Screens aren’t the enemy

It’s easy to be inundated with concerns about the harmful effects of excessive screen time. Too much screen time (and the “wrong” kind of screen time) can absolutely have detrimental effect on children (and adults). But screens have firmly established their presence in our lives, and they’re here to stay. As parents, recognizing this reality is crucial.

Instead of placing the blame solely on screens for various concerns, as parents, we can shift our perspective towards actively engaging with technology in a constructive and balanced manner. Screens can be powerful tools for learning, connecting, and exploring, and it’s essential that we find ways to harness their potential rather than labeling them as the root of all problems.

Technology is an omnipresent force, offering numerous advantages when integrated thoughtfully into children’s lives. It can be an invaluable educational resource, fostering creativity, curiosity, and engagement with the world. Moreover, screens can be the gateway to outdoor exploration. When children learn to use technology as a tool for enhancing their understanding of the natural world, they’re more likely to venture outside, armed with a newfound sense of wonder and knowledge.

Moderation in all things (including tech usage)

Instead of shunning technology and screens entirely, the key is moderation. Moderation allows children to enjoy the benefits of technology while still experiencing the physical, emotional, and social richness of the non-digital world. By letting our kids have screens in a responsible and mindful way, we can equip our children with the skills they need to navigate the digital landscape and, at the same time, cultivate their appreciation for the wonders of the world around them.

The call for moderation in screentime doesn’t mean rejecting technology but rather embracing it with a discerning eye. It’s about striking a balance that prioritizes outdoor activities, face-to-face interactions, and a variety of real-life experiences that nurture a child’s holistic development. Demonizing screens can actually make them more attractive to kids and doesn’t teach them how to use tech in responsible ways.

As we jump into this discussion, we’ll explore how to guide our young digital natives to use screens in ways that are not detrimental but empowering, enriching, and, above all, balanced.

How to turn tech into your ally

The key to using tech in a way that isn’t harmful to kids lies in how we, as parents and caregivers, guide our children to use technology responsibly. Screens are not inherently evil; instead, it’s our role to ensure that our children engage with them in a healthy and balanced way, finding a harmonious coexistence between screen time, outdoor adventures, and non-screen activities.

We have discovered a few ways to use technology as a catalyst for bringing children into nature, which we can’t wait to share with you today. From mobile apps that transform a simple walk in the park into a treasure hunt of biodiversity, to using tech to capture your outdoor adventures, this post will show you how to make technology your ally in nurturing a sense of wonder and discovery about the environment. 

How our love of nature led us to YouTube

When the pandemic hit, I suddenly became more aware of the amount of time we were spending glued to our screens. Everything moved online, from school to work to birthday parties and happy hours. Screens were our gateway to our community, family, and friends. They helped us stay connected to what mattered most. 

But as time went on and things went back to normal, our screen time consumption didn’t decrease as much as I thought it would. We’d found all new ways to use screens for new reasons, some of which were really interesting and educational, including kids programming on YouTube. 

Trust me when I say that I understand that not all YouTube programming for kids is interesting or educational, but occasionally we’d find a hidden gem. I realized that my son was absorbed in various programs (some nature-based, others not so much), and fixated on the number of likes and subscribers they garnered. This sparked an idea! 

Creating our own YouTube show

We decided to create our own YouTube channel, with the goal to inspire parents and caregivers to spend more time outside with their children by showcasing fun and easy activities and crafts.  We hoped that our channel would captivate viewers’ attention, enticing them to put down their screens (after watching), and get outside! We wanted to show kids how they could engage with a parent or caregiver and enjoy the boundless learning and fun that nature offers.

As a family, we’ve always had a love for the outdoors and nature. This felt like such a fun and inspiring project. This idea not only enhanced our family time together (as we were our crew and production team), but it also multiplied our outdoor adventures tenfold. We had content to create, which held us accountable for getting outside, trying new things, and adventuring together. 

However, let me tell you that managing a YouTube channel is no easy task, especially with our busy lives.  But we loved the challenge. Working together as a family unit, we brainstormed ideas and shared the entirety of our outdoor experience, making it an incredible and rewarding journey for all of us. We learned so much from our adventures and have so many amazing memories from the activities we did. Plus, now we have tangible physical evidence (in video) of our family time together, which I know we’ll look back on fondly for the rest of our lives. 

Hobie’s Nature Club- watch here

Skills learned through making our YouTube show

With our YouTube channel about outdoor activities and nature, our family (and particularly my son) all learned so many new skills. While I’m not saying that creating a YouTube channel is for everyone, don’t discount the experience and skills that the whole family can learn together. 

First off, we all had to learn some technology-related skills. My partner was our videographer, but we all had a say in setting up the scene and getting the shots. We learned a lot about lighting, editing, filming, and production.

As for non-tech skills, we all had to work together to create engaging and informative content. We are by no means experts (either in nature or in tech), so one of the best parts about filming Hobie’s Nature Club was that we were all learning about nature together. We had to research our nearby nature, the outdoor activities in our area that we could film, come up with ideas on how to tie them to learning, look up crafts, and make the content educational (as well as fun and entertaining). Recording the videos helped my son build public speaking and presentation skills.

This diverse skill set extends beyond the digital realm. I feel like these skills will not only empower him in the world of technology, but also prepare him for a well-rounded education and equip him with some life skills that are invaluable in adulthood.

Outdoor discovery through apps

YouTube got us started thinking about all the other valuable ways that technology can be an educational resource, fostering creativity, curiosity, and engagement with the world. Moreover, various forms of technology (with and without screens), can be a great gateway for kids to outdoor exploration and learning about nature and the world around them. Technology can make it even more fun! When children learn to use technology as a tool for enhancing their understanding of the natural world, they’re more likely to use it in positive ways, and to venture outside, armed with a newfound sense of wonder and knowledge.

One of our favourite ways to incorporate technology into our outdoor activities is by utilising a variety of apps that encourage kids to step outside and explore the world around them.  We’ve experimented with several apps and got some additional recommendations from the moms on the Run Wild My Child Creative Team. 

Nature identification apps

Nature identification apps have revolutionized the way families connect with the natural world, fostering a deeper understanding of the environment. Whether it’s identifying a mysterious bird call, a vibrant wildflower, or a species of tree, these digital tools provide instant answers that transform nature walks into interactive learning experiences. Through these apps, children and parents alike can engage in a collective quest for knowledge, encouraging teamwork, and inciting curiosity and conversation as they explore the outdoors together. They encourage open dialogue and collaboration, with family members sharing their findings and observations, and often sparking discussions about the natural world and conservation.

Moreover, the thrill of making a new discovery or successfully identifying a species becomes a shared triumph, strengthening the emotional bonds within the family. In an age where screens often isolate individuals, nature identification apps have the power to reconnect families with nature and with each other, making outdoor excursions more memorable, interactive, and meaningful.

Best nature identification apps for kids

There are countless nature apps and digital field guides available that can help families identify local flora and fauna. These apps can turn a simple walk in the park into an educational adventure. Here are a few of our favorites:

• iNaturalist – A wonderful free app to help you identify plants and animals around you through photos and track your discoveries. 
• PlantSnap / Leaf Snap – This is a free app that allows you to take photos of the leaf/plant/tree you are trying to identify and sends you through the options in a fun and interactive way.
• Fossil Explorer- Natural History Museum –  We are big dinosaur fans in our house and we love a day out fossil hunting.  This app helps to identify likely fossil finds in your area and covers the whole world.  It provides a treasure trove of information and pictures.
• Picture This  – Another free app that’s brilliant for capturing images of nature, plants, flowers, and insects and identifying them for you.
• Bumblebee Conservation – This app isn’t as tech-savvy as the other apps (you can’t take photos),  but through illustrations, it helps you identify different types of bees providing the different characteristics of each species of bee.  
• Picture Mushroom – This app is great for fall/spring exploration as this gives you the opportunity to photograph mushrooms and fungi and identify them for you. This is fab if you are into foraging, as it will detail whether it is edible or poisonous. (Never rely exclusively on an app to identify anything you may eat. Educate yourself on the item you’re foraging and always be 100% sure you’ve identified it correctly before consuming.)
• Google Lens – An incredibly quick access to a wealth of knowledge regarding the things we’ve captured in photos.  In fact, while on a recent hiking trip in France, we discovered that we were close to encountering a Wild Boar by using Google Lens.  It wasn’t of a paw print or from hair as you might think, but by taking a photo of an unusual-looking poop! 

Geocaching

Geocaching combines technology, outdoor exploration, and good old-fashioned treasure hunting! By using the (free) geocaching app, families can use GPS-enabled devices or smartphone apps to search for hidden containers (geocaches) in various outdoor locations. Geocaches can be found all over the world and almost anywhere you can imagine. Geocachers usually hide caches in locations that are important to them, reflecting a special interest, memory, or skill of the cache owner. These locations can be quite diverse – from under a bench at your local park, behind a marker along a bike trail, in a fake rock at the botanical garden, or behind a false brick on the side of a building on a busy city street. 

All your need to get started geocaching is a smartphone, a geocaching account (free), and a sense of adventure! Geocaches are everywhere, and it’s a great budget-friendly low-entry activity that’s great for everyone in the family! It’s a fun and interactive way to get outside and explore.

For more information, check out our full post: Beginner’s Guide to Geocaching with Kids

Capturing memories of outdoor adventures 

Gone are the days of traditional photo albums, diaries, or scrapbooks filled with handwritten notes and hand-drawn pictures.  In this digital age, children are finding new and exciting ways to document their experiences and bring them to life. Technology can make this really fun and exciting for kids. 

Photography

Encouraging kids to use their smartphones or tablets (0r digital cameras) to capture the natural world around them is a creative and empowering way to enhance their outdoor experiences. This practice not only stimulates their connection with nature but also nurtures a range of skills and interests.

Kids can take photos of plants, animals, insects, and landscapes, adding written notes or voice recordings to a “digital nature journal” to describe what they’ve encountered on their outdoor adventures. This process encourages careful observation, attention to detail, and critical thinking, as they learn to identify and appreciate the nuances of the environment. Over time, their digital nature journal becomes a personalized record of their outdoor adventures, offering a sense of accomplishment and a means to track their evolving knowledge of the natural world.

Taking and editing photos taken during outdoor excursions is an excellent way to introduce kids to basic photography skills. By using photo editing apps, children can enhance their images, adjusting lighting, colors, and compositions to create stunning, artistic representations of the natural world. This creative process allows them to express their unique perspectives and feelings about nature, fostering their artistic sensibilities.

Video diary

This summer, my son decided to swap his pen and paper for an Apple Video app to capture his holiday memories. By taking video on a tablet and then using Apple Video to edit it all together to create a video recap of our trip, our young diarist elevated his vacation journaling to a whole new level. Rather than static words and images, his videos provide a window into his perspective of our trip, capturing the sights, sounds, and emotions of each moment he deemed video-worthy. He captured our trip from his perspective, which was really amazing for us (as parents) to see. With his narration and videos, the story truly comes alive, transporting the viewer to that magical place and time. It’s a powerful and wonderful way to document a trip or event that we’ll treasure for years. 

Other great video editing apps are iMovie and InShot. 

Using tech to observe wildlife

Trail cameras for capturing wildlife images

Setting up and using a trail camera is an exciting and educational way for kids to use technology to connect with the wildlife around them. This hands-on approach allows young naturalists to observe, track, and learn about the diverse creatures that share their outdoor environment. To begin, let your kids help select a suitable location for the trail camera, preferably near a known wildlife path or in an area with ample signs of animal activity. They’ll need to secure the camera to a tree or post and aim it at the desired target area. This setup process offers a valuable lesson in animal behavior, as children must consider where animals are likely to pass and how to remain discreet to avoid scaring them away.

Once the trail camera is in place, kids can eagerly await the results. As the camera captures photos or videos of passing wildlife, children can take on the role of amateur naturalists, carefully analyzing the footage to identify species, behaviors, and patterns. This process nurtures their observation skills and sharpens their knowledge of local wildlife. Additionally, the element of surprise and discovery that comes with checking the camera’s memory card creates a sense of anticipation and excitement, keeping kids engaged and enthusiastic about their wildlife-tracking endeavors. 

Trail cams offer kids a glimpse into the world at night

Trail cameras offer an excellent opportunity for children to experience wildlife in its natural habitat without disturbing or endangering the animals. Most trail cameras also work at night with a flash, giving you a glimpse into the nocturnal world and wildlife action. From mammals like foxes, deer, badgers, and hedgehogs to elusive night-dwelling birds and insects, the camera reveals the hidden world beyond our human perception. This footage can then be used to engage your children in discussions and inquiries about the animals they observe.  Encourage them to research and identify different species, their behaviours, and how they adapt to the darkness. 

This hands-on, technology-based approach enables them to connect with and appreciate the intricacies of the animal kingdom, fostering a love for nature and wildlife conservation. It’s a powerful tool for learning about ecosystems, animal behaviors, and the importance of coexisting with the natural world.

Telescopic lenses and pocket microscopes

Setting up a mobile phone with a telescopic lens or connecting your smartphone to a pocket microscope opens up a whole new world of wildlife (and nature) viewing possibilities, right outside your door. 

Equipping your mobile phone with a telescopic lens makes bird identification easier and more accessible, especially for beginners.  With the ability to capture clear, detailed photos of the avian visitors, you can refer to bird identification guides to identify the species with your children.  This creates a fun and educational experience, encouraging curiosity and learning about the diverse range of birds that frequent your garden.  

Using a pocket microscope in nature really helps your kids slow down and appreciate the intricacies and details of things you see every single day. You’ll literally stop to smell and see the roses (and all the other flowers along the trail as well). It also gives your kids invaluable and concrete STEM skills. But more than that, it nurtures their creativity, curiosity, and imagination. It instills a sense of wonder. The plethora of features to see on even the tiniest bit of nature is surprising. Hairs and pores dot leaves and insect legs, scales cover butterfly wings, jagged edges surround bits of sand, and minute creatures scurry in soil and pond water. Nature is amazing!

For more information, check out our full post on using a pocket microscope (which includes our top pocket microscope recommendations).

Screen-free (but tech-enhanced) outdoor fun

When we send our kids outside to play, we hope they will use their imagination for hours. Endless hours of unstructured free play! It may sound counter-intuitive, but some technology can actually help with open-ended free play and give your children even more freedom to explore the world around them safely. Here are a few tech items that promote and encourage outdoor exploration and play. 

Walkie-talkies

Walkie-talkies are more than tech gadgets; they become catalysts for camaraderie and shared excitement, fuelling a passion for the great outdoors. By equipping children with these handy communication devices, parents and guardians provide a means for kids to venture into the great outdoors while staying connected. This fosters a sense of independence, as kids can explore with confidence, knowing they can easily communicate with adults or friends. Whether on a hike in the woods, a camping trip, or simply playing in a large park, walkie-talkies not only enhance the outdoor adventure but also serve as an essential safety tool, ensuring that children can promptly reach out in case of emergencies or simply share their exciting discoveries, making outdoor exploration not only safer but more enjoyable and memorable. 

GPS-enable devices

Another modern, trendy tech device is the GPS watch for kids. GPS-enabled devices and mobile apps can enhance safety during outdoor adventures. Parents can track their children’s whereabouts (giving parents peace of mind), while giving kids the opportunity to safely explore. Armed with parental knowledge of their whereabouts, children can fully immerse themselves in the beauty surrounding them, eagerly uncovering hidden gems and gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 

We have a Gabb watch and have been really happy with it. We can set up geofencing, call/text our child, and track GPS coordinates from our phones, without any social media access for him. It’s been a game-changer when it comes to letting him ride his bike around our community, to friends houses, or down the street to the fishing pond. 

Metal detectors

Another fun tech device we have invested in to engage in exciting outdoor activities is a metal detector. Incorporating metal detectors offers a unique opportunity for children to discover hidden natural treasures right under their feet!  From exploring beaches after stormy tides to scouring forest trails, the detectors can help kids find interesting geological specimens like fossils, minerals or even unique rocks. Whether searching in fields, parks or historic sites, there’s a chance to stumble upon artefacts like old coins, buttons or even relics from times gone by.  These findings provide a gateway to learning about the country’s fascinating heritage, helping children develop a sense of connection to the land they explore.

Metal detecting can also serve as a tool to in-still a sense of environmental responsibility in children.  Encourage them to leave no trace, respecting the natural surroundings they explore.  Teaching them about the importance of conservation and responsible metal detecting practices helps preserve the integrity of the environments they love, ensuring these treasures are available for future generations to enjoy.

See my full post for more information on Metal Detecting with Kids. 

Using technology to get outside

It’s evident that technology, when used mindfully and in moderation, can be a powerful ally in encouraging kids to embrace the great outdoors and explore the world around them. Rather than vilifying screens as the root of all problems, we should recognize the immense potential they offer to spark children’s curiosity, enhance their learning, and enrich their lives.

By leveraging nature identification apps, encouraging outdoor photography and digital art, setting up trail cameras to track wildlife, and utilizing tools like walkie-talkies for safety, we can empower the next generation to connect with the natural world in meaningful and innovative ways. This harmonious balance between technology and nature not only deepens their appreciation for the environment but also equips them with a diverse skill set and instills lifelong values of exploration, conservation, and the joy of being outdoors.

As we embrace the digital age, let’s remember that screens are not the enemy; they’re a gateway to new adventures, new knowledge, and new connections with the world around us. By incorporating technology, we can equip our children with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate an increasingly digital future. 

Let’s create a world where technology and nature walk hand in hand, guiding our children to be tech-savvy explorers of the great outdoors. 

How do you use technology to get outside?

About the author

Hannah Martin has worked as a PE Teacher in the UK for 15 years. She has always loved being active outdoors. However, she discovered a new passion for nature and appreciating the environment when she had her son Hobie (now 5 years old). Hannah and Hobie’s vision is to inspire parents to spend time doing fun, creative, nature activities outdoors with their children; no matter where they live and whatever the weather. They believe spending time together outdoors as a family will encourage future generations to love and care for the world, wildlife, and environment.

Find more from Hannah (and Hobie) in the following locations:
Instagram: @hobies_nature_club
Website: hobiesnatureclub.co.uk
YouTube channel: Hobie’s Nature Club
RWMC Posts: Hannah Martin

The post Nature vs Tech: How to Use Technology to Get Kids Outside appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Every day is Earth Day

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

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

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

Photo credit: @dimples.and.the.blonde

Get children involved in the process

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

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

Sustainability activities for kids

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

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

Clean up trash when you’re out and about

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

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

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

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

Practice the three R’s at home

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

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

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

Photo credit: @sara_mccartyPhoto credit: @meghangarriott

Gardening

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

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

Photo credit: Anna Stopińska-Lewucha

Earn a Junior Ranger badge

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

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

Photo credit: @roaminggonzalez

Shop small and local

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

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

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

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

Get outside

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

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

60+ eco-friendly activities for kids

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

Photo Credit: @tiny.adventures.often

Getting kids involved in protecting the planet

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

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

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

Additional resources

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

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

What are your favorite sustainability activities to do with kids?

About the author

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

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

The post Teaching Sustainability to the Next Generation: Eco-Friendly Activities for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Raising monarch butterflies with children

Have you ever seen photos of children holding bright orange monarch butterflies or families enjoying the process of raising and releasing these delicate animals? Well, I’m here to tell you that you can raise monarch butterflies with your children too! And it’s a great way for the whole family to get involved in nature, conservation, and science. It’s a simple, inexpensive, and beneficial process that’s important to the sustainability of the monarch species. Here are your step-by-step instructions and family-friendly guide for raising monarch butterflies with kids. 

Monarch butterfly facts for kids

• The monarch butterfly’s proper name is Danaus plexippus (Linnaeus, 1758)
• The upper side of a male monarch is bright orange with wide black borders and black veins. The upper side of a female monarch is orange-brown with wide black borders and blurred black veins. Both sexes have white spots on the borders and apex.
• Monarchs can be found from southern Canada south through the United States, Central America, and most of South America. Monarchs are also present in Hawaii, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. 
• Monarchs live mainly in open habitats including fields, meadows, marshes, and along roadsides.
• Monarchs feed on nectar from milkweeds. Milkweed contains poisons that are distasteful or toxic to birds and other predators. After tasting a monarch, a predator learns to associate the bright warning colors of the adult or caterpillar with an unpleasant meal, and avoid eating monarchs in the future. 
• Monarchs make a 3,000-mile journey each year, migrating between Canada and Mexico. These monarchs return each winter to roosts in the hills of Michoacan, Mexico, where they gather by the millions.

*Source

Lifecycle of a monarch butterfly

Before you raise monarch butterflies, encourage your child to learn about the monarch butterfly life cycle.

The life cycle of the monarch butterfly has four stages and four generations. The stages are (1) egg, (2) larvae, (3) pupa, and (4) adult butterfly. “Four generations” means four butterflies passing through these four stages within a year. 

The previous generation’s adult butterfly lays eggs on the milkweed, when stage one of the first generation starts. Within 4 days, the eggs hatch to form a caterpillar or larva, the second stage. At this stage, the larvae eat the milkweed on which it lives. 

Within two weeks, it attains full growth and attaches to someplace like a leaf or stem by discharging silk, and undergoes the process of metamorphosis to transform into a pupa or chrysalis.  Over the next 10 days, the continuous process of metamorphosis transforms the old body parts of the pupa into the beautiful parts of the future adult butterfly. The adult butterfly will emerge and fly away in search of food and a mate. 

First-generation monarch butterflies live a short life that ranges from two to six weeks. Within this period, it will lay eggs for the second generation. The second generation flies roughly one month after the migrating monarchs arrive and reproduce which would be anytime from May through July.  It lays eggs for the third generation in July or August.

The fourth-generation process is almost the same except for one point. The fourth-generation eggs are laid in the month of September or October, but they live more than eight to nine months. This fourth-generation butterfly also has a specialty; it migrates to the warmer regions of California or Mexico.

*Source – www.saveourmonarchs.org

The importance of the monarch butterfly

Monarch butterflies are pollinators. Pollinators like monarchs play a vital role in the natural ecosystem and our food system. As pollinators, the monarch butterfly migration across the continent provides an invaluable service, essential for many ecosystems to thrive. It is thanks to pollinators, such as butterflies, bees, and other insects, that we have many of the flowers and dietary staples that we enjoy. 

But monarch butterflies and their migration are now threatened by temperature changes, drought, deforestation, development, and other impacts. The loss of milkweed plants (due to eradication, urbanization and increased use of herbicides), loss of winter habitat, and climate change are all pushing monarchs to the brink. The monarch butterfly is now a candidate to be listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. 

Does it help the species to raise monarch butterflies in captivity?

In nature, monarchs are prey to various predators, and only ten percent of monarch eggs in the wild make it to the butterfly stage. Ants, wasps, birds, spiders, and other insects have easy access to the little eggs and consume them regularly. Even without the threat of predators, bacterial and viral diseases are also ever-present and cause widespread damage. In addition, tachinid flies prey on the soft chrysalis’ that house the transforming monarchs. Raising monarch butterflies with your children in captivity can help protect these eggs and ensure they are safely brought into adulthood and help the recovery of the monarch butterfly population. It’s one little thing we can do with our children to help make a difference. 

Reasons to raise monarchs with children

Many children learn best from hands-on experiences, and the process of raising a beautiful butterfly (from egg to caterpillar to butterfly) is a perfect example of that type of education. It’s a great backyard project for kids that’s not expensive, but has huge benefits for both the animal and the child.

One of my favorite quotes by an unknown author exemplifies this, “Because little nature lovers grow into big nature lovers.” Children are the future, and their attention to wildlife protection is crucial. Introducing them to this type of experience makes them more likely to care for wildlife once they are adults. Your children can play a big part during the monarch-raising process, and the lessons learned will be invaluable. Raising butterflies from eggs and the entire process will be a delight (and valuable learning experience) for your young nature enthusiast. 

What you need to get started raising monarchs with children

You don’t need too much when it comes to raising monarchs, and it’s not a huge investment (but there is a huge payout and benefit). Here are the supplies you should gather: 

• Butterfly enclosure
• Cotton swabs
• Paper towels
• Spray bottle with clean water
• Small clean, shallow plastic container with the top (sandwich-sized)
• Magnifying glass (optional)
• An abundance of milkweed plants, not treated by any chemicals

Finding milkweed for monarchs

The first step in raising monarch butterflies with children is to find live monarch butterfly eggs and a food source for your caterpillars. Luckily, monarch butterflies will always lay these eggs on the leaves of milkweed plants (usually on the underside of the leaves), which is also their main food source. With a keen eye, you can easily spot these tiny eggs. The globular whitish-yellow eggs are only .9 to 1.2 millimeters long. 

How to identify milkweed plants to search for monarch eggs

The presence of milkweed is extremely important to the monarch. Milkweed leaves are the only food that monarch caterpillars eat. Adult butterflies also lay their eggs on the back of milkweed leaves. 

There are multiple milkweed species, and this plant grows in many climates and habitats. You can often find milkweed growing alongside fences, on the sides of roads, or in ravines. Key characteristics of common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) are:

Types of milkweed plants

• Common milkweed
• Butterflyweed
• Swamp milkweed
• Antelope-horns milkweed
• Purple milkweed
• Showy milkweed
• California milkweed
• White milkweed
• Whorled milkweed
• Mexican whorled milkweed
• Desert milkweed
• Green milkweed

These are just some of the milkweed plants native to North America. If you want to plant milkweed at your home, please be sure you choose a native species, as they are the healthiest for your monarchs and the local environment.

Collecting monarch eggs from milkweed

Once you locate an egg on the underside of milkweed leaves, gently remove the leaf and place it in a clean container, egg side up, and secure the lid. Please do not touch the egg; even a gentle touch may harm it. We like to line these containers with damp paper towels to keep the environment moist.

Depending on your comfort level, you may want to start with only a few eggs. Your first time raising monarch butterflies will teach you so much about the entire experience and what works (and doesn’t). Once you are familiar with the process, you will know if you can take on more tiny caterpillars in the future. 

When harvesting anything in nature, always make sure you have permission to remove the leaves from these plants. A friend’s garden (or your own garden) would be the best place, followed by wild areas where responsible foraging is permitted. If you don’t know where to find milkweed, but want to help the caterpillars, you can plant and grow it yourself. Make sure that the plants you harvest are from areas with no chemical spraying, including pesticides or other harmful applications. 

Also, before taking an egg or young caterpillar home, it’s important to have a source nearby that you can use to feed your growing caterpillar. Once your small caterpillar hatches from its egg, it will need fresh milkweed for its main food source. For your convenience and their health, make sure you have a nearby milkweed patch to serve as your source of fresh food. 

Caring for your monarch eggs

Monarch caterpillar eggs hatch three to eight days after being laid. So, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the eggs in your care. First, you will want to keep your closed container in a safe place. We keep ours on the window sill in our bathroom- away from curious dogs and cats. Natural light is best, but not in direct sunlight. Next, check on your eggs daily to give them fresh air and clean off any mold forming. Then, lightly mist the leaves with clean water from your spray bottle to moisten the environment. 

A monarch egg hatched; what do I do now?

Success! The first egg has hatched! Now, what do you do?

Well, not much for the first few days. You will see an extremely tiny (less than one-tenth of an inch!) yellow caterpillar chewing on its eggshell. Once the caterpillar has eaten its shell, it will start to chew on the surrounding milkweed for food. Monarchs stay in this caterpillar stage for ten to fourteen days, growing every day. They move through stages called instars; there will be five in total!

This stage is a great time to break out that magnifying glass for your children to better view these miniature, hungry caterpillars. But don’t worry, they won’t stay tiny for very long! They grow at an incredibly rapid pace. Very hungry caterpillar, indeed!

Move small caterpillars to a butterfly enclosure

When your monarch caterpillars are small, this stage is ideal for moving your container into the mesh butterfly enclosure. An enclosure will keep your caterpillars safe from predators and allow you and your young children to observe them easily. You can take off the lid once you have the container inside the mesh enclosure. Remember to keep these enclosures somewhere safe; you don’t want them to knock over. 

The size of your enclosure should determine the number of caterpillars you can safely house. Because we wanted something large and very sturdy to last us years, my father built us a wooden butterfly house out of scrap wood and an old screen, loosely based on styles we found online. If you would like a wooden house, here are a few options. Although, the inexpensive mesh ones work perfectly fine as well. You might want to purchase or construct a more permanent butterfly house, because raising monarch butterflies with your children is so fun!

Here is a wooden enclosure on Etsy that is very similar to mine. This is an aluminum mesh butterfly enclosure I found on Amazon. A pop-up mesh cage also works just fine.

How to clean your monarch caterpillar container

As your caterpillar grows, it will be consuming more and more milkweed. And what goes in, as we all know…must come out. You’ll want to keep your enclosure clean, so here’s how to take care of the waste. 

First, you will need to remove the poop or frass that accumulates on the leaves and the bottom of your container. The best way to do this is with a cotton swab. You can gently wipe it away from the milkweed leaves to give your caterpillar a clean living environment. Then, as they grow even larger, you will need to throw out the damp paper towel lining your container and replace them at least once a day. The frass can range in color from dark green to dark brown and will vary in size depending on the size of your caterpillars. 

Instar stages of your monarch caterpillars

As mentioned previously, monarch caterpillars move through five stages before fully growing. These stages are called instars. First, the caterpillar grows (from eating the healthy milkweed you are providing) and becomes too big for its skin. After that, they shed their black skin through a molting process, and sometimes, they even consume their shed skin after the molting is complete. This molting process is fascinating; the caterpillar will almost vibrate and shake to remove its skin. If you happen to witness this stage, feel honored! It’s a quick process but is so crucial in their growth. 

During the instar stages, the caterpillars will be eating quite a bit of milkweed. Make sure to provide enough milkweed leaves to keep them satiated. They will eat all of the leaves, leaving only the stems behind. As the caterpillars grow bigger, see if you can hear them munching. It’s louder than you’d expect! Isn’t that fascinating! 

Sizes of monarch caterpillars at each stage

• First instar: 2-6mm
• Second instar: 6-9mm
• Third instar: 10-14mm
• Fourth instar: 13-25mm
• Fifth (and final!) instar: 25-45mm

It takes ten to fourteen days to complete these five instar stages. 

Preparing for pupa

The next stage in our monarch caterpillars’ life is their pupa stage. This stage is when the caterpillar transforms from larvae to the monarch butterfly. The length of this stage is anywhere from ten to fourteen days. 

Once your tiny caterpillars reach full size, their eating will slow down a bit and they’ll get ready for metamorphosis. When your monarch caterpillars are ready to form their chrysalis, they will climb to the top of the butterfly enclosure.

First, they will create a silk patch from their tail end to the top of the enclosure’s roof. Then, they will hang upside down in a “J” shape. Keep an eye on them once they do this, as it means they will form the chrysalis within twenty-four hours! I have noticed that right before they move into the pupa stage and are in “J” formation, their antennas will go limp, and their bodies will straighten out a bit. At this point, it will be only minutes until the transformation starts. 

Larvae to pupa, the amazing transformation

Watching a larva pupate is fascinating and bizarre – it’s a true miracle in the natural world and to witness one is absolutely incredible! It goes rather quickly (or at least faster than you might expect), so timing is critical. You have to be paying very close attention to know it’s coming and be ready!

First, the top layer of skin splits, and the green chrysalis becomes visible. The monarch caterpillar then expands and contracts until the outer layer of skin falls off, and the chrysalis is fully formed. Notice the tiny gold dots along the edge of the chrysalis. Once this happens, try not to touch the chrysalis and just let it be.

You do not have to do anything during this period except keep the chrysalis out of reach of predators. After eight to ten days, the butterfly will be ready to emerge. You will be able to tell that it is nearly time to come out because you can see the monarch’s wings through the exterior shell of the chrysalis. 

Monarch emerging from the chrysalis

When the butterfly is ready, it will emerge from the chrysalis. It will hang upside down for a few hours after coming out, its tiny sticky feet clinging to the broken shell of its chrysalis. If you happen to see a butterfly fall to the floor of the enclosure, gently scoop it up and allow it to re-attach to the chrysalis or the roof of the pen. 

While hanging upside down, the butterfly will pump its wings, allowing the fluid from its body to flow to the wings so they may fully expand. You may also notice the proboscis, or tongue-like appendage, rolling and unrolling from their mouth.

The wings need this time to dry to fly safely and effectively; this process usually takes three to four hours. Once the monarch starts fluttering around your enclosure, and it has been at least three to four hours, you can set it free. 

Resources to help you on your monarch-raising journey

When we first started raising monarchs, we used a local Facebook group as a resource. I would ask the group any questions I had about locating milkweed, the setup of my butterfly enclosure, or the behavior of the monarch caterpillars. You may have a group local to your area, but if not, there is a national one called The Beautiful Monarch. 

Of course, there are always books to reference; here are some of my favorite resources that you can purchase online or check out from your local public library:

• Raise Your Own Monarch Butterflies, by Annie Carrol
• Raising Monarchs, by Sue Fox McGovern
• Raise Healthy Monarchs at Home, by Jeanne Megel
• A Tutorial for Raising Monarch, by Doria Karrenberg

How else can you help monarch butterflies?

Raising monarch butterflies with your children is a great way to help the monarch population recover, but there are other ways you can help, too!

• Plant a pollinator garden in your own backyard. Include native plants in your area that are either host plants such as milkweed, or nectar plants for the butterflies to feed on, such as nasturtiums, zinnias, or cosmos. Here’s a great tutorial on how to plant a butterfly garden with your kids. 
• Share the word! Now that you are an expert on these beautiful creatures, share that information with your friends and family. Then, maybe they will start raising monarchs with their children!
• Please donate to the non-profit Save Our Monarchs, which is committed to saving monarch butterflies and serves as a great resource for any monarch enthusiast. Find out how at www.saveourmonarchs.org.
• Fight climate change. The monarch’s innate urge to migrate is based on temperature changes that come with the seasons. Unfortunately, climate change has affected these temperatures, and the continued shift threatens their population. 

Have you ever raised monarch butterflies with kids?

About the author 

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

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

The post Raising Monarch Butterflies with Children appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

**This post was sponsored by the following merino wool companies: Chasing Windmills, Iksplor, Nui Organics, TK Clothing, Simply Merino, Wee Woollies, and Woolino. Product was provided as compensation for review purposes. All opinions expressed and photos herein belong to the author. 

Merino wool is nature’s wonder fabric. It keeps your kids warm in the cold and cool in the heat.

Layers for the win

With winter on the horizon, we are here to help you avoid unnecessary stress regarding dressing your kids in all their winter layers. Layers, layers, layers. I’m sure you’ve heard over and again how important it is to layer your child when out in winter weather.

Benefits of layering

Kids will stay warmer outside in cold weather if they wear layers. Layering helps trap and warm the air between the layers of clothes, which keeps kids insulated and warm. Layering also allows them to adjust their clothing depending on the weather, activity, or situation. They can take off a layer if they’re doing something active, or put on an additional layer if they’re cold. 

Typically, kids need three layers for cold-weather outdoor play: 1) a base layer to wick away moisture; 2) a mid-layer to insulate and help retain heat and maintain body temperature; and 3) a shell or outer layer to protect from water, wind, rain, and snow. Base layers are usually long-underwear/thermal type clothing that fits close to a child’s skin. The middle layer is great for fleece or other sweatshirt-type material. And the outer layer is a warm waterproof coat or shell. You can always add additional layers or thicker layers if the temperature drops. Or shed layers when there’s warmer weather or your kids are active. 

A base layer makes all the difference

A thermal base layer is the very bottom layer of clothing that kids wear.  They’re also called thermals or long underwear. You may have even had some as a kid – they were usually made of a waffle-weave cotton material. Cotton is a poor insulator of body heat and performs horribly if it gets wet (from snow or sweat), so it likely didn’t keep you all that warm for long. Luckily, now, most children’s base layers are either made of wool or synthetic materials. 

A good quality base layer is imperative if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside in the cold. It can help keep a child warmer than a huge thick puffy coat. But unfortunately, base layers for kids are some of the most overlooked pieces of kids’ winter gear. It’s easy to remember that kids need a coat, snow pants, and boots. However, if you are committed to spending quality time outside with your kids, you need to be prepared to invest in the best base layers for them.

You’ve probably heard everyone recommend wool layers as your base layer (even over synthetic base layers). But why? What’s so great about wool? And why does it cost so much? We’re here with the answers as to why wool is a great option for your base layer needs. We tried and tested a variety of brands of wool layers and are here to give you the scoop on each of them.

Merino Wool is insulating when it is cold and cooling when it is hot. Pictured wearing Woolino size 3t (child is ~30lbs and 38 inches).

What is merino wool?

Humans have used wool for clothing for millennia, and have been selectively breeding sheep for superior fleece for hundreds of years. Merino wool comes from breeds of sheep that produce extremely fine wool fleece. These fine fibers provide the wool more flexibility, giving it a strong yet buttery soft, and comfortable feel. Given their natural origins, merino wool fibers are biodegradable. The sheep are typically sheered once a year, which also makes wool a renewable sustainable resource.   

As a mom who cares about the health and future of our planet, I find these facts quite alluring. However, it’s how well merino wool keeps my child safe and comfortable that’s truly won me over.

Merino wool is naturally breathable and can absorb large quantities of moisture. It can absorb a third of its weight before it even feels wet! As the fibers absorb moisture vapor, they move it away from the skin. That means when it’s hot out, the merino fiber evaporates the vapor outside the fabric—which will help keep your little one cool. When it’s cold out, the vapor condenses inside the fibers and puts off heat, even when wet, which helps keep your child warm.   So, yes, you heard that right. Merino wool kids base layers can be worn year-round and aren’t just for cold weather conditions.

Qualities of merino wool

Other fabulous positives about merino wool are that it’s quick-drying, odor-resistant, and stain-resistant. This makes it perfect for puddle jumping and exploring creeks! The fabric is also much more durable than cotton, machine washable, hypoallergenic, and naturally UV resistant.  Did you catch that last bit? Yes, merino naturally blocks UV rays—some brands listed below tout a UPF of 50! Can you say, hello, reef-friendly sun protection?!

Merino woollies are extremely functional as base layers for cold days, as pajamas, or even as stand-alone clothing for warm days, making them a triple-threat and three times as useful. The form-fitting design of merino wool base layers means that it’s an easy option for wearing under other clothing without a ton of fuss from your little ones. 

Merino wool is by far the most versatile fabric for enjoying the outdoors in any weather. Pictured wearing Nui Organics sizes XS in women’s and 3t in children.

Merino wool is an investment

For many families, merino base layer/pajama sets are a bit of an investment (the brands listed in this article range from $63 to $109 USD). Although merino’s durability, versatility, and sustainability justify their cost over time, the initial price tag can be a hard pill to swallow.

It can be hard to spend a higher amount on kids’ clothes when you know your child will likely grow out of them in a season. This is especially true when buying for multiple quickly growing children. However, while investing in a wool winter layer can be pricy, they usually last a long time, making them suitable for handing down to another kid (or reselling second-hand).

Getting your money’s worth

Wool layers are also great for handing down, recycling, or reselling.  If you have multiple kids, wool layers can be passed down from one kid to the next (they’re very durable). Sometimes wool layers are saved for generations and passed down to grandkids (talk about a long-lasting investment).

Lots of brands offer wool base layers for kids that are designed to last longer with cuffs that can be rolled up or down so that your child can get multiple seasons of wear out of one size.

For me, this makes merino wool the best option for sustainability and keeping clothing out of landfills. 

Pro tip: To save some money on new items, you can sign up for the newsletter for many of these companies and receive info on sales, special officers, Black Friday deals, seasonal discounts, free shipping offers, off-season sales, and more. You may have to be patient and willing to purchase in the off-season, but the discounts can pay off! 

Best brands for wool layers for kids

There are a lot of brands out there that sell merino wool layers. So, how do you know which one you should buy? The good news is, most of the brands in this lineup are small parent-owned and operated companies. They’re all reputable brands that make high-quality products. And because they’re parents, they also know the pricing struggle all too well. Multiple brands have designed wool sets with features for growing children in mind or affordable options for moving on to the next size.

Here are the brands of merino wool layers we tested and our top picks for the best merino wool brands for kids (alphabetical order):

1. Chasing Windmills
2. Iksplor
3. Nui Organics
4. Simply Merino
5. TK Clothing
6. Wee Woollies
7. Woolino

Tried and tested (by a very active toddler)

In preparation for this article, I reached out to the above-mentioned brands about testing their products. Each of these brands produces merino wool base layers specifically for children. We have since been thoroughly testing the woollies since late summer. And when I say thoroughly, I mean I put the wool on my toddler and set her loose in the forests, creeks, and alpine balds of Southern Appalachia.

My child is a force of nature, so she’s given them some real wear and tear. Personally, I can’t think of a better fabric durability and kids’ baselayer tester than a toddler.   So, here is our review of each brand and how they tested. 

Chasing Windmills offers their base layers via a direct-to-consumer model. Pictured wearing size 4t.

1. Chasing Windmills

About the brand

Chasing Windmills is a small family owned and operated company located in Denver, CO. When browsing their website, it’s easy to see they are deeply committed to environmentally friendly and sustainable values. Chasing Windmills was born by a mother-father team (of twins) out of respect for Mother Nature’s goodness, and their commitment to minimizing their impact naturally follows.

They source traceable wool from pasture-based sheep roaming freely in mountainous New Zealand and Australian meadows. Their merino is certified by ZQ Merino, the Global Merino Quality Assurance Program, and the Responsible Wool Standard. The RWS program focuses on five cornerstones: protecting animal welfare, preserving land health, protecting social welfare, traceable chain of wool custody, creditable certification by professional third-party auditors, and stakeholder input and engagement, including animal welfare and environmental experts.

Their partners in merino meet strict animal welfare, environmental, and economic sustainability standards.  Mindful of their eco-footprint, they purchase carbon offsets to ensure that renewable energy projects and greenhouse-gas-capture projects offset the environmental impact of their home office and shipping. 

Chasing Windmills Merino Wool Base Layers’ knee pads are extremely functional

Why we love this brand

I love Chasing Windmills’ beautiful earth-toned colors and classic designs. The owners explain that they choose their colors consciously to avoid passing fashions—and hopefully last multiple siblings/children. My kid absolutely glowed in our local forests in the golden amber color gifted to us for this article. I love the natural hue and she loved its brightness.

The Chasing Windmills’ woollies are the only merino wool set in this lineup whose fabric is obviously ribbed. The ribs are extremely soft and seem to give the woollies a bit more flexibility. They’re of excellent quality and great for outdoor activities.

My favorite aspect of Chasing Windmills’ wool base layers is that they have reinforced knees (hallelujah!). As a toddler mom, the knee patches are a weight lifted off my shoulders. My child wears woollies year-round, day and night, over and over. Eventually, even the best quality clothes start to give under that sort of pressure. Inevitably, the first place she blows through in her wool sets is the knees. The extra protection from the get-go is hugely appreciated. I know the patches will save me the time I would’ve spent patching them. I should also point out, the knee patches are extremely well done. They blend nearly seamlessly into the pants. Even though they add an extra layer of durability, they aren’t bulky in any way.

The knee patches add extra protection without any bulk.

Chasing Windmills’ golden color of glows in forest environments.

Sizing, price, and options

Chasing Windmills’ merino wool base layers for kids are made in the USA with 100% merino wool (18.5 micron, 200 GSM). They are available in a size range of 3 months to 12 years.

The company sells via a direct-to-consumer site model that allows them to offer its products at more affordable prices. The thermal long-john wool layers are sold in a set (long sleeve shirt and pants) for around $77 in a variety of different colors.

Their product line includes base layers, mid-layers (sweatshirts, hoodies, pants, skirts, etc.), neck warmers, socks, beanies, swaddle blankets and crib sheets. They also offer women’s sets in a wide size range that look delectable.   

Shop the full line on the Chasing Windmills website.

Iksplor is a children’s merino wool base layer company that designs and makes all products in the USA. Pictured wearing size 2t.

2. Iksplor

About the brand

Iksplor is a small family-owned and operated company based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Their mission is to create easy-to-use and care for clothing that helps get kids outdoors and wherever their childhood adventures take them. On their website, it’s obvious that the sisters are passionate about their commitment to sustainability.

Iksplor makes its products from 100% ZQ certified merino wool (18.9-micron, 200 G5M). ZQ wool is from New Zealand and certified to very high standards for the welfare of sheep, land, farmers, farmworkers, and of course wool quality. ZQ reports each and every fleece is hand-selected by highly skilled “wizards of wool” for fiber quality prior to certification.   

Merino woollies are extremely functional as base layers or as stand-alone clothing.

Why we love this brand

Iksplor sets are offered in some really fantastic colors. My kiddo was gifted the raspberry color and let me tell you, she loves them (and so do I). The bright color drew her in immediately. She was literally clapping while jumping up and down! And I love how visible she is in fields and forests. I never have to wonder where she is when she’s wearing these woollies, which makes hide-and-seek extra comical.

Some of my favorite aspects of the Iksplor set are its 50 UPF sun protection, long-fitting limbs, and torso, thumbholes, and flatlock seams. These woollies are perfect for string bean kiddos like mine. The long features really stretch out the wear time for quickly growing children and move exceptionally well with my always rolling and wallowing toddler. This feature will let us get extended wear out of one size of wool layer. 

The fabric of these merino woollies is quite soft and thin, but somehow substantial, even so. The thin close-fitting features make for perfect base layering in colder months and cool sun protection in warm environments.

All the products are high-quality and hand-me-down ready. But, if you don’t pass them on to another when your kiddos are done with them, you can send them back to the company (no matter the condition) and receive 20% off your next order. Once receiving the wool, it’s repurposed, reused, or composted.

Iksplor Merino Woollies move great with ever-bending kiddos.

Sizing, price, and options

Iksplor makes their base layers in a size range of newborns through 12 years.

The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $89 (0-24 months) and $109 (2-12 years). 

In addition to base layers, the company makes beanies, neck warmers, and a swaddle/adventure blanket.

Shop the full line on the Iksplor website.

Nui Organics’ merino wool base layers are heavenly soft but still durable. Pictured wearing size 3t.

3. Nui Organics

About the brand

Nui Organics makes a wide range of beautiful, functional products and wool base layers for kids. They’re a company founded on ethical, sustainable practices. The company takes special care to lessen its impact on the environment, even in the smallest details—like recently changing its product labels to biodegradable fabric and using compostable mailers.   

Nui was founded in 2004 by a New Zealand mom with a small collection of organic merino wool baby blankets. The company’s guiding philosophy has always been to make something good, that causes no harm, and provides a safe, natural alternative to something that didn’t. They partner with factories in Bulgaria, India, and Lithuania that are committed to sustainable development and fair social conditions within the apparel industry. 

When buying Nui, parents can rest easy knowing their children’s clothing doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals or additives.

Why we love this brand

Nui’s merino wool thermals are insanely soft to the touch, which I am guessing is due to using 17.5-micron fiber. For reference, human hair is around 100 microns. This makes it some of the softest merino wool on the market. 

One of my favorite features of Nui’s kids’ wool base layers is the extra-long cuffs on the arms and legs. The long cuffs allow you to size up and get multiple years of wear out of each woolly set, even with growth spurts on the horizon! Our kiddo has been wearing the same set of Nui woollies for about 18 months and still has plenty of growing room left in them.

Nui has also added knee patches to their woollies, which I am a HUGE fan of. The knee patches aren’t only adorable; they’re extremely functional—especially for crawlers or those who wear the woollies as stand-alone garments rather than underlayers.   

In the last few years, Nui has made the shift to making clothing that is simpler and more timeless. Their color palettes are beautiful and perfectly complementary. The complementary colors and high quality make Nui the place to go if you’re into building your child a functional capsule wardrobe.  

Children’s merino wool base layers with knee patches will save you time and money in the long run.

Adult sizes are now available

Now, to all you fellow Mamas out there researching and buying your kids’ top-notch gear while YOU are still squeezing into the same base layers you’ve had since high school (please tell me I am not the only one)…I have great news. Nui Organics has expanded its product line into the adult realm! Now you can get gorgeous merino wool layers for the whole family! 

The company quite kindly gifted me a set of their new adult merino Tencel blend base layers, in addition to the kiddo merino thermals for this article. And shoo wee, are they soft, comfortable, and breathable. They’re also extremely lightweight and temperature-regulating, making them the perfect base layer/pajama combo to take on any backpacking trip or even wear under my nursing scrubs on cooler days. 

Nui now makes amazing adult merino and merino blend products! These are the merino/tencel blend base layers. Pictured wearing size xs in women’s and 3t in children. 

Sizing, price, and options

Nui Organic’s merino wool base layers are available in a size range of newborn to 12 years.

The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $69. 

Some of their other lines, outside of merino thermals, include merino mid-layer knits, 100% organic cotton thermals, heavenly soft merino silk blends, and the newly introduced merino Tencel blends.    

Other products (in addition to the wool base layers) include merino wool clothing such as tops, dresses, leggings, shirts, sweaters, socks, cardigans, and booties. 

Shop the full line on Nui Organics website. 

Simply Merino is small company that designs and makes all products in Vancouver, Canada. Pictured wearing size 3t.

4. Simply Merino

About the brand

Simply Merino is a lovely little family-owned and operated company out of Vancouver, Canada, that makes the cutest wool base layers for kids. The core of Simply Merino’s ethos is community and sustainability. All products produced by the company are 100% merino wool and made in Vancouver. They take special care to gather or produce all other needed materials locally—everything from elastic to packaging.

This little company is exceptionally waste-conscious. They recycle or repurpose all their fabric in creative ways. For instance, included with our woollies was a personalized and sewn card made with merino scraps. Seriously, does it get more creative than that?   

All products made by Simply Merino carry the Responsible Wool Standard and OEKO- TEX Standard. These standards basically mean, the company can certify their products are produced ethically and sustainably, without potentially dangerous chemicals—from the sheep to your child’s skin.   

Simply Merino’s base layers are beautiful colors and are great quality.

Why we love this brand

One of the key differences in Simply Merino woollies from the rest of the products featured in this article is that their actual fabric is a bit thicker (18.5 micron, 220 GSM). Honestly, I really like it. It’s still quite soft, just a touch thicker. If we were going out on an extremely cold day, these would be the base layers I would choose. Though it stands to reason, all the woollies in this article could handle any challenge the Appalachians could throw at them.

If you haven’t already figured it out, I am a sucker for earth tones, and Simply Merino has a beautiful color palate. They sent us a deep forest green color that’s swoon-worthy. An unexpected benefit is that the dark color resisted any staining despite some pretty intense puddle jump testing. I also love how my kiddo blends into the forest with these woollies on, it’s almost like she becomes part of the forest herself.  

Another difference in Simply Merino from the rest of the pack is, you purchase base layer tops and bottoms separately to allow the option of mixing or matching. While for some this may not seem like a big deal, for the more fashion-oriented children out there, color choice matters (probably too much on some days – #toddlers, am I right?).   

Simply Merino also makes some adult clothing, from beanies to women’s base layers.

Simply Merino’s base layers are a bit thicker than others in this line up.

Sizing, price, and options

Simply Merino base layers have a size range of newborn to 12 years, and from XS to XXXL in women’s sizes.

Tops and bottoms are sold separately, so you can mix and match colors. Wool thermal long-sleeve tops are around $37 and the bottoms are also $37 (for a total of $74 for the set). 

In addition to base layers, Simply Merino makes beanies, neck warmers, nursing pads (!!), tanks, and wool craft/mending materials.  We had the opportunity to test out a couple of their merino beanies. The beanies are great, especially for kids. They don’t fit slouchy but aren’t at all constricting. My little one wore hers for hours without it falling off or her pulling it off due to discomfort. Yay for minor miracles and warm ears!   

Shop the full product line on the Simply Merino website. 

TK Clothing’s ‘Grow with Me’ style is extremely functional. Pictured wearing size 2/4t.

5. TK Clothing

TK clothing is another small Canadian family-owned and operated company that makes ingenious handmade wool base layers for kids. A major benefit of this company’s small size is that some of their pieces are still made to order and, therefore customizable! Their base layer set is probably the most unique in this lineup, and I absolutely love them!

The products are real-life actual handmade clothing. If the listing on their site says “handcrafted in North Saanich, BC,” then it’s made personally by Rebecca – a person, not a factory. When you buy from TK Clothing, you are supporting a truly Canadian handmade small business. The merino fabric is sourced from a carefully selected range of suppliers including: a mill in the USA (organic merino), a mill in Australia (one of the few left!), ZQ merino, or Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified or better. 

They also have a small selection of products (like laundry soap and socks) that they do not make themselves, but are offered as part of the whole merino apparel package! – The laundry care products are all from Canadian companies, and the socks are from a small family-run business in New Zealand – they did design them all, though!

My child is on the smaller end of TK’s 2/4 but the woollies aren’t at all baggy.

Why we love this brand

First off, the woollies are made in a “grow with me” style. They have long limb cuffs and an elastic-free yoga-style waistband. All of which are easily folded up/down to fit your child through at least two years of growth. This bit of extra length is remarkable and extends the wearing season significantly. It’s ingenious! TK’s sets also look super adorable with contrasting neck, limb, and waist cuff colors.   

The other most notable difference with this set is that it’s a slightly thinner weight of superfine merino wool (195 GSM). Even so, my kid has worn a pair for six months with no visible wear or tears. But if you’re looking for something thicker, the company also makes layers in mid and heavy-weight merino, too.  

TK gifted us with a beautiful olive/ochre color set. The colors are rich and earthy, which y’all know I love. I think the contrasting neck and cuff colors add a touch of whimsy and fun, without taking away from the clothing’s simple and classic look. The fit of the “grow with me” style is fantastic. My child is on the smaller end of her 2/4 size and the woollies aren’t baggy. Even without an elastic waistband, the woollies stay in place through frolics and tantrums alike. Did I mention the style is ingenious? Because it is.   

TK also believes in environmentally aware packaging. So when our package arrived, it was wrapped in paper and tied with 100% cotton string. The string can be composted and the packaging can be recycled. And if you’re local, they even offer pickup from their house (!!!) to save on shipping fees, packaging, and gas. How amazing is that?

TK Clothing’s earth tones blend beautifully in natural settings.

Sizing, price, and options

TK’s merino wool base layer sets are ZQ certified and have a size range of 3 months to 12 years.

The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $80. 

They also have some other unique product offerings. While most are kid-focused, TK clothing makes cloth diapering materials, leggings, hoodies, rompers, dungarees, undies, and some adult merino base layers and hoodies.   

Shop the full line on the TK Clothing website. 

Wee Woollies make and design their base layers out of 100% Merino wool in Canada. Pictured wearing size 3t.

6. Wee Woollies 

Wee Woollies is yet another small Canadian family-owned and operated children’s merino wool brand that makes great kids merino wool base layers. They too design and make their products in Canada from ZQ certified wool that is Bluesign, approved. This means they, too can assure their customers ethical sustainable practices (without dangerous chemicals) from the sheep to your child’s skin.

Wee Woollies is a fun kid and nature-centric company. A lot of their advertisements feature their own children in base layers running around the beaches of Vancouver Island barefoot, which is just straight-up endearing.  

Is there anything more wholesome than a little kid in white long johns?!

Why we love this brand

The family also promotes mending of their products before replacement. The company has merino mending kits on their site should anyone be in need. This company likely has the most colorful and cheery woollies in this entire lineup. Each set has adorable contrasting cuff and neck hems. But Wee Woollies takes it a step further in that their gusseted bum is also a contrasting color. And can we just give a shout-out to bum gussets? I can’t think of any population who needs bum gussets more than ever squatting and bending little adventurers.  

They gifted us a pair of their Polar colored woollies-which are naturally white. Before you start thinking white may not be a good idea, these woollies are beautiful and stand out. With merino’s natural UPF properties, the light color is perfect for hot days spent in alpine environments. They are also a bright pop in our typically densely green southern Appalachian forests.

There’s something incredibly classic and pure about a little kid in white long johns. I’m positive these are the pajamas my kiddo will wear to bed on Christmas Eve for Christmas morning. They’re just that wholesome. Okay, sorry for the tangent, back to the functionality of the woollies. They’re great.   

The woollies are made in Canada from 100% ZQ merino wool (195 GSM, 18.9-micron). The wool feels soft and thin but is still incredibly durable. At 195 GSM, these are the woollies I grab when it’s hot and we are headed into exposed alpine environments. They have kept my kid comfortable and safe in all kinds of situations. Wet, dry, cold, hot , and of course glaring alpine sun—these woollies are a great choice.   

Wee Woollies’ bum gusset is one of a kind in this line up. It allows your child to bend and squat to their heart’s content without straining the fabric.

Sizing, prices, and options

Wee Woollies have a size range from newborn to 12 years. Though I should probably note that the contrasting bum gusset is just in the smaller sizes (size 6 and down).

The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $84. 

The company also has merino hoodies, tees, neck warmers, and shortie jams in their product line.  

Shop the full line on the Wee Woolies website.

Woolino specializes in safe sleep products for babies and toddlers. Pictured wearing size 3t.

7. Woolino 

Woolino primarily focuses on safe sleep for infants and toddlers. This company is passionate about designing innovative, functional, and most comfortable sleeping solutions for babies using the best fibers nature has created. They love merino wool for all its naturally perfect properties – it’s the finest and softest wool on the planet, it’s exceptionally breathable, constantly renewable, versatile, and altogether unmatched by anything manmade. They make a range of merino wool products from bedding and blankets, to pajamas and their bread-and-butter wool sleep sacks.   The sleep sacks are their jam and where this company truly shines! 

Woolino products meet the highest quality standards. Everything they produce is made with Woolmark and Oeko-Tex 100 certified merino wool and GOTS and Oeko-Tex 100 certified organic cotton. They use nickel-free YKK snaps and zippers that are also certified to be lead and phthalates-free and carry Oeko-Tex 100 certification. 

While their wool pajamas may not be their central product, they’re really great. All three of the color offerings are sweet, light colors with solid tops and striped bottoms. They are very reminiscent of classic pajama designs and just plain cute.

Woolino’s merino sleep sacks are so versatile and warm, we have taken it backpacking. Pictured wearing 18-36 month size sleep sack.

Why we love this brand

For the purposes of this article, we were gifted a lovely light blue set of wooly pajamas. The wool layers are extremely soft, which makes me think they likely have a lower micron (but the wool’s specifications aren’t listed in the product description). They’re also a similar lightweight to most others listed in this lineup.   

My child quite literally spent an hour climbing up boulders to crawl around on her hands and knees in these woollies. Somehow, they survived unscathed (did I mention toddlers are the best product testers?). All in all, Woolino’s pajama sets are a very solid and adorable base layer for babies and toddlers.   

But like I mentioned before, Woolino’s sleepsacks are really what the company hangs their hat on, and for good reason. Woolino’s sleep sacks are insanely breathable, durable, and functional. Some toddler models have footie holes that allow your kiddo to stand and walk in the sack safely (and may or may not make your toddler look like baby Yoda).

When I contacted them for this article, Woolino graciously wanted to gift us a sleep sack too. Given we have used one nightly for the last couple of years, I jumped. Their sleep sacks really are something special and hold up exceptionally well. These products will most definitely last you through multiple children. The one we have used for two years has no noticeable wear—and we’ve even taken that bad boy backpacking!   

We have loved our Woolino sleep sack for the last 18 months now.

Sizing, prices, and options

Woolino focuses on infant and toddler safe sleep, so their product size ranges from newborn to 4t.

The wool base layer pajama set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $65. The wool sleep sacks range from $75-$99. They usually offer free shipping on orders over a certain dollar amount. 

In addition to wool pajamas and sleep sacks, the company offers a variety of products such as blankets, bedding, pillows, gowns, socks, pants, bodysuits, sleepers, and lambskins. 

Shop their entire line of products on the Woolino website.

Caring for wool base layers for kids

Merino wool is durable, but it also needs to be properly taken care of. All of the recommendations in this list can be machine washed on the gentle cycle in cold water with a wool wash like this one. While regular laundry detergent in your washing machine will get your wool clean, it’s may also shrink or damage it. Most laundry detergents have enzymes that are designed to break down biological molecules (food stains), but that also means they’ll break down the biological molecules in the wool. You should also hang dry your wool layers, instead of running them through the dryer to prevent shrinkage. Proper care of merino wool clothes is essential in helping them last!

Conclusion

As we head into the colder months and the holidays, if you’re looking for versatile clothing that your children can wear in all situations, check out merino wool. I’ve mainly spoken of wool base layers for kids throughout this article, but there are companies out there making all sorts of children’s products out of wool. From the obvious like wool socks (Nui and Woolino both make fantastic wool socks) to outer layers, and even toys—merino is nature’s best technical and ecologically friendly fabric.

What’s your favorite thing about merino wool base layers for kids?

About the author

Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life within a pediatric ICU. Though she lived her life chronically critically ill, Avie was an incredibly loving and joyous child. After her death, Somer and her husband sought solace backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail. Before long, they discovered their ability to cope seemed to correspond with time spent outdoors.

When it came time to add another kiddo to the mix, bringing the baby along was never a question. In an effort to celebrate the freedom provided by healthy bodies, Somer has hiked her second-born 2k+ miles. Even so, she doesn’t believe grand adventures are necessary to reap nature’s wonder. They just as often revel in mundane evenings in their backyard. The family believes it’s prioritizing time spent outdoors that’s important.

Professionally, Somer has spent the last decade caring for veterans on an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years she’s become a passionate advocate within the intersectional relationships of mental health, wellness, and the natural world. She truly believes there’s healing and strength to be found outdoors for those who seek it.

You can find Somer online in the following locations:
Instagram: @somerpickel
RWMC post: Somer Pickel

The post The Best Merino Wool Base Layers for Kids and Toddlers appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Celebrating World Kindness Day outside

World Kindness Day is right around the corner and what better way to inspire kindness than to take a moment and be kind to our planet. Each year on November 13th, people all over the world come together and give kindness to each other, themselves, and the world.

World Kindness Day was designed to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness for good. Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race, religion, politics, gender, and location. 

This shared movement reminds us all that compassion really does bind us together on this planet. This year, we encourage you to reach out with acts of kindness to your families, neighborhoods, communities, and to our shared planet.

Photo credit: @kidsdelmundo

20+ kid-friendly ways to be kind to nature

Of course, we want you to be kind to everyone, but since we’re all about getting kids outside and into nature, today we’re going to share some ways that you and your kids can be kind to nature and our planet. If you are in need of a little inspiration and some ideas for ways you can be kind to nature, we’re sharing over 20 ideas to get you and your kids started. And the best part…you can do a lot of these acts of kindness outside! 

1. Pick up trash

This is probably one of the easiest ways to get your kids involved in giving back to your community and nature. As you walk through your neighborhood and local parks, pick up the trash you see. Make a point to go out on a hike or walk with the sole intention of cleaning up. Kids love being helpful and it really is so beneficial to the maintenance of the natural areas we all love and enjoy. Plus, you’re setting an example of a lifelong love of their planet and instilling a personal responsibility to take care of nature.

2. Practice Leave No Trace principles

While out in nature, teach your kids Leave No Trace principles and practice them together. Unless you have specific permission to do otherwise, stay on the trail, leave nature treasures where you found them, don’t build rock cairns, don’t litter, and respect wildlife. Always leave a place better than you found it. Make sure that you also explain why you should (or should not) do things when you’re with your kids so they understand the implications of your actions and the reasoning behind them. Not sure where to start? Learn more about outdoor etiquette and manners for kids with this post.

3. Join a community cleanup

Bring your kids along and join in on a local community trash cleanup. These are almost always kid-friendly and event coordinators will be happy to find a child-safe area for you to help in the cleanup efforts. Kids love to be involved in adult projects and they are sure to be rewarded for their volunteer efforts with smiles and kind words by other adult volunteers. If you don’t have a community clean-up project in place, organize your own! Gather some friends and go out together to make a difference. 

4. Plant a tree

Give back directly, by planting a native tree or shrub in your yard. Fall is a great time to plant trees. Visit a local nursery to get the best advice on which tree to plant and how to care for it. Let your kids be part of the process from beginning to end. Not only will kids love digging the hole and helping care for the tree, but they get to watch their tree grow for years. 

Photo credit: @dimples.and.the.blonde

5. Plant a wildflower garden

The bees, butterflies, and other pollinators love native flowers. Planting (or planning if it is the wrong time of year) which flowers are beneficial to your local environment is one wonderful way to spread a little kindness to nature. Here’s a great post on planting a pollinator garden with lots of native plants and flowers.

Or, if you’re looking for a fun way to explore native wildflowers with your kids or make a fun homemade gift, you can create seed bombs with your kids (in paper or ball form): DIY Eco-friendly Plantable Seed Paper and How to Make DIY Wildflower Seed Bombs with Kids.

Photo credit: @c_l_allofus

6. Feed the birds

Winter can be rough on wildlife, especially birds. Spread some kindness by feeding the birds this fall and winter. It’s simple and even provides hours of entertainment. Make your own bird feeders and then watch the birds together. Gather some ideas on making bird feeders for your backyard birds with these two posts: Eco-friendly Bird Feeders to Make with Kids and Easy Bird Feeders to Make with Kids.

7. Compost

Anytime is a great time to dive into the world of composting and recycling your food waste scraps. Your kids will learn all about food waste, get to see how food breaks down, and less food waste ends up in the landfill. If you have space, you can create a composting station directly on the ground. If you don’t (or if you live in a city or neighborhood), this composting tumbler is a great option. When you start your compost project, make sure to include a few bins for little hands so the kids can help out, too! Mother Nature and your local landfill will gladly accept that kindness. 

Photo credit: @robbs_rule

8. Start a wormery

Kids love worms! And so does the earth. If your kids are super into worms, we have a great project that will be fun and beneficial. Creating a wormery with kids is the perfect way to learn about food scraps and food waste with kids. Your kids will learn a ton, the worms will be well-fed, and keeping food waste out of trash helps our planet. It’s a win-win kindness activity for all.

9. Join a seed swap

If you garden every year, then you know that you never (or rarely) use all the seeds you buy! Or maybe you have varieties of plants that are wonderful and you save the seeds each year. Instead of tossing the extra seeds in the trash, donate your extra seeds to your local seed swap. Seed swaps are very educational and are a great way to teach kids the difference between plant hybrids and heirlooms. Heirloom seeds are often handed down through families and might hail from other parts of the world. Take your kids with you to the swap and let them help you find the perfect seeds to plant in your garden. 

Photo credit: @kirsten_alice_photography

10. Join or start a community garden

Interested in gardening and don’t have the space or have no idea where to begin? Join a community garden! If one doesn’t exist, you could even start one. This is a great way to volunteer with your kids, learn about growing your own food, and even eat locally grown food.

11. Reduce your use of single-use plastics

Teach your children all about how single-use plastics end up in giant piles of trash and how cutting back (or eliminating) these types of plastics is beneficial to nature. Not only will your family be helping the Earth right now, but you are helping to teach the next generation a better way to care for our planet. Examples of single-use plastics are straws and plastic utensils, water bottles, baggies, single-use coffee pods, takeout containers, coffee cup lids, etc.

Learn more about how to dive into the topic of sustainability with your kids with this post: Garbage Collecting, Recycling, and Sustainability for Kids.

Photo credit: @okoshifarm

12. Volunteer with your kids

There are so many ways to be kind to nature and volunteering with your kids is one of the best. Your community likely has environmental groups, animal rescues, wildlife conservation groups, and other nature-focused organizations you can spend your time helping. If your kids are not enough to tag along, set an example by volunteering yourself and sharing your experiences with your kids. Learn more on how to volunteer with kids here.

13. Save water

The little efforts we put into our everyday activities really do add up. Teach your kids all the little ways they can reduce the amount of water they use each day. Water is a precious resource on our planet and learning how to conserve it is a kindness our Earth and everyone on it will appreciate. Some quick ideas for conserving water: turn off the water when you brush your teeth, take shorter showers, wash the dishes at least once a week by hand instead of using the dishwasher, and don’t water your lawn during the summer (or better yet replace your lawn with native plants or a wonderful garden).

14. Reduce electricity usage

As with water, reducing electricity usage is beneficial to our planet and kids can learn a lot of ways to do it. Easy ways include turning off the light when you leave a room, spending an hour each evening together in one room (or outside) with all the other lights and devices off, installing energy-efficient light bulbs, not standing with the refrigerator door open (keep warm air out), hang drying laundry, unplugging unused devices, and using natural light when possible.

Photo credit: @sage.and.summit

15. Shop at a farmer’s markets and u-pick farms

Shopping local and small is a wonderful way to spread kindness in your community and help out our planet too. When you buy food and other goodies from farmer’s markets or local farms, you are reducing the carbon footprint of the food you eat. Local food travels significantly less far from the farm to your plate. Plus, children get to interact with local farmers and food vendors, which spreads smiles and good cheer. Learn more about exploring farmer’s markets with kids here.

16. Raise and donate money to the local environmental group

Spending time raising money for a good cause is such a great way to spend time with your kids. Maybe you bake cookies and make hot chocolate together and sell them on your street corner. Rake leaves and donate the money. Host a yard sale. Maybe have your children come up with a goal and use social media to help them reach it. There are so many options out there and plenty of time to make it happen. After all, teaching and learning kindness through giving is a wonderful life lesson.

Photo credit: @jannaprange

17. Write a letter to elected officials

Get your children involved in politics and help them write letters to elected officials sharing their thoughts on ways to help our environment. Everyone likes to get mail, especially from kids, right?

18. Carpool

This time of year is incredibly busy with sports and school. Offer to carpool with another family to reduce car emissions. Not only will you be helping another family, but you are being kind to Mother Nature too.

Photo credit: @stacey.raising.boys

19. Ride your bikes

If you live close enough to school or community businesses and events, consider riding your bikes instead of taking the car. Talk to your kids about why you are opting for the bike lane and set an example by using your bike whenever you can. Biking or walking just one mile a day for a year could save 330 pounds of carbon dioxide—that’s the same as planting four trees and letting them grow for 10 years! This also helps kids be active, connect with their neighborhood and gain a sense of direction.

20. Use public transportation

Not all of us have this option, but you absolutely should give it a go if you can. Kids love riding buses, trams, subways, other public transportation options. This is especially true for little kids who require car seats in the car but get some freedom when taking public transit. Not only are you reducing emissions (for which nature thanks you), but you get to spend time with your family and give your kids an eco-friendly adventure.

21. Shop second-hand shops

There is so much clothing, toys, and other products sitting in trash dumps all over the world. Our consumer culture creates a ton of waste. Did you know that so many things you want and need can be bought second-hand? Instead of buying a bunch of new gifts for the holidays this year, buy some gently used items instead and encourage your children to do the same. Or when your children need new clothing or your family wants a new board game, puzzle, or book, go to a thrift store or used book store and see what you find. You are helping to reduce waste by reusing items and that is a kindness nature needs.

Photo credit: @jhennyloouuu

22. Use libraries and Little Free Libraries

Sharing is caring and what better way to spread kindness than through sharing books? Instead of buying new books, utilize libraries to find new-to-you books. Your local library is sure to carry the majority of books you could ever want to read and almost all of them have ways to request books they do not yet carry. Plus, Little Free Libraries are all over the place and are such a fun way to share books you are done with and grab new books too.

23. Help your kids organize a clothing and toy swap

So many of the toys we buy our kids and the clothing we wear are in great shape when we are done with them. This is especially true of children’s clothing because kids outgrow them so quickly. Your kids will love to spread kindness by helping you organize a clothing or toy swap between their friends and families. Maybe a school, your place of employment, or a local community organization would like to host or you have space in your garage or yard. It can be between friends or a whole community event. Get the kids involved with sorting and set up and then let them find some new-to-them items for all their hard work.

24. Organize a craft supply exchange

Similar to a clothing and toy swap, a craft supply exchange is a great way to be kind to nature and lets you re-distribute craft supplies you are no longer using. Your kids will love to help organize, sort, and find new craft supplies. Not only are these sorts of exchanges spreading kindness within your community, but Mother Nature will be happy the items were utilized instead of tossed in the trash.

Photo credit: @thespencersadventures

25. Set up a scrap paper station

So much paper gets thrown away that could still be put to good use. Be kind to nature by getting more use out of scrap paper. Instead of throwing out (or even recycling) perfectly good paper that’s only been used on one side, set up a scrap paper station in your home. Add all the worksheets and papers that come home with your kids from school. Add printed paper that you no longer need. If the paper has a blank side, you can still use it for lists, notes, drawing, coloring, and jotting down messages. It’ll give that paper a little extra life before going into the recycle bin.

26. Know what’s recyclable (and what’s not)

Knowing what can and cannot be recycled in your area is one of the smartest things you can do to ensure that you are diverting as much of your waste from landfills as possible, while avoiding recycling contamination through proper separation. Here are the different categories of waste. Some of these categories can be recycled and others cannot. (1) Organic waste: food waste, grass, leaves, eggshells, coffee grinds, tea bags. (2) Glass: white and colored glass. (3) Plastic/metal: plastic bottles, plastic packages, jars, cans. (4) Paper: cardboard, paper bags, paper cups, paper. (5) Toxic waste: printer ink, lightbulb, batteries, electronic waste. (6) Residue: whatever doesn’t fit the others, such as used diapers, animal waste. 

27. Spend time outside

Yup, even just spending time outside as a family in all the green spaces is being kind to nature. The more time you spend outside learning about nature and being a part of it, the more you’ll learn to respect and appreciate it. Just make sure to leave the areas you enjoy better than you found it and Mother Nature will be happy.

Kindness and nature books for kids

If you want to help inspire your children to find ways to give back and be kind to nature on their own, reading them books about kindness and the ways our planet needs help is sure to set them on the right track. Here are just a few of the many wonderful books available to get you started.

• I Choose to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle by Elizabeth Estrada
• Kindness Grows by Britta Teckentrup
• Manu The Kiwi of Kindness by Rosie Chenault
• The Mess that We Made by Michelle Lord
• Old Enough to Save the Planet by Loll Kirby
• One Earth by Eileen Spinelli
• Save the Ocean (Save the Earth) by Bethany Stahl
• You Can Change the World by Lucy Bell
• We Are the Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom

How do you plan to be kind to nature with your kids?

The post World Kindness Day: 20+ Outdoor Acts of Kindness for Kids & Ways to Be Kind to Nature appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

The thrill of fall weather

Brisk mornings, warm sunlit afternoons, colorful landscapes, and shorter days; fall has officially arrived. All four seasons are adored for their unique qualities, but Fall may be top choice for some. There is something really special about time when you can feel the crispness of the air and those few weeks where the fall foliage is at its peak.

Whether you’re driving on your normal commute or hiking through the woods those beautiful colors catch your eyes and warm up your soul. Those images stay in your memory and bring you joy to recall them. What if there was a way to capture those images and bring the season of Fall to life? What if you could tap into all your senses and experience Fall in a way you never have before? Have you ever wondered what types of outdoor activities you will do with your family during Fall? 

Fall scavenger hunt for kids

When the seasons change, so do our outdoor activities. One of our family’s favorite activities is a fall scavenger hunt. We love scavenger hunts anytime of year, but they’re particularly fun in the fall, as it’s just a wonderful time to be outside and observing nature. A scavenger hunt is a great way to make fall memories and identify the unique changes of the season with your family. Plus, scavenger hunts are easy enough for kids of all ages to do and adaptable so that you can do them anywhere!

You even get to bring some of it home with you! My son loves to bring all kinds of things home with him from our outdoor adventures. We have quite a collection of rocks, sticks, and acorns so this is a perfect outdoor activity for us. This activity is flexible enough that you can tailor it towards your location and things your children love to search for.

Getting your children involved in planning

You might be asking, how do I even get started making my own fall scavenger hunt? Well, let’s begin with the basics!

Once you have decided a fall scavenger hunt is your next fall activity, it is time to get your children involved. Ask them to help you brainstorm the items you will hunt for. This is a creative way to get your children excited about the scavenger hunt and thinking about the world around them. Trust me, they’ll come up with ideas you never thought to include that showcase what types of items are important to them.

Depending on their age, you can either ask them to blurt out things that come to mind while you write them down, or let them create their own list of nature items to look for. When kids are involved in the planning of outdoor activities, they’re more likely to be interested and invested in them.

Brainstorming the list of scavenger hunt finds

The list of items to be hunted for can be as vast or simple as you want it to be. If your kids are older and want a challenge (or you’ll be outside for a substantial amount of time), make your list extensive. If your kids are little and have short attention spans, keep your list simple and short. Own your scavenger hunt and just have fun out there.

Fall scavenger hunt items

Our fall scavenger hunt list of items includes, but is not limited to:

• leaves (red, yellow, orange, brown)
• rocks
• seeds (and seed pods, like milkweed)
  
• trees
• sticks
• acorns
• pinecones
• pine needles
• squirrels
• apples
• persimmon
• birds
• bird nests
• birdhouses
• cats
• dogs
• worms
• beetles
• pumpkins
• mushrooms
• lichen
• butterflies
• grasshoppers
• feathers
• spiders
• bugs
• slugs
• snails
• salamanders
• animal tracks
• fossils
• buckeyes

These are typical for us to see in Pennsylvania on a nature walk. Your fall scavenger hunt can include any/all of these, plus more items from your specific location. You can add variations to the list such as colors, shapes, sizes, etc. for each item as well. If your child is learning a certain color in school for that week, try to incorporate it as much as possible. If you want to work on your child’s ABC’s, have them find one item for each letter of the alphabet.

Get creative with how you implement your scavenger hunt

Creativity is what will bring this activity to life! Your fall scavenger hunt list can be written out in list form or typed and printed out. If you child can’t read yet, you could use photos of clipart images. Give a copy of the scavenger hunt to your kids on a clipboard, so they can check items off as they hunt the items down. Or just store a list of items in your phone and find one item at a time. If you have older kids, give responsibility for their hunt to them with their own printed sheet, which helps establish independence.

Collect (some of) your findings

On our scavenger hunts, we also bring a bucket. This is great for collecting many of the items on your list. Not all the items on the list will fit or go in here (or should be touched or collected), but that’s okay. Items such as rocks, acorns, pinecones, etc. are fine to collect and take home and examine more closely. Items like mushrooms, bugs, slugs, animals, etc. should be left where they are and only observed.

The bucket is a great idea if your scavenger hunt has them finding multiple variations of the same item (five acorns, three pinecones, 4 different color leaves) or if you’ll be collecting the items to use in nature crafts. For example, buckeyes (conkers) are great for making fun little animals and other art projects.

How to make your scavenger hunt more challenging

Perhaps your children are older in age and competitive. The scavenger hunt could get very specific, even more detailed, or even timed. Instead of finding any rock, maybe the rock must be a certain color, texture, or shape. Leaves are abundant, but it may be difficult to find a red leaf with yellow circles on it. Get creative with your children and make it fun and challenging for them.

My son is very keen to find things on the list so I have to make it a little more challenging for him. I try to use shapes and colors as the easiest way to add a little more spice to the hunt. If your children know specific leaves such as a maple leaf, then have them find a specific color maple leaf. He is only four years old but because we spend so much time in the woods, he knows where certain items would be easily found. Simple variations to the activity can go a long way in making it last long enough for everyone to enjoy it. 

Challenge yourself to make the scavenger hunt more and more difficult as they become pros at it. There are so many possibilities to making this fun activity as engaging and challenging as you want. It could be as extreme as breaking up your nature area into quadrants where you have to find each item. Or, instead of specific items, you could choose more abstract concepts that require them to think more about what they’re looking for and get creative (something smooth, smelly, spiky, soft, wet, flat, old, crunchy). I truly believe this activity can be fun for everyone regardless of age and skill level. 

What you need to go on a scavenger hunt

Checklist time. Do you have your list(s)? Your bucket? Your nature location? What about your children? (Don’t forget them.) Then you are ready to get started!

If your children are anything like mine, they will burst onto the scene with excitement and enthusiasm. That being said, let your children lead the way. You can follow along and help guide or nudge them towards certain directions. If you are in a familiar place then may know exactly where to go to find some of the items on the list. If you are in a new location then it may take a little longer to find everything. 

What did you find?

Once you’ve officially completed your scavenge hunt, it is time to review your findings. Find a good gathering spot for your family to see what everyone found. How did each kid do? Did everyone compete the list? Were some of the items not in your location? What challenges did you face along the way? Make a mental note of what was hard/easy for your kids so you know how to adjust next time.

Learn to love nature through a scavenger hunt

Doing a fall scavenger hunt with your children is a chance to let them embrace discovery. If you are new to outdoor activities then your children are really going to love this activity. And if you’re avid nature lovers like we are, you will enjoy seeing the changes that take place during the fall and appreciate nature even more through this fun activity. This scavenger hunt is designed to inspire observation, creativity, and embrace the outdoors. My hope is that you won’t just walk through nature, but learn from it, and learn to love it.

Outdoor activities are meant to have you engage with nature. Nature’s playground offers us many opportunities to connect on a deeper level. We visit many different outdoor locations where we live and every time we go back, something is different. We notice. When fall is in full swing, that place you visited in summer will look completely different. Sometimes it is eye opening how vastly different one location can change in just three to four months. Kids notice, too. And by letting them observe and explore nature up close, it strengthens their bond with our planet and all it has to offer.

Free printable fall scavenger hunt for kids

We’ve shown you how to create you own fall scavenger hunt with kids. And hopefully you realize just how fun and easy it can be! However, if you don’t have the time to create your own or if want a good place to start with little kids, we’ve got you covered. Click here to get out free printable fall scavenger hunt for kids.

Are you a fan of scavenger hunts?

About the author

Matthew is a loving father to one nature-seeking son. They live in western Pennsylvania and focus on visiting every trail, waterfall, and scenic view they can find. He works full-time and his son is in preschool. They are adventure enthusiasts who love to hike, travel and learn everything they can about nature. Matthew grew up loving outdoor play and adventures so he has become intentional about displaying that love for his son to emulate. He focuses on creating and capturing moments that they experience together through photos and writing in a journal to one day give to his son about their journeys together.

You can find more from Tine online in the following locations:
Instagram: @matthew_marvich
RWMC posts: Matthew Marvich

The post Fall Scavenger Hunt appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Conker season

It’s that time of year where we lose the warmth of summer and the long evenings. But, nature has a lovely way of reminding us of the beauty of the next season. Autumn appears and shows off her loveliness, with colours changing every day on a woodland walk, cool crispy air, fewer pesky bugs, and so many treasures falling from trees.

Our favorite fall nature treasure by far the round, brown shiny balls called conkers! (In the US, you may call these “buckeyes” or “horse chestnuts.”) Conkers are not only good for the fun traditional game of “conkers” but are great for fall-themed crafts and activities with your children. Once you think of one idea, if you are like us, you will get carried away in creating an array of conker animals, insects, reptiles and spooky decorations for your house or garden!

Finding conkers

One of the best things about using conkers for crafts is that it’s basically a whole day’s activity! Before you can start crafting, you have to get outdoors to discover and collect the conkers. Finding them is definitely a big part of the fun! And Autumn is by far the best season for woodland walks and exploring. There is so much to entertain little minds; colorful leaves, piles of crispy brown leaves to stamp in, fruits, nut,s and seeds from trees.

Horse Chestnut trees

Your first mission is to find the right tree. Horse Chestnuts trees are easy to spot in the autumn, as they are one of the first trees to change colors. Horse Chestnut tree leaves turn brown slightly before all the other trees around them, which is a great way to get kids paying attention and observing the colors. This is especially the case if there has been a wet spring.  Horse Chestnut trees are usually pretty big, growing up to 25m tall and in their own space. They’re frequently planted along roadsides.  The Horse Chestnut leaves have five or more lobes whose midribs come from one point.

When and where to find conkers

In the UK, conker season starts in August and continues through September and October. However, the climate and weather in any particular area can have an effect on the conkers and when they’re ready.

The best place to spot conkers is looking at the ground for their green, spiky capsule close to Horse Chestnut trees. Conkers are ready when fall from the tree. This is when they’re harden and ripen in the middle. But if you leave them on the ground for too long, conkers can become weak and soggy.

On our conker quest this year, we discovered that we were quite late to the party. By the time we went out, lots of the Horse Chestnut trees in our area had already dropped their conkers and had been found and collected by someone else. We had a very dry, windy summer, so we think they dropped their nuts earlier than usual.

*Note: Don’t get confused by a Horse Chestnut and a Sweet Chestnut. Sweet Chestnuts are the nut that once cooked you can eat (a la “chestnuts roasting on an open fire”), they have a much softer, pricklier shell than conkers. Conkers are not edible. Both come in green shells, but conker cases have short, stumpy spikes all over.

Make collecting conkers fun

Finding and collecting conkers on it’s own is a really fun outdoor activity for kids and families. We always like to spice things up a bit, so sometimes we’ll make concker collecting a competition! Who can collect the most conkers in a set amount of time, or who can find the biggest or smallest conker. While collecting, we also start imagining what we will make each one into.  It’s so interesting seeing all the different shapes and sizes that you collect.

Conker craft supplies and safety

When you do crafts with children, it’s important that the child gets to be hands-on for the majority of the activity. This means you should choose tools that are safe, or just ensure you give clear, simple instructions for safe use.

When working with conkers, the hardest part of the crafting activity is usually making a hole  in the conker. We find a child’s hand drill the easiest and safest way. Howver, you can also use a palm drill or just a skewer. Be advised that this requires strength and risk awareness, particularly thinking about hands in the right place and eyes if leaning over.

Conker crafts for kids

Conker crafts are fun for the whole family and really easy to make! You can turn conkers into so many different things; your only limit is your imagination! Today, we’re sharing a few of our favorite conker crafts for kids. All of these conker crafts have been tried and approved by my 5 year old! And the good news is, you don’t need much in the way of supplies other than what you can find in nature! So, let’s get outside, find some conkers and start getting crafty! 

Conker spider

For our first conker craft, we are going to make a creepy conker spider! This is a really simple craft activity (and quite ironic, as old wives tales say that spiders hate conkers). These crafts make cute decorations for the corner of your house — and who know, maybe they will scare the spiders away!

Conker spider supplies:

•  2 conkers
• 1 cocktail stick/toothpick
• hot glue
• 1-2 pipe cleaners
• wire cutter
• goggly eyes

Conker spider instructions:

1. Use your drill or skewer to make a hole in the head of the spider and the body. Cut the cocktail stick in half and put it into the hole on body. Squirt with some hot glue and attach another (smaller) conker as the head.
2. Make 4 holes on either side of the spider’s body. Decide how long you want his legs to be, and cut pipe cleaners to size. Squirt glue into the hole one at a time and insert the pipe cleaner legs.  (Use parental supervision/help, as the glue is hot!)
3. Stick on your googly eyes and decorate your spider as you wish.

Conker spider web

Every spider needs a web so we decided to create our little conker spiders a home.

Conker spider web supplies:

• 1 large conker
• 8 sticks (you could use wooden skewers, whittled sticks or bamboo)
• white string; twine
• glue

Conker spider web instructions:

1. Make 8 holes the size of your sticks, equally spaced out around the perimeter of the conker.
2. If the sticks are slightly smaller than the hole, fill the hole with hot glue.
3. Tie one end of the string to the bottom (near the conker) of one upright stick.
4. Take the string and wrap it around the next stick once and on the second turn pull it tight and cross over the first wrap so the string stays in place.
5. Continue doing the same in a circular motion. When you get back to the first stick move up slightly and continue to wrap around each stick twice.
6. When you get to the outside end of the sticks on the one you started, tie off the string leaving a length to hang.

It’s that simple, but looks very effective, especially when you attach your conker spider and hang it from a tree or ceiling!

Conker bat craft

Conker bat supplies:

• 1 conker
• black cardstock paper
• half a pipe cleaner
• googly eyes
• string

Conker bat instructions:

1. Make two holes on either side of your conker for the bat’s wings.
2. Make two smaller holes on the bottom of the face of the conker for bat teeth.
3. Make a hole all the way through your conker and using string or wire insert a length and tie a knot at the bottom. This is to hang your bat.
4. Cut your wings out of the black cardstock paper making sure one end is narrow enough to fit in the holes. Gently create a crease long ways and fold in half widthways to make it look like a batwing.
5. Squirt glue into the holes and insert one end of the wing.
6. Cut your pipe cleaners for the size teeth you want, squirt glue into the holes, and insert pipe cleaners.
7. Add your googly eyes and using paint pens or permanent markers add any decorations.

We have our bat hanging from the web on a tree in the garden.

Making conker animals 

As soon as you get started making conker crafts, I guarantee that your children will start coming up with their own imaginative ideas! My son wanted to carry on the “creepy” theme and do his own monster. That lead to us making conker pumpkins.

Next, we moved on to other animals. He has been studying the jungle at school, so his next idea was for the monkey, which I love. We just added some beads to his hands to give him some weight to hang.

We made porcupines with toothpicks. We made snails with playdough. We still had a lot of conkers leftover, so we made snakes! For the snake, you will need quite a lot of conkers. We used wire to thread them onto so that it would bend. We now use this snake as an arithmetic bead string when adding and subtracting up to 10.

Pro tip: If you want to paint the conkers, just add PVA glue to the paint mixture. 

Conker tic-tac-toe

Our last conker craft idea was to create a game of noughts and crosses (or tic-tac-toe). All you need is a solid base (we used a sliced stump of an old tree) and 4 sticks. Mark up to 5 conkers with a “O” and 5 with an “X.” We used acrylic paint pens for this. Place two sticks parallel and two stick perpendicular and your tic tac toe board is all set up and ready to play! 

We love having this fun and easy game board at our disposal. It’s great for keeping outside and being able to access at any time with the family. We pull it out anytime we’re outside and have some time to play. BUT! Beware of squirrels stealing your conkers!

Conker crafts for the win

There are so many fun ways to use conkers. They’re fun to collect, fun to play with, and a lot of fun to use in crafts. So, next time you are out on a family, autumn woodland walk, don’t forget to keep looking down for conker treasures and enjoy making your conker crafts and creations together.

Have you created any other conker crafts?
Share your photos on Instagram and use the hashtag #runwildmychild to be featured!

About the author

Hannah Martin has worked as a PE Teacher in the UK for 15 years. She has always loved being active outdoors. However, she discovered a new passion for nature and appreciating the environment when she had her son Hobie (now 5 years old). Hannah and Hobie’s vision is to inspire parents to spend time doing fun, creative, nature activities outdoors with their children; no matter where they live and whatever the weather. They believe spending time together outdoors as a family will encourage future generations to love and care for the world, wildlife, and environment.

Find more from Hannah (and Hobie) in the following locations:
Instagram: @hobies_nature_club
Website: hobiesnatureclub.co.uk
YouTube channel: Hobie’s Nature Club
RWMC Posts: Hannah Martin

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

How to build a bat house with kids

Have you ever thought about building a bat house with your kids, but you weren’t sure if it would be too much work? Well, I want you to know that you can totally do it! Building a bat house is an easy project that can be done in an afternoon. The shallow design of a bat box is perfect for bats because they like cramped, dark spaces for nesting. Get your kids involved in the planning and the work. Kids can help with picking the location, measuring the wood, cutting the pieces, driving nails, and decorating the bat house. Follow these steps while including your kids, and you’ll not only have built a bat house but will have formed a lasting memory together too!

Benefits of bats

Bats get a bad rap, as they are often associated with Halloween, vampires, and even the most recent pandemic. But, bats are crucial to their ecosystems and are generally not harmful or dangerous to humans. Here are some of the many valuable aspects of bats that you might not have been aware of.

Bats that consume insects provide a critical amount of pest control – $3.7 billion worth in the United States alone each year. And, in a bittersweet way, these bats become sustenance for larger predators such as hawks, raccoons, and snakes. (Did anyone else start to sing “The Circle of Life” from the Lion King?)

When you think of pollinators, bats probably aren’t the first creature that comes to mind. Bees, butterflies, or birds might top your list. But, some bats, like the Mexican long-tongued bat, are perfectly adapted to pollinate the agave plant in the Southwestern US. Sweet!

Bat guano is rich in nutrients. Did you know that bat excrement (or bat droppings), also known as guano, is high in nitrogen and can be used as organic fertilizer? It’s more effective than cow manure, so moo-ve over heifers, we have a new way to fertilize our gardens.

Photo credit: Stephen Ghio            

What do bats eat?

Bats eat various things, like fruit, nectar, pollen, and insects. Some even drink blood! However, out of 1400 species of bats, only 3 are vampire bats species that survive by consuming blood.

Did you know that bats are the prime pollinator for the agave plant, an ingredient in tequila? So the next time you’re drinking a margarita, make a toast to a bat!

The bat populations in our area in Massachusetts are all insectivores, meaning they only feed on insects. In just one hour, a single little brown bat can eat up to 1,000 insects. A nursing mother bat can eat up to 4,000 insects in one night; isn’t that wild?

More amazing bat facts for kids

Let’s face it, bats are pretty interesting creatures. Here are ten more facts about our winged friends that I thought were unusual that might interest your kids:

• Bats are the only mammal that can truly fly.
• The oldest living bat on record was found in Siberia; it lived to be 41 years old!
• Bats have lived on earth for over 50 million years, and the oldest fossil was found in Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park.
• The saying “blind as a bat” doesn’t hold much weight, as bats can actually see. Some bats that eat fruit rely almost entirely on their vision to find their food.
• The largest known colony of bats is in Texas at the Bracken Bat Cave. There are more than 20 million bats living together!
• Bats are a symbol of happiness in Japan.
• Bat excrement or guano was used to make gun powder during the Civil War.
• There is species of bat in West Africa that live in spider webs!
• Bats’ echolocation is so precise that it can detect an object as thin as human hair.
• The smallest known bat is Kitti’s Hog-nose bat also known as the Bumblebee Bat because it only weighs 2 grams.

Now that you’ve learned so much about these truly magnificent mammals and the critical role they play in our ecosystem, are you ready to build your bat house? Great! Just hang in there because I have all the information you need up next.

Photo credit: Adam Olliver

Bat house design

Typically, bat house design is pretty straightforward. Bat houses are usually in the shape of a narrow flat box, with an opening at the bottom for the bats to fly in and out of. The goal for bat house design is to make a bat house that mimics the space between tree bark and a tree trunk. The space inside a bat house should be very narrow, unlike a birdhouse, which would house a round nest. Bats like tight spaces. They also like warm spaces when raising their young. The open bottom designs allow the bats easy entrance/exit. 

Gathering materials to build your bat house

First, you will need to gather all materials to build the bat house with your kids.

Tools needed:

• Hammer
• (24) 2-inch nails, aka “6-penny nails”, or galvanized screws
• Circular saw
• Compound miter saw
• Power drill
• Tape measure
• Pencil for marking measurements and straight edge
• Safety goggles
• (2) 3″ exterior screws for mounting
• Paint and paintbrush (optional)
• Plastic mesh netting and staple gun (optional)
• Wood boards (preferably cedar boards)

Pieces of wood cut into the following sizes:

You’ll need to cut 6 separate pieces of wood to assemble the house. Measuring the boards is a great project for kids. I’ve included the dimensions for a basic bat house below, but you can certainly make a bigger bat house if you’d like; adjust the sizes accordingly. 

• Front panel – 18.25″x12″x1″
• Sides (2) – 22″x4″x.1″, make 30-degree cuts on one end of each
• Back panel – 25″x 12″x1″
• Roof – 16.5″x7″x1″, you can make a 30-degree angle on the roof if you choose to, not necessary
• Predator Buffer – 12″x 1.5″x 1″

Also, cedar is generally recommended but tends to be expensive. We chose to build with rough-sawn native white pine from a local mill, as it was less costly and has worked fine in bat boxes that we have made in the past. Whichever wood you decide to use, remember that it must not be treated with any chemicals, as they can be harmful to the bats. Purchasing an 8-foot by 1-foot plank of wood from a lumberyard should give you enough material to build your entire bat house.

How to assemble a bat house

Create kerfs in the wood

The first step in assembling your bat house is to make sure that the interior sections of the house are not planed or smooth. As you can see on our back piece, we created multiple horizontal lines with the saw. These “kerfs” were a quarter-inch deep and made with the compound miter saw. (This step would most likely be a job for an older child, but using power tools can be an empowering skill to learn!)

These kerfs make it easier for the bats to hang when sleeping upside down in the house. Another option is to use plastic netting and staple it onto the interior of the bat house. Carefully trim any excess edges to avoid injuring the bats while inside the house. Bat houses should not contain fabric or plastic mesh. 

Keep the predators out

Next, nail the predator buffer to the bottom of the inside of the front piece. This piece of wood is vital to prevent predators from climbing inside the bat house and create a safe home for the bats. However, the small opening is still big enough for the bats to squeeze through. The gap at the bottom should be three-quarters to one inch.

Nailing this piece of wood is a great way for the kids to get involved in building the bat house. You can help stabilize the pieces using wood glue, but that’s not necessary. Kids can use a hammer to pound in a few nails, and it’s great for hand-eye coordination! Pro-tip: Holding the hammer farther down on the grip, away from the head, will give you more force and more “BANG” for your buck.

Add the sides to the bat house

Next, use the power drill to start the holes in the sides of the house. We made three evenly spaced pilot holes along the edge. Pre-drilled holes made it easier for the kids to bang in the nails. These side pieces then get nailed to the back of the bat house.

Add the front and landing areas

The next steps are to slide the front piece into place and add the landing area. A little gap along the upper edge is a good thing – it’s necessary for ventilation. Use three more nails on each side. The overhang on the bottom is called the “landing area” this is where the bats land and climb up inside the house. A four-inch landing zone is sufficient for the bats to perch and climb comfortably.

Attach roof and mount

The last piece to attach is the roof. We used four nails after pre-drilling holes.

Finally, drill a hole in the bottom center of the back piece & the top center of the roof for the exterior screws to mount to the side of a building or the side of a house. 

And with that last step, you just built your very own bat house with your kids! Pat yourself on the bat- I mean, back. Great work!

Decorating your bat house

While it’s not necessary to paint your bat house, paint color can affect the inside temperature, which in turn can either attract or repel bats. You should either paint your bat house a light color or dark color depending on the temperature where you live. Here is a trusty map I found from Bat Conservation and Management that will guide you to what color you should paint your bat house based on your location if you decide to paint. Colder climates need darker colors to absorb warmth. 

When painting your bat house, the most important rule is to choose non-toxic water or oil-based paint that will withstand natural elements such as snow and rain. You can use a drop cloth or old sheet to protect any surfaces from paint splatter. Remember to let the paint dry fully before hanging your house! 

We decided not to paint our bat house and hung it up as-is. However, we did make another one and added a bat stencil to the front. The little brown bat stencil was initially drawn by my younger brother about twenty-five years ago when he first made a bat house with my dad. Can you believe my dad still had the stencil in his barn? This project ended up being incredibly special because my kids got to make this house with my dad and me, and he passed some of his carpentry skills on to them!

Where to hang a bat house

Choosing a place to attach your bat house is very important and depends on whether bats will decide to move into your newly constructed dwelling. There are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing the best location and mounting your bat house.

• The bat house should face south or south-east and get 6-8 hours of sun per day.
• Mounting the house at least 12 to 20 feet from the ground is ideal.
• The bat house should be away from bright lights.
• Trees are not the best option for mounting a bat house because they are usually too shaded and predators can more easily access the house.
• A fresh water source should be within a quarter-mile from where you place your bat house.
• Multiple bat houses can be grouped side-by-side on a home or building or back-to-back on a pole mount.

These seem like many requirements, but they are just general guidelines for the most successful bat houses. The goal is to do your best. If you only have a tree to mount it on, then try that. Or, if you don’t have a water source nearby, it’s still worth it to build a bat house!

Attracting bats to your bat house

Another thing to mention is building and hanging a homemade bat house does not guarantee that bats will decide to move in. Many factors are beyond your control that will determine whether or not you have a successful bat house. Some factors include predators nearby, other established roosts in the area, temperature and location of your bat house, etc. Ninety percent of bat houses become occupied by local bats within two years of installation, so practice patience. Hopefully, you will see some bat action sooner rather than later.

“When day fades away, bats come out to play”

Best times to look for bats

If you want to look for bats in your backyard or a local park, choose a clear dry evening. Bats mainly come out at about dusk to feed, so find out when the sun sets and head out around that time. Where we live in New England, Spring, Summer, and early Fall are the best seasons to look for these flying mammals, as they hibernate during the colder months.

When we set out to look for bats in our yard, we lay blankets on the lawn and ensured all outdoor lights were off. Then, staring up into the sky as the sunlight slowly fades away, we keep our eyes peeled for any movement above the trees. There’s certainly no shortage of mosquitos, so we hope the bats will soon follow. 

SWOOP! We saw our first bat! It was a flash of jagged flight, looking almost uncoordinated, but we knew better. These winged mammals are precise hunters and we had front-row seats.

My kids are always so excited to count bats. They love pointing at the sky and yelling out – “There’s one!” “I see another!” “Did you see those big brown bats, Mommy?!” It’s awesome. I try to capture photos of these insectivores, but they are too fast. As a result, only blurs of black in the early night sky showed up on my screen. The memory of this experience, however, is clear as a bell.

Become a bat-tivist (bat-activist)

Now that you’ve built a sturdy bat house to help support the bats in your neighborhood, there are other ways that you can help protect and support bat populations.

• Keep those dead trees up on your property! If they aren’t going to be a safety hazard, let them stay. Their natural cavities create the perfect habitat for bats, as well as many other creatures.
• Refrain from using dangerous pesticides, as these can unintentionally harm bats and other animals. There are all kinds of natural alternatives that are safer for the animals and our planet, too.
• Keep domesticated cats indoors, as they are dangerous to bats. House cats kill over 250,000 bats each year. Also, bat rehabilitators report that about one-third of injured bats are due to house cat attacks.
• Share your knowledge! Tell your friends that you know how to build a bat house and how beneficial these winged animals are.

Effortless options for a bat house build

Here are some alternatives for certified bat house kits for kids. They come with pre-measured and cut wood pieces that are easy to assemble, creating safe and attractive homes for bats without needing to use power tools. 

Bat book recommendations for kids

If you’d like to read more about these marvelous flying mammals that will hopefully soon be living in your bat house, here are some beautiful books that you can find at your local library or book store. Who knows, maybe you’ll have a bat-tivist on your hands in the future!

• “Bat Loves the Night” – by Nicola Davies
• “Zipping, Zapping, Zooming Bats” – by Ann Earle
• “A Place for Bats” – by Melissa Stewart
• “Amazing Animals: Bats” – by Kate Riggs
• “The Case of the Vanishing Little Brown Bats” -by Sandra Markle
• “Bats” – by Gail Gibbons
• “The Secret Life of the Little Brown Bat” – by Laurence Pringle
• “Stellaluna” – by Janell Cannon

Learn more about bats

If you (or your kids) are super interested in learning more about bats, check out Bat Conservation International. Their website is filled with amazing bat-tastic information including the latest bat news, bat facts, bat conservation efforts, and how you can help the cause. They also have free plans for building a bat house. 

Are you ready to build a bat house with your kids?

About the author

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

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

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Talking to children about the environment

What crazy summer weather we all had, don’t you agree? All over the world, we have seen the results of climate change in the form of wildfires, record heat waves, drought, mudslides, and more. Environmental activism and climate change are quite heavy topics for kids. Nevertheless, raising awareness about our planet and what’s happening to nature is important for children.

And while these conversations are important and can sound intimidating, they don’t have to be dull and serious. There are plenty of ways to make learning about our planet (and all the ways we can help it) easy for kids to understand. Today, we’re going to discuss how you can make climate change, recycling, and garbage collection fun topics to talk about with your kids. 

Talk to your kids about recycling 

One of the easiest and most entertaining ways is to bring up conversations around climate change and how our behavior influences nature is by talking about recycling (and by the act of recycling). Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. Recycling is important because it prevents further pollution and reduces the need to harvest new raw materials. Recycling can make a huge difference to our environment, our quality of life, and our future. It also saves energy and money, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, and allows products to be used to their fullest extent.

Small actions make a big impact

The first place to start is in your own home. Small changes in our everyday life can make a big impact. There are a wide range of materials that can be recycled through your curbside recycling program. These consist of obvious materials, including paper and glass, as well as less obvious materials, including most forms of metal, and even food. Knowing and understanding what can be recycled in your area, as well as properly sorting your recyclables is important in ensuring that the items in your recycling bin actually make it to your local recycling center, don’t slow down or burden the system, and in time, actually get turned into something new. 

Just because you’re starting small doesn’t mean that your efforts are useless. Your actions will change more than you think. But, also try to think big with your kids. Look for ways to get them involved in the process and take ownership over their eco-friendly actions. One way to do this is to go on a garbage collection mission with the kids! Outdoor clean-up projects are the perfect way to talk to your kids about the importance of recycling, how imperative it is to live by “leave no trace” rules, and spend time outside together. 

10 facts on recycling and waste

Before we get to the fun part of garbage collection with kids we should talk about what effect mankind already has on the climate. Here are 10 facts on recycling and waste that you can use to teach kids about the importance of reducing our footprint and making sustainable changes.

• One-third of the produced food is thrown in the garbage
• A variety of raw materials including paper, plastic, metal, glass, electronics, and textiles can be recycled
• Aluminum can be recycled forever without any loss of quality
• If you throw away your aluminum cans, they can stay in that can form for up to 500 years or more
• Half a million trees have to be cut down just to produce the Sunday newspaper each week
• Every minute forests the size of 20 football fields are cut down
• The average family uses 6 trees worth of paper each year
• Glass can be recycled over and over again
• Our plastic waste created a gigantic ‘plastic soup’ in the Pacific Ocean that’s 1.6 million square kilometers (which is twice the size of Texas)
• More than 1,200 species of fish and sea mammals are impacted by plastic, through ingestion or entanglement (both which can make them sick or kill them)

Inspiring change through hands-on learning

Giving them facts and info about our planet and consumption is one thing, but how do we inspire our littles ones to take action that will help make a difference? How can we teach them about taking care of our planet in a tangible way that will produce real results for the right reason? 

We can start by showing them exactly how the climate works and what our effects are on the environment. Kids learn best by doing, by playing, by being a part of the action. Science experiments are one way that we like to teach our daughters about the world around us. Below, I’ll walk you through two cool experiments you can do with your kids at home to produce a cloud and demonstrate the effects of global warming on the ice caps.  Both these experiments are interactive and creative ways to teach kids about weather and climate with hands-on science experiments. 

Experiment 1 – Creating clouds

Our first hands-on science experiment is to create clouds! Most kids are disappointed when they realize that clouds aren’t made of cotton candy or pillow-fluff like they’re often depicted in cartoons. Unfortunately, you can’t sit on a cloud! Clouds are made of cold water vapor that is condensed into droplets of water around dust particles. This super fun and simple science experiment will help teach your kids about the physical changes and reactions that happen as clouds form within the atmosphere. 

All you need is:

• Glass pot or another open container (we used a vase) 
• Warm water
• A match
• A cold plate or lid to close the pot

Instructions:

1. Pour a layer of warm water into the glass container and stir
2. Light a match, blow it out and quickly drop it in the water
3. Cover with a cold plate (We used a metal lid we put in the freezer. A plate with ice will also do the trick)
4. Watch as a cloud of water vapor is produced in the container! You can remove the plate on top to see the result even better.

But what happens here?

Water vapor blends with soot/dust particles coming from the match. When these particles reach the cold surface on top, it cools down and condensates and forms a cloud. The same process happens outside in real life. The only difference is that the particles mixed in the vapor can consist of anything – dust, smog, pollution, etc. are all picked up.

This is the perfect experiment to show our children how clouds are created and formed. Don’t forget to highlight the difference between weather and climate. Weather is what we see when we get out of the house, very locally. This can change every day, and if you are lucky (as in Central-Europe) it changes every hour of the day. Our climate though is based on averages, taken over years and years and measured over bigger surfaces. 

Experiment 2 – Melting ice caps

We’ve seen how water can be transformed from a liquid to a gas (above), now, let’s consider what happens when it’s changed from a solid (ice) to a liquid. At the North and South pole of our planet are expansive sheets of ice. This ice can have a significant impact on our entire planet’s climate. If the temperature of the air and water gets warm enough, the ice melts. And as the ice melts, water absorbs warmth from the sun (which white ice would’ve reflected back into space). The water warms, contributing to the increasing temperature of our planet. In addition, this melted freshwater can also change ocean currents, affect conditions for wildlife, and potentially contribute to extreme weather conditions. This melting ice caps experiment is easy to do, and helps demonstrate what climate change and global warming can do to our polar ice caps.

All you need is:

• A transparent container
• An object to use as a piece of land in the box
• Water
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Place the ‘land’ in the box and add with some water, so that the land is not covered. 
2. Put some ice on top of the land.
3. Check the level of the water in the box and note how much land is not covered.
4. Wait until the ice melts.
5. Investigate how the water level has changed. Observe whether the water level is higher or lower. Is more land covered with water now?

What happens here?

The melting ice represents the ice that is melting in the arctic region (parts of Russia, parts of Alaska, Northern parts of Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Greenland, and the Arctic Ocean). It shows the impact of the level of seawater and coast communities.

When you explain this experiment and its effects to your children, you can refer to the first experiment where warm water forms a cloud. The warmer the earth is getting, the more ice will melt, which will impact the level of the seawater.

Warning: Don’t expect great enthusiasm immediately with this experiment. It takes some time before the ice cubes melt, as you can see in the picture below. 

Recycling and sorting waste

Now that we know some of the science related to our planet and climate, it’s time to put that knowledge to good use with some tangible action to make a difference! Let’s start with recycling!

The first part of recycling is to sort your waste. Separating waste in a proper and correct way is the most basic thing you could do in order to preserve the environment.  Knowing what can be recycled and what can’t in your city is essential to improving the operations of your local recycling facility, as well as ensuring that items that cannot be recycled curbside are being taken to the right place to be recycled. It may seem like a trivial thing, but this simple task actually has a significant impact on our planet.

Categories of waste and recyclables

Knowing what can and cannot be recycled in your area is one of the smartest things you can do to ensure that you are diverting as much of your waste from landfills as possible, while avoiding recycling contamination through proper separation. Here are the different categories of waste. Some of these categories can be recycled and others cannot.

• Organic waste: food waste, grass, leaves, eggshells, coffee grinds, tea bags
• Glass: white and colored glass 
• Plastic/metal: plastic bottles, plastic packages, jars, cans
• Paper: cardboard, paper bags, paper cups, paper
• Toxic waste: printer ink, lightbulb, batteries, electronic waste
• Residue: whatever doesn’t fit the others, such as used diapers, animal waste.  

What can (and cannot) be recycled?

Recyclable items:

• Paper including newspapers, magazines, and mixed paper
• Cardboard
• Glass bottles and jars
• Rigid plastic products
• Metal containers, including tin, aluminum, and steel cans

Non-recyclable items:

• Greasy paper, such as oil-soaked paper plates and pizza boxes
• Used paper towels, tissues, and diapers
• Broken ceramics, light bulbs, and mirrors
• Film plastics, such as plastic bags, shrink wrap, and bubble wrap
• Styrofoam, otherwise known as expanded polystyrene
• Electronic waste (e-waste)
• Construction and demolition debris, such as concrete and drywall
• Carrier stock; the paper packaging around packs of drink cans

Getting kids involved in recycling and sorting waste

If you separate your waste in a proper way, you can help avoid 80% of your waste from going to landfill. And this is a great place where you can get the kids involved. Give them each some chores so they can help you separate waste properly to ensure that it gets recycled.

For example, one week, give one child the responsibility for paper waste and give another child the responsibility for organic waste. The child responsible for organic waste can use food scraps and such to add to the compost pile. We have our own compost pile and we use it to fertilize our plants in spring. The child in charge of paper waste can make sure that paper makes its way into the proper bin. That child can be in charge of disposing of (and eventually eliminating)  items such as mail, newspapers and magazines, drawings, cardboard boxes, etc. Rotate the following week. 

Garbage collection and clean up projects with kids

Another fantastic way to get the kids directly involved in helping out our planet is going hiking with one mission: garbage collection with kids. We bought ourselves a few waste sticks and some gloves and set out on our mission – to fill our garbage bag with waste.

When collecting litter and trash with kids, it’s important to be safe. While the areas next to roads or highways are often some of the most polluted areas, they’re often not safe for cleaning up with little kids. Save this project for a time you can go out without the little ones in tow. 

Instead, take the kids hiking in a forest or to a local park or nearby pond/creek. These places are much more kid-friendly and you can almost always find something to pick up (unfortunately). Collect as much trash as you can and at the end of the day, your kids will feel proud of their work and the difference they ade. The next time you go out they will be more aware of what they find along the way.

A lot of schools organize events where they focus on garbage more and go picking in groups. These are fun, but cleaning up shouldn’t be limited to organized events. We want to make cleaning up after ourselves (and others) a habit in our children. 

Getting crafty with garbage

Another way to extend the life out of items before throwing them away or recycling them is by using them in craft projects. You can create so many cool things with objects you usually throw away without even thinking twice.

Items such as bottles, bottlecaps, rolls of toilet paper, acorns, leaves, ice cream sticks, and can tabs can all become useful in new ways. You can create a sensory game for little ones. Or let your kids create a masterpiece with these simple but beautiful tools.

It’s amazing how happy those little ones are with their original artistic creations. From now on our kids never want us to waste another thing anymore. Even small paper wraps get reused and turned into something beautiful in this house! There is nothing the children cannot design, as long as you let them use their creativity. And the world is a better place because of this! 

Making the world a better place

It’s never too early to start talking about sustainability with your children. Adults don’t give kids enough credit – they understand more than we often realize. The more time we spend discussing these issues and leading by example, the more our children will learn. Then we’ll have a whole generation of environmental thinkers and activists coming up after us. 

We also know there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to climate awareness, waste reduction, and recycling, amongst other environmental issues. Sustainability is a lifelong journey and one that we need to get our kids involved in. Sometimes the best way to start is, to begin with really small, manageable goals. One thing at a time. Take your time and continue your journey by making the next best choice. If you’d like some additional help with making small (but very important and impactful) eco-friendly changes in your house and life, check out our Earth Day Action Guide. 

How do you get your kids involved in recycling and sustainability?

About the author

Tine is a natural-born adventurer from Belgium. She met her husband, soulmate, and the father of her two girls while working and living in the Dominican Republic. Nine years ago they moved back to Europe and are still exploring European grounds. Her happy place is wherever her kids are, but she spices up life by discovering unknown places, planning new adventures, and going outdoors as much as possible. Having kids added a big value to her life, because seeing life through the eyes of her little ones lifted it to a completely different dimension. Their family goal is to travel the world, living a location-independent lifestyle. The family is now working on a couple of projects to make this dream happen! In the meantime, they keep on exploring and Tine keeps on writing and inspiring other families to explore just like them. 

You can find more from Tine online in the following locations:
Instagram: @kidsdelmundo
RWMC posts: Tine Voeten
Website: www.kidsdelmundo.com

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Hunting season is upon us

Every year when fall rolls around and the air begins to get crisp, many of us start to get excited about what all this season has to offer. For some people, it’s “pumpkin spice and everything nice.” But for me? It’s hunting. 

Deer hunting. Duck hunting. Dove hunting. Pheasant and quail. Turkey. 

It’s watching beautiful sunrises from a duck blind. Or watching deer graze on the winter wheat. It’s listening to nature’s sounds of life echoing through the woods while sitting in a tree stand. Hunting on a cold fall morning is a time of consciousness, of serenity. It’s a time where I’m completely immersed in nature, surrounded by quiet beauty. 

So, when my kids started wanting to tag-a-long with me on my hunting outings, there was no way I would deprive them of this! 

How to introduce your kids to hunting

If hunting is a part of your life, odds are that you plan to introduce your kids to hunting (if you haven’t already done so). And odds are that you have a pretty good idea of how you want to approach it. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of their first hunting experience with you – their first hunting trip or their first deer season. Maybe you have favorite memories of your first turkey hunt or deer camp trip. Or maybe your kids have been going hunting with you for a while, but are ready to move to the next level.

This is where I have been the last few years. Excited about introducing my children to a lifelong passion of mine. Excited to teach them the right way to hunt, create memories together and cultivate a passion for the sport of hunting. For me, it’s a way to pass down something I love and teach the next generation life skills and valuable life lessons. 

And while I am definitely not a professional hunter, I have lots of memories of what (and how) my parents introduced me to hunting. And now I have a long list of what (and how) I will do to pass my love for this outdoor activity along to my own children. I’m hoping this post will help give you a place to begin if you’d like to introduce hunting to your children.  

Safety first – hunter safety and education

Regardless of the kids’ ages and abilities, you want to start with safety. Hunter safety and hunter education are serious topics and not to be underestimated. Kids that will be hunting or around firearms should be taught the proper way to handle them, store them, and use them. Most states offer hunters’ safety courses and youth hunting educational classes through their conservation departments. They’re usually for kids age 10 and up and required for anyone hunting on their own. Some schools teach hunter safety as part of their curriculum in/around the 5th grade. Courses can be taken online or in person.

Hunters’ safety and education are lifelong skills that aren’t just taught once and disregarded. They’re to be reinforced and reiterated every single time you hunt. As the parent, you are the model and the gatekeeper. It’s a big responsibility. You need to know all the rules and safety precautions and practice them the right way every time. Little eyes are always watching. 

Start small

First-time hunters need to start out small. The right gear is important, both for safety and to help build confidence and control. My dad started me out hunting with a kids’ recurve bow. Once I had demonstrated that I could follow directions and use the bow in a safe and proper manner, it was followed up shortly with a Daisy Red Ryder air rifle. These are a great way to safely introduce your young hunter to a bow and rifle. Along with taking a Hunter Safety Course and certification, these rifles are a great way for you to show young kids how to safely handle a firearm.

My son did really well starting with a junior compound bow and the air rifle. If you have an older kid or preteen, or if you have graduated your little one through the introductory air rifle, keep easing them into the larger arms. A single-shot .410 gauge shotgun or a youth .22 caliber rifle are a great way to practice their aim and to get them familiar with the bigger “bang” of the gunpowder. 

Teach children to respect the animal

It’s also very important for me to instill a deep respect for the animal you’re hunting in my children. From a decently early age of three and four, my kids have watched me clean my game. This has not only allowed me to teach them where our meat comes from, but also that it was a once-living animal that is providing us with meat. This allows them to make the connection between the animal they saw and the meat on their dinner table. If you eat meat, it came from an animal (whether you saw it or not). It’s vital to me that they understand. 

As an animal-loving kid, respect for the harvest was something that sank in early for me. Possibly because my mother had a strict rule; “if you kill it, you eat it.” No questions asked, no if/ands/buts. Animals are respected and the meat is not wasted. 

Since we ended up having to eat game that would normally only be seen on the Clampetts’ table, she taught us to be mindful of what we were taking. We didn’t have the urge to fire at any random animal, just what we had set out to hunt for that morning.  This may have become the topic of good banter among my siblings and I, but in reality, it really did stick with us. I still remember when I harvested my first deer at eight years old, placing my hand on the chest of the downed doe and feeling the warmth of the animal. Without knowing why, I thanked it. A simple “thank you.”  I still do this as an adult and have passed it on to my kids. We give thanks to the animal and for its life and for the nutrition it will provide us.

Give children your old game calls

Allowing my kids to trot around the house blowing on a duck call or chattering a turkey box call may have been the best way to get them interested in hunting with me. They obviously didn’t have a clue what they were doing at first, but to them, it all sounded right. And that was perfect.

Teaching them how to actually use the call instead of just using it as a trumpet came later and was far easier since they had already been trying to mimic my sound. Anytime we were out in nature on a walk, hike, or bike ride and could hear natural animal sounds, I’d stop and make them listen. Then we’d be able to go home and use the calls to mimic the sounds. Being able to use a call is a fun skill for new hunters. 

Having a successful hunt

When I take my kids on hunting with me, I leave all of my expectations at the cabin. Hunting with little kids can be hard and is usually not very successful (in the traditional sense). We may not come home with any meat. Kids are loud and squirmy and curious and ask a lot of questions. None of these things usually lead to wild animals showing up right in front of you. So, to keep yourself from getting frustrated with them or disappointed in the hunt, you may need to reframe your expectations regarding what a “successful hunt” means to you.

To me, a successful hunt with kids is just spending time with them in the great outdoors, teaching them, preparing them. It’s about the journey, not the destination. 

I want our hunting experiences to be theirs, not mine. So, essentially, I’m tagging along with them rather than the reverse. Mostly, because I am aware that while I have my way, style, and method of hunting, it’s not the only way and it may not be the best way. I want my young hunters to start figuring out what works and does not work for them. They have to figure things out. The less managing and direction from me at this point, the more their minds are thinking, connecting the dots, and problem-solving.  

This is how I approach introducing my kids to any of my interests. I let them make it theirs, too. I think giving them their own interests is the best thing I can do for them.

Set their expectations

With all the variables that come with the many types of hunting, planning is key. I think it’s really important to set my kids’ expectations before the hunt so they know exactly what to expect and what will happen. First-time hunters may be really disappointed to learn that it’s not as quick or easy as it might seem. Talking to them about our plans as we pack and get prepared is all part of the adventure. I like to mentally prepare them for withstanding the cold temperatures. I remind them that they’ll need to be very patient and quiet and still. We discuss our plan for what to do if we see an animal and what we’ll do after the animal is harvested.

Along with the many conversations leading up to the day of our hunt, I like to have a little pre-hunt huddle with my kid(s) before heading out to the duck blind or deer stand for a hunt. We go over our plan and our hunting strategy. We talk about the animal we’re hunting, where they live, how to call or hunt them, what they eat, what they look like, how to spot them, etc. Questions are asked, input is provided, suggestions are considered. It’s a group effort and they’re highly involved.

Let them have fun

Normally, I get wrapped up in the details of my hunts. I love the details, from scent-blockers, to fancy calls, to the perfect camouflage pattern on my clothing. But, when I hunt with my kids, this stuff tends to slide a little. I mean normally, I refuse to carry any snacks or liquids with me, let alone goldfish crackers and apple juice! Afraid of any excess noise, smell, rustling, or whatever else. But if my kids want to bring them along, then so be it. As long as they enjoy their hunt, that’s what’s important. Because if they hate it and never want to go with me again, I’ve ruined the experience. I don’t want that to happen. 

Kids have to be allowed to have fun on the hunt, or they won’t want to go back. Be prepared for this. Let them bring along some things to keep them entertained and occupied in the downtime (and there will be a lot of downtime). Crayons and paper, books, cards, action figures, dolls, fidget toys…maybe even (dare I say) an electronic device or video games. If they’re bored with that, ask them leading questions (what would be your dream vacation?) or play games (would your rather). Or you could always look around at your surroundings and take in the nature around you (count the trees, listen to how many different birds you can hear, etc.). 

Enjoy the moments

Sincerely, my most fruitful hunts have been the ones with my kids. Listening to their imaginations run wild while discussing what sounds are coming from the woods is my absolute favorite. Or watching their eyes light up when a deer walks into our field. At the end of the day, all of us parents are just grabbing at these moments to connect and converse with our children before they grow up. Just trying to know who they truly are and living in complete awe that we get the privilege of raising these amazing people. These are the important things in life.

Sometimes though, deeper than the conversations is the silence. Hunting provides moments of complete quiet, where you can sit with each other and just be present. You can hear nature all around. It’s magic. 

Make sure they’re ready

With little kids, they came along with me on the hunt, but they didn’t ever do the actual “hunting” or shooting. They observed. As kids get older, they can become more involved and even do some of the actual hunting. But they need to be ready, physically (strong enough to hold the gun properly and has practiced/trained), mentally (follow all proper hunter safety), and emotionally (they have the emotional capacity to be ok taking the life of an animal). It might take years of just tagging along on hunts before a kid is ready to do the real work of hunting. And that’s ok. Take your time. 

And even if your child was fully prepared and ready for the hunt, they may still have conflicting emotions about taking the life of an animal afterward. Acknowledge their feelings. Let them know it’s ok to be sad. Don’t shame them or ignore their feelings. Use it as a teaching moment for empathy and continue the conversation through conservation and how the animal will nourish. 

The joy of the hunt

If you get a chance to take your kid on an evening hunt, stick around afterward for the encore. Whenever you have packed your firearms or bows away, take a few minutes to just sit back and watch the ducks pour in over your blind as they come in to roost for the evening, or the coveys of quail fluttering in the sunset. This will be a memory your children carry with them forever and will most certainly gain you a lifelong hunting partner. Because hunting is just nearly as much about the stories and the moments, as it is the harvest. 

About the author

Jared Ryan is a husband to a talented and beautiful wife, Kristen also a father of two fun-loving and adventurous kiddos. He enjoys leading family adventures to both near and far destinations. Whether it is hiking, camping, climbing, bike riding, or playing in the backyard, he loves it all. He instills in his family the importance of nature and all the benefits it can bring to one’s life. Jared is a GIS analyst by trade, so he is naturally drawn to creating maps and all things trail-related, whether it is creating new trails, recording family hikes, or teaching his kids land navigation, he loves to tie in his own work with family adventures.

You can find Jared online in the following locations:
Instagram: @bikeshikesbiners
RWMC posts: 
Beginner’s Guide to Mountain Biking with Kids
Winter Car Camping
Roosevelt Walks 
Trail Building with Kids

Image credits: @kristcx and @sara_mccarty

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

Adventure days with kids

When I became a professional stay-at-home-mom over a decade ago, I didn’t realize the job position really translated to Chief Entertainment Coordinator. We’ve all heard the dreaded “I’m bored” whine enough times to evoke a Pavlovian response to the statement. Over the years I’ve created tricks out of necessity to survive the long days. One of them is to take a seemingly mundane activity and wrap it up in a pretty package presented as an Adventure Day. Today, I am going to share this mom hack with you to get you outside adventuring with your children.

How our adventure days started

What sprouted out of COVID restrictions turned into a new beloved tradition. Because things were canceled or changed to accommodate safety concerns, my daughter and I found ourselves bored at home. A lot. There was no more storytime at the library or mommy and me classes at the school. No more dressing up in leotards and tutus for dance class. No museums to explore, shopping trips, or indoor activities. 

What we did have was the great outdoors. 

We decided to embrace it. I started by making a comprehensive list on my phone of all the free or relatively inexpensive outdoor things to do in our area. Some were big, some were small. Some were locations and others were activities. I included places nearby and a few that were a bit farther out. Lots and lots of opens.

I decided we would cycle through them to entertain ourselves. Each day that we needed an activity, we’d pick one from the list. I called them Adventure Days. 

(I also instituted Adventure Days this summer when all my children were home from school. Summer days have the potential to feel long and tedious without new and fun things to explore.)

Creating adventure days with kids

The activities themselves are rarely anything overly special or glamorous. But by simply giving it a special title of “Adventure Days,” the outing suddenly seems more exciting. My kids may not get all that excited about going on a hike. But, tell them we’re going on a grand ADVENTURE and they’re all in! 

Plus, the label is also a cue to me that I should be fully present. On Adventure Days, I put the phone away. Work gets paused. They get my attention. I truly exist in the moment with my children, which means more to them than I ever expected. 

If I had to wager a bet, I’d say the Adventure Days with my kids became more special because of the undivided attention that was given to them, not so much the activity we are doing together. Kids crave attention from their parents and being fully present for our adventures made them ten times as special for all of us. 

Simple and intentional activities

So what do these outings look like? Simple. They look simple.

We often think our adventures must be grand affairs. I know I’m guilty of this. An outing doesn’t have to be EPIC to be an adventure. It is something I’ve had to train my brain to relearn. We worry our children will be bored unless it’s expensive and extensive. But that’s so not true. I promise.

Small things can make a big impact. Especially when they’re done with love and intention. The whole “less is more” mindset is accurate when planning daily or weekly activities with your children. A lot of it lies in the presentation and the delivery.

If you’re attentive and enjoying the experience, your child will follow your lead. (Did you hear that…YOU have to be having fun.) I know it’s a taller order than that. We’re busy and distracted as we juggle all the things. I’m right there with you.

I can say, though, I am grateful for those few hours during our Adventure Days when I sign off and truly tune into the present moment. It takes some practice. Give yourself grace for the times you’re distracted. Children innately know how to have fun. Adults need to relearn it sometimes.

Adventure day activities

Here are some simple ideas to illustrate the simplicity and connection building of Adventure Days with kids:

• Bike rides into town to buy a treat at the gas station and play at the nearby playground.
• Throwing rocks into the river.
• Filling a bucket with nature treasures (rocks, leaves, flowers, pinecones, etc.).
• Hiking a new trail.
• Exploring a new park or playground and creating a park tour guidebook together.
• Riding bikes or walking to a dinner or lunch date.
• Enjoying warm tea or hot chocolate and a book while on a hike.
• Taking the dog to the dog park.
• Ice cream dates.
• Picking wildflowers.
• Finding a tree to climb. 

Low maintenance, low-cost activities mean a lot

Your adventures don’t have to cost a lot of money (or any money), don’t need a lot of planning, and don’t require any fancy gear. Some of our favorite Adventure Days are the ones that came up naturally when I said YES to adventure and exploration.

An Adventure Day that sticks out in my mind is a scooter ride along a Mississippi bike path one spring day. We discovered puddles along the way and stopped often for my daughter to splash with her new rain boots. She also befriended many dogs that day. 

The outing cost zero dollars. The bike path was close to home. It was convenient and free and simple. But, it was so much fun! It just took both of us saying yes to adventure and making the time to get outside. 

How to have successful adventure days

Your Adventure Days will be more successful if you typically keep them small and simple. They’re easier to manage and less stressful. This often means staying close to home and choosing free activities.

It’s important to keep realistic expectations. Oftentimes we are disappointed when plans don’t go as anticipated. We all know children are infamous for throwing wrenches in plans. Keep an open mind and be ready to veer when necessary.

A lot of factors can determine the day’s outcome: weather, moods, temperaments, hunger, health, etc. Prepare for as many scenarios as possible to keep the day on track. Here are a couple of ideas that may help your Adventure Day be successful:

• Bring snacks. Lots and lots of snacks.
• Wear appropriate clothing.
• Dressing in layers is always a good idea.
• Bring extra clothing if your activity is messy or maybe always have spare clothing since children enjoy full sensory exploration.
• Plan the outing for a time of day where your children are ready to play versus when they’re hungry and tired.
• Put your phone down/away. 
• Say yes to things you maybe usually don’t say yet to on Adventure Days (e.g. puddle jumping, getting dirty, ice cream, etc.).

How to prepare for adventure

Another tip I’ve learned over the years is to prep as much as you can the night before. Set out clothes. Pack up snacks. Get water bottles ready. Also, don’t forget to talk to your children about your plans. I find things run smoother when my kids know what to expect. Then remind them again in the car or on the walk to your destination.

Most importantly: let it be fun!

This seems so simple, yet it’s the hardest one for me. When the whining and bickering set in, an alarm in my brain automatically blares at me to jump ship. We can’t control every scenario in every situation. Kids are hard-wired to react to unpleasantries (hunger, irritability, bugs, weather, etc.). Sometimes all it takes is a moment to hit the hypothetical reset button to reframe the activity in a way that everyone can enjoy.

And sometimes things will go wrong. You’ll get lost, you’ll forget something, you’ll get somewhere only to find it closed. Don’t worry about it! Sometimes, those misadventures are the ones that make the best stories and memories! Try to turn it into a positive experience and you’ll be laughing about it for years! 

When to spice things up

I’ve been preaching simple, but some days can be grand! Throw in a more elaborate one from time to time. Mixing in some extraordinary with the ordinary can spice it up every so often.

Travel a little further from home once a month, once a season, or however often you feel is manageable. Research nearby cities for free or cheap things to do. Explore new parks, find nature centers, check out orchards or new hikes.

We give these Adventure Days a special title of Field Trip. They are typically educational in nature, so the title is appropriate.

The small zoo near us is a favorite. It’s an hour away (but, as a bonus, it’s free!). The drive adds a level of anticipation that makes it feel bigger than it truly is.

Occasionally, changing your scenery is key. A playground 45 minutes away is more exciting than the playground two blocks from your house that you frequent regularly. The hiking trail you visit sporadically is bound to entertain your children longer than the one you walk often. A new (to them) creek may provide hours of entertainment as they explore. 

How to get started with adventure days

Now that you’ve heard the benefits of Adventure Days, how can you get started?

• Create a running list of possible things to do in your area. Continue to jot ideas down as you discover or think of them. Make sure there’s a little bit of something for everyone and a wide variety of big and small, near and far. 
• Scour your area for things to do near you. Facebook community groups are a great resource. Your local library may have programs or information on area activities. Don’t discount word of mouth. Ask other families where they like to adventure. 
• Explore. Sometimes you wander upon hidden gems, like trails or creeks or a neighborhood playground you never knew existed. When you’re driving, take note of “brown signs” in your area, which usually denote unique hidden-gem destinations. 

Incorporating the seasons

It’s also fun to incorporate the seasons into your Adventure Days. Find a hiking trail or park that has obvious seasonal changes. Make it a point to return to that spot season-after-season and note the differences each time you visit. How have things changed? Every outing is an opportunity for learning.

You can also use the seasons to brainstorm ideas. Each season has its own built-in activities. Find an epic sledding hill in the winter. Go berry picking in the spring. Discover a small town festival in the summer. Visit a pumpkin patch in the fall. 

Creating multiple activities from one

Want in on a little secret? You can stretch one activity into multiple ones. Want to find out how? Here are a few examples.

Go on a leaf hunt in the fall to find as many different colors and kinds of leaves as you can. You can collect the leaves to use for other purposes later, like a leaf crown or a leaf collage. One of our favorites is to make leaf monsters by gluing leaves onto a piece of paper, adding googly eyes, and drawing arms and legs. This is a great way to turn one activity into several.

Another example of creating multiple activities from one is with rocks. One day go on an adventure to find unique rocks. Then another day you can set up a painting station on your driveway and decorate them however you want. Create rock animals or transform them into pretty flowers—you name it! Then yet another day, set out in your neighborhood to hide the rocks for others to discover.

Hit up a farm or orchard to pick fruit, veggies, or wildflowers. Once you’re home, turn the fruits and veggies into tasty treats together. Or make little bouquets, corsages, or bookmarks with the flowers. 

Can you think of any other activities that can be multiplied into more fun for later?

Adventure Day ideas

If you’re stuck thinking of Adventure Day ideas, I created a list to get you started. I have them organized by categories: your simple, everyday ones; seasonal; and the grander affairs I like to call Field Trips.

Simple

• Skipping rocks
• Scavenger hunt
• Nature bingo
• Neighborhood bike ride
• Parking lot scooter races
• Homemade obstacle courses
• Hiking trails
• Stick fort building
• Rock hunting
• Floor is lava at random locations
• Kite flying
• Informal sports games (tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball, etc)
• Dog park
• New playgrounds

Seasonal

• Berry picking
• Pick your own flower farm
• Puddle splashing
• Dandelion wishes
• Splash pad
• Swimming pool
• Beach
• Fishing
• Bug/frog catch and release
• Parade
• Wildflower bouquets
• Apple orchard
• Leaf pile jumping
• Corn maze
• Pumpkin patch
• Leaf collecting
• Sledding
• Snowman building
• Ice castles
• Snowshoe hikes
• Skiing

Field trips

• State park
• Nature center
• Zoo
• Farmer’s markets
• Museum
• Botanical garden
• Golfing (mini golf, disc golf)
• County fair
• Festivals

Don’t forget to include your children while brainstorming. Sometimes they come up with the best ideas! Now get outside and start adventuring with your children!

Who do you think will enjoy the Adventure Days more, you or your children?

About the author

Angie is a wife and stay-at-home-mom of three wild hyenas. She resides in rural Minnesota, where there are more cows and cornfields than people. She is an introvert with a creative itch that needs to be scratched, whether it is photographing her children in their daily lives or coming up with fun ways to explore nature in their backyard. Messy hair, dirty faces, mismatched clothing, wild and free children—all these things fuel her creativity and the desire to preserve these fleeting moments. Angie and her family can be found camping, biking, and sitting around a campfire during the summer months and sledding and ice fishing in a million layers during the winter.

You can find Angie online in the following locations:
Instagram: @angie_mahlke
RWMC posts: Angie Mahlke

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