Getting our families outdoors is something we all need to do more often, as there is nothing better than fresh air, exercise, and time spent together. Today I’m going share with you my family’s top five favorite things to do outdoors with Kids to help you persuade your kids to join in on your next adventure.
1. Family Kayaking
Kayaking is one of our top 5 family things to do, as getting out on the river is a really great reminder to be in the present moment. When you’re on a river, the water and the time go fast. So, you have to enjoy it right then and there.
If you haven’t already, then definitely consider taking your family out on some type of river, lake, or water adventure because it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s something you can’t see or get to by foot. Be sure to check out my article on Kayaking with Kids to get started on the basics.
2. Hiking with the kids
Hiking is a classic, and it’s easily one of my family’s favorite adventures. The reason we love hiking is that it’s physical, it’s exhausting, and it’s a super great way for the kids to get active.
When heading out on a hike, you notice 10 million things you’ve never seen before. Even if you’ve driven or biked that route 100 times prior. For me, that’s what hiking does. It allows me to really absorb our surroundings and pay closer attention to the great outdoors.
Hiking is a great lesson for your kids as it teaches them to be aware of their surroundings and to take things slow. I think we can all agree that time goes way too fast, but heading out on a hike truly allows you to slow down and be present with your kids.
3. Biking as a Family
If you’re having a hard time getting your kids to consider hiking or even walking around a town, then definitely consider turning it into a biking adventure instead. Often kids will be excited about the opportunity to explore by bike, so it gets them out, doing physical activity, and enjoying a new adventure.
My kids love biking because it’s a great way to get further without using as much energy. It’s also really fun and exciting, so what’s not to love?
4. Pack a Picnic
Having a picnic is one of our top 5 family things to do, and the reason being is that we eat inside all the time. Turning eating and enjoying food into a family event forces you to slow down, be creative, and appreciate both the food and the company.
Picnics are an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of being in the house or thinking about other things you have to do. Once you lay that blanket down, it’s all about just enjoying the moment as a family, which changes the whole eating experience entirely.
5. Searching for Animals
The fifth thing on the list of the top 5 family things to do is look for animals. If you want your kids to enjoy and appreciate the great outdoors, then you need to let them experience it. Let them see the things that we want them to help and protect.
Seeing animals in the wild is a special experience for kids because they get to see the animals in their natural habitat. It allows you to explain to them why national parks, for example, are important and equally why protecting wildlife is important. If your kids don’t have the opportunity to see these animals in their natural places, how can we expect them to protect them and care about them?
If you’re heading outdoors, just get your kids to look for animals. Whether it’s lizards, bugs, or large mammals, you’ll soon find it's one of your favorite things to do outside too.
I wrote another article on How to Help a Child with Fear that can help you through some more hoops on the water.
Camera: GoPro Hero 11
Kayaks: Jackson Fun Kids Kayak, Jackson Kayak Rockstar
Bikes: Bosch e-Bikes – Yuba Spicy Curry (Cargo)
Life Vest: NRS Zen PFD
Sunglasses: Wiley X
