Philadelphia with kids

Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, Philadelphia, often referred to as the “City of Brotherly Love,” is a treasure trove of American history, culture, and boundless outdoor adventures. When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences for the entire family, Philadelphia has an incredible array of options that will have your kids wide-eyed with excitement.

From sprawling parks and interactive museums to charming neighborhoods and captivating historical sites, the city offers a perfect blend of fun and education. In this post, we’re about to unveil a personally curated list of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia with kids, ensuring that your family’s exploration is nothing short of remarkable! 

Reasons to add Philadelphia to your travel bucket list

As the birthplace of American democracy and a melting pot of diverse cultures, Philadelphia’s outdoor spaces are more than just playgrounds; they’re gateways to discovery. Whether you’re a local looking to switch up your routine or a visitor eager to immerse your family in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, you’ll find activities that cater to all ages and interests. Get ready to embark on a journey of exploration as we dive into a wide range of outdoor escapades, where each step reveals a new layer of the city’s rich history and contemporary charm.

In this post, we’ll venture into the heart of Philadelphia’s outdoor wonders, exploring iconic landmarks, recreational spaces, and hidden gems that are sure to captivate the imagination of both young and old. Whether you’re wandering through historic streets, marveling at awe-inspiring art installations, or playing in a local splash pad, Philadelphia has something to offer for every member of the family. So, let’s unlock the secrets of this incredible city while enjoying quality time with your kids in the great outdoors.

Best outdoor activities for kids in Philadelphia

While Philadelphia may be your typical city, with towering buildings, busy streets, and an urban landscape, it is so much more than that. Throughout the city, there are many open green spaces and outdoor activities that families can enjoy together. Some of these places are so massive and engulfing that they almost make you forget that you are within the city limits when visiting.

Within the thousands of acres of dense forest and miles of trails, in Philadelphia, families can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and endless exploring without ever leaving the city. 

Best parks for families in Philadelphia

Wissahickon Valley Park

With 1,800 acres of dense forests and over 50 miles of trails, Wissahickon Valley Park offers families lots of places to explore and activities to enjoy and it’s one of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia with kids. With a creek running alongside many of the trails, there are sights and sounds to enjoy all throughout the park. My family enjoys coming here to bike and explore the wildlife, creek and historic points of interest. It’s common to see many locals out on leisurely walks or bike rides as well as families out fishing or wading in the creek.

Pennypack Park

Pennypack Park covers more than 1,600 acres of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and fields located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. While not as popular as Wissahickon Valley Park, it’s very similar. Pennypack Park offers trails for biking and hiking, as well as a lot of amazing opportunities to explore and observe the wildlife.

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

Serving as a refuge for rare plants and wildlife, this wildlife refuge spans over 1,000 acres and ten miles of trails. This Wildlife Refuge attracts hikers, runners, bird watchers, and anglers and is located in the Southern section of Philadelphia.

FDR Park

FDR Park offers the perfect opportunity for recreation and relaxation. With its abundance of recreational sites and sports fields, 40 acres of lakes for fishing, canoeing and kayaking, playgrounds, a skate park, and trails, there’s a little bit of everything for everybody at this park.

Smith Memorial Playground

This 6.5-acre playground is perfect for children age ten and younger. It is beautifully landscaped with state-of-the-art equipment and has an indoor and outdoor play space. Kids can climb, bounce, swing, ride, and even pretend to be a train engineer. The biggest highlight of the playground is the 1905 Giant Wooden Slide. 

Dilworth Park

Dilworth Park features an interactive fountain, lush lawn, and tree grove seating areas, which feature a café. During the colder months, the fountain is transformed into an ice skating rink, which is enjoyed by children and adults alike. In the summer months, festivals, live music performances, outdoor movie screenings, and happy hour specials bring an audience to the park at all hours of the day and night. Our favorite time to visit this park is during the holidays when this park is transformed into a Christmas Village.

Franklin Square

Of Philadelphia’s original five squares, Franklin Square is the most child-friendly. With a mini golf course, fountains that dance to the sound of music, a playground, a carousel, and a cafe, it’s not surprising that this square is the most popular amongst families.

Sister Cities

Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Sister Cities Park is a welcoming space where young visitors can play in the Children’s Discovery Garden, which features winding pathways, scalable rocks, and a stream that leads you to a boat pond. Complete with a cafe and restrooms nearby, this is the perfect picnic spot for families. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city. 

Neighborhood Playgrounds

All throughout the city, you will find multiple playgrounds within each neighborhood. Many feature modern playground equipment, splash pads and sports fields.

Kelly Drive

While not quite a park, it is pretty close to one. Kelly Drive is one of Philly’s most popular biking and running sites. This nearly 9-mile loop takes you through a scenic route along the Schuylkill River with many landmarks along its route. During the warmer months, MLK Jr Drive is closed to vehicular traffic, which makes it a wonderful spot for bikes with little due to the open spacing. 

Nature centers in Philadelphia

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education

This nature center offers over 3 miles of hiking trails with several environmental art installations located throughout. With sensory gardens, an outdoor play space, and ponds and streams your little ones will have tons to explore here. This location also offers nature classes for families throughout the year.

Longwood Gardens

Pierre S. du Pont’s Longwood Gardens is a famed horticultural destination that will inspire kids with imaginative, child-size spaces filled with hands-on water features, handcrafted sculptures, and secret stairways — all part of the Indoor Children’s Garden in the Conservatory District. For warm weather fun, the Outdoor Children’s Garden offers a splashy Flower Fountain and plenty of seating for adults.

Kid-friendly museums in Philadelphia with outdoor experiences 

Anne D’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden

Located between the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row, this sculpture garden features large-scale contemporary works of art and is free for the public to enjoy. Children of all ages love this park. My boys love exploring the garden while also scaling surrounding rocks and boulders. 

The Franklin Institute

Located at The Franklin Institute, Science Park is an outdoor play space that is open during the warmer months of the year. Featuring nets, ropes, and wonky play items, this play space is great for letting out some energy.

Adventure Aquarium

While not exactly outdoor, this aquarium is very nature-centric and great for the aquatic lover in your family. The two million gallons of water and 15,000 aquatic animals can’t help but impress. Just across the river in Camden, New Jersey, Adventure Aquarium has a Shark Bridge to cross; hippos and penguins to meet; stingrays to feed; and horseshoe crabs, starfish, and sharks to actually touch. The biggest wow here: Ocean Realm, a 760,000-gallon tank of sea turtles, stingrays, schooling fish and sharks, including an impressive seven-foot Great Hammerhead.

Independence Seaport Museum

Along with interactive exhibits to explore, the Independence Seaport Museum also has historic vessels to explore located just outside of the museum. The Cruiser OLYMPIA and Submarine BECUNA are two historic ships that you can walk through. Located nearby are also a variety of boats that can be rented. 

Philadelphia Zoo

America’s first zoo and a forefront conservation organization, the Philadelphia Zoo is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. The attraction has a first-in-the-world animal travel and exploration train system, Zoo360, enabling primates and big cats to move above and across the main visitor pathway. Exhibits include Big Cat Falls, McNeil Avian Center, PECO Primate Reserve and KidZooU, an interactive wildlife academy of dynamic displays, rare breeds, and indoor-outdoor learning. In addition to animal exhibits, you can take a spin on the carousel, ride on the train around America’s oldest zoo, feed the goats, and climb through the rope course.

Philadelphia Magic Gardens

This immersive mixed-media art environment, made of tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, mirrors, and so much more, will offer kids plenty to look at and explore. I should mention that this art installation does have some minor nudity here and there, which is primarily seen through abstract artwork. I wasn’t too bothered by it, but I could see how someone else might be. Besides that, the entire installation is mesmerizing. There are fun scavenger hunt sheets located inside that families could use to further explore the grounds.

Elmwood Park Zoo

The 16-acre Elmwood Park Zoo is home to an animal collection of more than 100 species indigenous to the Americas, as well as African fruit bats and Asian red pandas. Many of the animals — the American bison, peregrine falcon, bald eagle, red panda, and American alligator — represent significant wildlife conservation success stories. The zoo also includes a spacious playground featuring interactive animal sculptures.

Philadelphia gardens and arboretums

Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center

Recognized as the third-best Japanese garden in North America, visitors are invited to explore the beautiful landscape, tour the house, and feed the koi fish. 

Morris Arboretum

Across 92 acres of sprawling gardens and natural areas, Morris Arboretum & Gardens uses education and imagination to reveal a collaborative relationship with nature through lively exhibits for the whole family. Home to rare and magnificent plants and trees, this arboretum offers story times and classes for children and also features a whimsical railway measuring over 300 feet. The Garden Railway (running on select dates throughout the year) features a miniature world of trains, bridges and small-scale buildings made of natural materials on a quarter-mile track and is a huge hit for little kids. The Treetop Canopy Walk exhibition puts visitors 50 feet into the trees for a bird’s-eye view of the forest and includes a larger-than-life Bird’s Nest, and Squirrel Scramble, an expansive hammock-like net which kids can scamper through.

Bartram’s Gardens

Bartram’s Garden is a 50-acre public garden where visitors can go bird watching, stroll through the River Trail or flower gardens, and enjoy a spectacular view of the Philadelphia skyline. It is situated on the banks of the Schuylkill River and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. The garden was founded in 1728 by John Bartram, a Quaker farmer and botanist, who was a close friend of Benjamin Franklin. His garden became a center of scientific study and exploration. Today, Bartram’s Garden features a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world. Wander among the trees, birds, grasses and flowers – and then take the wooded path at the back of the gardens to the water, where you can catch a glimpse of the city skyline from afar.

Shady Brook Farm

Hundred-year-old Shady Brook Farm in Bucks County (just north of Philadelphia) is a real working farm and home to a fresh market, garden center, and plenty of pick-your-own opportunities. Seasonal festivals focus on what’s currently growing and feature hayrides, games and activities for the kids. Parents can enjoy a beer or cocktail and live entertainment at the on-site Stone’s Throw pub. During the winter, don’t miss the Holiday Light Show Drive Through Experience, with millions of lights illuminating acres of farmland and bonfire with hot cocoa and s’mores for purchase.

Best locations for adventurous families in Philadelphia

Philly Pumptrack

Perfect for bike enthusiasts, the Philly Pumptrack is the perfect location for young riders to improve their skills in a safe riding environment. 

Treetop Quest Philly

Located among the trees, Treetop Quest Philly’s aerial adventure park will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip lines. This is a great option for older kids looking for a fun climbing experience. 

Pain’s Park Skatepark

In addition to the above-mentioned skatepark at FDR Park, Pain’s Park is one of several skateparks located in Philadelphia. Located in the heart of the city, this skatepark is a popular location for skaters.

Delaware River Waterfront

The Delaware River Waterfront is made up of many piers as well as Penn’s Landing, the epicenter of it all. Penn’s Landing is the best place to take families with kids of multiple ages and interests, as it has a little bit of everything to offer: rides, skating, movie nights, a beer garden, and concerts throughout the summer. 

In addition to Penn’s Landing, numerous piers are spread out along the Delaware River. One of many, Spruce Street Harbor Park makes for cool, summertime memories, with colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and beautiful trees adorned in technicolored lights. While it does look cooler at night, it’s still very enjoyable during the day.

Mural Tours

Recognized as the “Mural Capitol of the World,” Philadelphia has a stunning collection of Murals located all throughout the city. And they’re all free, which is one of the best things to do when exploring the city. You can easily come across a handful of murals while walking around and getting from place to place. If you are interested in this urban art collection, taking a tour through a third party could be a nice way to spend the day. Self-guided tours are also an option.

Sport Complex

Philadelphia is home to many popular sports teams. If sports are your thing, be sure to catch the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field or the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park! 

Best outdoor historical sites in Philadelphia

Independence National Historic Park

The Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall are two of the 25-plus attractions that make up America’s most historic square mile in Independence National Historical Park. The National Park Service’s Junior Ranger program gives kids a chance to earn a special badge sticker and certificate during their visit by attending at least one ranger program and completing five activities in the Junior Ranger Activity Booklet (in the visitor’s center).

Battleship New Jersey

Families can visit the nation’s most decorated battleship, docked just across the Delaware River on the Camden waterfront. The Battleship New Jersey offers self-guided tours of its seven levels and half-century of service, with experts available to answer questions in the Captain’s Quarters and Combat Engagement Center. You can even choose to spend a night aboard with an opportunity to fire saluting guns and sleep in sailor’s bunks during the award-winning Overnight Encampment program! Preschoolers can visit Jason’s Kids Kompartment, a safe play area with a kid-sized boat to captain, games, coloring books, and more.

Things to do outside in Philadelphia with kids

As you can see, Philadelphia is the perfect place to get outside and explore with your kids! Whether it’s a day of hiking through Wissahickon Valley Park or touring the popular Magic Gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this post will help your family have a great time visiting Philadelphia! 

Have you ever been to Philadelphia?
What’s your favorite thing to do outdoors in the city?

About the author

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

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

The post Awesome Things to do Outside with Kids in Philadelphia appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Best outdoor kid-friendly activities in Austin

Austin is the perfect place for family fun outdoors! With its vibrant culture, music scene, and delicious food, you can explore nature and enjoy a multitude of exciting experiences. But, did you know that the city also offers a plethora of outdoor activities perfect for families with kids?

A visit to Austin is a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the best outdoor explorations and scenic views!  Austin has something for every outdoor enthusiast! Whether you’re looking to play, swim, eat, hike, bike, or just relax – Austin is the perfect place for making amazing outdoor family memories!

Best outdoor locations for kids in Austin

There’s a reason Austin is often ranked one of the best outdoor cities in the country. From cycling and hiking, to stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking – Austin offers an abundance of outdoor activities for kids (of all ages) and families and some of the best places for the whole family to explore. 

With 300+ days of sunshine and an average temperature of 68 degrees, getting outside in Austin is easy! Here are a few of our favorite fun outdoor locations that need to be on your next Austin itinerary. 

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

At the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, located just south of downtown Austin, visitors can explore 284 acres of lush gardens and natural areas featuring over 900 species of native Texas plants. Children will particularly enjoy exploring the interactive learning exhibits as well as participating in a fun-filled scavenger hunt that takes them on a full tour of the gardens (beware…some of the items are well hidden!).

The center also features a family garden, where children and adults alike can play and learn about the native plant life of Texas. Afterward, visitors can shop for eco-friendly gifts and souvenirs at the center’s gift shop or take a break to relax at the cafe. 

Pioneer Farms

Take a journey through time at Pioneer Farms, an outdoor living history museum that showcases life in Texas from the 1800s to the early 1900s. Spanning over 90 acres of historic buildings, breathtaking gardens, and farm animals, this unique attraction is perfect for families looking for an immersive experience into the lives of pioneer settlers and Texas history. Touring homes and structures that were common during each time period, children can see how much things have changed, and maybe have some appreciation for not being made to sleep in the attic!

Pioneer Farms also makes for a great hike! With plenty of trails to explore and a serene backdrop, it’s a wonderful place for a leisurely nature walk. If you can, try to get there when they first open—you’re likely to have the grounds all to yourself for a bit.

Zilker Park

Zilker Metropolitan Park, located in Austin, Texas, is an outdoor lover’s paradise with so many fun things to do and so much fun to be had! With its sprawling fields and trails, Zilker Park offers the perfect opportunity for recreation and relaxation. For those looking to take a dip in nature’s pool, Barton Springs Pool is a must-visit. This natural spring-fed pool remains at a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

Hiking and biking trails stretch throughout Zilker Park, providing spectacular views of hills, trees, and lakes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous journey, these trails are popular among locals and visitors alike. For those looking to play a game of soccer, basketball, or tennis, there is plenty of room for that too. 

Zilker Botanical Garden is nestled within Zilker Park in the heart of downtown Austin. They have themed gardens, including the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Hartman Prehistoric Garden, and Rose Garden, all interconnected with pathways for all ages and abilities. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city. 

For over 60 years, the miniature train is a popular destination, winding through the park while providing great views and photo opportunities. However, the latest train, The Zilker Eagle, has met several delays and won’t start again until the Fall of 2023.  So, plan accordingly if you are looking to make a visit!

Butler Park

Located just south of downtown Austin, Butler Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Take a stroll along Lady Bird Lake (a.k.a. the Colorado River) or play a game of basketball on one of the courts.

One of the best things about Butler Park (and one of the best attractions for kids in Austin) is the Alliance Children’s Garden. It’s an interactive outdoor space filled with all sorts of fun activities, from miniature hills and tunnels perfect for hide and seek, to a climbing rope and slides built into the face of a hill. Your kids will have a great time here! There are also several art opportunities (massive nature-inspired musical instruments) and a life-size chess set. Right next to this epic playground is the splash pad and the fun hill that your little one can summit on a spiral path.  This makes Butler park a real one-stop spot for tons of outdoor fun. 

Bonus: There is also easy access to food and shopping on Congress Ave, just a short drive away!

Mount Bonnell

A great way to experience the beautiful outdoors in Austin is a visit to Mount Bonnell. One of the highest points in Travis County, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. The hike up to the summit is an easy one that kids can handle, making it a perfect pit stop for families looking to explore the area. Once they reach the top, everyone can take some time to explore the view and then choose to either take the steps down or take an adventure down the hill through the wooded path!

The Domain

I know, it sounds strange to suggest going to a shopping center for outdoor entertainment, but hear me out!  If you’re looking for some retail therapy mixed with outdoor fun, The Domain is your place! It’s an upscale shopping center located north of downtown Austin. In addition to stores and restaurants, the Domain is described as being “situated in a beautiful park-like setting.”  There are several spots for children to run, outdoor play structures, a splash pad, restaurants with outdoor seating, and fun interactive spots.

Visitors can find a variety of food options ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining establishments, and let’s be honest – kids will have plenty of room for dessert. For those in search of a healthy yet delicious option, Flower Child Restaurant offers great family-friendly options with an easygoing atmosphere.

Barton Creek

The Barton Creek Greenbelt has been a part of Austin life for generations; it’s seen by many as the “heart” of the city.  This 12-mile stretch of unspoiled beauty boasts trails all along the creek, so you can go as far or as close as you’d like and travel by foot or bike!  There are seven different access points to the greenbelt. So, you can plan to enter close to an activity you are excited about or just choose one at random and see what there is to explore. 

For those who want to take it easy, swimming holes dot the area, offering a great way to cool off on hot summer days. There are also several limestone bluffs perfect for rock climbing! And if you’re feeling brave enough – some even recommend jumping into deep pools from them!

If that’s too much adventure for your taste, you can always take a leisurely stroll or bike trail down the creek.  On your way, keep an eye out for turtles and fish, as well as birds like roadrunners and hummingbirds.  Whatever activity you choose to do – make sure to bring plenty of water and some snacks to fuel your exploration.

Best outdoor experiences for kids in Austin, Texas

Go on a mural tour

Exploring the colorful murals of Austin, Texas, is a great way for kids to have loads of fun! From the famous ‘Greetings from Austin’ mural near South Congress and S 1st Street, your little ones will love competing to be the first one to spot it! Yummy tie-in: be sure to grab a sweet treat from La Pâtisserie, right next door!

You’ll also find plenty of other amazing spots for photos in this mural-filled city. Whether it’s the whimsical ‘I Love You So Much’ wall off South Congress or the iconic ‘Hi, How Are You?’ mural on 21st Street, there are plenty of vibrant backdrops to explore.

The greatest part is that your kids will love being outside and discovering all the wonderful artwork that Austin has to offer! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your mural excursion today!

City/neighborhood playgrounds

Exploring nature is an amazing experience, and Austin has no shortage of great outdoor places to explore. To balance the outdoorsy fun, there are also plenty of playgrounds throughout the city, providing more exciting recreational activities for those who want a break from traditional hiking and sightseeing.

Many of these play areas have been designed with a focus on creativity and innovation. From creative climbing walls to nature-inspired obstacle courses, Austin’s playgrounds are varied and exciting. Plus, many of them are located conveniently near greenbelts, creek trails, and other great outdoor destinations – allowing families to combine a bit of both worlds in their day outdoors. 

Hike the various trails

From Barton Creek Greenbelt to McKinney Falls State Park, Austin has some of the most beautiful trails and parks in all of Texas.

The Greenbelt trail system spans over 20 miles of terrain, stretching across Zilker Park to Barton Creek, and beyond. With various loop trails and topography that ranges from easy to strenuous, there is something for hikers of all levels. You can explore the area by peeking over limestone bluffs or walking along a wooded creek bed. The Greenbelt offers plenty of unique photo opportunities as well!

Austin restaurants with outdoor play areas

Imagine being able to enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks while your kids get to run wild outside. What a dream come true for parents! Thankfully, the Austin area is home to some of the best family-friendly restaurants with outdoor play areas for kids.

Whether you’re looking for classic burgers and fries at Hat Creek Burger Company in Round Rock or cool off with ice cream at Phil’s Ice House & Amy’s Ice Cream South Lamar location, both spots have incredible outdoor spaces perfect for the little ones. Other local eateries like Hopdoddy Burger Bar or Whole Foods Market also have plenty of playground equipment and activities to keep your kiddos entertained! 

Food trucks in Austin

Food trucks are a cherished part of Austin culture and provide an amazing way to try some delicious food. From tacos to BBQ sandwiches, there is something for everyone! It’s no wonder why people keep coming back for more. Not only are the meals delicious, but visiting a food truck can be an incredibly fun experience as well. 

The history of food trucks in Austin dates back to the 1970s when locals began selling tacos from their pickup trucks. It then grew from there, becoming a beloved part of the local culture and eventually leading to other cities adopting the concept. Today, Austin has no shortage of delicious mobile eateries!

Food truck parks and festivals are also popular in Austin. People come from all over to try out the variety of dishes on offer and enjoy the lively atmosphere. There is often great music playing, making it a fun experience for everyone involved.

Horseback riding in Austin

With its rolling hills, lush green pastures, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, horseback riding in Austin is unlike any other. Whether your child is a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, there are plenty of options to choose from that offer unique, family-friendly experiences.

For new riders, guided trail rides are a great way to explore Austin’s countryside while learning some basic riding skills. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your little ones as they learn how to care for and bond with their horse. Check out Bee Cave Riding Center and Maverick Horseback Riding, both of which are great places to start.

For experienced riders eager to explore Austin’s trails, there are plenty of options as well. Many stables in the area offer group rides that accommodate different levels of riders so everyone can join in on the fun! And for those looking to take their equestrian skills to the next level, there are workshops and clinics available throughout Austin.

Check out this post for more info on horseback riding with kids. 

Austin boat rentals

Renting a boat is a great way to explore Austin and see some amazing wildlife!  

Lady Bird Lake sits right between downtown Austin and Zilker Park, providing an ideal spot for kayak rentals, where you can take in all sorts of wildlife, such as turtles sunning themselves atop rocks or fish swimming below water surface level. Rent a boat at one of the many available locations or take a guided boat tour, and experience Austin from a different perspective. Families will love the chance to explore this beautiful city while admiring the diverse wildlife that calls Lady Bird Lake home.

There are also tons of lakes and waterways that rent boats.  Some with some super fun themes, like the donut boat!

Things to do outside in Austin with kids

As you can see, Austin is the perfect place to get outside and make memories with your kids! Whether it’s a day of hiking through Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or relaxing at Butler Park, there’s something for everyone. So why not take the time to plan an adventure with your family this weekend? What kind of fun will you find outside? Be sure to share your experiences with us on social media! We can’t wait to hear all about it.

About the author

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

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

The post Best Outdoor Activities for Kids in Austin, Texas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

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

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

FREE SCAVENGER HUNT BUNDLE

Great activity for all ages

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

Alphabet scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Color wheel scavenger hunt for kids

“Colors are the smiles of nature” – Leigh Hunt

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

Beach scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Forest/hiking scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

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

Holiday scavenger hunt for kids 

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

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

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

Five senses scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Texture scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Playground or park scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Seasonal scavenger hunt for kids 

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

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

Backyard scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

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

Neighborhood scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Creature/critter scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

City scavenger hunt for kids

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

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

Indoor scavenger hunt

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

20+ free printable outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

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

Which scavenger hunt will you choose first?

About the author

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

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

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

Run Wild My Child is hosting a fundraiser and awareness campaign we’re calling “Hearts in the Wild” for children born with congenital heart defects (“CHD”). During the month of February (“Heart Month”), we are asking families to get outside and find heart-shaped objects in nature. Post them to your social media account and help us raise awareness for CHD and funds for designated nonprofits that support heart families and CHD research. 

What are CHDs?

Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities in the heart and/or its vessels that form prior to birth, oftentimes soon after conception, before mothers even know they are pregnant. When trying to understand CHDs it’s helpful to remember how the cardiovascular system, including the heart, is meant to function. As per heart.org:

A normal heart has valves, arteries, and chambers that circulate blood in a recurring pattern: body to heart, heart to lungs, lungs to heart and then heart out to the body. When all the chambers and valves work correctly, blood is pumped through the heart, to the lungs for oxygen, back to the heart and then throughout the body to deliver that oxygen. When valves, chambers, arteries and veins are malformed, this circulation pattern can be impaired.

Congenital heart defects range in severity from simple problems, such as “holes” between chambers of the heart, to very severe malformations, such as the complete absence of one or more chambers or valves.

Children with critical CHDs often require open heart surgeries to survive, but these surgeries are not considered a cure.

CHDs are the most common birth defect

1% of all babies are born with diagnosable congenital heart defect(s)–making CHDs the most common birth defect. The range in severity of defects directly impacts the child’s prognosis. While most children born with CHD live into adulthood, 15% do not. And 25% of all children born with CHD require cardiac intervention to survive–whether that be open heart surgeries, interventional catheterizations, or a combination of both. 

While our understanding and treatment of CHDs has come a long way in recent years, to quote my child’s open heart surgeon, “there’s just still so much we don’t know.” There are a few known genes linked to CHD, but most defects are of unknown origin seemingly without cause. And while there may be small subsets of people who carry higher risks of having a child with CHD, anyone can have a child with CHD.

Raising awareness for CHDs

One cannot underestimate the importance of expectant parents’ awareness of CHDs. Many CHDs, especially critical ones, are now diagnosed in utero–but many go undetected. Sometimes I worry that they may go undetected because expecting parents don’t know what to ask their providers about. Most pregnant individuals undergo anatomy scans, but many don’t realize these scans are much more important than finding out the biological sex of their child. Oftentimes CHDs can be detected on anatomy scans, even at 16 weeks gestation. 

Questions expectant parents may want to ask during anatomy scans include:

• Does the child have a four-chambered heart?
• Are the large vessels/outflow tracts part of your scan?
• If so, are they connected normally?
• Is the heart pumping normally, including rate and rhythm? 

Answering these questions should allow you to either rule out critical heart defects or prepare for any abnormalities found. 

Other than encouraging your pregnant friends to inquire about their baby’s heart during anatomy scans, what can you do to raise awareness for CHD? 

Help us raise awareness by finding nature Hearts in the Wild!

Finding hearts in the wild

Run Wild My Child is hosting a fundraiser and awareness campaign for children born with congenital heart defects during “Heart Month.” We’re asking families to get outside together and look for heart-shaped objects in nature. Maybe that’s a heart-shaped rock, leaf, chunk of ice, or crack in the sidewalk. Heart-shaped objects are all around us, we only need to look! We hope this activity will not only inspire you to explore outdoors with your kids this chilly month but be extra aware and appreciative of the nature around you and your family.

When you find a heart-shaped object, please post it on social media and tag us! We also hope you’ll consider making a donation to a heart charity (we have some suggestions below) or host your own fundraiser to raise funds and awareness. We’ll show you how easy it is below! 

How to participate in the Heart in the Wild project:

• Get outside and explore with your family! 
• Look for heart-shaped objects, heart-shaped holes, heart-shaped shadows, etc. (get creative, anything heart-shaped counts!) 
• Take a photo and post it to your Instagram feed or story. 
• Tag @runwild.mychild and use the hashtag #heartsinthewild. We’ll be sure to reshare!
• Please consider making a donation (even if it’s just $1) for every heart found or photo posted. We’ll do the same!
• Help spread the word by adding a fundraiser for a heart charity* to your post! It’s super easy to do (steps below).

*We’re supporting @BrightforBrett and @MightyOakesHeartFoundation, but you can choose any CHD research or heart-related non-profit of your choosing. Additional information on the charitable organizations we chose to support is below.

Creative Team member Somer Pickel here to tell you about my darling little girl Avelyn Marie.

Avelyn’s story

We found out before Avelyn was born that she had critical heart defects (CHDs), name tetralogy of fallot (ToF), pulmonary atresia (PA), and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs). Given the severity of her diagnosis, we picked up our lives and relocated 4+ hours from home to a city with a renowned children’s hospital in preparation for her birth. We were willing to do anything to provide our child a shot at life and had hope that with multiple open heart surgeries, we’d see her grow into adulthood. 

In December of 2015, she was pulled from my womb limp and gray. Even so, she fought to announce her presence. To me, her soft wail was her asserting that she too was taking up the fight for survival. She would fight until her last breath 18 months later. 

Our daughter endured horrors alongside miracles. She experienced unimaginable compounding complications, yet to know her spirit—you’d never know it. Even after 4+ months of intubation and 4 open heart surgeries, she was the sweetest most affectionate soul. She inspired those around her to be better and do better. Avie gave us strength to accomplish what we all believed impossible. 

Children with critical CHDs are some of the sickest children you can imagine. Their care is incredibly complex and there’s not enough funding for research.

Avelyn’s battle

We stayed by her side day and night, not only to help keep her alive, but to provide every bit of normalcy possible throughout her hospitalization (450 consecutive days– most of which was spent within the pediatric cardiac ICU). When she woke or stirred, she knew her mama or dada would be there to soothe her. I still dream of those sweet chubby hands reaching for me in expectation. She loved, trusted, and interacted with those around her like any other infant. Avelyn made sure her dada & I knew she loved us (something we now cling to). 

She was the absolute light of our lives. 

Close to the end, she was doing better than she ever had and better than most of her providers ever expected. I cannot describe the feeling of finally bringing our daughter home after 17 months of living the unimaginable (4+ hours away). After so long, our own home felt foreign as feelings of joy and fear mingled indistinguishably. And yet we clung to our baby, rejoicing in her and all she had accomplished. 

Sadly just weeks later, she suffered an extremely rare medication side effect. Things escalated quickly, and she had to be emergently transported back to the specialty hospital where she was born. She never saw life outside of hospital walls again.

With more funding for research, more treatment options will become available.

Supporting heart organizations

We have chosen two heart foundations to support during our Hearts in the Wild project this year. Each of these foundations holds a special place in the heart and lives of the Creative Team members they’ve helped and supported. Here’s a little bit more about their mission and all the amazing things they’re doing for heart families and CHD research. 

The Brett Boyer Foundation

The Brett Boyer Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness for CHDs and fund research to advance treatment options. They aim to spread the love and awareness that their darling Brett filled them with for the wonderful, capable people living with Down Syndrome. 

Like most parents of children with CHD, Brett’s parents quickly found that people are in the dark about the existence of CHD, let alone the underfunding of necessary research. Without awareness and education, funding for research will never increase. They believe sharing stories and educating people about CHDs and how common they are in order to raise awareness. The Brett Boyer Foundation strives to support better options for treatment, improved lifestyles for people living with CHD, and positive outcomes for families.

The foundation has raised and donated millions of dollars of funding to cutting-edge CHD research, and they support a mental health research initiative that’s extremely near and dear to my heart. The foundation provided funds for the hiring of a full-time psychologist at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital focused on supporting the psychosocial needs of CHD patients and families. The team is currently researching early mental health intervention for parents and patients and both the mental and physical outcomes of these interventions. 

Children with critical CHDs have extremely complex needs that can oftentimes be overwhelming. To best care for their children, parents need to ensure their own mental wellness. Bright for Brett has been funding research that supports parents and children coping with the trauma of CHD.

The importance of supporting parental mental health

Sweet little Brett and my Avelyn were neighbors in the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care at Vanderbilt Children’s hospital for 100 days. But sadly, I didn’t reach out to Brett’s family during her life. 

In Avelyn’s 450 days inpatient, we saw many families and children come and go. While most of the children did well, many did not. Honestly, by the time Brett came into the PCICU, I’d already isolated myself from other families. I just couldn’t take going to any more funerals for children while my own still sat in an ICU, barely clinging to life. 

Instead, I hid within the glass walls of my child’s PICU room, trying to hold myself together. Each time a tiny body bag rolled by or a code blue was called, I’d find myself silently shedding tears for the child and family–while also knowing my child could be next. By the time Avelyn finally discharged after 16+ months, I’d long since exhibited tell-tale signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. But given Avelyn’s critically intensive needs, there wasn’t time to care for myself. 

I can’t describe the gratitude I feel knowing there’s now a psychologist on staff who can help guide parents through the immense darkness that CHD can bring into a family’s life. I don’t believe it’s an exaggeration to believe that such care could save lives. 

Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation

The Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation was created with a mission to carry on the legacy of Oakes Ortyl, a mighty warrior born with a congenital heart defect, by spreading love and hope to heart families. Oakes Orytl was diagnosed in utero with a congenital heart defect named truncus arteriosus, a defect in which the heart is developed without a pulmonary artery—rather, a large “trunk” artery exists, taking blood from the ventricles of the heart to the lungs, and a hole between the right and left ventricles of the heart. Oakes underwent two open-heart surgeries, three cath procedures, a slide tracheoplasty, plasmapheresis, chemotherapy and a double-lung transplant all before turning five months old. Oakes was 15 months old when he died.For all but 12 days of those months, Oakes was in the ICU at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

 

Through financial and emotional support that’s unique to the needs of each family, the MOHF helps them be a constant, mighty presence for their child, giving their little warrior every reason to keep fighting. Their vision is to be a source of strength, assurance, and hope to families of children with congenital heart defects. They are dedicated to expanding their reach, while continuing to support and connect with families on a personal level. Through critical financial support and emotional comfort, the MOFH enables families to focus on the love that empowers them to bravely face the fight. 

How to set up your own fundraiser on Instagram

If you’d like to help us raise funds for supporting heart families and CHD research, there’s a super easy way to do this right through the Instagram app. 

Instagram app for Android

1. Open Instagram and tap .
2. Create or choose your image and tap .
3. Crop and filter your post, and then tap .
4. Tap Add fundraiser.
5. Choose the nonprofit you want to fundraise for. You’ll automatically go to the “Fundraiser Details” page.
6. Enter the details for your fundraiser and then tap Done.
7. Tap .

Instagram app for iPhone

1. Open Instagram and tap +
2. Create or choose your image and tap Next.
3. Crop and filter your post, and then tap Next.
4. Tap Add fundraiser.
5. Choose the nonprofit you want to fundraise for. You’ll automatically go to the “Fundraiser Details” page.
6. Enter the details for your fundraiser and then tap Done.
7. Tap Share.

After you’ve created your fundraiser, you can post it to other Instagram accounts or tag it in other Instagram posts. Donation and fundraising features on Instagram aren’t available in every area. Learn which countries can currently make donations or start fundraisers on Instagram.

Join the Hearts in the Wild project

Raising awareness for congenital heart defects is a passion project for us here at RWMC, as multiple team member families have been affected. We hope you’ll join us in spreading awareness about CHDs and raising funds by finding Hearts in the Wild throughout the month of February! 

Please consider donating to one of our chosen heart charties below (or feel free to choose your own). Any and all help raising funds and awareness for CHDs is greatly appreciated! 

DONATE TO BRETT BOYER FOUNDATION

DONATE TO MIGHTY OAKES HEART FOUNDATION

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 in an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years, she’s become a passionate advocate for 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 posts: Somer Pickel
Podcast episode: Overcoming Grief Outdoors

References

• Heart.org
• cdc.gov/ncbdd/heartdefects/data.html
• https://www.thebrettboyerfoundation.org/research
• https://www.mightyoakes.org/
• https://help.instagram.com/753748082021404

The post Hearts in the Wild Project appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Best Chicago parks for kids

Chicago is packed with parks! They range in size from tiny pocket parks to acres of grass and trails filled with fun outdoor activities. No matter what part of Chicago you’re in, there’s sure to be a park nearby where you can enjoy some fresh air and green space. Here are just a few of our top picks for our family’s favorite outdoor Chicago parks for kids. 

Grant Park: Millennium Park/Maggie Daley Park

Located in downtown Chicago, in the heart of it all, sits Grant Park. Proudly referred to as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” Grant Park totals 312.98 acres and is a public park located in Chicago’s central business district in the Loop Community area. Grant Park’s most notable features include Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus. 

Millennium Park offers a variety of activities for all ages. The park is comprised of 5 main areas and is packed with fun things to do for everyone in your family. The Pritzker Pavilion offers a wide range of concerts, movies, and shows, with a large lawn for picnicking.  The Bean (also known as Cloud Gate) is a sightseeing hotspot. The Crown Fountain is a popular splash zone, with two large screens featuring diverse faces showering excited children with water. Lurie Garden is a wonderful 5-acre urban botanic garden with beautiful maze-like landscaping.

Connected to Millennium Park via a pedestrian bridge is the 20-acre Maggie Daley Park. The facility features a children’s play area with interactive sculptures and a climbing wall, a mini golf course for those who want some fun without leaving downtown street level, picnic groves with perfect spots for families to sit down together, and an enchanted forest.  The skating ribbon is set for ice skating in the winter, but in the other seasons, it is open to roller skates and scooters as well. If you are visiting Chicago and didn’t bring your scooters…no worries.  MicroKickboard Scooters and helmets are available for rental for adults and kids of all ages. 

Northerly Island Chicago

Northerly Island Chicago is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the city and a wonderful outdoor park for kids and families. It is a 91-acre peninsula located in Lake Michigan, and it’s filled with lush green grasses, breathtaking views of the skyline, and plenty of wildlife. The Island is just beyond the museum campus. So, it is perfect as a stand-alone visit or combined with a stop at the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, or Adler Planetarium. 

Promontory Point

Just south of the Loop, Promontory Point can be accessed by foot via the Lakefront Trail or by car via the Museum Campus Drive. The Point offers plenty of activities for parents and children alike, including a picnic area, firepits, and tons of open space.  The view from the point over the lake covers both the tallest buildings downtown and south of the point. It’s also just north or the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry. 

Ping Tom Park

Ping Tom Park is a great place for parents to spend time with their kids in Chicago. This beautiful park overlooks the river with a perfect look towards the skyline down a beautiful red bridge.  Just steps from Chinatown, a visit to this park can pair with some Dim Sum and shopping.  Ping Tom Park is also a stop on the Chicago Water Taxi Route, so you can hop on the river and ride downtown to explore other parts of Chicago. 

Best Chicago outdoor attractions for kids

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a great place for families to visit to get some fresh air, spend time outside, and see wildlife. Located near the lake, this zoo has a lot to offer, including over 1,000 animals from around the world. Plus, there’s free admission year-round! Kids will love seeing the gorillas, lions, tigers, and more up close. There are also plenty of interactives like the Nature Boardwalk and Education Center. Parents can enjoy the beautiful gardens, ponds, and even a cafe. 

If you want to combine your visit with education, the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo blends expert animal care, interactive learning elements, and tactile experiences to teach kids about the interdependency of living things. This kid-friendly home for North American animals lets visitors get nose-to-nose with red wolves, black bears, river otters, and beavers.

Navy Pier-Chicago

Navy Pier is a must-see when you’re in Chicago! This lakefront is an iconic staple of Chicago and a playground that has something for everyone with its Ferris wheel, parks, shops, live music, and restaurants. The best part is that it’s all free! Kids can take a boat ride, go on a carousel, or explore the pier’s many attractions, including the Chicago Children’s Museum. 

See a baseball game

Take in some classic Chicago baseball at one of the city’s two beloved teams – The Cubs or White Sox. Whether you catch a game at Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field, your family will have a blast cheering on either team. And don’t forget to grab some classic Chicago-style baseball food like hot dogs, popcorn, or even a famous deep-dish pizza. 

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is another fun place and hot spot for families. Whether you take a river tour, rent bikes to ride along the trails, or take the kids on a nature walk, there’s something for everyone at this fun location. Plus, the views of the city are stunning! 

Fulton Market

Fulton Market is an up-and-coming neighborhood with plenty to explore. Check out some of the area’s coolest restaurants, galleries, and shops. You may even find some street art or a fun activity for the kids. Plus, you’ll get to experience one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a natural history museum located in Lincoln Park and operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. The museum focuses on the natural history of the Chicago region, and connects children of all ages to nature and science through immersive exhibits, fun family events, important conservation research, and in-depth education programs,. It is also known for its live butterfly house, which is attached to a laboratory and program to study and enhance Chicago area butterfly populations.

Best splash parks and beaches

One of the best outdoor activities for kids in Chicago is water play! If you’re visiting Chicago in the summer, it can get hot! But no worries, the city is filled with fun ways to cool off and get wet! 

Neighborhood splash pads

One of the best things about the Chicago neighborhood playgrounds is that many of them have splash pads or other water features. If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly way to beat the heat this summer on land, then look no further than the splash pads at your local neighborhood park. Not only are they a great way to keep cool and have hours of outdoor time between splashing around and having fun on the playground. If you’re looking for something a little more, check out any of the fun water adventures below.

Skokie Water Playground

Just outside of Chicago, Skokie Water Playground includes five water slides of varying heights, making it an ideal destination for kids of any age. There are also interactive multi-level play areas with a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. The large splashing water bucket is sure to be a hit among visitors, as well as the lanes for lap swim and the turf and suntan area. The facility also features a fully-accessible locker room with showers, lifeguard facilities, and a convenient concession stand. 

Whealan Pool Aquatic Center

Visit Whealan Pool Aquatic Center for a day of sun, sand, and fun in the pool. Kids can splash around in the shallow waters and explore the interactive water features. The diving boards provide plenty of thrills for adventurous swimmers, while parents can take a break from the heat in the cabanas or sit back and relax on the sandy beach. 

Chicago Beaches

Chicago’s beaches are legendary, and with good reason. The city is parked right on the shores of gorgeous Lake Michigan, so there is plenty of beach space to explore. Summer in Chicago is a perfect way to feel a bit beach town/ocean vibe in the midwest.  Some of the most popular beaches are listed below:

• Montrose Beach- 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr
• Loyola Beach-  1230 W. Greenleaf Ave. (@ Lake Michigan) 
• Oak Street Beach- 1000 North Lake Shore Drive
• 31st Street Beach- 3100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive
• North Ave Beach- 1601 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive

On the move and outside in Chicago

Bikes, boats, buses, and more! There are so many great ways to explore Chicago with kids, while outside having fun! Chicago is filled with fun and unique ways to get around, making just moving around from place to place an adventure for kids! Here are a few of our favorite outdoor ways to get around town! 

Bike Lakefront Trail

Chicago is known for its incredible public green spaces, and the Lakefront Trail provides a perfect opportunity to get outside and explore with your children. Just stretching from Hollywood Beach along the lake’s edge to Michigan Avenue’s Museum Campus, Bike Lakefront Trail offers beautiful views of the city skyline. The trail is 28 miles long, making it the ideal route for a leisurely family ride. From the different beaches, parks, and nature reserves dotted along it’s length, there is plenty to explore on your journey together. Along the way, you can stop off at one of the many playgrounds and green spaces where your kids will be sure to have fun. 

Chicago Architectural Boat Tour

Get a unique view of the city from the comfort of one of Chicago’s distinctive riverboats. These tours offer an expertly guided tour along the rivers, giving you and your family insight into the fascinating history and culture that makes Chicago so special. With stunning views of some of its most iconic buildings, this is a great way to engage your kids in the city’s rich architectural heritage. Make sure to bring your camera, as you are bound to have plenty of time to snap some great family photos! Older kids will get a lot out of these tours and learn quite a bit. But even little kids will enjoy being out on the water.

Chicago Walking Tours

Exploring the city on foot is a great way to bond with your family. Chicago Walking Tours offers many different themed tours, from cultural excursions through Chinatown and Little Italy to more offbeat tours like the Spooky Chicago Ghost Tour. Whether you’re looking for something educational or just want an entertaining adventure, there is sure to be a tour that fits your family’s needs. All of the tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly guides, who will make sure that you get the most out of your experience. With so much to offer, Chicago is a great destination for families looking to enjoy some quality time together while discovering something new.

Chicago Water Taxi 

This ferry service offers rides along the main branches of the Chicago River. The boat rides are perfect for taking in some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks, as well as enjoying the unique ecosystem of the river. The Water Taxi rides are just $6.00 for a one-way ticket, making it a great deal for a river view of the city. 

Get a day pass for CTA and hop on and off the Red Line

A day pass on the Redline is the best way to see all of the sights Chicago has to offer. With a day pass, you can hop on and off any train line or bus, going anywhere in the city, all day long! You could take the Red Line multiple times throughout the day and make your way across town with ease, never having to worry about parking or navigating through traffic. Whether it’s visiting iconic attractions like Wrigley Field, shopping along the Magnificent Mile, Chinatown, Hyde Park, or checking out any one of the many neighborhood restaurants and shops, the Red Line will get you there! 

Best gardens and arboretums in Chicago

No trip to Chicago for a nature-lover would be complete without visiting one of the many amazing botanical gardens or arboretums that the city has to offer. Here are a few of the best gardens and arboretums in Chicago for kids: 

Morton Arboretum

Morton Arboretum, located in Lisle, Illinois, offers 1,700 acres of nature trails, gardens, and natural areas filled with over 4,000 varieties of trees and plants. The arboretum also hosts a variety of family activities throughout the year, including campfires, scavenger hunts, and children’s programs.  Around the winter holidays, they decorate the entire arboretum in lights and offer performances and hot cocoa for families. 

Chicago Botanic Garden

The Chicago Botanic boasts 27 different gardens spread over 385 acres of land and hosts all kinds of outdoor activities and special events such as summer concerts in the park, nature walks, and story times. Kids can also enjoy hands-on activities like learning about plant life or crafting their own creations at the Discovery Center. 

Japanese Garden

The Japanese Garden is located in Jackson Park. This tranquil oasis features traditional Japanese gardens, a tea house, pagodas, and koi fish ponds.  It’s an absolutely beautiful park and a lovely picturesque place for an outdoor stroll. 

Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois, offers an array of activities for families, including hiking trails, gardens, and playgrounds. There’s also a museum on site that houses artifacts from the First World War, as well as interactive exhibits and special events throughout the year.  It is a bit of a drive from Chicago but well worth the trip 

Garfield Park Conservatory

Garfield Park Conservatory is a true oasis in the city. It is filled with lush tropical plants and flowers that give a taste of the exotic without ever leaving Chicago. There are plenty of interactive programs where kids can learn about different types of insects or the biology of flowers and plants. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, this Conservatory makes a perfect weather-proof outing.

Urban outdoor adventures in Chicago

There is no better way to explore Chicago than outside, with the whole family. With sprawling parks, amazing museums, lush gardens, cultural experiences, incredible food, unique architecture, and so much more! There are plenty of amazing outdoor activities for everyone in the family in Chicago. Get out and explore all that Chicago has to offer—you won’t be disappointed! 

About the author

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

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

The post 20+ Best Outdoor Kids Activities in Chicago appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Slow down with plein air painting

As busy parents, we often find ourselves on the go, moving from one activity to the next, and collapsing into bed by the end of the day. Taking some time to slow things down and get outside is imperative for our kids (and for us). We know the benefits and importance of spending time in nature. While outdoors is the perfect place to be active and “run wild,” it’s also nice to have some downtime in nature to be thoughtful, observant, and creative! 

Plein air painting with kids is an amazing activity that combines the benefits of nature and art. It is a fun and relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon with your children, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday activities. It lets them be still in nature, but also gives them something to do that engages their mind and stimulates their senses. Painting is one of my child’s favorite things to do outside, and I’m excited to share this activity with you today. Here’s all you need to know about the art of painting in the outdoors with kids.

Note: “plein” is pronounced like plain or plane

What is plein air painting?

Painting en Plein air is a French term that means painting in open air and describes the act of painting outdoors. The plein air style of painting is outdoor art, in and around nature. It is a direct contrast to painting in a studio with fixed lights or objects. It’s not necessarily a style of art or with any particular medium, but a method of creating based on your location (outdoors) and subject (nature/landscape). 

Plein air painting is usually art that captures the nature around them. Whether that’s the full landscape you see before you, or maybe just a tree, flower, or garden in your yard. It’s creating art from nature right in front of your eyes, not from a photograph or memory. When an artist paints in nature, they can better observe landscapes and their changing conditions, be that weather or light.

Plein air painting is a sensory experience

We often hear of the importance of giving your children full-body sensory experiences. Plein air painting is definitely a sensory experience, which creates a 3-dimensional experience and helps your children create powerful memories. When you paint outdoors, the sounds, smells, and sights of your surroundings add inspiration to your creative pursuits. You can feel the breeze, hear the rustling leaves, and smell the freshly-cut grass. 

Famous plein air artists

Painting outdoors is not a new activity, by any means. Here’s a little ditty for all of you kids who’ve ever taken an Art History 101 class. The artists who revolutionized this painting style in the late 1800s were known as Impressionists. The most renowned impressionists included Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Those are some serious heavy hitters of the art world! Plein air painting with kids will put your child in very good company! 

Where to paint outdoors

The great thing about painting outside is that it can be done anywhere! The world is your canvas (literally). Interested in painting seascapes? Head to the beach! Interested in painting saguaros and sagebrush? Head to the desert! Interested in painting flowers and butterflies? Your backyard, local park, or nearby botanical garden may all be perfect locations!

The great thing about nature is that you have a lot of options for the subject matter. Outdoor painting sessions need not be as divergent as desert or ocean, but could simply be the backyard or neighborhood park. There’s no limit to where you can paint, you just have to decide where to start and give it a try! 

What do you need for Plein air painting with kids?

We like to think of plein air painting as a picnic with a side of art supplies. For an outdoor painting session, you’ll want to pack art supplies such as watercolors, acrylics, or colored pencils. As for your canvas, the thicker the paper, the better. Can you use a sketchbook, thick cardstock, a canvas, or even a large piece of cardboard (this is a great way to get some use out of all those boxes). You’ll also want some paper towels and a cup of water so you can clean your brushes in between colors. These are the basic items one needs for a Plein air painting adventure.

Serious hobbyists and professionals will sometimes carry with them a portable easel stand. Easels are not necessary, but they can be helpful when your kids want to be at eye level with their subject matter. You don’t need to rush out to your arts and crafts store to make an easel. Portable easels can be easily made out of everyday materials like this cardboard art easel or a rustic one made out of sticks and twine.

Whichever landscape is your destination, dress appropriately for your location and the weather. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection, plus refreshments so you don’t have to interrupt your creative inspiration when thirst and hunger strike.

Plein air painting out and about

Plein air painting doesn’t require a lot of planning or preparation. For the most part, you can find objects and landscapes right outside your house that are perfect for painting. However, if you want to take the show on the road, we suggest picking a location in a park or near a river where there are a lot of trees, birds, and shade. This will not only give your child plenty of inspiration to paint but also make them feel like it’s more of a special occasion. 

If you’re away from home, bring a few gallons of water with you for cleaning brushes, and be sure to use non-toxic paints that won’t hurt nature around you. Bring a trash bag with you to remove any trash you may create (or see/find in the area) to leave your location better than you found it. 

Artistic elements of plein air painting

You don’t have to worry too much about artistic elements with plein air painting with kids. However, if you have a child that’s into art or serious about their creation, there are a few things about art and observation that you can teach them to help them create their masterpieces. Here are few ways to help your child observe the area around them, decide what to paint, and how to capture it. 

The power of observation

Once you arrive at your destination, spend some time with your kids discussing and making observations about the landscape they’re going to paint. Younger kids might rev up their observation skills with a game of “I spy.” Older kids might jump right in with interesting observations about unusual things they see. The goal of spending time focusing on observation of their surroundings is that it helps them to hone in on what to paint.

Kids might become fascinated by the shape of the clouds in the sky, the shape of a tree, or the colors of the plants in a garden. By talking through all of the options in advance, kids strengthen their powers of observation and get better with decision-making skills at the same time.

Composition and rule of thirds

As you talk to your kids about what they see and what they may eventually paint, you’ll also want to help them understand composition. As you’re gazing out at your subject matter, talk to your kids about artistic considerations such as foreground, middle ground, and background. Talk about the elements in the landscape and how close they are to you (and to each other) – this will help them realize that things farther away look smaller than items nearby. 

Have them look at the horizon and where the landscape meets the sky.If you’re painting a beach landscape, talk about the horizon line where the water meets the sky. What do you see above the horizon? What does the water look like at the horizon (and is different than what it looks like up close)? Are there waves? Are people frolicking on the beach in front of you or out in the water? And as you guide their eyes to the sand, are there beach umbrellas or sand toys?

Spending time observing the elements of a landscape helps young artists to understand how to layout the composition on their own canvas. In art and photography, this is known as the “rule of thirds.” If you divide your canvas into thirds, either vertically or horizontally, the focal areas of your composition should line up at the meeting points of your imaginary grid. However, the rule of thirds is just a guideline, and your little artists may not want to be encumbered by rules when being creative.

Think about color 

Finally, have your child think about color when they’re plein air painting. Do the colors they see match the colors of their paint (or should they mix them a little to see if they can get a color a little more true to life)? Let them observe what happens when you mix colors. Let them add more water to their watercolor paints and see what happens. Experimentation is key and so much fun for kids. 

Plein ol’ fun!

Plein air painting is a great creative outlet for young artists that puts kids outdoors and in nature. It’s also a great way to expand upon school topics such as art history, geography, atmospheric sciences, horticulture, earth science, and more. Kids of all ages (and adults) can benefit from spending time in nature, being still and observant, and the creative act of painting outdoors.

Earn a patch for painting

We hope you are inspired to pack some paints and head outdoors with the kids. We are so passionate about plein air painting that my company, Wonder Club Explorers, has created a Plein Air Painter Merit Patch. This is just one of the 18 patches offered with the Wonder Club Explorers Adventure Kit. Every artist has a different perspective, and it’s so much fun to watch kids paint, create and express themselves. Wonder Club Explorers is an independent scouting program for kids without all the hassle of meetings and fundraising.

So, get out there, have fun and remember to tag us on social media using the hashtags #runwildmychild and #wonderclubexplorers on your next Plein air adventure!

About the author

Michelle spends her days working on projects to improve the quality of life for the citizens of her community and her nights reading books to her 6-year-old about every kind of dinosaur there ever was (there are 900 validated species, in case you’re wondering). Together with her son, Michelle created Wonder Club Explorers, a company to inspire wonder and curiosity in kids. She carves out time for herself on the weekends as an early morning exerciser and metalsmith of fine jewelry. Michelle is also the co-host of the Run Wild My Child podcast. She resides in Altadena with her husband and son amongst California Oak trees and a stone’s throw of the San Gabriel Mountains. 

You can find Michelle online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wonderclubexplorers
Website: www.wonderclubexplorers.co
RWMC posts: Michelle Garrett

The post Plein Air Painting With 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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Why you should get your city kid into nature 

There are many reasons your children should find nature, even in the city. The big takeaway though is that taking the time to connect with nature is good for them, others, and the earth. It is a one-stop-shop for well-being. Here are some additional reasons city kids need nature too.

• The most pressing reason is the care and knowledge of our earth and nature. As we construct more buildings, creating time to appreciate and engage with nature will be more critical than ever. The more we know about how the earth functions, the more we can preserve it for all living beings.

• Yoga and meditation have shown that grounding and connecting to the earth and all the elements, fosters positive self-awareness and supports healthy social-emotional development in children (and adults). In fast-paced city life, seeking moments with our earth can help children calm their nervous systems and lead happier lives.

• The earth is the one thing that connects us with every living being. Finding friends and meeting new people through nature activities supports bonding and social awareness of others. Not to mention, a healthy earth is good for our fellow citizens. So, learning to care for the planet is also about learning to care for each other.

Now that you know the benefits of exploring urban nature with kids, let’s get outside.

Exploring urban nature with kids

The most basic start to finding nature in urban settings is to get outside. Not every location is nature, but there is nature in every location. Yes, you read that right. Nature is in every outdoor location, even if it isn’t as obvious when you are surrounded by skyscrapers and cement. 

Here are five easy ways to explore nature in a city environment

1. The sun, the wind, the rain, and the temperature outside? All nature. Take a mindful and adventurous walk and explore how these elements affect you and the people and things around you. Splash in puddles or play in the rain. Feel the wind on your face or watch how the wind sways the trees. These are things that are all a part of our earth. 
2. Even the most densely populated skyscraper city has a tree or a patch of grass, someplace. Find it. Study it. Play in it.  
3. Bugs, birds, squirrels, and so many more critters make their homes in densely urban settings. Go for a walk and count the birds you see, find a bug and study what it does. Find some skat (bird and dog poop counts) and see if you can figure out what kind of animal made it. 
4. Grabbing a picnic or even patio seating at a restaurant is a practice in enjoying nature. Soak in the experience. Find a farm-to-table restaurant or farmers’ market and get to know the enthusiastic people about where our food comes from. I guarantee most of them will be thrilled to chat up young nature lovers about their process.
5. Flowers are often planted outside businesses and in various places for landscaping. Find some and smell them. Can’t find any outside, meander through a farmer’s market and find a flower vendor or walk to a grocery store and stroll through the floral department. Flowers do not need to be wildflowers to be enjoyed in nature.

Enjoying city parks with kids

Almost every city has a park district. Park districts are a great place to start for some more extensive and often inexpensive activities. Parks are also the perfect place to explore and discover urban nature with kids.

Going to a city’s park and recreation department website can tell you a few things:

1. The location of all of the city-owned parks, playgrounds, beaches, conservatories, zoos, farms, pools, splash pads, or other features. This is great for planning and getting the most accurate information on location, hours, and potential activities.
2. Scheduled activities and programming. The park districts often have classes for kids, adults, and often families. They also may lead volunteer opportunities, concerts, animal encounters, and tours. 

Once you arrive at a city-owned park, explore the signs and plaques that will often give information about the history or essential facts about where you are. Every city park has a unique story. Especially as urban areas build bigger and taller buildings, nature’s survival in urban areas is a task and a beautiful story of love and care.

Explore arboretums and gardens

Ready to kick it up a notch? Gardens and arboretums are usually the places to go within a city to really up the “WOW” factor. For example, The Morton Arboretum in Illinois has nature+art exhibits throughout the grounds. So, you are getting some great nature plus some art and culture.

We highly recommend becoming a member at a conservatory or nature center in your local area. There are usually some great benefits. Here are a few of the things we love about being members of an outdoor arboretum or botanical garden.

1. Take a look at the location you wish to have your membership and see if they belong to any reciprocity organizations like the American Horticultural Society. This will get you into hundreds of similar gardens all over North America, with free or discounted admission. This is especially wonderful if you travel or want to explore lots of places as you travel.
2. Being in the loop. With social media, this is not as big a consideration. However, members do get the first notices on new exhibits, tours, and programs. And sometimes there are special “members only” events or days where the lines are short and members enjoy special access and treatment. If you are not a natural nature person, getting “personal” invitations to exhibits and programs is a good nudge to get out there!
3. Your membership fees support those doing the heavy lifting to keep mother nature alive and well. Having a membership to an arboretum or garden will help them continue caring for the earth. Even if it is just within their own space, we need every bit of green world we can keep.

Finding urban nature that fits your adventure family

Are you a rock climber, swimmer, kayaker, hiker? Many urban areas have found innovative ways of retaining or creating these experiences. A quick internet search will send you down the rabbit hole of companies and organizations that focus on your specific specialty.  

Finding experts in your preferred activity will give you the best access to the areas best suited for what you want to do. For example, the local yacht club may offer sailing classes. The park district may have bike and boat rentals. The local nature center may hold classes or nature trips for families.

You may also connect to small local organizations that have taken on the education and community building around family fun outdoor engagement. For example, Chicago Family Biking in Chicago hosts family bike rides and educational events that help families realize the ease of biking with kids. Big Muddy Adventures in St. Louis hosts family-friendly canoeing and paddle adventures in the Mississippi River, Missouri River, and surrounding rivers and streams. 

Enjoy the city life and nature

Even with activities that aren’t usually considered nature-y we can discover a connection to the earth and all it gives. Here are a few examples of how you can find and enjoy urban nature with kids in unexpected ways.

1. Are you going out to eat? Ask to sit outside and admire the planters, trees, sounds, and smells on their outdoor patio.
2. Walk, ride bikes, scooter to activities as often as possible.  
3. Volunteer to pick up trash. This can be organized or just buy a grabber and make a habit of going out as a family and picking up trash.
4. Plant a garden or if you lack space, join a community garden. 
5. Look for fun programs like outdoor music concerts, festivals, farmers markets.
6. Use public transportation to check out new neighborhoods and parks.
7. Take a class. Find family yoga, outdoor art, and movement classes in your urban area.

Hold your family accountable

Ideas are great but holding your family accountable to your outdoor goals (or any goals you have) is the only way to increase your outdoor time. Need some inspiration on how to do this? Below are a couple of options.

1. Join Facebook groups. Run Wild My Child, Hike it Baby, and other outdoor-focused organizations often have online communities where you can gain motivation and learn from like-minded people. There are also likely some local outdoor family groups too.
2. Follow social media accounts. Believe it or not, seeing pictures of people with their kids outside or reading posts of what others are doing will help you stay motivated to take your own kids outside too.
3. Join outdoor focused challenges. This is a great way to keep yourself motivated to get outside and may even help create new habits.
   • Hike it Baby hosts a HiB30 Challenge twice a year, with the goal of getting families outside for at least 30 minutes three times a week for one month.
   • The 52 Hike Challenge isn’t geared toward families, but you absolutely can choose to take your kids on 52 “hikes” over the course of the year. And yes, a walk through the same park once a week totally counts.
   • Our Run Wild My Child team is launching a new 7-day challenge that you can use to “rewild your child” called the Wildhood Challenge. This challenge is 7 days, each with a different theme for outdoor play, and will help encourage and inspire you to spend more intentional time outside for a full week, showing you just how easy it can be to prioritize time outside with your little ones when you’re intentional about it. 
4. Step/health trackers. Seeing how many steps you take each day (whether it’s a few or a lot) is a great motivator to keep taking walks with your kids.
5. Great a schedule or calendar. If you have a hard time finding time to get outside, set alerts on your phone or schedule time into your calendar. 

Helping make a difference

We are big believers that nature should be accessible for all. And spending time outside in nature shouldn’t be just for kids that live in the country, on farms, or in the mountains. City kids need nature and outdoor playtime just as much (if not more) than ever. According to the national PTA organization, one-third of all US children live in urban areas. Living in urban areas can mean it is difficult to access natural areas, even when they’re not far away. Longstanding systems of inequity have influenced the design and distribution of green spaces in and around cities and urban areas.

Cities across the country are searching for ways to bring nature’s benefits to all children. As are parents, community leaders, educators, and people like YOU (and us) that believe in the importance of nature for all. Achieving change requires a community-based approach and lots of help. Organizations such as Children’s Nature Network have great resources and toolkits to get you started if you’re interested in helping more city kids discover urban nature and making it more accessible for all.

Additional resources

Here are a few other resources from our team all about getting city kids outside discovering urban nature with kids! 

• Finding nature in urban areas
• Socially distanced outdoor activities for city kids
• Run Wild My Child podcast – Episode 4: Exploring Outdoors in the City 

Photography by Thomas | © 2019 TK Photography | www.tkphotographychicago.com

Now go run wild, my city child!
How do you find nature in the city?

About the author

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

You can find more from Tiana in the following online locations:
Instagram: @usalongtheway
Website: US Along the Way

The post Finding Nature in Urban Settings with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

The bond between children and animals

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

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

Always around animals

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

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

Kids and pets

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

Risks vs. benefits of animals

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

Basic child safety tips around animals

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

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

Treat animals gently

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

Go soft and slow

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

Animals are different

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

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

Different kinds of animals

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

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

Safety with other peoples’ pets

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

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

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

Safety with a new pet

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

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

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

Consider your pet’s history

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

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

Kid-friendly breeds

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

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

Respect an animals’ space

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

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

Safety with strange animals

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

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

Safety tips when approaching strange dogs with kids

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

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

Hygiene and animal safety

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

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

Kid hygiene

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

Hand washing for the win

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

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

Pet hygiene

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

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

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

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

What about animal allergies?

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

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

Animals are amazing

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

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

About the author

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

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

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

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

Exploring a farmers’ market with kids

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

What is a farmers’ market?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Making connections at the market

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

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

New foods, new recipes 

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

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

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

Healthy options for less

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

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

Farmers’ markets affordably

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

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

Availability of farmers’ markets 

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

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

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

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

Power of Produce

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

Other benefits of farmers’ markets 

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

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

More than just food

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

Bring your furry friends!

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

Helpful tips for visiting a farmers’ market with kids

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

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

About the author

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

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

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

Beauty in the big and small

I love visiting beautiful parks outfitted with amazing trails and stunning scenery. My family and I have no issues traveling some distance to visit National or state parks, whether it be in our home state of Texas or all the way up to Yellowstone in Wyoming. These parks provide a plethora of plants, a variety of vistas, and a bounty of natural beauty. 

Isn’t it interesting how effortless it is to appreciate and be in awe of the nature surrounding us in these designated “nature areas,” but, so often we take for granted the opportunities to appreciate and be still in the nature literally in our own backyard?

We want to change that. Nature doesn’t have to be big and spectacular to be appreciated and respected. I have recently made it my mission to teach my kids (and myself) to stop and observe the natural world existing mere feet from our kitchen table. It’s made us so much more appreciative of what we have nearby and so much more knowledgeable of the world around us. I believe there are several ways to do this and to make it not only educational, but fun for the entire family. Let me show you how!

Identify the trees that you see

If you want to learn how to appreciate the nature in your own backyard, the first thing you can do is give yourself a little tour. Take a walk around your area and identify the trees that are in your yard. You can do this by searching online, or downloading a mobile tree and plant identifier app (Seek by iNaturalist is a good one).

Take plant identification a step further and turn it into a fun tree investigation game for your family. Discuss whether or not the trees that you have are native to where you are located. Can you tell if your tree is male or female? (Yes, that is a thing! And it will definitely make for a fun investigation.) Do your trees produce anything that is edible for humans? What about food/nuts for animals? You can see where I am going with this exercise. Trees can be incredibly interesting if you know their story!

Taking a step back to pause and notice the trees that you may walk by daily is definitely something that is worth doing. More importantly, this exercise is an awesome tool to aid in the discussion on the importance of trees — not only for the health of our bodies, but also in the health and wellness of the world.

Hands-on tree activities for kids

Another great way to explore the trees around your home is to make a botany tree exploration sensory bin using natural items. This activity is especially great for toddlers and preschoolers because little kids learn so much from hands-on activities. A sensory bin is easier to make than you might expect. And, there’s no right or wrong way to make it! Start by collecting fallen leaves, safe sticks, rocks, nuts, pinecones, and anything else that you find while foraging. Gather the materials and place them in a box for your child–it’s that simple!

For older kids, try a leaf rubbing exercise to get them talking about the difference in leaves from one tree to the next. All you will need is leaves, white paper, and crayons. Place a leaf underneath a sheet of paper and grab a crayon. Hold the crayon on its side (horizontally) and start coloring the paper. You should start to see the imprint of the leaf underneath the paper. This activity is simple and a lot of fun! 

If you have a variety of trees in your area, try collecting as many different leaves as you can find. Then, using your deduction skills, match the leaf to the tree. Your kids will have to figure out which leaf belongs to which tree by matching the leaves still on the tree. As you find the match, identify the tree. 

Get your hands dirty and find some bugs!

As a child, I loved (most) insects. I’d have fun collecting and observing pill bugs, butterflies, ladybugs, ants, and so much more. Insects and bugs really are fascinating to children and it is truly incredible to think about the diverse insect population right in your own backyard.

We can find bugs and insects year-round right in our own yard. The spring and summer months in our area are particular favorites, as we get a chance to identify visiting butterflies. No matter when you’re looking, with a magnifying glass and a little sleuthing, you can spot some of the more hard-to-find insects. This observation is a great way to open up the discussion on how the insects in your own backyard play a part in our ecosystem, and what we humans can do to be less harmful to them in the process.

When you’re out looking for bugs, insects, and mini beasts, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! As the saying goes “a little dirt won’t hurt”! As ironic as it may sound, playing in dirt is really an awesome thing for kids. It can help boost their immune system and supports sensory development. We’ve found some of the coolest and wiggliest worms while playing in the dirt. Grab a glass jar to put some insects in temporarily to observe them up close.

If your little one is scared or apprehensive about bugs or insects, check out our post on overcoming the fear of creepy crawlies.

Make natural art

Another way to discover nature in your own backyard is to get creative using natural things that you walk on and by everyday. Turning nature into art is usually so much fun for kids. They love finding things they can use for art projects and it’s so much fun to see their imaginations come to life.

If you have older children, hold a friendly competition for creating art from nature. Challenge your kids and yourself to create an art piece that reflects how they feel about being in nature, made using items they find outside. If you have smaller children, you can grab a piece of paper and have them create a picture using natural materials found outside (leaves, sticks, rocks, etc.). Make a paint “brush” by tying fallen leaves/shrubs to a stick. Paint a mud portrait using a little dirt and water. Draw faces on leaves or cut eye holes in them to make masks. Collect twigs and leaves and create a nest. The options to create art outside are almost endless.

Check out this post for more ideas on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) outdoor projects, and crafts. 

Don’t forget about the wildlife

It can be easy to forget that the undomesticated animals that we see regularly are actually wild animals. They are a part of the wildlife in our geographic region.  Yes, even the pesky squirrel that eats your birdseed or the bunny that always makes your dog bark at 6 am. Wildlife is all around us! 

Take a pause with your kids and notice the animals that you see and hear when you are outside. What types of birds do you notice? Many of these animals are creatures of habit. Are you noticing the same animals coming into your yard or general location daily? If you are in Texas, if you look around long enough you’ll likely find a frog. You may even find a snake (and in that case, use caution). Have a discussion about why you think these animals keep returning to your location.

Take your kids on a trip down memory lane and get a disposable camera (yes, they still sell them). Have them take the camera and capture their favorite nature moments. Once the film is developed and printed, work on a nature photo album or scrapbook containing all of their favorite discoveries made literally in their own backyard. This is such a great way to foster creativity, appreciate the little things, and to create an amazing memory.

You can also set up a nature window in your home for observing birds and wildlife in your backyard.

Now, get out and explore nature!

The great thing about exploring nature in your yard or immediate area is that it can be so simple and low fuss! You don’t have to worry about travel time, packing lunches, paying park entrance fees. You don’t need fancy gear or expensive equipment. All you need to do is open the door!

No matter where you live, you are surrounded by nature. There is nature in the city, in the suburbs, in the country, in the mountains. You don’t need a national park to make you appreciate the beauty of nature. You just need a sense of adventure and a keen eye. As parents, it is so important to take a pause from the busyness of everyday life and just breathe it all in. Take notice. Show the kids. You’ll be glad that you did. 

How will you appreciate nature in your own backyard today? 

About the author

Lauren is a California native turned Texan, who loves to get out in nature and discover hidden gems all around the Dallas/Fort Worth area. She is a wife and homeschooling mama to three kids who definitely keep her on her toes. She truly believes in the value of homeschooling and that there are learning opportunities available all around us. In addition to homeschooling, Lauren is also an entrepreneur; she’s the co-owner of Crunchy Boutique (a natural-living/eco-friendly boutique). 

You can find more from Lauren in the following places:
Instagram: @crunchymamadfw
Facebook: @crunchymamadfw

The post How to Find & Appreciate Nature in Your Own Backyard appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.