside with the whole family! Apples, red hots, and even some silver dollars make this a really special recipe! Pair with biscuits for cleaning the pot!

Savory apple recipes for kids

Turkey apple grilled cheese sandwiches– Spice up the traditional grilled cheese with some deli turkey, cheddar cheese, and some thin-sliced apples. To apple it up even more add some apple butter. Then prepare just like you would traditional grilled cheese. If you happen to have a panini press that would work as well!

Apple beer bread– This apple beer bread is the perfect combination of apples, honey-wheat, and cinnamon. Plus, it only takes 5 minutes to prepare, so you can enjoy it soon without the long wait. Try it warm with a slathering of butter (or spiced butter!). 

Apple and pork breakfast sausage– In a bowl combine ground pork, shredded apple, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Form the mixture into small sausage patties. Cook the patties in a skillet for about five minutes per side until golden brown

Apple crafts for kids

If eating apples is just not going to happen, don’t worry! Apples can also be used to feed wildlife and for kid crafts. 

Apple stamping– Cut an apple in half, paint the cut side and use it as a stamp to get a perfect apple-shaped silhouette. Stamp on a paper tree or fill a paper basket with stamped apples while learning about apples at home without going to the store or orchard. 

Apple suncatcher– Use construction to cut out a large apple outline. In the center of the outline, use contact paper and colored tissue paper to decorate the apple. Hang on windows to let the sun illuminate the tissue paper. This is a fun way to decorate for fall. 

Apple bird feeder– This is a great way to use apples that may have imperfections or soft spots and aren’t going to get eaten. Cut the apple in half. Hollow out the center of the apple. Fill with peanut butter then coat with birdseed. Then hang in a tree for birds, and probably squirrels, to enjoy. Check out this post for even more fun and simple bird feeders you can make with kids.

A favorite fruit 

Apple picking is one of those wonderful fall activities that’s fun for the whole family and is sure to be a great time! Hitting the orchards is one of our family’s favorite fall traditions and a fun way to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather and fresh air. Apples are a favorite fruit for kids and adults alike, and for good reason. With all of their uses and their many varieties, they can easily please a wide range of people. There is no shortage of fun and delicious things to do with apples. So get out to your local orchard and start picking today!

About the author

Meghan is a country living, mom of 2 boys in rural central Illinois (with a baby girl on the way). 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 to capture 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
RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

The post Tips for Apple Picking with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

The bond between children and animals

I believe children are born with an interest in living, wiggling, breathing creatures. The animals that surround us are delightful and exciting. Children are drawn to them, many times fearlessly. I’ve watched my toddlers walk up to a huge cow and reach out their hands to a bovine head that’s as big as their whole body. I’ve watched them clutch tiny critters that could bite or scratch. The magnetism between children and animals seems to be almost universal. And there are a multitude of benefits included in letting our kids build relationships with animals.

As parents, though, safety concerns about our kids and animals sometimes loom large. Animals can be big. They can bite and kick and scratch, more unpredictably than a toddler. We all have heard horror stories of dogs hurting children. And animals aren’t really all that hygienic. They can trigger allergy problems, carry diseases, and spread parasites. Now that I think about it, there are a lot of ways an animal can potentially harm a child! So, how do we encourage our kids’ natural love for animals while helping them learn animal safety? We’re here to help. 

Always around animals

I’ve always been around animals. Both of my parents are veterinarians. They met in veterinary school and had pets before they had children. Many of my earliest memories involve animals—from pet mice to vet calls on Standardbred horse farms. I grew up in my dad’s veterinary clinic, helping mop floors, “assisting” him with exams and surgeries, and being exposed to all kinds of animals. We always had dogs and cats in our home, and often livestock outside as well. I was raised to love all animals and yet also to have a healthy respect for safety around animals. I knew very well that a dog could bite or a steer could drag me.

My husband also grew up with all kinds of pets. As newlyweds, we picked up our first puppy on our way home from our honeymoon. Animals have continued to play a bigger and bigger role in our family life as we are building our country homestead. We now have to think through animal safety from a parental perspective. How can we teach our own children to interact with animals safely? What are the guidelines we grew up with that have guided us through all kinds of animal relationships?

Kids and pets

Research proves that animals have a wonderful effect on children. I love how this article highlights the many benefits of having pets with kids. Animals do bring some safety risks, but there are so many incredible benefits and lots of ways to make the right choice for your family. If one kind of animal concerns you, there are literally dozens of other kinds of pets—from goldfish to horses, with every size and color and texture you can imagine.

Risks vs. benefits of animals

I look at kids’ safety with animals in a similar way to risky play, like tree climbing and swinging. Are there risks involved? Sure there are. But the benefits to my children are greater than the risks. Animals are used for therapy because their love and acceptance are invaluable to people of all ages, especially children. Caring for animals teaches children responsibility, gentleness, and so much more. In my mind and experience, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Basic child safety tips around animals

With that said, I’d like to cover some basic animal safety with kids. Please understand that I am not a doctor or a veterinarian. You should always seek out the advice of your medical professional if you have any medical concerns for your child. But here are some common-sense, general guidelines to help you allow your children to be involved with animals while still being safe.

Probably the most major area of animal safety with kids is teaching them how to treat animals correctly. Unfortunately, animals can be unpredictable. They are limited in their intellect and may respond by instinct when they are annoyed or feeling threatened. Amazingly, many animals instinctively treat children with great patience and gentleness. However, especially if an animal has been provoked or mistreated (in the past as well as the present moment), you cannot guarantee that it won’t nip or scratch a child. But there are things you can teach your kids that will help them know how to interact with animals safely.

Treat animals gently

The first thing you need to do to ensure your child’s safety with animals is to teach your child to treat every animal with kindness and gentleness. All animals deserve to be respected as living creatures. They should be handled gently and spoken to with calm voices. And animals generally will respond to gentleness with gentleness. If your child can move slowly and speak softly, he/she will avoid many problems with animals.

Go soft and slow

Although this behavior doesn’t always come easily to kids, it is a good discipline for them to learn. We try to reinforce it with our little ones, especially with new pets or other people’s animals. Any time kids get excited, they tend to forget to move slowly and speak softly. I try to be watchful for this behavior, and for the animal’s response to it. “Look, sweetie, the dog is hiding because you’re being loud and it’s scaring him. He’s not used to you. Try to talk really softly and see if he comes out.” It’s a good learning experience for children to realize that their behavior has an impact on animals, and to see how an animal will respond to loving and gentle behavior.

Animals are different

Every individual animal is unique. It’s really important to teach kids to be respectful of how an animal responds to them. Maybe you have a dog in your home, and it’s used to your kids’ boisterous ways. (We do! Our dog is 100% accustomed to every bit of childish noise and behavior. They can shout and lie on top of him and brush his fur and he puts up with it all.)

But then you go to someone else’s home, and their dog is terrified of all the commotion. In that situation, it’s our job as parents to teach our children how to calm down and respect that animal. This is both important as a rule of kindness, as well as for animal safety. Any animal who is ill at ease is much more likely to snap at a child.

Different kinds of animals

Not all animals like to be treated the same or respond the same way to people. If you’re familiar with animals, you realize that a dog and cat are not created equal. A dog may love a vigorous tummy scratch, while a cat may hate it and scratch the person administering it. And there are even differences between the same types of animals – what doesn’t bother one dog may severely upset another. Just like people, animals are all unique and come with their own personalities, likes, and dislikes. This is a good lesson for kids to learn. 

There are different guidelines for how to safely handle cats, birds, horses, and dogs. Not only their size, but also their temperament demands different treatment. If we want to teach our kids safety around animals, we have to teach them how to safely interact with different species.

Safety with other peoples’ pets

If you have a cat in your home, you’ve probably already taught your children how to be safe and gentle with their own pet. When you go to a friend’s house and they have a pet, take time to ask them how that animal likes to be treated. Ask them what their rules are for interacting safely with their pet. Make sure your child is listening and paying attention to this conversation.

Those guidelines will give your child an excellent place to begin getting comfortable with a new kind of animal, whether it’s a pet bird, a hamster, or a large animal. Following the owner’s instructions will also help keep your child safe around an unfamiliar animal.

We have extended family members who have horses, so I try to make sure my kids are learning from their aunt and grandma how to approach, pet, groom, and ride each horse. My parents own beef cattle, and at their farm, I remind my children to listen to Grandpa’s instructions around the cows. Another aunt has pet birds, large and small. She’s wonderful at letting the children interact with the members of her aviary, but I have to remind them to listen and be respectful that each bird behaves differently. One small parrot may let them pet or feed her, but the other will bite if they reach their fingers out to her. As long as they listen to their aunt’s instruction, both they and the birds are safe.

Safety with a new pet

When you’re getting a new pet, especially a kind of animal you haven’t had before, it may bring up some new safety concerns. How do we teach our kids how to be safe with an animal we don’t know much about? Thankfully, there are as many resources available as there are pets! When we got our son a bearded dragon, we knew nothing about lizards.

We turned to the library and the internet to help educate him. We checked out several books and found some YouTube channels for him to watch. Not only did he learn how to properly care for his new pet, but he also learned how to handle and interact with it safely.

Now we’re doing the same thing for our seven-year-old, who persistently begged for a parakeet for her birthday. Having knowledge about their unique pets makes them comfortable with their animals and they feel a strong sense of responsibility to handle their charge with care and safety.

Consider your pet’s history

If you are bringing a new pet into your home, you should make sure the animal has been treated well before coming into your family. If you’re buying a young animal from a breeder, ask if the pet has been socialized and is used to children. You can also ask them for pointers on helping your new pet and your kids adjust to each other.

Although rescuing animals is a wonderful mission, there are some safety concerns when you’re adopting a rescue animal into a family with small children. Many times rescue animals have been mistreated in the past and have triggers that a child can innocently set off. If you choose to adopt an animal from a shelter or rescue, talk to the workers about your family situation. They may be able to help match you with an animal whose temperament or history will work for a family with children. Depending on your children’s ages and maturity, they may also be ready for the challenges of caring for a previously mistreated animal.

Kid-friendly breeds

Some breeds of animals are just more tolerant and better for families with kids. Others can be more high-strung and irritable. When you’re looking for a pet, do some research about what breeds might best fit with your family. This article highlights some of the most family-friendly dog breeds.

From dogs to chickens to cows, there are major temperamental differences from breed to breed. I once raised a steer for a 4-H project who remained unmanageable his entire life. We learned later that his breed was known for being skittish and wild. He simply was the wrong breed for a kid to work with, and I never succeeded in gentling him. I’ve even learned that some chicken breeds are better for kids than others. You can do a google search for the best kid-friendly breeds of any animal you might be considering. 

Respect an animals’ space

One of the animal safety rules my parents instilled in us was that you should never, EVER get in a dog’s face. Even though I knew that very well, as a little girl, one time I started messing with my beloved pet dog, getting right in her face, and she bit me. Although she was a trusted, tolerant pet, she had had enough. I was pushing her buttons, and she let me know it. I wasn’t very old, but that lesson has stayed with me throughout my entire life. Stay out of an animal’s face, and respect its space. Even a very tolerant pet may snap at a child if it’s had enough foolish behavior.

And along those same lines, never tease an animal. Sometimes kids don’t realize that an animal cannot understand teasing. Not only is it cruel, but it could be dangerous. An animal who is being teased and tormented is very likely to forget its training and instinctively respond to unkindness with irritation.

Safety with strange animals

There’s a world of difference between a pet you’re familiar with and a strange dog you meet walking down the road. It’s really important to teach children to maintain a cautious, respectful distance. Never, ever, run towards an animal you don’t know! Approach slowly and with caution. If the animal is with its owner, always ask the owner if you may pet it before reaching out to the animal.

Dogs roaming free without an owner probably scare me more than any other kind of animal. My parents always taught us that if a strange dog came running up to you, you should try to “make like a tree.” Stand still, holding your arms perfectly still by your sides. Don’t scream or run away. As a kid, I never had to use this advice, but as an adult, I still remember it. Your best defense against an aggressive dog is to show no fear and remain calm. 

Safety tips when approaching strange dogs with kids

Most of my experiences with strange dogs have come in my years as a mom, when a barking dog has run out aggressively as I walk with my kids, a stroller, and our own dog. In these circumstances, I’ve found myself turning into Mama Bear. I don’t become a tree—I go on the offense. My children are always scattered up and down the street on bikes, and usually, I have one in the stroller. I know our huge dog (who’s a big baby normally) would fight a dog if it attacked us, and I’m terrified of my kids being caught in the middle of a dogfight, or getting harassed by an aggressive dog. With invisible fences, it can be very hard to know how close a dog will get to you when they come charging. And it’s oftentimes not for the faint of heart. 

In this situation, I find myself yelling at the strange dog in the fiercest tones I can muster, “GO HOME! NO! GO HOME!” It actually works. If I can find and grab a stick quickly, I wave that, also. Although I’ve been nipped at a couple times, none of the kids have ever gotten hurt and our dog always acts perplexed at the stupidity of an animal that would come charging out to attack us. Oftentimes, the loud noise, yelling and barking attract the attention of the homeowner, who will let the dog in. 

Hygiene and animal safety

As a mom, one big concern I have about my kids’ safety with animals is hygiene. Let’s face it—animals can be filthy. They can carry some nasty stuff. And my kids aren’t always the cleanest, either! But teaching them some basic hygiene goes a really long way.

A good hand-washing will eliminate those harmful bacteria and parasites. My parents drilled this into me my whole growing-up years: WASH YOUR HANDS. If you’ve been petting the dog, wash your hands. When you’re coming in from the barn, wash your hands. After you’ve changed your pet’s water, wash your hands. It’s so basic, but it really solves a lot of problems.

Kid hygiene

Now, I know my kids forget stuff. And this hand-washing thing worries me when they’re handling animals. It was one thing when most of our animals were outdoors animals. It seemed easier to have them wash as they came inside, or before meals. But, this took a whole new level of importance when my son got his bearded dragon. Anyone who reads anything about bearded dragons (or other lizards) will come across the dreaded word “salmonella.” That freaked me out! Fortunately, in all his own research, my son learned the great importance of hand-washing, both for his own health and his lizard’s. So he took charge of the hand sanitizing and carefully supervised every hand that touched his pet, before and after. 

Hand washing for the win

Hand-washing reached a pinnacle of significance when we adopted some kittens this spring. We found them in my dad’s hay barn and their parents were feral cats. The kittens were too little to deworm or vaccinate yet. And we were holding and feeding those kittens all the time. So, I instilled in my children a great horror of the diseases they could bring upon themselves if they forgot to wash their hands after handling the kittens.

I must have done a thorough job of terrifying them because they religiously washed their hands (and still do). And no one caught anything dreadful from the kittens, who have now been appropriately dewormed and vaccinated. That eases my mind quite a lot. I still consider hand washing important, but at least I know we’ve eliminated some of the health problems our cats could pass on to our kids.

Pet hygiene

That brings me to the other side of this hygiene topic: pet hygiene. If you are bringing pets into your home, it’s really important that you cover some basic disease/parasite prevention measures. Your vet will help you know what to do and when, but most pets need regular vaccinations and deworming.

A good flea/tick prevention medication is also important for not only your pet’s health, but to protect your children from being exposed to fleas and ticks from your pet. Thankfully, all these products are readily available and do so much to keep your pet healthy and free from diseases. In turn, your pet is a safer companion for your kids.

One more thing I’d like to address is that very few viruses pass between humans and animals. If your dog is throwing up, or your cat’s eyes are runny, you need to care for the pet’s health—but you don’t usually need to worry about your children catching what the animal has. Proper vaccination and deworming, along with good hygiene practices, will eliminate most of the things you can catch from a house pet.

Along with hand-washing, other important hygiene habits would include not kissing your pets on the mouth, not letting them drink from your cup or the toilet, and keeping their litter box/bathroom area clean.

What about animal allergies?

Unfortunately, sometimes allergies are a major animal safety concern with kids. Many parents think their children can’t have pets because they have allergies. This is definitely an obstacle, but it may be possible to overcome! Not all pet dander is created equal. A child who cannot tolerate cat hair may be perfectly fine with a dog. Many kids with allergies can still live with a non-shedding animal, such as the dogs described in this list. A bird might not work for a child with dust allergies, but maybe an outdoor rabbit or even a tank of goldfish would be okay.

Talk to your child’s doctor if you have concerns about allergies, and see if they can help you come up with some kind of animal companion for your child.

Animals are amazing

Pets enrich our children’s lives in so many ways, and it’s worth the extra work on our part to safely give them the companionship, responsibility, and unconditional love of an animal friend. If we can educate our children on the proper way to handle and interact with animals, we can open the doors for a lifetime of happy and healthy relationships with pets. 

How have you handled safety concerns with animals and your kids?

About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. You can follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Client work: @lalvisphotography
Leslie’s RWMC posts:

• Raising Chickens with Kids
• Owling with Kids
• Homemade Apple Butter
• Dealing with Poison Ivy, Mosquitoes & Ticks
• Creating Nature Fairy Gardens
• Eco-Friendly Bird Feeders
• Getting Kids Outside During the School Year
• Pond Nature Study
• Maple Syrup with Kids
• Cattle Farm Chores

The post Animal Safety with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring a farmers’ market with kids

Exploring a farmers’ market is an outdoor activity your whole family is sure to enjoy. Exploring farmers’ markets with kids can also help your community in a number of ways! Today, I’m excited to share this fun outing with you and cover the basics of what to expect, as well as some tips to enjoy farmers’ markets like a pro.  I hope that this post inspires you to get out with your kids and have some good ol’ family fun at your local farmers’ market (and make healthy food choices and meet new friends along the way!). 

What is a farmers’ market?

A farmers’ market is an open area where local farmers, makers, bakers, artists, and even musicians set up displays to sell their local goods and share their passions with the community. Each booth space at a local farmers’ market offers something a little different than the rest, making each market a totally unique experience. When you think of farmers’ markets, you may only think of rows upon rows of fruits and vegetables. And while that is definitely a highlight of any good farmers’ market, there is so much more than fruits and veggies to enjoy and explore!

Farmer’s markets are made up of people who passionately grow their fruits and vegetables, bake their bread and pastries, paint their canvases, set up amazing displays, create their own products and work tirelessly to provide local healthy, delicious, beautiful options for you to purchase.

There are usually free samples, free music, and other free or inexpensive options for you to enjoy, making farmers’ markets a fun (and inexpensive) place to hang out, make friends, discover new foods, and meet your community. 

Farmers’ markets are good for you (and everyone else)

Did you know that farmer’s markets are GREAT for our local economies, our health, and the environment?! 

Purchasing local food is good for the environment. For example, consider the difference between buying peaches from a farm 20 miles from your home versus a farm 400 miles away. Think of the labor, drive time, packaging, processing, and emissions that are saved when the transportation time is reduced. Now multiply that by say 40 vendors at a local farmers market. It is pretty easy to see that shopping local is a great way to help the environment. 

Shopping local is also beneficial to your own community and neighborhood. When you purchase food, goods, or services from a local vendor, more of that money stays in your community and area. Your local economy can flourish if everyone seeks out more local options and shops small. 

Making connections at the market

The farmers, artists, master gardeners, makers, craftsmen, and entertainers at local farmer’s markets are some of the most hardworking, kind people you will meet. A farmers’ market is a great place to meet genuine and interesting people. The vendors are usually very passionate about the products they produce and the food they grow/harvest. You’ll find that they’re often very willing to talk to you (and especially your kids) about their processes, experiences, and backgrounds. They may even offer you a tour of their farm, a demonstration, or a free sample. The setting is perfect for children to meet and interact with a wide variety of interesting and passionate adults, as well as others their age. Exploring farmer’s markets with your kids is a simple and fun way for them to make community connections and meet new friends. 

For more information on how to meet farmers and/or get information on local farms in your area, check out this post on teaching kids about where food comes from.

New foods, new recipes 

Farmers’ markets are some of the best places to take your kids to get them more interested in new foods and recipes. There’s such a huge variety of foods at local farmers’ markets, in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables. There are usually meats and cheeses, sausages and eggs, local honey (great for allergies) and salsa, baked goods and jams (and so much more). If your kids are not familiar with the fruits/vegetables available, purchase a few different options to take home and try. Chances are, even if they weren’t huge fans of the vegetable before (or didn’t know anything about it), they will be once they taste fresh produce they picked out and learned about.

Including kids in the act of choosing new vegetables, new fruits, or a new herb can get them excited to try something different! Let your child pick out a seasonal fruit or an exotic fruit to try when you get home. It’s like a treat or a reward that they helped pick out. And there are so many different colors and textures of foods for them to experience at a farmer’s market. You’re sure to find something delicious even for the pickiest of eaters. You might even discover something delicious enough that you choose to plant it in your own vegetable garden next year! 

Most of the vendors at our local farmers’ market have free samples to try, as well. It is so much fun for kids to try yellow watermelon, pluots, and lemon cucumbers to name a few. Many vendors also will suggest a simple recipe for a vegetable, herb, or fruit that isn’t well known. Your children will love choosing something new to try at home! 

Healthy options for less

Since local produce doesn’t have the high transportation costs that are associated with lots of big-box grocery store chains, many of the healthy foods you will find are less expensive than at a grocery store. Not to mention food that hasn’t been shipped hundreds of miles, is fresher (so it tastes better), and has way less plastic wrapping and packaging! These are all benefits of shopping local and small, which also help reduce your carbon footprint. 

Did you know that most of the fruits and vegetables you’ll find at grocery stores are picked prior to being ripe so that they are hard and don’t get damaged during transport? The local fruits and vegetables at a farmer’s market are often picked within 24 hours of you seeing them! They’re fresh, delicious, and more nutritious than what you’ll usually find at a big grocery store. 

Farmers’ markets affordably

The SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly benefits to millions of low-income families across the country to purchase food and beverages. Starting in 2017, families have been able to use their EBT cards to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from their local farmer’s markets. Click the link to learn about SNAP at farmers’ markets.

Another amazing program increasing accessibility to low-income seniors is the SFMNP (Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program). This program is “designed to provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs.” Click the link to learn more about the SFMNP program.

Availability of farmers’ markets 

Depending on the weather in your area, markets may be open year-round or seasonally. Some markets are open once or twice per week, or a couple of times per month. There are daily markets and weekly markets. There are morning, afternoon, or evening markets. Be sure to check out the hours, days, and seasons your local farmers’ market is open. 

We have found that evening markets many times have food trucks and music, so it makes for a fun, easy evening outdoors where we can enjoy someone else’s cooking! Morning markets are filled with fresh produce and baked goods. This makes an enjoyable morning tasting fresh fruits, enjoying breakfast, buying local produce, and connecting with our community members. Honestly, there’s no bad time of day to visit the farmers’ market. 

To find local farmers’ markets, a simple internet search with your area and the words “farmers’ markets.” (Northern California farmers’ markets or St. Louis farmers’ markets, for example). This will provide a local website or list of options in your area. 

Many of the farmers’ markets that operate twice per week, for example, do so for variety. A market may feature fruits and vegetables on a weekday, and arts/ crafts on a Saturday. This provides variety for customers and keeps things interesting. 

Power of Produce

The Power of Produce (POP) Club is an organization for kids hosted by the Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) which provides a set of over 50 tools, guides and templates to help communities engage younger customers in the farmers market experience through POP Club. The club provides a fun opportunity for children to engage in the local food system through conversations directly with farmers, educational games and demonstrations, and exposure to new fruits and vegetables. In addition to participating in educational activities, POP Club kids receive vouchers to spend at the market, allowing them to make their own shopping decisions at the market. For more information, check out their website. 

Other benefits of farmers’ markets 

Besides being great for your community, environment, and health there are a few other benefits to exploring farmers’ markets with kids! 

Farmers’ markets are a great low-stress environment for them to learn about money and work on social/communication skills. If your kids have some money saved, they can work on talking with vendors, asking questions, adding up items, weighing/measuring, counting money, and calculating change. There are so many great skills that kids can develop from the simple act of shopping! It is a fun, interactive way for them to learn some math and money skills!

More than just food

There are so many other fun, outdoor activities you can find at many farmers’ markets, in addition to fresh produce. We’ve experienced everything from live music at open-air concerts, to cooking demonstrations, a petting zoo, plant displays, pumpkin patches, fresh-cut flowers (make your own bouquet stations), yoga classes, story time (from local authors), and art demonstrations. Many of these activities are free, inexpensive, or merely ask for a small donation. We once found an art bus where the girls could tie-dye a small reusable bag for $5. They had a blast interacting with the small business owner and making something they can use again and again. 

Bring your furry friends!

A fun added bonus: you can usually bring your furry friends to the farmers’ market! Since most farmers’ markets are outdoors, many allow dogs on leashes. Kids and dogs are a great combination and can be an icebreaker for your children to meet and interact with others. Exploring farmers’ markets with kids is a great way to bond with them and others, get some exercise, support your community, and help the environment. Is there anything better than that? 

Helpful tips for visiting a farmers’ market with kids

• Think ahead of time what you’re looking for at a farmers’ market. If you’re looking for the freshest produce, fruits and vegetables, hitting up the farmers’ markets early in the morning is your best chance of getting the most variety. 
• If you’re going to an evening market where there are food trucks and music, it is nice to have a blanket to sit on the grass. 
• Bring a basket or reusable bags to carry your produce. Most places do not have bags or boxes, so try to remember to bring your own. This also cuts down on plastic waste.
• Carry some cash. While many vendors accept cards, some may not. Plus, it makes it faster and easier to pay with cash when you’re browsing and trying to purchase a few small things from various vendors. 
• Bring a reusable water bottle ~ many markets will have refilling stations for bottles, but not cups. In addition, many markets are during the heat of a sunny day so it is nice to have some cold water on hand. 

Have you ever explored a farmers’ market with your kids?

About the author

Ashley is a nature-loving mother of two who is passionate about outdoor education for parents and their children. Ashley grew up in Alaska, where her family spent most of their time outdoors fishing, camping, skiing, and hiking. She currently lives with her husband and children near the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe, where they can be found outdoors year-round; hiking, backpacking, biking, skiing, and camping. She is also very passionate about photography and owns a small photography business.

You can find more from Ashley in the following online locations:
Instagram: @sage.and.summit
Website: Sage & Summit Photography
RWMC posts: Ashley Greenhalgh

The post Exploring Farmers’ Markets with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

The beginnings of a chicken mama

I was seven or eight years old when the first chicken arrived in my life. My parents were both veterinarians and our farm was often the rehoming site for a variety of animals. Pecky, a stately Light Brahma Rooster, came to us because his elderly owner couldn’t keep up with his antics. I fell in love.

I loved his silky feathers, his majestic red comb and dangling wattles, his audacious crow, his feathered feet. It wasn’t long before I decided he needed a family, and so it began. We bought some hens from the little lady who sold eggs just down the road. Soon I was showing chickens in 4-H and selling eggs.

My little flock grew quickly and I loved every member of it. All my chickens had names and personalities. They roamed our barn and yard, providing us with multi-colored and multi-sized eggs and endless entertainment. At one point, my mom clipped an article from a local titled, “Chickens: Better than Television,” and stuck it on the refrigerator. It was true for our family. The chickens were my responsibility, but they entertained us all.

Raising chickens with kids

After years of living in a town where we weren’t allowed to raise chickens, we now live in the country and my children are helping me build a flock again. We started with 11 chicks last spring, and just added 13 more. My daughter gleefully announced recently that right now we have three separate flocks: the grown hens, the adolescent chicks, and the newly hatched Ameraucana chicks I couldn’t leave the feed store without last week.

I’m a firm believer in the benefits of kids raising kids with animals. Taking care of animals helps children learn responsibility, gentleness, and the importance of looking after other living things. They learn empathy and compassion. They also get to experience the joy of friendship with those animals. So, although my older kids have their own pets they’re responsible for and I’m the person primarily responsible for the chickens, I make sure all my kids are involved in our chicken raising adventure.

The joys of chickens

If you’re looking for a pet that’s both productive and personable, you really don’t need to look any farther than a chicken. These feathered friends are relatively simple to care for, make enjoyable pets, and a good laying hen will reward you with up to 300 eggs a year! They’re also pets that children of every age will enjoy.

Our children (ranging in ages 3-13) all help me with different parts of the chickens’ care on a daily basis. While they may grumble sometimes about chasing the chickens out of the neighbors’ yard again or running out to lock up the coop at dark, they truly enjoy these quirky birds. Everyone loves how the hens come running when we bring them food scraps. We’re mesmerized by the soft fluff of the baby chicks. And the daily wonder of finding fresh brown, green, and blue eggs never wears off.

A family affair

Our teenage son might complain that chickens aren’t very smart, but he’s the first person to help me solve a problem with laying boxes or roosts or leaking waterers. And even our three year can march out in the yard and catch a chicken, which delights her endlessly. My husband recently asked if he had to start cheeping to get any attention around here. And if you come visit our house, consider yourself forewarned: at least one, and possibly several, of my children will surely thrust a chick in your face, and expect you to be as delighted with it as they are. A full-grown hen may quite possibly appear also. In the house. Just so you know. Welcome to our zoo.

Getting started raising chickens

If you’ve never raised livestock, getting started raising chickens might feel intimidating. Chickens aren’t terribly hard, but there are a few details to consider first. As with any pet, you need to make sure you can provide what chickens need.

The first thing you should do is make sure chickens are allowed where you live. Many towns and cities have allowances for small backyard flocks, but it’s always a good idea to check your local ordinances if you live in a suburban area. 

Chickens also need some yard space, whether you intend to let them free-range around your yard, or keep them in an enclosure. You can also do a hybrid of the two: we have an enclosed run to keep the chickens contained when we’re not around. Usually, in the afternoons and evenings, we let them free-range around the yard. They carry a special affinity for the neighbor’s yard, however, so we have to keep an eye on them. When we finish building our homestead, they will have plenty of space to roam freely. 

Coop details

Next, you need a secure, draft-free coop for your birds. A general guideline is to allow 2-3 square feet of coop space per chicken. You can buy really cute little coops for a small flock, like this one.  If you or someone in your family is up for a bit of a project, check out these great chicken coop plans!  My skilled carpenter husband built us a coop out of scrap and repurposed materials. We use a movable dog kennel for our run enclosure. 

What you need for baby chicks

But before you get overwhelmed by coop details, take a deep breath. If you’re planning to start with baby chicks, all you need to get started is a deep cardboard box for a brooder. Baby chicks need a cozy, draft-free environment and not too much space to start off with. For the first two weeks of their life, baby chicks only need 6 square inches of space per chick. (But don’t put off the coop plans—these little chicks grow fast!)

In all honesty, we’ve kept baby chicks in roomy boxes in our laundry room, basement, garage…even in the living room. Yes, I’m really that crazy chicken lady. I always prefer to keep the tiny peeps close for a while. Besides, we all just want to hold those little fluffballs every chance we get.

Chicken brooder set up

Getting your brooder set up isn’t hard. Get a nice-sized, sturdy box or build your own, line it with newspaper and pine chips, and hang a heat lamp overhead. A red bulb for your heat lamp helps keep chicks from pecking at one another. The heat lamp should be 18-24 inches away from the chicks. Initially, the ideal brooder temperature is between 90-95 degrees (think body temperature–a mother hen spends most of her time keeping her chicks at her own body temperature). 

I always count on the chicks to let me know where it needs to be: when they are cold, they huddle together directly under the heat source. If they’re too hot, they pant and try to get away from it. I watch them very carefully the first few hours after adjusting the heat lamp, to make sure they are comfortable. Although chicks are surprisingly tough and resilient, the wrong temperatures can cause stress and illness. I also arrange the brooder so there is a warm side and a cool side, keeping the food and water on the cooler side.

Additional chicken accessories

If you’re raising chickens, you’ll also need a chick feeder, a waterer, and chick starter feed, which has a higher protein level than adult chicken feed, along with other essential nutrients for healthy chicks. Although you can purchase everything online, I highly recommend using your local farm or garden supply store as much as possible. Not only are you supporting a local business, but you are also tapping into a valuable resource.

A local feed store has knowledgeable employees who can often answer questions for you, as well as competitive prices on everything you need. You’re going to need a regular supply of feed. And if you should ever need medication or supplement for your chickens, you’ll already know right where to find it.

Getting your chicks

Now comes one of the most fun parts of raising chickens: getting your chicks! Once again, you can order chicks online from a hatchery, but you usually have to order at least 25 chicks so they can keep each other warm during shipping. And in my mind, nothing beats picking out those chicks in person. For years, we passed by the chicks at our local feed store on our way to the dog food aisle. We looked longingly into each brooder and told our children, “Someday we’ll live in a place where we can have chickens.”

Last year, just a couple of weeks after moving to our country home, we marched our whole family into the feed store and hand-picked our chicks. It was addictively fun. So fun, in fact, that we couldn’t wait to do it again this year. We talked about it for months, even as we enjoyed raising our bigger chickens. There’s just nothing like getting baby chicks.

Chicken breeds

What breed of chicken you choose really depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want lots of eggs? Brown eggs? Blue and green ones? All pullets (young females), or straight run (a random mixture of males and females)? Docile chickens? Just bantam chickens who look cute? The options are endless, even at a feed store.

If you look in a hatchery catalog, there are more breeds than you can ever imagine. This article has quite a bit of helpful information about the best laying hens, while this one highlights some of the most kid-friendly chicken breeds. And if you’re interested in different breeds based on the different colors of eggs they might lay, check out this article.

How to pick your chicks

When picking out chicks, we’ve used several different criteria. First, my husband’s vote was that he wanted to see lots of variety in our flock. So we’ve picked several different feather colors. I wanted different shades of eggs, so I picked out brown, green, and blue egg-laying chickens. I also selected some breeds because of their reputation as docile and family-friendly birds.

So our entire family trooped around the chick display, saying, “We want some of those, and a couple of those, and a couple of those…” And we love what we’ve ended up with. Our current laying flock has 3 Ameraucanas, 1 Black Australorp, 2 Light Brahmas, and 3 Rhode Island Reds (we actually got the Reds by accident—they were mixed in with some other chicks. I wouldn’t have necessarily picked them, but they are excellent layers and have also become great pets). This year we picked up some Barred Rocks, ISA Browns, more Ameraucanas, and some bantams for the pure fun of their personalities and plumage.

Caring for your chicks

After you get your chicks set up in their brooder, they need what any other animal needs: freshwater, food, and clean bedding. Chicks are messy little critters who love to scratch around. They will kick food and chips into their water, so I try to hang waterers when I can, or at least set the waterer up on a wooden block so it’s slightly elevated. You want to make sure they can still reach it, though! The kids love helping me make sure the chicks have plenty of food.

If your chicks are cheeping loudly, they are probably hungry, thirsty, or too hot or cold. Noisy chicks need attention. The conversational chirping of contented chicks is very different from the yelping cheeps of uncomfortable ones. I can tell as soon as I walk into the room if my chicks are uncomfortable or upset.

Chick maintenance

Sadly, once in a while a baby chick will get sick or simply fail to thrive. Many times, if you are vigilant in checking your chicks often for problems such as lethargy or pasty vents, you can address these issues and resolve them, saving your chick. This article helps outline basic chick problems and how you can identify and treat them. 

Every day or two, I get a couple of helpers and we clean out the whole brooder. The kids hold the chicks (I mean, I can put them in a small box if I need to. But the kids love helping by holding the chicks!) while I take everything out of the brooder, roll up the soiled bedding into the papers on the bottom, and put out fresh papers and chips. This is also a good time to clean the waterer thoroughly with soap and water to prevent bacteria build-up.

Growing chicks

After a couple of weeks, those tiny fluffballs get a surprising amount of feathers. It doesn’t take long for chicks to hit what we call the “ugly” stage. They get a little gawky and awkward, no longer cute balls of fuzz but far from the lovely plumage of adult birds. At this stage, I put my son in charge of some exercise equipment for the chicks. They love to hop and perch. You can use a dowel rod or even just a straight stick for a roost, and a small cardboard box gives them something to jump on. 

Your chicks are also old enough to start feeding some small treats now. Chickens love all kinds of fruits, vegetables, and even table scraps. However, there are a few foods are bad or even toxic to chickens, so be sure to check a list like this one before you start feeding them everything from your fridge! 

When you start feeding your chicks treats, make sure you also include a bit of chick grit in their food. Chickens need grit (crushed up bits of rock) to help them digest their food by grinding it up in their crop. Chick starter feed is very digestible, so I don’t add grit until they start foraging for food or getting supplemental treats. Free-range chickens usually find the bits of rock they need for grit in their natural foraging, but I like to toss a bit of grit in their food to just be sure they have what they need.

Chicken treats

Our favorite part of feeding treats to the chickens is how much they love it—and consequently, how much they love us. When we step out the back door and call, “Here, chick-chick-chick!” the hens come running from every corner of the yard to see what we have for them. They’ll come up and eat out of our hands and follow us around looking for handouts.

In fact, the other day my daughter was holding a chicken under one arm and eating a cookie (don’t judge! We do try to keep the livestock and the eating separate!), and her siblings say the chicken was taking bites out of one side of her cookie while she ate off the other. I didn’t see it, but I fully believe it. We have more than one hen who will sneak up and take a bite off an unattended plate when we eat outside.

Transitioning chicks outside

I like to start transitioning 4-week-old chicks to outdoor life a little at a time on warm days. They still don’t have enough feathers or mass to maintain their body temperature in cool or windy conditions, but they can handle short visits to the great outdoors. We keep them close to us at first. Usually, the kids sit in the grass and let the chicks peck around in the space between two kids’ outstretched legs.  When the chicks start hopping away too quickly, we move them to a portable pet enclosure where they have some freedom.

At first, even just a few minutes outside will wear them out completely. But soon they’re able to spend hours outside when our unpredictable Ohio spring weather permits. We give them a windbreak, their food and water, and watch them carefully. Sometimes one child just gets assigned to chick-watching detail, making sure they are handling the outdoor experience okay and aren’t acting chilled.

Outdoor chickens

When all the chicks are fully feathered, they are ready to live outside the brooder. You should begin that transition a few weeks before by moving the heat lamp up an inch each week or reducing your brooder temperature by about 5 degrees. This helps them adjust to living without an extra heat source. I’ve noticed that even my biggest chicks love to bask right under the heat lamp whenever they get a chance, even after they no longer need the extra warmth. (Currently I have some standard-sized chicks in with my smaller bantams, so I’ve had to keep the heat lamp available for the little ones. My kids have accused the big chicks of roosting so close to the heat lamp that they’re going to fry their combs!) Moving that heat lamp away slowly toughens them up for outdoor life.

Life in the coop

Now you’re ready for the next step in chicken raising: moving your chicks to the coop. The coop should be secure against predators and draft-free, bedded down with a generous layer of chips and straw. They need a roost to sleep on and some sort of nesting box. And, of course, a supply of feed and water. If your feeder is outside, make sure it sits out of the rain, or you’ll end up with moldy feed very soon!

Even if you plan to let your chickens free-range, you should keep them locked up in the coop/run area for several days so they learn where their home is. Then start letting them loose for short periods of time, keeping an eye on them to make sure they don’t wander too far. Chickens are generally herd animals who stay together and somewhat close to home. They will instinctively go into their coop to roost at dark.

Chicken herding

But when you want to put your chickens up and it ISN’T dark, it takes a little training! Although it sounds impossible, herding chickens into the coop is doable, if you work with them.

First, get your kids involved! This activity requires some helpers. Next, train your chickens to come when you call. Do this at random intervals throughout the day, and make sure there are always treats involved. The children or I walk out the door and yell, “Here, chick-chick-chick!” whenever we have a bread crust or apple peels or any kind of scraps for the chickens. This teaches them to come running when we call. (As a side note, the dog has learned it’s beneficial to get in on the action when we call the chickens, too. He doesn’t want to miss out on anything good!)

When you want to herd the chickens to the coop, have one person walk toward it, calling the chickens and tossing treats. Have a couple of others walk behind the flock, gently herding them in the right direction. As you practice this, the chickens WILL learn the ropes. They might revolt from time to time, but as a general rule, they’ll go into their coop without too much trouble.

The kids will learn their tricks and how to best herd them along, too. I can send my 6 and 9-year-old girls out to put away the hens at any time of day, and they can do it by themselves. We always put our flock away when we’re leaving, both to protect them against predators and to keep them from roaming into the neighbors’ yard.

A word about roosters

A rooster is a fun addition to a flock. They are full of personality and help protect the hens, but they can also have the potential to be aggressive. We had a rooster with our original flock, and we loved him. He was funny, beautiful, and took excellent care of his hens—but he also became aggressive with our little girls. We worked so hard to try to train him not to be mean, but eventually, we had to rehome him to a family with no small children.

Over the years I’ve had both nice and mean roosters. You can’t write off all roosters because of an experience with a mean one, but you also can’t guarantee that a rooster will be nice, even with lots of love. If you get a male with your flock (and sometimes you will get one even if your chicks are all supposed to be females), just be prepared that you may have to deal with an aggressive one. But don’t assume the worst–treat him with love and respect, and hope he’ll respond well! We currently have two suspected roosters mixed in with our young pullets, and we’re loving them up all we can. We’re all hoping for some nice fellows this year.

How to handle chicken predators

One of the harder parts of raising chickens is the sad reality of predators. Unfortunately, chickens are an easy mark for any number of predators. Even in suburban areas, you may have to watch out for hawks, owls, and even dogs. Out in the country, we also have to worry about raccoons, foxes, and coyotes.

The best way to protect your birds is to make sure their coop is secure from top to bottom. Latch them in every night at dusk to protect again nocturnal invaders. Make sure their fenced area is as secure as you can make it, with sturdy walls and some sort of mesh or wire covering.

But if you let your chickens free-range, you have to realize that they may be exposed to predators. Quite unexpectedly, we had a red-tailed hawk swoop right up to the back edge of our yard and kill a hen last year. It was a heartbreaking experience for all of us. Although it was something of a freak event that we couldn’t have expected or prevented, it also reminded us of the importance of caring well for these somewhat helpless creatures. Our chickens depend on us to look after them and keep them safe–that’s part of the responsibility of pet/livestock ownership.

Sometimes illness or accident will still strike our animals, but I’m trying to teach my children to be good caretakers of our animal friends. We do our best to provide them with a safe, healthy home. In return, they provide us with endless entertainment, fun, and a wonderful supply of delicious eggs.

Have you ever considered raising chickens?
Let us know if you have any questions about chickens and kids.

About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. You can follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Client work: @lalvisphotography
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Owling with Kids, Homemade Apple Butter, Dealing with Poison Ivy, Mosquitoes & Ticks, Creating Nature Fairy Gardens, Eco-Friendly Bird Feeders, Getting Kids Outside During the School Year, Pond Nature Study, Maple Syrup with Kids, Cattle Farm Chores

The post Raising Chickens with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Grow something, grow anything!

Let’s start with the easiest thing to do in teaching kids where their food comes from…grow something. Anything! It doesn’t have to be difficult or an entire garden worth of plants. Just start with planting a seed or two in a pot in your house or in the backyard. If you live a nomadic life on the road you can still participate. Let those plants sit in the window as you trundle down the road.

You’ll only need a few things to get started with growing food. Grab some organic potting soil or compost from your local hardware store or nursery, a couple of pots to grow your plants in, and the seeds of your choice. That’s it. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming to be considered growing something. You don’t have to be a farmer or a gardener or even have a “green thumb”. Just give it a try.

Get the kids involved in growing

Let your kids have fun getting a little messy filling their pots up with potting soil or digging in the soil in the backyard. Growing something doesn’t have to be dirty per se, but when you mix kids with dirt, a little mess is bound to happen. I find it easiest to just embrace it and not fight it. Let them have fun and they’ll be more likely to participate and enjoy the activity. 

Once your kids have their pots loosely filled with soil or the soil loosened in your garden beds it’s time to plant the seeds they’ve chosen. Each seed is a little different about how it responds best regarding germination. Some seeds like to be left on the surface of the soil. Some seeds like to be pushed into the soil a little ways. Others like to have small mounds piled over them.

Your seed packet should provide ideal planting conditions printed on it, including helpful information on the depth to plant the seed in the soil, watering intervals, hours of sunlight it desires, etc. Reference those for the best chances to succeed at germination and growth. However, we’ve also let our kids plant things any way they wanted at times and plenty of the seeds still sprung forth. Where there’s a will there’s a way.

Let it grow, let it grow!

After their seeds are planted it’s just down to watering and time (i.e. patience). If you’re growing indoors, find a window or ledge for the plants where they will have about the right amount of sunshine. Keep them up high to protect them from younger siblings looking to do their own dirt exploration activity (speaking from personal experience here). Then, you’ll just need to keep your soil adequately watered (but not over-watered) while waiting for their little seed to sprout.

We’ve had everything from overenthusiastic waterers to potentially some watering neglect. You name it, we’ve covered the watering spectrum. Once again, the plant wants to grow, it wants to sprout. Don’t stress about having everything perfect for it. There’s an area of grace around its ideal growing conditions, it’s not something you need to meet 100% to succeed.

Of course, your kids will be confident their seeds are never going to sprout about an hour after they’ve planted them. Because surely, they should be up by now. It’s been forever! Patience, grasshopper. In a few days, you should start to see little sprouts coming forth out of the soil.

Each plant is different, so some will sprout quicker than others. Let the kids check them first thing every morning. They’ll likely give them a little poking and prodding. It’s alright, it’s part of their curiosity in learning about the growing process. I like to let it happen. Worst case scenario, the seed doesn’t sprout and they’ve learned what they can’t do and will just need to plant new seeds. No biggie.

Be curious and observant

As their plants grow they’ll notice leaves springing forth. Some plants will have different stems growing out of the main one. Some will be a main stalk, some will flower, some will spread over the ground. Every plant is different and has unique qualities. My kids ask me loads of questions about observations they make about plants and animals that I’ve never noticed nor thought about. I regularly have to look up their questions to find answers. It’s a part of the growing process (the plants’ and the kids’) I never anticipated but have come to love.

Over time, with regular care, the plant will start to produce whatever fruit or vegetable it’s supposed to produce. More questions come along with this process. And more patience is required as they wait for it to grow to maturity. Eventually, the time comes for the harvest when they can pick and eat the fruits of their labor. In my opinion, this is the best part. 

There is no more satisfying feeling than seeing my kids eyes light up as they bite into a tomato they’ve watched grow from a tiny seed, or plucking raspberries off the plant for a snack as they run by. From having experienced the entire growing process, kids have a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and how much work and love goes into growing each plant.

Follow a farmer and get a tour

So, what if you’re wanting to dig deeper into growing fruits and vegetables than you can in your backyard? What if you want more of a field trip than the hands-on growing experience? Kids love this. There are likely plenty of small farmers in your area that would love to give you a tour of their farm. If you live deep within the heart of a city, you might have to venture an hour or more away. But, most people should be able to find a farm within 30 minutes. It all depends on your area, but you might be surprised how many small farms there are around you.

You say, “That’s great, Jake, but how do I find these farmers?” To which I say, “Google it.” If the search results in your area don’t turn up a whole lot (which isn’t uncommon) you might have to get a little creative. Plenty of farmers exist on social media. Once you find one farm locally, you’ll likely find quite a few connected with them. From there you can follow them, learn from them, and get to know them even from the comfort of your home.

We have plenty of farmers we follow and know their farming ups and downs. We consider them friends and we learn from them regularly even though we’ve likely never met in person. Follow local farms on social media and get to know them. Maybe once you feel comfortable, reach out to them, express interest in visiting their farm. They’ll likely be more than happy to show you around. If you’re still struggling to find any farmers in your area, message me on Instagram @blackridgefarms and I’ll be happy to help you out. 

Visit a farmer’s market

Another way to find farmers in your area to talk to is by visiting your local farmer’s market. If there are farmers at the market, it’s likely they’re from a farm nearby. If you’re comfortable with it, strike up a conversation, and chat with them. Ask your questions and get to know more about what they grow.

If you’d rather contact them after you’ve procured their farm name and location on their booth, reach out to them via email or social media. Mention you saw them at the market and would love to visit their farm. I’ve yet to turn someone down from a request like this.

Farmers are doing what they do for a love of the land, the plants, and the animals. We love to share that with anyone interested. Especially kids.

Map out where food comes from

A lot of our homeschooling involves following our kids’ natural curiosity. We take the opportunity to teach by exploring the questions that pop up from our kids when they come across things they’re unfamiliar with or haven’t learned about yet. Whenever we come across an interesting new food, the first thing we do is look it up and figure out where it’s from. We end up exploring the area of the world the new food grows. We learn about what the weather conditions are like there, soil conditions, farming practices, etc.

Over time, as we end up looking up more foods and animals, our kids start to make connections. They consider what the climate might be like in an area of the world they’ve never been to. They start to connect the dots of “oh hey, this chicken breed is from the same country as that type of cheese we made and that variety of grapes we have growing in the garden.”

In this regard, the experience and learning is less about the growing of the food or the farm where it was grown and more of a geography lesson about where certain foods grow well and where they originate from. In our northern climate with cold, snowy winters, this is how our kids now understand that it’s not feasible for us to grow bananas or kiwis outdoors. And they also appreciate how far those foods have to come to get to us. 

Connecting with your food

Connecting with your food can be as much or as little as you want it to be. For us, our lives revolve around the growing, care for, and enjoying of food. For you, it may be just a slight curiosity to know more about how your food is raised and where your food comes from. Or maybe you’re curious about what life may have been like for your grandparents that were farmers. There is no right or wrong answer. But hopefully, this post inspired you to get curious about where your food comes from and make it a priority to teach kids a little more about the growing and farming process.

What steps are you going to take in teaching your kids
about where their food comes from?

About the author

Jake and his wife Jessica are raising four adorable children on Black Ridge Farms in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. Jake enjoys any time spent on the farm taking care of their various animals and seeing how quickly the kids learn to care for and love their animals. He bounces back and forth between the farm and his 9-5 while Jessica shoulders the bulk of responsibility of homeschooling the kids, keeping the house in order, and keeping a watchful eye on the farm in Jake’s absence. While he has one foot dipped in the 1800s, the other foot has danced around the marketing and tech fields. Jake has worked as a Graphic Designer, Digital Designer, and most recently a User Experience Designer. Beyond those pre-packaged titles, Jake is a creative dreamer with an entrepreneurial streak that believes in the power of one’s mindset, time spent with loved ones, and real, healthy food.

You can find more from Jake online in the following locations:
Instagram: @blackridgefarms
Website: Black Ridge Farms
RWMC posts: Jake Smith

The post Teaching Kids About Where Food Comes From appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Little farm animals have big personalities

Springtime on a farm is so exciting, everything is bursting forth with new life. It can also be a challenging time as new farm babies don’t always make it. There are high highs and there are very low lows. However, once springtime passes into the summer months, there are a lot of new little animals to take care of and I was surprised to see all sorts of individual characteristics emerge. Summer on the farm with animals is a really magical time of year – particularly if you get to experience it with your kids.

Prior to living on a farm and being around farm animals, I would’ve thought there wasn’t much distinction from one goat to the next. Who knew chickens had such distinct personalities? Turns out, farm animals have all sorts of personalities and unique characteristics. Summertime is when those personalities start to emerge and you get the opportunity to meet your new crew and learn all about them.

Birds of a feather flock together

Fun fact: There are over 20 billion chickens in the world. Beyond chickens, there are other birds in the same animal order (technically called “Galliformes”) that include turkeys, quail, pheasants, peacocks, guineafowl, and more! Often the chicks can be raised together in the same incubator; a space where they are kept warm for the first several weeks of life.

As they grow older, even though they don’t know what they look like, they gravitate to the birds of their own kind. It’s incredible. The turkeys hang out with the turkeys. The guineafowl run with the other guineafowl. And the chickens all roost together at night. Sometimes, a few chickens may team up with a guinea or two, or any other combination of these chicken-like birds. But by the end of the summer, they all have separated on their own to be with birds who have the same characteristics. Summer on the farm is when important decisions are made in the life of a bird. 

Learning about chickens, turkeys and guineafowl

We’ve learned so much about our birds this past year and summer on the farm has been a great time to observe them. As chickens, turkeys, and guineafowl grow up they are busy establishing a pecking order. If you have a lot of poultry-type birds you can watch this sophisticated process unfold. The birds start to group together almost like little gangs! There always tends to be one who leads the pack when they run around the chicken run or when they free range. How do they keep this all straight? Well, chickens are able to differentiate between more than 100 chicken faces of their own species! It helps that they can see in full color. It’s remarkable.

The personality of chickens

Some chickens like to stay put near their coop. They are satisfied to have food and water brought to them daily like royalty. Others are foragers, doing what they can to escape their confines to explore nearby property. They look for bugs and dig small holes to sit in to stay cool. At night, some birds will enter the coop like clockwork, ready to roost and rest to prepare for the next day. Others try their best to get into available trees, also roosting but in actual branches instead of on poles in the coop.

One thing we didn’t know when we first got chicks is that it can take up to six months before they actually begin laying eggs. Some will lay eggs a little earlier depending on breed. Even once they begin laying it takes them a while to get into a groove. The first eggs can be small and may not even have a shell! Where will you find the eggs? Possibly in a nesting box in your coop. But, if your chickens are free-range, there is no end to where they may lay them. In fact, one of our hens was hiding an entire clutch of amongst some long grasses for three entire weeks! We only found them because they hatched and six little chicks were out following their mama around.

Oh, the life of a pig!

Summer on the farm with pigs has definitely been interesting! Before we got pigs I had read that they don’t smell all that bad. In my opinion, that turned out to be false. Pigs definitely have a distinct odor and most would find it quite unpleasant. Piglets themselves are very strong. At just 30 pounds they are hard to control, imagine when they grow ten or more times that size! Some pigs can grow to over 700 pounds. 

During the summer pigs do what you would expect them to do – they eat. And then they wallow in the mud to keep themselves cool. And then they sleep. Oh, the life! Pigs are extremely intelligent animals. Ours have escaped their pen more than once by lifting the gate entirely off its hinges. You’ve gotta be quick with pigs around. If they are out for long, they will root up your entire lawn. You’ve also gotta be quick with pigs because pigs are fast runners! On those short little legs they can run a seven-minute mile!

Raising goats

There isn’t anything much cuter than a baby goat. Did you know baby goats can be up and walking within minutes of birth? As they grow, goats develop unique and distinct personalities. Some are calm, while others are more active and wily. Some try and escape time and again, while others are fine to stay put. Eventually, if you breed a female goat (also called a doe or a nanny) and she gives birth you may be able to milk her. Certain goats are fine with the milking process while others kick and jump the entire time.

Just like humans, goats need companionships. Unlike dogs, where a family could own just one, it would be unhealthy to own just one goat. A group of goats is called a herd (ok, not that surprising), but if you’re going to have goats…go with the herd mentality. Get a bunch!

Baby goats jump and frolic and as they grow they become very good at climbing. Often farms will have small goat playgrounds for the goats to jump around on. Below is a photo of our only goat escapee, Spirit. She is constantly squeezing out of her pen to forage for new weeds while her mama (Willow) and brother (Spark) are fine to stay put. The good thing is that she’s still small enough to be lovingly carried back to the barn.

Barn cats

The barn cats (and kittens) have been such a delight for us this summer! At birth, kittens weigh about the same as a lemon. For the first one to two weeks of life, they cannot see or even hear! Both their eyes and ear canals are closed when they are born.

It takes about four weeks for a kitten to begin to play. Just like in children, this play helps them learn the skills they need to learn in order to survive. Kitten play looks like running, climbing, pawing, chasing, and pouncing. They often play with their siblings (some of whom may be half-siblings, see below). Kitten play will help them develop social skills as well as predatory skills, both of which are needed if the kittens remain outdoors.

One of the most interesting things I’ve ever learned about kittens is that all of the kittens in a litter aren’t necessarily from the same father. Each egg is fertilized by one single sperm. And if there are several male cats (“toms”) around, each egg may be fertilized by a different tomcat. This may account for the variety of colors, patterns, and personalities that emerge from one single litter of kittens. 

Summer on the farm

Summer on the farm is like a sped-up version of childhood. It is such an exciting experience to watch our farm animals grow and observe their personalities and unique characteristics emerge and shine. Those individualities make it a little harder if a particular animal passes, which can be a common experience due to all sorts of factors such as parasites or predators. Still, the animals that do grow up on your farm can become like little family pets. Once the springtime rolls around again, many farm animals will be old enough to reproduce themselves and the beautiful process of life begins all over again! 

What is your favorite farm animal?
Are there farms near you that are open to having visitors?

About the author

Ginny is a Michigan homeschooling mother of five and the founder of 1000 Hours Outside. She is a thought-leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children. Her 1000 Hours Outside Challenge spans the globe and many people from all walks of life look to her for inspiration as well as practical tips on how to put down the screens and get outside. Ginny has a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Michigan and is also a children’s book author and illustrator. Her book, The Little Farmhouse in West Virginia was published in February 2019.

You can find more from Ginny in the following locations:
Website: www.1000HoursOutside.com
Instagram: @1000hoursoutside
Facebook: @1000hoursoutside
RWMC posts: Ginny Yurich

The post Summer On the Farm with Animals appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

10 tips for letting kids help with chores

Currently, our family lives on a small farm in Washington State where there is an abundance of daily chores. Staying on top of all the chores around a farm is no small task.  Some days when I call on my kids to help out, I’m not exactly met with joyous, excited replies. So, I decided to dig a little deeper to figure out how to make doing something monotonous a little less so.

I make no claims to be an expert on the subject of getting kids to help with chores. However, I feel like writing these 10 chore tips is as much for myself as it is for the kids because it’s so easy to get impatient and just revert to the classic, “fine, I’ll do it myself!” manta. At the very least I’m here to provide a glimpse of hope that doing chores with your kids can be fun, rewarding, and will set them up to become capable and creative problem solvers.

You don’t have to live on a farm to teach kids about responsibility and helping out with chores. We haven’t always lived on a farm. Just a few years ago we lived in the suburbs and were able to experiment with and apply many of these same principles successfully. I hope you’ll be able to apply some of these tips to your situation, wherever you live and whatever the chores are. 

1. Make it fun

I can’t stress enough how important it is to make helping out with chores fun for the kids. If there’s only one tip you take away from this post and forget the rest, this is that tip. I won’t lie, there are plenty of chores I don’t enjoy doing. Why would I expect my kids would miraculously love doing the things I dislike? They share my DNA after all, chances are we’ve got more than a couple of similarities.

However, when we need to get some work done, it helps tremendously to find a way to incorporate a little fun into the chore. If we’re dreading the chore or if it’s bordering on the mundane, we pump the jams and do dance silly dances while we work. We sing songs or tell each other jokes. Whatever it takes to get excited that day. And while I’m not saying you should bribe your kids, if you happen to have some popsicles you were planning to dole out later that day anyway, maybe some correlation between work done and a reward isn’t a bad thing. Particularly, when they’re struggling to get excited about cleaning up the living room…

2. Offer choices

When getting kids to help with chores, I’ve learned some days they just need options. Kids like feeling like they have some control and say in the decision-making process. If there are multiple chores that need to be done, I give them a choice. Do you want to help feed the chickens or the cows today? Some days they’ll choose the chickens, some days they’ll choose the cows, others they want to do both and we have to decide which to do first. However, we are all susceptible to choice overload so I try not to offer them more than two or three options at a time.

For many of our farm chores, they aren’t big enough yet to do things on their own, so they assist me. It’s not the end of the world if I don’t have helpers. However, it certainly makes it more fun for me when they tag along, carry what they can, and ask a million questions. Before I even realize it, they’re able to do a little more, then a little more. Eventually, they take over a task from me entirely. It’s a beautiful process to observe and bittersweet as they get older. 

3. Follow their interests

Following our kids’ interests is more than a small part of why we have our farm. I’m willing to bet our kids were partially influenced by our desire for living the farm life, but regardless, while we were living in the suburbs, farming is what they played, drew, and talked about every day. We worked and sacrificed in other areas of our lives to make finding our farm a priority. A place where the kids could explore their interests and space to develop new ones.

For you and your kids, it may be something other than farming. Maybe it’s sports, going camping, biking, animals, art, etc. Every one of our kids has slightly different interest areas. Our oldest LOVES her chickens. At eight years old she knows more about birds of every type than I do, no joke. Going and collecting eggs, making sure waterers are filled, and checking to be sure everyone looks healthy isn’t even thought of as a chore to her. She loves it. Our kids don’t think about their interest areas being work, they just wake up and want to go do them. Unfortunately, things like unloading the dishwasher and taking out the trash rarely fall into this category so you may have to rely on one of the other ten tips for those guys. 

4. Create a daily chore routine

Kids love routine and knowing what to expect. Every day, we try to do roughly the same chores, in the same order, at the same time of day. It gives the kids some consistency and helps with transitions. The kids now know that when I’m finishing up filling waterers for one group of chickens, we will be transitioning to filling buckets of water to pack to another group of chickens further away. They can anticipate the next move, so they run into the barn and argue about whose turn it is to hold the hose to fill the buckets that day. By the time I’ve reached the hydrant, there’s usually one of them holding the other end of the hose ready to fill the water buckets up.

Some of these chores were never ones that I specifically asked them to do or help out with. I just went about my daily chore routine, they followed along and picked up on it. They saw places where they could jump in and help out, based on our routine. Certainly, our chores don’t all happen this seamlessly, and even this example has breakdowns regularly when they can’t agree on whose turn it is to hold the hose. That’s just life. 

5. Make it a learning experience

We homeschool our kids and consider our farm part of the learning experience. Farm life is a natural progression to ask questions and invite curiosity. While we’re doing our chores, we like asking the kids leading questions that get their brains thinking about life on the farm. “Hmm, interesting this chicken egg is green, do you know why that is?” “Why do you think the cows chose to eat this variety of grass but didn’t touch that grass over there?” “Wow, the moon is super orange tonight, what do you think causes that?”

Chances are, I don’t actually know the answers to most of these wonderings, either. But that’s ok. Because we’ve fostered that childlike wonder about everything, the kids are asking me what seems like a million questions a day about things I’ve never even considered. I’ll ask them to keep that question and we’ll look it up when we get back into the house. Every evening we’re looking up answers and learning together. They’re so excited about the things they’re learning, seeing, and exploring they don’t even notice we’re getting chores done at the same time.

6. Lead by example

Kids are observant. Sometimes, they’re a lot more observant than I want them to be. My attitude about a certain task is almost always replicated in my children. If I’m going to have a bad attitude about going out and shoveling snow in the dark for the fifth time this week, there’s absolutely no chance they’re going to want to join me and help out. They may come out and sled down the hill while I shovel, but there’s no way they’re going to help me shovel because I’ve told them it’s terrible either in my body language or in word. Why would they willingly want to do something they know I don’t enjoy?

However, if I make it fun (see tip #1) for myself, chances are it’ll make it fun for them too. We’ve had many snow shoveling competitions to see who can clear the most snow the fastest. The clear winner? Me.

7. Let them take ownership of their areas

This tip fully belongs to my wife, I can’t take credit for it. We were struggling so much with getting the kids to help out regularly with household chores; unloading the dishwasher, cleaning the bathroom, setting/clearing the table, etc. You know, the ones you just sort of do over and over and over again all the time endlessly? We tried assigning chore charts for these. Then we tried a weekly rotating chore assignment. Then we tried no chore charts. You name it, we tried it. No luck.

Kicking and screaming fits regularly lasted longer than doing the actual chore would have taken. Finally, in order to get the kids to help with chores, my wife got the idea to try letting each of the kids have “their areas” of ownership. Areas of the house that involved certain tasks they could become experts in and take pride of ownership around. If the bathroom is clean, I know to comment to my oldest about how great it looks. If the front entryway has all the shoes put away and I can actually walk through it without tripping, I know kid #3 has worked her magic and to tell her thank you. 

8. Include them in whatever you happen to be doing

Even though I’m a farmer, I still work my normal 8-5, off-farm job just like everyone else. So, when I’m home in the evenings or on the weekends I like to spend time with my family. Shocker, right? Rather than making all the farm work another thing keeping me away from my wife and kids, we’ve worked to turn chore time into family time.

Kids have a natural curiosity and love for helping out. Just by tagging along in whatever I happen to be doing, they’re observing and learning from me constantly. A lot of the time we gather eggs together, if someone gets a particularly pretty egg they’ll exclaim and show the rest of the family. When we go load haybales for wintertime feed, the whole family comes along. Sure, I do all the work at present while my wife drives the pickup, but they’re observing and learning. In a few years when they’re strong enough to help out, they’ll do so excitedly and the learning curve will be small. 

9. Expect them to be beginners

I know this one sounds pretty straightforward but for some reason, it wasn’t easy for me to realize they have never done…well, anything really. Maybe because they’re kids? Like I said in the beginning, I’m not an expert in this parenting business. Maybe I’m the slow learner? But I had to learn to just let them be terrible and take forever at first. Would it have been easier and quicker to just do some tasks myself? Yes, absolutely. And at first, I would do just that. I would take over and complete it myself.

However, now I’m slowly learning to just let them be terrible, to let them learn, to figure it out through some guided trial and error. It’s going to be terrible the first time anyone does anything. The tenth time? A little less terrible. The hundredth time? They might have it down pretty good by then. By providing your kids with a safe space to try, fail, and try again, they’ll learn over time they can figure most anything out and won’t be afraid to take the chance to try. This is probably one of the most empowering things I’ve done for my kids. 

10. Have patience with them

Having patience with the kids as they figure out how to help with chores goes hand-in-hand with tip #9. Like I said in the beginning, I’m no expert at this. I’m trying to figure it out at the same time. But, I have noticed one thing, if I’m grumpy or short with my kids while they’re doing their best to help me out, you can rest assured they’re not going to enjoy doing that task again the next time. I try to always be conscious of my attitude and my demeanor, especially around them. It may seem like craziness but I find at least 50% of my kids’ attitude around anything in life directly reflects my own attitude. In reality, it’s probably much higher.

As parents to our precious little children, we’re their whole world. They’re taking in, learning, and figuring out everything through us. It’s all new. They look to us to mimic what to do, how to react, how to feel. So, having patience with them means having patience with myself, and understanding the much greater goal is not to have accomplished my to-do list successfully at the end of the day. The goal is to have lived a life worth living, to have loved my family unconditionally, and to have mattered to those around me.

How do you get your kids to help with chores?

About the author

Jake and his wife Jessica are raising four adorable children on Blackridge Farms in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. Jake enjoys any time spent on the farm taking care of their various animals and seeing how quickly the kids learn to care for and love their animals. He bounces back and forth between the farm and his 9-5 while Jessica shoulders the bulk of responsibility of homeschooling the kids, keeping the house in order, and keeping a watchful eye on the farm in Jake’s absence. While he has one foot dipped in the 1800s, the other foot has danced around the marketing and tech fields where Jake has worked as a Graphic Designer, Digital Designer, and most recently a User Experience Designer. Beyond those pre-packaged titles, Jake is a creative dreamer with an entrepreneurial streak that believes in the power of one’s mindset, time spent with loved ones, and real, healthy food.

You can find more from Jake online in the following locations:
Instagram: @blackridgefarms
Website: Black Ridge Farms

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