How to Help Your Children Reconnect with Nature

Nature-deficit disorder is a term used to describe the negative health effects that we experience when we live disconnected from nature. In children, spending too little time outdoors can contribute to social, behavioral, cognitive, and physical problems, including stifled creativity and mood disorders. To help your family spend more time in the great outdoors and reconnect with the natural world, we list some fun outdoor activities below.

Build a Backyard Play Space

Your first step to getting your kids outdoors more often is setting up your backyard for fun activities. If you think you may sell your house in a few years, look into what outdoor features families are looking for in prospective homes, and see if your plans can align with their desires. Then the play space could become a way to also increase your home’s value.

● You can set up an amazing outdoor play area that your kids will love, and that doesn’t require a lot of space or money. The key is to engage your child outdoors, and there are many ways to accomplish this goal.

● If your kid loves to climb, slide, or swing, you might want to invest in a backyard playground. Although they require more money and space, your child can use them for many years to come.

● Set up some fun outdoor games for your child. If you’re likely to have friends over or if you have kids that play together, set up a net for badminton or volleyball. Solo kids can enjoy sidewalk chalk for hopscotch, a small tent or teepee for hideouts and pretend, or a cornhole set up.

Explore New Sports

Besides increased outdoor time, playing sports has many benefits for children, including boosting physical health and self-confidence.

● If you live near a park with a tennis court, or have a good flat surface away from the street but near your home, consider introducing your child to tennis. It has great developmental benefits and you might spark their interest in playing competitively.

● Did you know that skateboarding can actually be good for your child? There are benefits of skateboarding, like developing coordination, patience, and reflexes. Plus, it’s inexpensive and can be done almost anywhere.

● If your child has energy to burn, consider introducing them to soccer. According to Sports Rec, playing soccer not only builds their fitness and endurance, but builds friendships. They can practice at home or a nearby park, and there is likely a local kid’s league to keep them busy.

Sneak Outdoor Time Into Everyday Activities

Outdoor time doesn’t have to involve sports games or hikes. (Although you should also do those things.) When you’re feeling busy and overwhelmed, carve out small moments with your kids to enjoy time together and the beauty of nature. You can maximize the amount of time you spend outside with these activities.

● Walking your child to school is a great way for you both to get time outside. Plus, as Verywell Family points out, it will give you quality time together. And there’s the added bonus of not dealing with traffic!

● Do something as simple and brief as watching the sun set or rise. Pausing for this daily event can change your mood, refresh your mind, and increase your gratitude. All in a few moments every morning or evening.

● Make the choice to dine outside a few times each week when the weather allows. Not only does eating al fresco mean no crumbs on the kitchen floor, it slows you down and allows you to be more mindful of what you are eating. And there’s the added benefit of getting some vitamin D with your meal.

Embark on Nature-Focused Outings

Find ways to incorporate learning into your outdoor activities. Whether it is a hike, a camping trip, or an exploration around the yard, intentionally focusing on nature can be interesting and educational.

● Plan a family camping trip to get back to nature and learn about the local flora and fauna. It’s also a great excuse to get the family off their screens for a weekend!

● Turn your outdoor space into a science lab with these amazingly fun experiments. Your child can experience the wonders of a garden, the anticipation of a volcanic eruption, or the excitement of a bug scavenger hunt all in your own backyard.

● Start a nature journal with your child. These are great opportunities for you and your child to record what you see, feel, and hear in nature through pictures and words. And you can share them together with your family and friends, too.

● Visit the Maritime Museum Louisiana and learn more about their field trips and summer camps.

If you’re struggling to pry your children away from their electronic devices, plan something fun to do outside. From playing basketball in the backyard to testing your balance on a skateboard, there are countless outdoor activities you and your kids can enjoy together. Incorporate more outdoor time into your family’s life and see everything that nature has to offer!