Visiting the California Redwoods

We live in an incredibly large and beautiful world. There are more amazing places to visit than there are days in our lives, and deciding where to spend our few precious vacation days is a choice I don’t make lightly. You want somewhere epic, but not overwhelmed by too many people. You want something memorable, but without having to fight for parking.

One place that I find myself returning to time and again is the Redwoods of Northern California. I hope as you read through this post, you will begin to understand the reason why my heart longs to view this stunning scenery. And if you have never experienced redwood trees in person, I hope you will want to!

What are redwoods?

Let’s begin our expedition with a little background knowledge about redwoods. Redwood trees, the towering giants of the plant kingdom, are a living testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. These magnificent trees, scientifically known as Sequoia sempervirens, are native to the west coast of North America, particularly thriving in the coastal regions of California. Redwoods are celebrated not only for their sheer size, with some reaching heights of over 350 feet and diameters of 20 feet but also for their remarkable longevity. Redwood trees can live to be thousands of years old.

Part of the reason they are able to live so long is because of their strong, thick bark. Redwood bark provides protection against pests, fires, and diseases. You might think that redwood trees have deep roots in order to live so long, but that is not the case. They have a shallow root system that intertwines with other redwood trees nearby, and the trees support each other against strong winds, storms, and floods. We can learn a lot from a redwood tree!

The importance of redwood trees

The importance of redwood trees cannot be overstated. Beyond their immense size and longevity, redwoods play a vital role in our ecosystem. Their immense canopies provide habitat for countless species of wildlife, while their root systems stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. These trees also act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping mitigate the effects of climate change. Furthermore, the redwoods have cultural and spiritual significance for Indigenous communities, and they hold a special place in the hearts of all who encounter their majestic presence.

Fostering a connection to nature

Beyond their ecological and cultural significance, the redwoods provide a unique opportunity for people to connect with nature on a profound level, fostering a sense of humility, wonder, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Preserving these extraordinary trees is not just an environmental imperative; it’s a commitment to safeguarding the soul-stirring beauty and ecological balance of our planet.

John Steinbeck wrote of these trees, “The redwoods, once seen, leave a mark or create a vision that stays with you always. From them come silence and awe. They are ambassadors from another time.”

Best places to see redwood trees

Redwoods thrive in the cool, moist climate and can primarily be found along the coast of California, from southern Oregon to central California. Northern California has several places where you can experience the redwoods. My favorites are Redwood National and State Park, Julia Pfiefer Burns State Park, Yosemite National Park, Muir Woods National Monument, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Humboldt Redwoods State Park. There is even a redwood or two in Griffith Park in Los Angeles County. 

As a side note, as you’re walking through the redwood forests, you might notice some familiar scenery. Popular films such as Jurassic Park: The Lost World and Star Wars Return of the Jedi were all filmed in the Redwoods of Northern California. 

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Recently my family and I spent some time in Northern California, amongst the redwoods. Our first stop was Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. We camped here for several nights in the Elk Prairie Campground, named for the adjacent field where the elk are frequently seen. This campground is about an hour south of the California/Oregon border.

This campground has showers, running water, flushing toilets, and several loops to choose your campsite from. There is also wood available for purchase at the campground. Many trails running through the campground will take you through breathtaking redwood forests. Photographs really cannot capture a redwood tree fully because of the height of these beauties, but this was my best attempt!

Biodiversity in redwood forests

The redwood forests of Northern California are a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with a remarkable array of flora and fauna. These ancient and towering giants create a unique microclimate that supports a rich diversity of plant life. Beneath the canopy of the redwoods, you’ll find a lush understory filled with ferns, mosses, and a variety of wildflowers.

Additionally, redwood forests are home to a plethora of bird species, from majestic owls like the northern spotted owl to the colorful and melodic songbirds such as the varied thrush. The canopy itself is inhabited by several arboreal mammals like flying squirrels and tree-dwelling salamanders, showcasing the intricate web of life sustained by these towering trees.

This intricate web of life, from the smallest fern to the grandest elk, illustrates the interconnectedness of the redwood forest ecosystem and the critical importance of preserving these ancient groves for future generations to marvel at and study. The redwood forests of Northern California serve as a living testament to the wonders of nature and a reminder of the urgent need to protect and conserve our planet’s precious biodiversity.

Banana slug for the win

One of the most iconic inhabitants of these forests is the banana slug, a large, bright yellow gastropod that serves as a critical decomposer, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. My kids had a great time exploring the trails, playing at the amphitheater, and looking for critters near the creek. We were so excited to finally find a banana slug! Coming from Southern California, banana slugs were a new discovery for my kiddos. And isn’t “banana slug” such a fitting name for these guys? They could almost pass for a real banana if you ask me!

Exploring Fern Canyon with kids

If you’re only going to be in the area for a short time, my number one recommendation would be to visit Fern Canyon. Exploring Fern Canyon with kids is like stepping into the pages of a storybook where ancient redwoods and lush greenery create a magical, primeval world. Located within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Northern California, Fern Canyon is a place of wonderment that captivates young hearts and sparks their sense of adventure. As you and your children venture into the canyon, you’ll be enveloped by towering walls covered in ferns of all shapes and sizes, offering a verdant, fairy-tale atmosphere that feels straight out of a fantasy movie.

You will need a permit to hike Fern Canyon, and you can get that here. The road getting to the trailhead at Gold Bluffs Beach is not all paved, but we were able to make it in our minivan without any problems. If there has been recent heavy rain, I would recommend bringing a vehicle with 4-wheel drive. The trailhead doesn’t look like anything special, and there are bathrooms, picnic tables, and beach access. The real beauty comes once you get on the trail.

Fern Canyon nature & exploration

Walking through the shallow creek that winds its way through the canyon becomes a delightful game of exploration for kids, as they hop from rock to rock and splash in the crystal-clear waters. The towering redwoods on either side create a cathedral-like setting, where the filtered sunlight plays hide-and-seek with the ferns.

Not surprisingly, there are 5 different types of ferns in this canyon. They start out only on the ground, but as you continue to walk, you’ll start to notice that the walls of the canyon are also teeming with ferns and other greenery. It’s like walking through a magical place unlike anywhere else. Streams run through the canyon, so you’ll want to wear appropriate footwear for mud and water.

What to expect in Fern Canyon

Chances are, if you’re in Humboldt County there will be precipitation at some point as well. We stopped quite a few times along the trail to play in the water, climb on the fallen logs, look at fun rocks, and just enjoy the beauty around us. The 1.1 mile loop took us about an hour to complete.

Fern Canyon provides an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to the wonders of nature, teaching them about ecosystems, plant life, and the importance of conservation in a hands-on, memorable way. As you and your kids traverse this enchanting canyon, you’ll create lasting memories that foster a deep appreciation for the natural world and the ancient redwoods that call it home.

Sue-Meg State Park

A short drive from Fern Canyon is Sue-Meg State Park, formerly known as Patrick’s Point State Park. Exploring Sue-Meg State Park is an enchanting journey into a pristine natural wonderland where the beauty of the outdoors takes center stage. As you meander along its well-maintained trails, you’ll be immersed in lush forests that change with the seasons, providing a kaleidoscope of colors and scents. The park’s pristine lakes and serene waterways are great for kayaking and fishing, while the gentle rustling of leaves overhead and the sweet songs of birds create a symphony of nature that soothes the soul. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or simply savoring the tranquility of this hidden gem, Sue-Meg State Park is a sanctuary where you can reconnect with the natural world and savor moments of peace and serenity.

Sue-Meg also has a small replica of a native village. I find it incredibly interesting to read about how the native peoples lived in the area, especially since they still have a strong influence in Humboldt County and many reservations in the area.  

Agate Beach and campground

Located inside this state park is Agate Beach Campground. While we didn’t stay here, I did note that there are cabins available, so I added it to my list of places to stay in the future. Five minutes along a fairly steep trail from Agate Beach Campground will give you access to Agate Beach.

This beach is filled with millions of tiny stones, and the entire beach is one huge treasure hunt. Many agates (naturally occurring translucent stones) are hidden among the ordinary stones at this beach. I could spend hours digging around looking for them! If you have a kiddo who is into rocks or hunting for treasures, you can get that you’ll spend a lot of time at this beach.

McKinleyville

As a special treat for our kids, we booked the most amazing accommodations in a private redwood forest with creeks and a waterfall for one night of our trip. You can book your stay at these adorable, rustic cabins here. Located in the heart of the Humboldt Coastal Redwoods, these cabins were so lovely for our family. 

The road getting to the cabins was treacherous for our little minivan, but if you have 4 wheel-drive, you should be fine. It was so private, and waking up in the middle of the redwoods with the stream running below was nothing short of a dream. Our kids loved every minute of our time there, and we wish we could have stayed longer. It was a memory we will never forget!

Redwood Park in Arcata

Making your way south from McKinleyville, your next stop should be Redwood Park in Arcata. Arcata is home to Cal Poly-Humboldt, a great university for anyone wanting to go into agriculture. Can you imagine exploring the old-growth redwood forests as part of your higher education? I’m feeling tempted to go back to school just thinking about it!

Exploring Redwood Park in Arcata is like stepping into a living fairy tale, where towering giants of the natural world, the majestic coast redwood trees, reign supreme. This place is a true hidden gem. As you wander along the well-maintained trails, you’ll find yourself dwarfed by trees that can reach heights of over 300 feet, their canopies forming a cathedral-like ambiance that filters the sunlight to create a soft, ethereal glow.

Wildlife and biodiversity

The park’s lush undergrowth, moss-covered fallen logs, and babbling creeks add to its enchantment, while wildlife sightings, including banana slugs and varied bird species, enhance the sense of connection to nature. Redwood Park in Arcata is a sanctuary where you can walk among giants, listen to the whispers of the forest, and rediscover the profound beauty and tranquility of the natural world.

 Even the parking lot of the park is surrounded by towering redwood trees. The minute you begin walking on any of the plentiful trails, you’re immersed in the sights and smells of these old giants. Don’t forget to check under the leaves of the redwood sorrel (looks like a clover), because you might find a color there that you weren’t expecting. 

Swinging from the redwood trees

We were lucky enough to happen upon some rope swings during our time in Redwood Park. These whimsical contraptions blend the simple joys of childhood with the majesty of the redwood forest, offering fun for all ages. For the kids, it’s an opportunity to experience the thrill of swinging amidst towering giants, feeling the wind rush past as they soar through the dappled sunlight. It’s a chance to channel their inner Tarzan or Jane while developing coordination and balance.

Everyone in our family took turns swinging high into the forest on the ropes. The kids all had a blast, so much so that my daughter said that the rope swing was her favorite part of our whole trip! The kids could have stayed and played here for the rest of the day, but we had a couple of other destinations to discover before the end of the day.

Eureka

Heading even farther south from Arcata is one of the bigger cities of Humboldt County, and the heart of the Humboldt Redwoods, Eureka. Known as the “Queen of the West Coast,” Eureka boasts a stunning backdrop of ancient redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean. The city’s Victorian architecture, exemplified by the Carson Mansion and numerous other well-preserved structures, adds an air of timeless elegance to its streets. 

The city’s waterfront is a hub of activity, offering opportunities for kayaking, bird-watching, and scenic strolls along the boardwalk. Beyond its natural and architectural splendor, Eureka is a community known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where local businesses flourish, and a sense of pride in environmental stewardship runs deep.

The city hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its rich history, diverse culture, and the stunning landscape that surrounds it. The Eureka Inn is a functioning hotel with old-world decor and a retro pool area. The Carson Mansion is no longer open to the public, but you can walk past and admire the intricate Victorian building on your way to visit Old Town Eureka. 

Old Town district in Eureka

Eureka’s Old Town district, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant storefronts, invites visitors to step back in time and explore a thriving arts and culture scene. The entire section of Old Town Eureka is on the national registry of historic places. As you walk around you will notice that the Carson Mansion is only one of a large number of beautiful Victorian buildings. If you want to save your steps for later, there are also horse-drawn carriages in Old Town that would be happy to give you a lift.

Sequoia Park

My favorite destination in Eureka is Sequoia Park. Spanning over 67 acres, this park is a haven for locals and visitors alike. The park’s centerpiece is a stunning stand of towering coast redwoods, some reaching heights of over 250 feet, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that invites quiet contemplation and awe. Meandering through the park’s network of trails, visitors can encounter majestic trees, lush ferns, and meandering creeks that together evoke a sense of tranquility and wonder.

Sequoia Park is not only a place of natural beauty but also a hub of community activity, featuring a duck pond, picnic areas, a children’s playground, and a popular gazebo where concerts and events are held. 

This park is located directly next to the Sequoia Park Zoo, which recently added this fantastic skywalk. For a fee, you can take a walk 100 feet up into the redwoods and experience the forest from a completely different perspective. We unfortunately were not able to do the skywalk on this trip, but I have it on my list for next time!

Humboldt State Redwoods and Richardson Grove

Our final night in the land of the redwoods was another amazing one. Driving south on Highway 101 will take you to the entrance to The Avenue of the Giants. This is a windy stretch of highway that is lined on both sides of the road with beautiful redwoods and lush green ferns. Along the road, there are campgrounds, trailheads, gift shops, several state parks, and even Confusion Hill. This is a fun stop where you can walk through the Gravity House and have other wacky adventures.

We drove south through Humboldt Redwoods State Park and camped at Huckleberry Campground at Richardson Grove State Park. This park is a pristine natural gem that showcases the grandeur of ancient redwood forests. Covering 1,800 acres along the South Fork Eel River, the park is renowned for its magnificent old-growth redwoods, some towering over 300 feet in height and dating back centuries. As you wander through the park’s shaded trails, you’ll be enveloped in a world of towering giants, lush ferns, and tranquil streams.

Huckleberry Campground

Huckleberry Campground at Richardson Grove State Park is a tranquil retreat beneath the towering canopy of ancient redwoods. Located along the banks of the meandering South Fork Eel River, this campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts and campers seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The campground features well-maintained sites for tents and RVs, many of which are tucked away in the shade of massive redwood trees, providing a sense of privacy and immersion in the natural world. With access to hiking trails, swimming holes, and the calming sounds of the river, Huckleberry Campground is a perfect base for exploring the awe-inspiring beauty of Richardson Grove State Park and experiencing the magic of the redwoods up close. In the summer, you can access a fun swimming hole in the river just a short walk from the visitor’s center. 

The diversity of a California road trip

From Richardson Grove, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive to get to San Francisco. That’s material for another day! The entire state of California has so much to offer us as outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape is extremely diverse, from the northern end of the state to the southern end. While you may think of California as sunny, sandy beaches with surfers galore, the northern half of the state has a completely different vibe. You certainly don’t want to swim in the ocean water of Northern California without an extremely thick wetsuit. 

If you’re looking for a more serene, less crowded vacation destination, I hope you will take Northern California into consideration. If you’re heading north up towards Oregon, you’ll definitely want to check out this West Coast road trip post about NorCal and Oregon.  No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack a jacket and prepare for amazement!

Have you ever explored the California redwood forests?

About the author

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

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

The post Exploring the California Redwoods with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Best parks and playgrounds in San Diego

San Diego really is my favorite city. One of the reasons I love San Diego so much is because it has some of the best parks, playgrounds, and outdoor public spaces for kids and families. As a San Diego resident for over 20 years (13 of those as a mom), I can’t even tell you how many hours I have spent at the lovely parks in and around San Diego.

Park time was especially important when my kids were little, and we lived in an apartment. During those early days of motherhood, I had two rambunctious little boys that needed time outside to burn some energy. Now we have 4 older kiddos, but we still frequent many of the best parks in San Diego.

There are two types of public parks in San Diego: city parks and county parks. The city parks typically have less acreage than county parks, are free, and there are many more city parks than county parks. Whether you’re here on vacation, new to the city, or a long-time resident looking for a new place to explore, here is my list of the 10 best parks in San Diego.

Best city parks in San Diego 

1. Maruta Gardner

We call this the “pink park” because, you guessed it, a lot of the structure of this park is pink! Maruta Gardner is a fairly new park and was built in the last few years. Because it’s so new and so much fun, you will likely never have the park all to yourself. There are so many different things to play on here that it can accommodate a lot of people without seeming too crowded. 

The main feature of this San Diego park is a giant pink slide. It’s wide enough to fit several kids (or adults!), side by side, and it has a definite spring to it. You’ll see kids slide, jump, run, and bounce down this amazing piece of equipment. Getting to the top of the slide is quite the adventure, as well. A wave-shaped climbing structure is how you gain access to the summit of the slide.

In addition to the giant pink slide, Maruta Gardner also has built-in hammocks and spinning toys. The smaller playground for younger kids, a saucer swing, and a four-person teeter-totter with seats are also fun. What more could the kids want?

Adults will be happy to know that this park is conveniently located near a variety of shops and restaurants. It’s the closest city park to Belmont Park, a permanent outdoor carnival of sorts featuring the Giant Dipper roller coaster and other carnival-type attractions. Maruta Gardner is right on the bay. It’s across the street from Mission Beach, and has built-in cement seating with umbrellas for shade. 

2. Old Poway Park

About 30 minutes east of downtown San Diego is Old Poway Park, also known as “The City in the Country.” This park makes it to the top 10 best because it’s like going back in time. They really live up to the “Old” in their name. The park has a Heritage Museum, the Nelson House depicting life back in the early 20th century, and our favorite- the Poway Midland Railroad. For a few dollars, you and your kids can take a ride around the park on this full-sized, vintage railroad. Your budding engineers will be over the moon as they circle the park on the train. 

If you happen to be in the area over Christmas, you won’t want to miss Christmas in the Park. Santa will arrive on the train, and the park will be all decked in lights. It’s a magical experience! During the other months, you can find a farmer’s market every Saturday morning. The Hamburger Factory restaurant is also open year-round.

Across the street from the train depot is a small but fun playground, softball fields, and a little pond. You’ll feel like you stepped back in time when you’re at Old Poway Park.

3. Liberty Station

San Diego has a rich military history, which is reflected in various ways at the parks of Liberty Station. The land that Liberty Station sits on used to be the Naval Training Center. Then it was moved to the new location nearby. As you walk around Liberty Station, you will notice a plethora of flags, plaques, and other military items. There is even a 2/3 scale destroyer ship called the Recruit that you can walk around. 

If you have a little one that enjoys airplanes, this park is for you. It’s directly in the flight path of the San Diego International Airport, and every few minutes, you will see and hear, a plane overhead quite close. 

Liberty Station has two playgrounds next to each other, separated by the bathrooms. One playground is for the younger crowd, and the other is for older kids. It’s nice to have the separation if you have kids similar in age. If you have more than one child and think they might want to be at different playgrounds, I would consider bringing along a second set of hands in case you need to split up. This park has an extensive bike path meandering along the water. We taught three of our kids how to ride a bike here because it’s very flat and has a lot of long, straight cement paths. There are also cement picnic tables near the playground.

When you’re done riding bikes and playing on the playground, there are many other options for things to do outside nearby. You could play some basketball at the basketball courts, or fly a kite on the large grassy areas. It’s usually windy at Liberty Station, so you will probably have success with a kite. You’ll want to make sure you have a jacket, though, because the wind can be a bit chilly coming off the water.

Another great advantage of Liberty Station is all of the amazing shopping and dining just a few minutes walk away. The Public Market has a variety of phenomenal food choices, and you’ll want to stop at Moniker General for a cup of coffee and do a little shopping as well.

4. Fanuel Street Park

If you’re looking for a quiet, tucked-away park, Fanuel Street is the best spot for you. Located in the Pacific Beach area of San Diego, Fanuel Street is the perfect stop along a long bike/jogging path. You’re sure to see bikers, walkers, rollerbladers, runners, and even roller skaters. If you brought bikes or scooters, this is a great place to use them. 

In the summertime, Fanuel Street Park is a great alternative to the beach. There are no waves because the park is on the bay side, and there are significantly fewer people here than at the beach. It’s a good spot to let the kids cool off in the water. Fanuel Street is also an easy spot to launch a paddle board or kayak from. The water is calm, and the views are spectacular. 

Another draw of Fanuel Street Park is the large grassy area near the bathrooms. We like to bring a soccer ball or the RC car here because there is a lot of space to kick a ball and drive the car.

One unique aspect of this park is the small pod of cement dolphins set in the sand near the playground. I can’t even count the hours my kids have played on these dolphins! They’re a nice little San Diego touch that you don’t find at a lot of playgrounds. The one drawback to this park is that the parking is limited. Other than that you’re going to love it!

5. Moonlight State Beach Park

There are various beaches around San Diego that also have parks and playgrounds, but Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas pretty much has it all. From a snack bar to boogie board rentals, you won’t find yourself wanting for anything. 

The playground at Moonlight is fun, but there is so much more to do here than just slide on the slides. There are volleyball courts, fire pits, outdoor showers, large bathrooms, palm cabana umbrellas, beach access, a shop with beach rentals, a snack bar, and lifeguards on duty. 

This beach park has a large dedicated parking lot and street parking. The lot is situated above the beach, so the view while you look for a parking spot will be priceless. You’ll notice as you walk to the beach that you’re admiring the grand Pacific Ocean. The waves here are not small and there can be currents/rip tides. Make your beach day a success with these tips.

6. Tecolote Shores

Quite possibly the newest park in San Diego is Tecolote Shores. Any San Diegan with kids was anticipating the opening of this park, and it finally happened late last year. 

Tecolote Shores is a great place to be if you have kids that span the ages. Half of the park is more like an outdoor gym, with stationary bikes and machines for resistance training. The other half of the park is a large playground with slides, swings, and these cute spinning egg chairs. Dividing the two parts of the park is a covered area with picnic tables. 

The ground here is that squishy playground material, which makes it great for when someone takes a spill because it isn’t as abrasive as cement. There is also a good-sized sand pit, so don’t leave the bag of sand toys in the car!

Our favorite part of Tecolote Shores park is the climbing rope. There is actually a bell you can ring at the top of the rope, and the kids get so much satisfaction from being able to ring the bell! It also affords an opportunity for some teamwork.

The playground at Tecolote Shores is surrounded by large fields of grass, and is located right along Mission Bay. The jogging path here is about 3 miles one way, so if you’re training for a race, this is a great spot. The only downside is that the bathrooms are not that close. It will take you several minutes to walk to the nearest bathroom, or maybe even more if your toddlers are as distracted as mine were!

7. Coronado Tidelands Park

If you’re looking for a park with great views of the city, go no further than Tidelands Park in Coronado. It’s located on Coronado Island, a man-made island accessible by the iconic Coronado Bridge. 

My favorite part of this park is its accessibility. The newer part of the playground has an ADA-accessible ramp. The ramp leads to a “boat” that can also accommodate a wheelchair. My boys loved playing on that boat!

The playground and great views aren’t the only great things about this park. It also has bathrooms near the playground and a large grassy area. The grassy area is perfect for a game of tag! There are also baseball fields and a bike path. Head north on the bike path and you’ll end up at Ferry Landing. Here there are shops, restaurants, and a ferry that can take you downtown.

Best county parks in San Diego

8. Felicita County Park

This 346-acre park is located in the eastern part of San Diego County. Because of its distance from downtown, Felicita Park has a completely different feel than the busier city parks. The trails here are dirt, and Felicita Creek runs year-round through the park. Apart from the ocean, you don’t see much water flowing in San Diego. This creek is a novelty to us San Diegans! 

The fee to park here is $3. Gates to the park open at 9:30 am and close at sunset. Park rangers enforce these times, so you’ll need to make sure you’re wrapping up and heading out at the appropriate time. 

The oak trees growing here are very mature and provide ample shade. Even though it gets warmer in East County, you can find a lot of places in Felicita Park that are shaded. 

While the over 1.5 miles of hiking trails here are dirt paths, there are two playground areas with paved sidewalks perfect for scooters or other wheeled adventures. The playgrounds have shade sails up too, so if you’re visiting in the hotter months the slide shouldn’t burn your legs on the way down! 

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Felicita Park was once a large Kumeyaay Indian village. Today there is a small museum relating the history of the park, as well as a TRACK trail scavenger hunt. The TRACK trail website has a variety of activities to do along the trail, and when you log the information onto the website, your kids can win prizes for the time they spent at the park. 

9. San Dieguito County Park

Heading up the coast from downtown San Diego and a little bit inland, you will find the beautiful, 100-acre San Dieguito County Park. There are two main parts of this park, an upper and a lower section, connected by a series of trails and an area known as Activity Hill. Activity Hill has viewing platforms where you can see the ocean, rope bridges, and audio panels that teach you about the wildlife and history of the park, and two TRACK trails.

If you enter at the upper park entrance, there is some free off-street parking, or you can pay $3 to park anywhere inside the park. The upper park has five different playgrounds, each a little different from the other. The two closest to the entrance are fairly small, so if you’re looking for a peaceful experience, you might want to start here. The two newer playgrounds just up the hill are typically busier, but all of these playground areas have bathrooms close by. 

The lower park doesn’t have playgrounds, but it does have large expanses of grassy areas that are wonderful for picnicking. It also has a butterfly garden and lots of great climbing trees!

10. Santee Lakes

It’s hard to categorize Santee Lakes as a park because it is so much more, but I couldn’t leave it off the list. Santee Lakes has a campground, a small splash pad, multiple playgrounds, 5 lakes, fishing, ducks to feed, and our favorite- paddle boats! 

I also love that there are so many picnic areas surrounded by mature trees to enjoy. Many of the picnic areas also have a built-in barbeque so you can enjoy a warm meal outside.

The entrance fee here is $7 per vehicle, so it’s somewhere that you would want to plan to spend the day. With so many activities, it’s not difficult to find a variety of things to do while you’re here. And if you’re into fishing or your kiddos want to try fishing for the first time, this is a great place to start. The lakes are stocked with fish year-round.

Santee Lakes is a series of 7 man-made lakes that were built with the purpose of highlighting what can be done with recycled water. Every day 2 million gallons are water are recycled to create what you see in the lakes. About 230 species of birds either reside at the lakes or make a short stop here during the colder months, making this an excellent place for birdwatching!

Best San Diego parks and playgrounds

All of these parks are within about 30 minutes of each other. That’s one of the things I love so much about San Diego. There is so much variety within just a few miles, and never a lack of somewhere new to explore. I’ve lived here for over twenty years and am still discovering new parks, hiking trails, gardens, tidepools, beaches, etc.

These ten parks are just a tiny percentage of the many outdoor spaces in San Diego that are fun and family-friendly. San Diego can be an expensive place to be in, so if you’re on a budget, any one of these parks will suit your wallet just fine.

Next time you’re in San Diego and find yourself needing some outside time with wide open spaces, I hope you end up at one of these ten best parks. 

About the author

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

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

The post Best Parks in San Diego appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post contains affiliate links.

Things to consider when purchasing a surfboard

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

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

Sizing of surfboards for kids

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

Foam surfboards are great for kids

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

Where to buy a surfboard for kids

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

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

Best surfboards for kids under 6 years old

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

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

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

Best surfboard for children ages 6-9

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

Weight

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

Shape/width

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

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

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

Easy transport

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

Price

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

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

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

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

Weight

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

Shape

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

Fins

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

Waxing

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

Price

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

Teaching kids how to surf

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

Start in the whitewash

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

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

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

Move from laying on the surfboard to standing

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

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

Paddling on the surfboard

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

Surfing the larger waves

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

Getting past the breakers

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

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

Surfing technique for kids

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

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

Surfing with kids

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

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

Additional resources

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

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

About the author

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

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

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

Experience gifts for kids

With the holidays upon us, you’ve most likely been searching Amazon for gifts to give your kids this year. Then you look up from your phone and see a pile of toy cars on the floor, a tea set with only 2 cups left at the play kitchen, dolls, trucks, and rocket ships with missing astronauts strewn throughout the living room. Do they really need one more toy?

The problem is, you want them to have the magic that comes with opening a beautifully wrapped present, but you don’t want to live with any more clutter. How do you make both a reality?

Solution- experience gifts. There are so many ways to give gifts that don’t require any more clutter in your house. This list of experience gifts for kids will open your eyes to a variety of gifts that won’t just get thrown in a closet but will allow you to create lasting memories with your children. The truth is, they don’t want things- they want YOU, your time, and your attention. 

Botanical garden/arboretum season pass

Season passes to a local botanical garden or arboretum are great for any outdoorsy kid and family. Many botanic gardens have an area created especially for children. The majority of the gardens also participate in a reciprocal program, which means that if you purchase a season pass to the botanic garden in your area there are many other gardens that you can access with your pass in other areas. It’s the experience gift that keeps on giving! The American Horticulture Society also sells passes that give you access to gardens across the US. Botanic gardens are also located in countries around the world.

Sporting events 

One of our family’s favorite experience gifts to give the kids are tickets to a sporting event. Take them out to the ballgame! Baseball, basketball, football, soccer, gymnastics, diving, lacrosse – the list of sporting events you could take your children to is endless. Choose a sport (or a team) that your child is interested in and gift tickets this holiday. 

It doesn’t have to be a professional game either. Think about supporting a local college or high school. How about tickets to a sporting event hosted at your alma mater and show them around campus. You can sometimes get season tickets to your local minor league baseball team for less than the price of one major league game. There are also usually mini-packs of tickets available around the holidays so you can spread the games out over the season. You could even purchase a ball or jersey from the team and wrap that to put under the tree along with the tickets. 

Amusement parks

Tickets to an amusement park (or the mecca of all amusement parks…Disney) make a great gift for a child. Let’s face it, the magic of Disney is a real thing. Watching your child meet Mickey Mouse or their favorite princess for the first time is a priceless experience. But it doesn’t have to be Disney – there are amusement parks across the country with a variety of options. If you live close to an amusement park consider a season pass so you don’t feel the need to go and stay until closing. If it’s a bit of a drive, a one day pass could be sufficient. For the little ones, amusement parks with water features are fun. For the teenagers, choose an amusement park with lots of big roller coasters. 

Family fun centers

On a smaller scale than an amusement park, many cities have family fun centers. This is usually something like mini-golf, go-karts, maybe even bumper cars or bumper boats. Other fun centers do ninja courses, laser tag, indoor rock climbing, arcades, ziplines, high ropes courses, etc. Sometimes they sell yearly passes, but even a night out for mini golf and frozen yogurt afterward is appealing to most kids. 

Road trips

Taking a road trip with your kids is always a fun adventure! You could coordinate the destination to somewhere that interests them or make it a first. What is your child interested in? Find a location, museum, destination, or adventure that promotes that interest. Or take them somewhere that they can experience something in nature for the first time. If your child has never been to the ocean, find a beach house to go to. If they’ve never seen snow before, plan a trip to a ski resort. Include them in the planning and map out the route together. Who knows, you might even find your way to the biggest ball of yarn or something equally impressive!

When I was in elementary school I was obsessed with the Little House on the Prairie Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. One summer my grandparents took me (just the three of us) on a trip from California to Missouri (the place where Laura wrote all of her books) and back. We stayed in KOA’s along the way, and it was unforgettable!

Camping

Have your kids ever been camping? This could be your chance. I truly believe that there is something incredibly magical about sleeping in the great outdoors. Gift your child the experience of camping – it just might change their life! 

If it will be their first time camping, the excitement will be through the roof! If your kids have been camping before, use this as an opportunity to try a new campsite to change it up. When they’re old enough, you could make this trip special by giving them a specific task. For example, wrap up a flint and steel and tell them they’re in charge of making the campfire this time. Chances are they’ll want to make a fire the minute you drive up to the campsite!

Cabins/yurts/glamping

If tent camping isn’t your thing, there are lots of other fun options! Who doesn’t love staying in a cozy cabin in the woods or by a lake? How about a yurt with an open-top where you can see the stars at night? Maybe it’s the coziness of the wooden beams or the rustic feel, but kids love experiences like this! Yurts and glamping tents are also becoming more and more prevalent at campgrounds across the country. Getting away from home even just for one night will excite your kids more than you might think. Add that excitement to an epic location and it’s an experience gift that puts any remote control car to shame!

Backpacking

For the extra adventurous family, try backpacking as an experience gift. Backpacks and backpacking gear are available to rent at some sporting goods stores like REI, but if you plan on making this a tradition you could buy a backpack as part of the gift. There is a great sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing you were able to carry everything you need to stay alive for a couple days. Backpacking teaches perseverance, mental strength, and so many other important life skills. This is an experience gift that has lasting positive effects for your child’s health as well as the health of your relationship with them. Here’s a great post on how to get started backpacking with kids and everything you need to pack. 

Water activities 

Sure, it’s winter, but that doesn’t mean we can’t look ahead to warmer days and plan our experience gifts accordingly. Now is a good time to plan ahead and book fun water activities like canoeing, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, etc. Maybe there’s a reservoir near you that has inflatable trampolines you can purchase tickets for. How about a tubing company that will take you down the local river. Rent a pontoon boat for the day and cruise your local lake. Or gift sailing lessons so that your kids can learn a valuable skill. These gifts will teach patience as your kids wait in anticipation for the time when they can cash in on their gift!

Lessons/clinics 

Has your child been asking you to sign them up for a specific sport such as tennis, basketball, soccer, or dance? Do they have a favorite activity that they can’t get enough of? Now is the perfect time to get them on the roster, or even get one-on-one attention in a specific sport. The skills they learn will mean so much more than any toy. This could be something like horseback riding lessons, a private hitting/pitching lesson, rock climbing lessons, ice skating, or dance lessons. A couple of years ago my son was gifted private swim lessons and it was such a great experience for him.  

Classes/courses

Maybe it isn’t sports that your child is really into, but something like painting, baking, or pottery. Local rec centers often have a variety of classes that offer great exposure to different areas that your child might want to try. In my experience, the cost is reasonable, too. If you aren’t worried about cost, try looking into private companies to see if they have a course for your child’s age group. Sometimes courses can even be done online – there are lots of online courses for kids on photography, art, music, and more. 

Restaurant date

Experience gifts don’t have to cost a lot of money. It could be as simple as a dinner out at their favorite restaurant, but just with mom or just with dad. Make it extra memorable by getting dressed up in your fancy clothes. Especially if you have more than one child, this gift will make all the difference. It’s difficult to find the time in the business of our lives to really sit down and listen to one child for an extended period of time. This provides the perfect setting to do just that. You could even let them choose the restaurant. Don’t be surprised at how long the smile stays on your child’s face after a night out with you and only you!

Dinner/meal at home

This doesn’t sound that exciting at first, but if you have a child that likes to cook or bake like my daughter does this could mean the world to them. Let your child plan the menu, find the perfect recipes, then go shopping for the ingredients together. You could even make a centerpiece for the table and bring out the good china and linen napkins. Or, set a blanket out in the yard and make it a picnic. Kids love getting the opportunity to show off their skills and be helpful. Serving a meal that they made (start to finish) will make them so proud. Chances are, years down the road she’ll say, “Remember that one time when we …” and think back on this experience fondly!

Musical performance/concert

For the musically inclined kid, a concert might be the perfect experience gift. There are indoor and outdoor venues all over the world that play all different kinds of music. Gift tickets to your child’s favorite band or singer. If your child plays an instrument, consider purchasing tickets to a performance where that specific instrument is featured. Local symphonies often put on family-friendly performances (sometimes to movies) that are perfect for kids. 

Drive-in movie

Drive-in movie night is always a really fun experience for a kid. Winter is my favorite time to take the kids to the drive in because it gets dark so much earlier, and they can still get to bed at a reasonable hour. (The mom in me is always concerned about bedtime!) We do live in a fairly temperate climate though, so if you have to plan this one for a warmer season, that works too. Grab some cozy blankets and their favorite snacks and you’ll be set! If you don’t live near a drive-in, check out this post about hosting your own family movie night.

Museums 

Children’s museums are absolutely amazing experiences and passes/tickets to one would make a great gift for a child or a family. I can still remember going to the children’s museum as a kid because I had so much fun! These places are built specifically with kids in mind, so take advantage of them if you have one in your area! In addition to children’s museums, there are science museums, space museums, art museums, and the list goes on. While not all museums are made specifically for little ones, many at least have a children’s area. Teenagers or tweens that have specific interests would appreciate you taking notice of what is important to them.

Ice skating

Make the magic of the holidays last a little bit longer with a trip to the ice rink! Buy a season pass or just go for a couple of hours, but ice skating is an experience that no one should miss out on. Ice skating is something that the whole family can do together. Depending on where you live, you could find outdoor ice skating rinks or even frozen ponds so you get the fresh air while skating. Oftentimes these places also have fire pits for warming up (or making s’mores), as well as hot chocolate and other goodies. 

Rock climbing/bouldering

Have you ever been to a rock climbing gym? My kiddos have been asking to go back for months because they had such a great time! Rock climbing is a great activity because it is adaptive to many different skill levels, and it gives your children the opportunity to try and try again until they reach the top. Many climbing gyms offer open climb time for kids in a “kid-friendly” climbing area. Or, you could sign up for lessons and learn proper climbing and belaying techniques in the big gym. If you want the real deal and have children that are able to, bouldering is also a fun option. 

Laser tag

Laser tag is a super fun and active game for kids (and the whole family). Some arcades or family fun centers have a laser tag option, other places specialize in laser tag. If you’ve never played before, you’re in for such a fun time. One of my sons is asking for a laser tag kit for Christmas this year. Whether you have the kit at home or not, laser tag is so much fun! (Alternative option: paintball.)

Ziplining

Ziplining is a great activity for any little adventurer, but not for the faint of heart. If you have a daredevil child or one that’s really into pushing the limits and trying new things, ziplining could be a fun experience gift. Be sure to check on the height or age limit at your local zipline location. Sometimes, depending on the course, the company will have certain limits in place, but if your children are eligible then I highly recommend trying the ziplines. Last January my family and I did a nighttime zipline course over the river that was lined with Christmas lights and we had so much fun! And if heights bother you, maybe now is your chance to let your children see you face your fears! 

Zoo/animal experience

Zoos also make really fun experience gifts for kids. Where else can you go and see lions, tigers, and bears all in one day? The zoo is a huge hit with the little ones, but if it’s been a while, I bet even your teenagers would have a good time at the zoo. Our local zoo offers the chance for kids to “adopt” an animal – they receive a certificate and a stuffed animal that represents the animal they adopted. The money goes towards feeding and caring for the animal. Sometimes zoos offer classes or camps that teach kids how to care for animals. Some zoos even offer special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours or the opportunity to be a zookeeper for the day. If you have a little one that’s really interested in animals, this would make a great gift! 

Aquarium

Even if you don’t live near the coast, you might have an aquarium near you. Seeing all of the living things that make the water their home is astounding. Tickets or season passes to an aquarium could be an amazing experience gift. Aquariums can be pricy, so a special trip to the aquarium is usually a big treat for our kids. Aquariums are great learning experiences as well, as we all learn something new every time we visit. 

Driving range or Top Golf

I never imagined my kids getting into golfing much, but one of my boys really loves going to the driving range! Gift certificates to your local driving range would make a great experience gift for a kid that’s into golf. Some smaller golf courses charge a small fee to rent a club and a big bucket of golf balls, so it might not be as expensive as you might think. Or, if you have a Top Golf location near you, a gift certificate there might be a fun experience for the whole family. You can rent a bay and challenge each other to any of the fun games! 

Batting cages

Even if your kids have never played baseball or softball, a trip to the batting cages can still be a hit (pun intended). Most batting cages allow you to set the speed of the ball so a beginner can still be successful. Alternatively, you can increase the speed if you have an experienced batter on your hands. Most kids who have played on a baseball team before will tell you their favorite part is hitting the ball, so batting cages give you just the best part. Don’t forget to step up to the plate yourself for a few pitches and show the kids how it’s done (or what not to do). 

Photo session

If you have a child who loves to ham it up for the camera, a professional photo session would be the perfect experience gift. It could be a mommy and me session, daddy and me session, individual session, or even a best friends session. Photographers can also set up fun experiences for your kids based on their interests. For example, a photo session at a professional ballpark or at a dance studio. Maybe the photographer could come take photos of them doing a sport that they love or at one of their games. Can you order prints and hang them on the wall or the fridge. Make a book for them to flip through anytime they like. Studies show that children who have their photos on display in their homes have overall better self-esteem. 

Experiences matter

The list of experience gifts you will want to give your children will change over time as they get older and their interests change. One thing that will remain constant is the fact that when you spend time with your children, those experiences will shape them into the people they grow up to be. There are so many things in the world today that want to influence your children. If you want to be the biggest influence in their lives, that is going to take time, not things. This year, invest in gifts that show them you’re willing to put in the time for them. Plan to do the one-on-one activities as well as the whole family adventures. Next year instead of a bunch of lost or broken toys, you’ll have a photo album full of smiles.

What are your favorite experience gifts?

About the author

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

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

The post Experience Gifts for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Gardening in all shapes and sizes

One of my favorite things about gardening is that it can usually be done anywhere, with whatever you have available. There are so many different ways to have a garden! You might have an in-ground garden in the backyard, raised beds in a community garden, pots/containers sitting on a windowsill, or maybe you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse. All of these are great choices and there’s no one right way to garden. Don’t feel that you need to have acres and acres of land to be a gardener. Even containers on your patio can produce more than you might think during the fall season. 

How to prep your soil for a fall garden

The first thing you need to do to get ready for planting a fall garden is to get your soil ready. You’ll want to start with good soil so that your plants have what they need to grow strong. For a raised bed or in-ground garden, you’ll want to amend your soil. To amend soil means to improve it with additional materials. Soil amendments improve the physical nature of your soil. They reduce compaction, aerating the soil to allow water and nutrients to more easily move through it and reach plant roots. Some soil amendments also add nutrients to the soil, help retain moisture and help maintain the correct pH balance. Examples of soil amendments are potting soil, compost, peat moss, etc. 

In San Diego, the city dump sells a truck bed full of compost for $12 and it’s AMAZING! I mix the compost into my existing garden soil and have had great success with it. If you are planting in pots or other containers, don’t scrimp on the potting soil. You get what you pay for in this situation. Go to your local nursery and ask them what brand of potting soil they recommend for vegetables. In my experience, employees at local nurseries are quite knowledgeable or can at least direct you to someone who has answers. That hasn’t been the case for me at bigger chain stores. If you end up there, look for a potting soil specifically made for container vegetable gardening. 

Planting your fall garden

Now you’re sitting there looking at your beautiful, possibly smelly soil, and wondering what to plant. My number one recommendation is radishes. Radishes are so much fun to grow with kids! They sprout in 3 – 6 days. This is perfect for little ones who lose interest in things very easily. Every day after it sprouts you will notice a little bit of growth in the radish. Some varieties of radishes are even ready to harvest in just 21 days!

Here are a couple of the varieties I planted with my kids this fall. Don’t they look like something fun to eat?

Cool-season vegetables for fall gardening

Here’s a list of fall/cool-season vegetables that do well in a fall garden:

• lettuces
• beets
• kale
• broccoli
• carrots
• spinach
• peas
• turnips
• parsnips
• onions
• mustard greens
• endive
• arugula
• bok choy
• cabbage
• cauliflower
• Brussel sprouts
• rhubarb
• celery
• radishes

Peas are definitely favorites with my kids. We planted three different varieties of peas in our fall garden this year. One variety has an edible pod, one snow pea variety, and one with purple pods.

Get to know your growing zone

I live in San Diego, California, USA. We have a very mild climate. When it hits 65 degrees Fahrenheit I’m probably going to bring out my down jacket. You might live somewhere where even 50 degrees means shorts and a t-shirt. You and I won’t have the same success growing the same plants.

The climate you live in will determine what plants you will be most successful at growing right now. This is something known as a growing zone, planting zone, or hardiness zone. If you live in the United States you can find the zone you live in by your zip code. If you live outside the US, you can find your zone as well. Once you know your zone you can get a list of specified plants that will thrive in your climate. Choosing plants that grow well in your planting zone will set you up for gardening success. 

How to pick seeds for your fall garden

I love picking out my seeds for my garden. I order my seeds from a company called Baker Creek Seeds. This company has a large selection of heirloom seeds. The term “heirloom” is usually applied to fruit, flower, or vegetable varieties that were being grown before World War II. Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated, meaning that, unlike hybrids, seeds you collect from one year will produce plants with most of the characteristics of the parent plant. And that’s key to their survival. Many heirloom varieties were preserved by home gardeners who saved seeds from their family gardens from year to year. 

It’s also fun to plant new varieties of common veggies because they look and taste a little different. My kids get so excited when they pull a purple carrot out of the ground! The photos above show the seeds that we planted this fall. Pumpkins aren’t really considered a cool-weather crop, but all of my previous attempts with pumpkins this year were sabotaged by pests. I threw a few pumpkin seeds in the ground hoping I might have something to show by Thanksgiving!

Sometimes gardening is just trial and error friends. You never know what will happen (grow or fail) year over year. A fall garden doesn’t need to be perfect. Never take it too seriously! Let your kids get involved in the process of picking out seeds to plant. They’ll be more excited about growing fruits and veggies if they were part of the process. 

Getting started now with your fall garden

Are you feeling inspired to get your fall garden started, yet? Great! Don’t worry about having everything ready right away. To get started, you just need a few small paper cups, soil, and seeds! 

You can get your seeds started growing long before your garden space or beds are ready for the plants. Last fall, I didn’t have my raised beds ready to plant just yet but I really wanted to get my seeds going. I poked a hole in some Dixie cups and started germinating some sugar snap peas.

Putting the cups in a plastic or cardboard container will help keep the soil in the cups moist. I wouldn’t recommend doing this with any root vegetables, but lettuces or peas grow well when started in smaller containers. You can even put them indoors for a couple of weeks if you have to.

The garden classroom

One of my favorite shirts is from Nature Supply Co and it says, “Not all classrooms have four walls.” Gardens are proof of that and can serve as amazing classrooms! Your kids will learn not only the life cycle of plants and the cyclical nature of the seasons, but also important life skills. Kids need patience when waiting for seeds to sprout or for a vegetable to mature. They learn vigilance by going to the garden daily and checking for pests. Their self-control increases by not watering the soaking wet soil even though watering is so much fun.

They will get outside, see the sun coming up in the east and setting in the west as they work in the garden this fall. They will pay attention to shadows and sunshine and rainy days, but only if you give them the opportunity. A garden is a beautiful way to reconnect together over a common project. 

Tell me and I will forget. Show me and I may remember. Involve me and I will understand.” Confucius

Involve your kids

You’ve probably heard the quote by Confucius above. That holds true in the fall garden. You could make your soil rich and beautiful on your own, choose and purchase all the seeds, set up timed irrigation, and just let your kids help plant the seeds. This would still be a good experience, but imagine how much more meaningful that garden would be if you involved your children in all aspects of the planning. Planning! There’s a life skill I forgot to mention.

Let them find the volume of the raised bed. Ask them to calculate how many bags of garden soil and compost you will need to fill those beds. Let them get their hands dirty mixing the soil. Browse the seed catalog together and let them choose what they want to plant. Read the back of the seed packet with them and figure out together if you have enough space to plant an entire packet of radish seeds. Buy a special gardening notebook and keep track of the days you planted. Then research together when you can expect your harvest. Gosh, the possibilities here are endless! 

Even the smallest kids can get involved in gardening

Think your kids are too young to garden? There are chores for all ages when it comes to fall gardening! My youngest isn’t super young anymore, but he does love to bring his spray bottle out to the garden and water for me. Even a toddler can manage a small spray bottle. Just plan on changing clothes afterward, if you need to! If your kids are anything like mine, they won’t stay dry for long. And if you have cats, they’ll find somewhere to hide pretty quickly.

Additional benefits of gardening for kids

I could go on and on about the benefits of gardening with your kids. We didn’t even talk about the whole nutrition aspect, learning about where food comes from, or the positive impact playing in the dirt has on a child. Cornell University has a wealth of information detailing what researchers have found in relation to kids and gardening. Statistics are great and all, but on a personal level I have found that being in the garden provides me with a great way to spend quality time with my kids. We do taste tests, find bugs, get dirty, and have a lot of fun.

There’s no time like the present to start something new, so get growing!
What will you plant in your garden this fall?

About the author

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

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

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

{This post contains affiliate links.}

35 pool games for kids

For most of us, summertime means a lot of time playing at the pool. But have you ever spent hours gathering the floaties, swimsuits, sunscreen, towels, goggles, etc. just to have your kids complain of being cold a few minutes after getting to the pool and ask to leave?  Or maybe you are one of the lucky ones that have a pool at home, but the novelty of it has worn off. Maybe your kids are in the pool all the time asking you to join them but you don’t appreciate getting splashed, kicked, and pushed around while you’re swimming with them.

Well, I have a solution. Today I’m sharing the best pool games for swimmers of all ages and abilities. These pool games will keep both you and your kids occupied for hours of pool time fun. Just don’t forget that sunscreen!

(Adult supervision is always recommended when kids are in/around water)

The best pool games for kids

1. Secret message
2. Pool tea party
3. Obstacle course
4. Follow the leader
5. Human raft
6. Synchronized swimming
7. Mermaids
8. Timed dives
9. Relay races
10. Diving Olympics
11. One push across the pool
12. Sharks and minnows
13. Pool fishing
14. Pool noodle surfing
15. Scuba divers
16. Marco polo
17. Raft races
18. Noodle joust
19. Number crunch
20. Chicken fight
21. Bobbers
22. Invisible bottle
23. Tread challenge
24. Atomic whirlpool
25. Belly flop contest
26. Catch it
27. Duck push
28. Pool basketball
29. Freeze tag
30. HORSE
31. Water polo
32. Simon says
33. Water gun battle
34. Mr. Shark
35. Earn your allowance

1. Secret messages

This game can be played with anyone that can talk. So, even if you have a non-swimmer (or a weak swimmer) who likes to hang out on the stairs, they can still participate.

To play: Start by choosing someone to say the message (usually one or two words) and someone to be the guesser. Go underwater at the same time. The messenger says a word loudly underwater. When you get back up the guesser has to say what word they think the person said. Consider choosing a theme, like animals or fruits, to make it a little easier to guess the word.

2. Pool tea party

You’ll need goggles and a shallow end for this pool game. Tea party is played at the bottom of the pool with your eyes open. Sometimes we like to hold hands, other times we need our hands to help propel us down to the bottom.

To play: Take a deep breath and wriggle your body into a crisscross applesauce position at the bottom of the pool. This is the hardest part of the game! Once you get down there, blow bubbles out of your mouth and pretend to sip from your imaginary teacup. The best part is seeing how silly everyone looks as they flail about trying to stay down at the bottom of the pool! After that, repeat until you’re laughing so hard that you can’t hold your breath anymore.

3. Obstacle course: pool version

This pool game is perfect for all ages because you can customize the obstacle course to meet the abilities of the players. You can make the course as simple or as complicated as you like, depending on who is playing. Feel free to add in pool floats, pool noodles, hula hoops, or other props as part of this pool game. 

To play: The hardest part is making up the course, after that, it is all fun! An example of a pool obstacle course looks like this: Slide down the slide. Swim across the pool and touch the number 3. Float on your back for 5 seconds. Do a handstand. Touch the side of the pool with your big toe. Climb up the ladder. Do a cannonball in the deep end. Swim backwards to the shallow end. Spin around 3 times. Do 3 jumping jacks.  

4. Follow the leader

Everyone loves following the leader, especially when they get a chance to be the leader! This classic game is perfect for pool-time fun!

To play: This pool game is similar to the obstacle course described above, but instead of saying what the course will be out loud, the leader does the actions in sequence. The rest of the players try to repeat the same course in the same order. Switch leaders each round and, of course, make sure to let the kids make a course for you!

5. Human raft

I used to do this with my sisters as a kid and we had so much fun trying to make this work! You will need at least 4 people to make this happen. 

To play: One person holds the “raft’s” feet. One person holds the “raft” under both armpits. One person is the raft, and this person will be on their back supported by the two others. The fourth person is the passenger and is usually the smallest person. The passenger sits on the stomach of the “raft.” Once you get all the feet and arms in the right place, the two people carrying the “raft” walk in unison to ferry the passenger around the pool.

While we’re on the topic of games I played with my sisters, these next two were our favorites.

6. Synchronized swimming

We spent hours making up elaborate synchronized swimming routines, practicing, and then performing them for our parents or grandparents. This is the perfect game for your little performers. 

To play: The players all work together to create and learn a swimming routine. You could even put the routine to music. We love this waterproof portable speaker and always have it with us around the pool. Let the kids pick the song. Jump, dance, swim, twirl, and don’t forget to end with a grand finale move. Maybe this will be the jumpstart to your child’s 2028 summer Olympics debut! 

7. Mermaids

Since I have all sisters, one of our favorite pool games to play as kids was mermaids. To be all-inclusive we could call it mer-people. This game is best for strong swimmers because you have to swim with your feet together the whole time. Back when I was a kid they didn’t have all the fancy mermaid tails, like they do now, so we had to use our imagination. If you do have a mermaid tail, awesome, use it! If not, imaginations work just fine and are needed for this game anyway.

To play: Start with a made-up scenario (“Let’s pretend that we’re mermaids and we have to save the treasure chest from a ship before it sinks to the depths of the ocean.”) and run with it. The only rule is that you have to keep your feet together, like how you would swim if you were a real mermaid. 

8. Timed dives

Diving toys are one of our favorite things to play games with at the pool because they are easy to carry and fit in a small bag. My kids love to dive for any diving toy and they make for some fun pool games.

To play: This simple pool game is played by throwing all the dive toys into the water and waiting for them to get to the bottom of the pool, then timing how long it takes your child to gather them all up. If you have a competitive bunch like I do, they will constantly try to beat each other’s time. Sometimes they’ll throw all the dive toys into the deep end of the pool and then work together as a team to see how long it takes (and how many times they have to dive down) to collect everything. 

9. Relay races

This pool game is best played with a large group of kids because you will want three or more people per team. This game is perfect for pool parties, family get-togethers or times when the entire baseball team is swimming together! 

To play: All teams start at one side of the pool and have to get to the other side and back in different ways. Swimming underwater, swimming only with your left arm, swimming the backstroke, etc. The first team to complete the relay wins. 

10. Diving Olympics

If your group is up for a challenge, this pool game is for you! First, you must be in a pool that’s safe for diving. Next, teach some diving basics. You can learn the basics of diving here.

To play: After some practice dives, choose judges. Go fancy and have individually laminated pieces of paper with numbers 1 -10 on them for the judges to hold up. This could be done in a big group, if the diver is a good sport and won’t mind being scored, or with a single diver. My oldest son LOVES to play this and asks for tips after each dive. “Mom, did I make a big splash?” “Did I keep my feet together?” “Wow, did you see how good that dive was!” If you have a kid like this that craves feedback and perfection, get out your camera or phone and take some video. 

11. One push across the pool

All credit for this pool game goes to my Uncle Don. I still do this when I go to his pool! This game requires strong legs and strong lungs. My uncle would usually offer a prize to anyone who could make it all the way across, so a little something for anyone who could make it all the way across might be fun.

To play: The point is to make it all the way across the pool with one push off the side and one breath. In the pool, extend your arms and take a deep breath. Put your face in the water and push off the side of the pool with all your might! Hold your breath until you touch the opposite side or until you have to come up for air. The next person can either try to beat the first player’s effort or beat their last attempt. If you’re in a long pool, bring some sidewalk chalk to mark how far everyone went. 

12. Sharks and minnows

Did you ever play this game when you were a kid? It was played a lot at school and was a pool party game staple. It works best with a large group. 

To play: Start with one person, the shark, in the middle of the pool. Give the shark boundaries that they cannot cross to get the minnows. The rest of the swimmers, the minnows, line up along one side of the pool. When the shark says “GO” all of the minnows have to try to make it to the other side of the pool without getting tagged by the shark. Anyone who is tagged becomes a shark. The last minnow standing becomes the shark for the next game. This classic never gets old!

13. Pool fishing

Even the littlest of hands can get into pool games. Little kids love playing this pool fishing game, but the older kids enjoy it as well. Put a net in a kid’s hand, and you’ve got instant entertainment! Add some fun treasures, and it’s a game your kiddos will ask for over and over.

To play: All you’ll need is at least one net and this fun treasure box of dive toys. Drop or throw the toys/treasures into the water and see if your kiddos can catch them before they hit the bottom of the pool. Your kids will be building their hand-eye coordination without even knowing it.

14. Raft races

Who doesn’t love a good race? This swimming pool game has the added fun of pretending your pool float/raft is a racecar. Zrroom! Let’s race!

To play: Line all the racers up at one end of the pool and choose one person to be the referee. You can have them already on their floats or all in the pool and they have to mount when the whistle blows. Either way, the objective is to see who can get from the starting line to the other end of the pool riding their float first! Anyone that falls off is disqualified. If you have a bunch of kids, you can do this as a relay with teams!

15. Noodle joust

This game can be a little intense, so reserve it for your more rough-and-tumble kids. You’ll need 2 players, 2 rafts/floats, and 2 pool noodles for this game. (Or, check out this log raft game with canes.)

To play: Each player rides their raft (like a horse) in the middle of the pool. They each have a pool noodle and on the count of 3, they joust to see who can knock the other player off their raft first. 

16. Number crunch

If you want to add a little math practice to your summer fun, this is the perfect game. It takes a little bit of prep work but can be used all summer long in a variety of ways for kids of all math abilities. Start by using a permanent marker and numbering 25 (or more!) ping pong balls (1-25) and grabbing 2 buckets (or bowls). Then head to the pool!

To play: Start by dividing the kids into 2 teams and place them (with a bucket) on opposite sides of the pool. Throw all the balls in the pool. Ready, set, go! Everyone jumps in and collects balls to put in their bucket. However, you can only collect one ball at a time. When all the balls are collected, each side adds up their total (older kids can help the younger kids with math) and the highest-scoring team wins! Another way to play this is the put the bucket/bowl on a float in the pool and let each team take a turn trying to shoot the ping pong balls into the floating bucket. The team with the highest score wins. 

17. Pool noodle surfing

Our favorite pool game is to “surf” on a pool noodle without falling off. You might think it sounds simple enough, but when the noodle wants to spring to the surface and you’re trying your best to keep it under your feet, it makes for a pretty good challenge.

To play: The whole point is to try and stand on your pool noodle without falling off. Usually, we try to surf with two feet on the noodle, but if you’re an overachiever you could try it with one foot. Whoever can stay on the noodle the longest wins! 

18. Catch it!

There’s something extra fun about combining the thrill of jumping in the pool, with the added excitement of trying to catch something. This game is fun for kids (and adults) of all ages. 

To play: All you need is some kind of ball to throw and enough room to jump into the pool. One player is the “pitcher” and the other players take turns catching. The first catcher stands at the edge of the pool and the pitcher throws the ball into the air in front of the catcher, who has to jump in and catch it before plunging into the water. You can get creative with this game by having the catcher do a leap or a trick before catching. The catches can get more difficult, which ups the ante! This can also be done off a diving board, which makes it really fun as you can jump higher and farther!

19. Duck push

If you’ve got some extra rubber duckies around from bath time, bring them outside to the pool! While rubber ducks make this game super adorable, it can also be done with any number of other items that float (like balls). 

To play: The players line up and each swimmer starts at one end of the pool with a rubber duck. The object of the game is to get your rubber duck to the other side, without using your hands. Your kids may try blowing on them, pushing them with their forehead or nose, carrying them on their back or head. Let them get creative. Other players can splash water or try to knock another player’s duck off course. The first one to the end of the pool wins! 

20. HORSE

Take this fun basketball game to the pool! You can play this game with a pool basketball hoop, a bucket, or a round innertube. 

To play: The first player has to try to make a basket from anywhere in the pool and if they make it, the next player has to repeat the shot exactly how the first person did. If they miss, that person gets a letter (the first letter is H and then you get O, R, S, and E). The game ends when one person spells out the entire word HORSE and loses. 

21. Scuba divers

Bring a healthy dose of imagination for this game, but you could also use this as an educational activity to research some marine life. Sometimes my kids use gear like a snorkel, mask, or fins, but those are not necessary.

To play: First, imagine a scuba diving scenario. It could be searching for a sunken ship, looking for manta rays, or scouting out the Great Barrier Reef. Then gather any pool floats you have. My son prefers an inner tube. Next, sit on the edge of the floatie and fall backward into the water. (Make sure to be far away from the edge of the pool.) If you have goggles or a mask, try to communicate with each other using just your eyes or hand signals, like real scuba divers. Be sure to share all of the interesting specimens you found on your dive.   

22. Invisible bottle

Did you know that if you fill a clear 2-liter water bottle with pool water, it’ll nearly disappear underwater? Talk about a fun find! Invisible bottle is one of the best swimming pool games for kids. 

To play: Find a clear plastic 2-liter bottle with a clear or white cap. Fill it with pool water. Have everyone playing stand on the pool deck, turn their backs to the pool, and close their eyes. Throw the bottle into the water. When the bottle sinks, say “GO” and everyone can turn around, jump in and try to find the bottle. The clear bottle will blend in and become almost invisible at the bottom of the pool. The first person to find it wins!

23. Airball

Airball is lots of fun and a great game to play with a large group of people or the whole family. We use a beach ball when we play this in the pool. In the house, we use a balloon and call this “keepy-uppy.”

To play: The goal of this game is to keep the ball in the air! You can pass it to other players or go around in a circle. You just need to keep it from touching the water. Count out loud how many times the ball is hit. When the beach ball touches the water, the round is over and you start a new game! Try to beat your score from the last round. 

24. Atomic whirlpool

As a kid, I was absolutely fascinated by the power of water. One of the things we loved doing was to get the water moving in a whirlpool and then fight the current. My kids love it now and it’s a great way to seriously wear them out! The more kids that can play, the better results. The smaller the pool, the better. Or stay in the shallow end of the pool. 

To play: Everyone starts in a large circle. Begin walking slowly in the circle, all in the same direction. Start walking faster and faster until everyone is running in the water. Continue running until a whirlpool is formed! Your kids may notice that they’re being picked up off the ground of the pool by the force of the water and propelled forward. When the water’s really moving, everyone turns around and tries to run in the opposite direction of the whirlpool for an extra challenge. Laughter and chaos are sure to ensue! 

25. Belly flop contest

Everyone loves a good belly flop! This game is sure to bring the laughter and a good way to get everyone (big and little) involved in the action. 

To play: Let each player take a turn jumping into the pool, showing off their biggest, loudest, most awkward belly flop. The diver who gets the most applause (or laughter) for their belly flop wins! If belly flops aren’t your thing, try cannonballs. Biggest splash wins!

26. Marco polo

Marco Polo is a classic pool game that’s been around forever. It’s still just as much fun today for my kids as it was for me as a kid. You can play with any number of players. The more players, the more fun! 

To play: Marco Polo is basically playing a game of tag in the swimming pool, but the person who’s “it” has to keep their eyes closed! This certainly makes things more fun and challenging. The “it” player calls out “Marco,” and everyone else answers back with “Polo.” The “it” person must listen carefully and then move around the pool and try to tag one of the other players. Once he or she successfully tags a player, the tagged player then becomes “it” for the next round.

27. Chicken fight

My kids love playing chicken fight in the pool, but we do have some ground rules to make sure no one gets hurt. They have to stay away from the edge of the pool and keep their hands off hair, heads, and necks. You need at least 4 kids to play this game. 

To play: Divide up into teams of 2 players. One person stands in the water and the other person sits on that person’s shoulders. The water must be shallow enough for the standing player to have their shoulders and head out of the water.  The two top players basically engage in upright wrestling to try to knock the other player off their teammates’ shoulders. Whoever falls into the pool first, loses.

28. Bobbers

Bobbers is a bit like “Whack a Mole” and so much fun!

To play: One player is chosen to be “it” and is given a pool noodle and stationed in the center of the pool. Everyone else is a bobber and lines up in a single file line at one end of the pool. The bobbers have to bob up and down as they make their way to the other end of the pool. The kid who is “it” tries to whack the bobbers with the pool noodle as they bob past him/her at the center of the pool. If you make it past without being whacked, you’re safe. The first person to get hit becomes “it” for the next time. 

29. Pool basketball

Team sports in the water are always a bit hit with my competitive kids. We love dividing up and challenging each other to a half-court game of pool basketball!

To play: Divide into teams and start shooting some hoops. Point values go up the farther from the basket you can get. See who can get the highest score! 

30. Freeze tag

Freeze tag is another absolutely classic summertime pool game. I’ve also heard it called “popsicle tag.” Unless your kids are only playing the shallow end, make sure anyone playing is a stong swimmer and can tread water well. 

To play: Someone starts off by being “it.” The rest of the kids take off and swim around the pool trying not to get tagged. If/when they do get tagged, they have to stay in one place and tread water or stand with their legs apart. In order to be “unfrozen” another swimmer has to swim under the other swimmer’s legs.

31. Water polo

Water polo is a favorite sport in our house. You’ll need 2 small goals to play (one placed at each end) and a ball. Small soccer goals work great for this. 

To play: Water polo is a lot like ice hockey (or even soccer). The objective is for your team to get the ball into the goal. Divide everyone up into 2 teams and choose a goalie for each team. The goalie guards the net. A few rules to note: (1) players can only hold the ball with one hand and pass above water; (2) you cannot dunk or splash other players; (3) you can’t hold onto the side of the pool to shoot. 

32. Simon says

Simon says is another classic childhood game that’s easily adapted for pooltime play. This is one of the simplest games for kids of any age and can easily be adapted for whatever skill level your kids are. Younger kids love this one.

To play: One person is the leader and calls out the actions. Everyone else must follow the leader and do the action, but only when “Simon says.” For example, Simon says, do a handstand (everyone must do a handstand). Then the leader has to try and get everyone to do an action without saying Simon says. If someone does the action and the leader did not say Simon says, that person is out and the game continues. Other fun pool activities are: do jumping jacks, do a flip, spin around 3 times, underwater tea party, etc.

33. Water gun battle

Since you’re already soaking wet, why not have a little fun with water guns! 

To play: Get a couple of super soakers or foam water cannons and let the fun begin! Divide up into 2 teams, position yourselves at opposite ends of the pool and put a beach ball in the middle of the pool. Using only the spray from your squirt guns, see which team can get the ball into the other side’s territory. 

34. Mr. Shark

This is a fun game for little kids. They love the anticipation of it and it’s great for learning numbers and counting. I’ve also heard this pool game called Mr. Fox or What Time is It, Mr. Fox. We always used to play this after swim team and it brings back so many great memories. 

To play: Designate a player to be “Mr. Shark.” Mr. Shark stands facing away from the shallow end of the pool with all the little fishies in it. The fishies yells, “Mr. Shark, what time is it?” The shark can say whatever time he wants (e.g. 7 o’clock, 2 o’clock) and the little fishies have to take that number of steps toward Mr. Shark. When Mr. Shark can turn and glance where everyone is before turning his back again. Play continues until the fishies are very close to him. At that point when asked, “What time is it,” Mr. Shark yells, “Dinner Time!” and jumps into the pool and tags someone. That person becomes Mr. Shark. 

35. Earn your allowance

This game is great for kids who want to practice their diving skills and kids that are learning how to count money. Kids can play this alone or take turns. 

To play: Simply toss some loose change into the pool and let the coins sink. To make it a bit harder, try spreading the coins out. A child can play alone, simply diving down to collect the change as if hunting for treasure. More than one child can play and compete in this treasure hunt. You can play again and again. Whoever gets the most coins (or the highest value of all the coins added up), wins! 

Pool games for kids

Save this post for the next time you’re spending the day at the pool or for your next pool party. You’ll be able to provide endless hours of entertainment and always have a great suggestion for a fun summer pool game the minute someone claims they’re bored! 

And, I hope these pool games inspire YOU to get in that water with your kids! Your kids want time with you, not just time in the pool. Use the pool as an excuse to act like a kid again, minus the part where you avoid putting on sunscreen. Playing these simple water games with your kids will create lifelong memories and you’ll all have a great time together (and isn’t that the whole point?). If you need more ideas to keep cool this summer, check out this post. Happy swimming!

What are your favorite pool games?

About the author

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

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

The post 35 Best Swimming Pool Games for Kids (Fun & Easy Ways to Play) appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Overnight camping made simple

Tent, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, flashlights, chairs, roasting sticks, fire starter, wood, ahhhhh! Camping with the whole family can seem like a daunting task. The packing list alone keeps lots of families from enjoying one of life’s most wonderful experiences. Our family of 6 has been on many camping trips together and we always have fun, but sometimes it really is a lot of work. However, we recently went on a single overnight camping trip and it was one of the most relaxing camping trips I’ve ever had. Today, I would love to share a few of the ways that we were able to simplify our overnight camping experience and make the most of the short time.

Prep your dinner before you go

Planning meals and packing food for camping can be intimidating. Sometimes as I plan our camping trips I have these grand ideas of gourmet breakfasts and made-from-scratch dinners. Then I end up spending too much time preparing meals and cleaning up from them that I don’t get time to enjoy my family or the beauty around me. My first suggestion to make the most out of your camping experience is to pre-make your dinner. This simple step saves so much time and effort when you’re at your campsite, giving you more freedom to relax and enjoy the experience. 

I have fun memories of making tin foil dinners as a child when we’d go camping. I want my kids to have that too, but I worried that I would forget something essential and might ruin the experience. There’s something exciting about eating straight out of tin foil though, so I pre-made the foil dinners at home and stuck them in the cooler already prepped. They weren’t anything fancy, just ground turkey, onions, carrots, and potatoes. The only seasonings I used were salt and pepper. 

We started the campfire a little earlier than usual when we got to our campsite. It takes about an hour for the foil dinners to cook. I started out with the foil packets on the grate of the fire pit, then moved them into the hot coals. After about 30 minutes I flipped them over to make sure all the contents of the packet had cooked through. I’ve undercooked our foil dinners before, and the kids were not fans of the crunchy potatoes. Oops! But the best part about premaking foil dinners? Easy clean up and no dishes to do!

Simple breakfasts are the best

Breakfast has the potential to be a huge ordeal as well. My solution for that is instant oatmeal, hot chocolate, and fresh fruit. All I had to do in the morning was boil water. It really doesn’t get easier than that! Hot chocolate is a fun special treat that always puts everyone in a festive mood, even if it’s the middle of summer. 

If you bring a small fruit like blueberries or strawberries all you have to do is wash them and you’re good to go. I once brought a whole cantaloupe on a camping trip. That was not the best idea because it required cutting on the spot and then left me with all kinds of seeds and rinds leftover when everyone was done eating. In my opinion, the least amount of trips you make to the stinky camp dumpster the better! 

Play pick your spot (for next time)

You might notice that I have a tendency to focus on meals, but I promise this next suggestion isn’t about food! When we’re at a new campground, one of our favorite activities is to walk around and pick out all of the best campsites. We see which ones have good shade, a big enough spot for our giant tent, or have good climbing trees. We all have different criteria for what makes the perfect camping spot and it’s fun to see which ones the kids like and why. 

The campground we were at this time had cabins, and the kids were more than happy to tell us which ones they thought were the best. If I’m on top of things, I’ll jot down the numbers of the specific sites we like (write them down, take a photo or put a note in your phone). That way the next time we want to go camping in this location, we’ll already know which campsite we want to book. My 9 year-old’s favorite was the cabin closest to this amazing stump carved into a chair. 

Leave the toys at home

I usually keep the toys to a minimum when we go camping. This gives the kids an opportunity to use their imaginations and get creative. They have to play with what nature provides. It also cuts down dramatically on our packing list. The simpler, the better!

Our campsite had a lot of big, old oak trees that had dropped tons of giant acorns on the ground. My daughter thought these were amazing and started to collect acorns. We talked about how the native people would grind up the acorns and use that in a similar way that we use flour. She tried her hand at grinding acorns, and discovered that it isn’t quite as easy as it sounds!

Why go camping for just one night?

For me, the motivation to go camping (even for just one night) is the time I get to spend in nature and with family. We found several fun hikes that started right in our campground. There were fallen logs to walk on, tree tunnels to run through, and a giant field to play in. Lots of things for the kids to do and nature to explore.

Two of my three boys have a rare form of ataxia called Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevioux Saguenay (ARSACS). They attend many different types of therapy to help them increase their balance, strength, and motor skills in general. Sometimes, I feel like being out in nature is therapy in its own right. Instead of grinding acorns, the boys were more into playing king of the hill. This consists of them climbing onto a big rock and standing there with both arms raised in the air.

King of the hill sounds like a simple thing, but the benefits it has for my boys is threefold. They develop strength in climbing, balance in standing on the rock, and a can-do mindset when they make it to the top on their own. This particular day the boys were being so sweet with each other and helping each other out. That made my momma heart so proud!

Camping made simple

Whether or not your kiddos have special needs, playing outside will benefit them. Camping is one of my favorite ways to get my family outdoors, but I know that the thought of taking the whole family camping can be a little terrifying. It doesn’t have to be complicated though! Make the overnight camping trip simple by keeping your meals easy and leaving your toys at home. Let mother nature be your guide!

Additional camping resources for parents

If you’re looking for even more info on how to camp with kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great camping resources below:

• Camp Like A Champ – Digital Ebook
• The best tents for families
• Ultimate camping gear packing list for families
• Overnight camping made simple
• Backyard camping
• Winter car camping
• Pop-up camping

Printable camping gear lists for families

To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt-out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST

What are your tips for making an overnight camping trip more enjoyable?

About the author

Wendy Cox is a family photographer and mother of 4 living in San Diego, CA. She also teaches garden education classes at local elementary schools and is an advocate of getting children outdoors. Wendy grew up in rural Northern California raising pigs for 4-H and hiking in the redwoods. She takes every opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature while attempting to pass her love for the outdoors on to her children.

Find more from Wendy in the following locations online:
Website: www.wendycoxphotography.com
Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
Facebook: Wendy Cox Photography

The post Overnight Camping Made Simple appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.