Tips to Get Kids Outdoors

Pami Quinn discusses her top tips for getting your kids outdoors during these colder months...

Since the pandemic started and lockdown restrictions were implemented, the majority of people in the UK had to stay at home. As things start to go back to normal, it’s important for children to return to being able to go outdoors.

The NHS notes how important physical activity in unrestrictive places is, especially for younger kids who are still developing. They outline that children from ages one to four should spend at least three hours a day being active to properly build their motor skills and maintain a healthy weight. Encouraging them to go outdoors is a great way to get them to be more physically active. With the colder seasons here, that can become a challenge, but here are some tips you can use to motivate them:

Have a picnic

Picnics are a great way to get the whole family together outdoors. People typically associate them with the summer months, but you can have one during autumn (and even winter!) Pack your favourite seasonal treats like hot chocolate and pumpkin pie. Good Housekeeping’s article on soup perfect for autumn suggests how a hearty soup can definitely make for a tasty meal or a cosy snack. Pack some of your child’s favourites as will give them something to look forward to when outdoors. You can plan a fun activity along with your picnic, like some playtime activities with your kids, or just have a relaxing day with them.

Go on strolls with them

Strolling through your neighbourhood or a park is a good way for them to get some exercise in while also being surrounded by nature. If you have a younger one who might not be able to walk for long periods, so make sure to bring a pushchair with you so they can get some breaks in between. This is also great if you are running errands with them. The prams on iCandy highlight how modern pushchairs should be multifunctional. Taking one with you while you are out on a stroll means that you won’t have to carry your child around when they get tired, and families with more than one child can even opt for double buggies, which are perfect for rough terrain as well. If you are carrying other things, like nappy bags or shopping bags, prams generally have compartments that can hold bags, too. Going on a stroll with your children is a great way to get you all outdoors together. The forward-facing prams will also allow your child to take in all the surrounding nature while stimulating their cognitive functions.

Sign them up for an outdoor club

Signing your child up for an outdoor club is another thing you can do to encourage them to go outside. These clubs provide avenues for your children to not only engage in things that may interest them but also socialise with other children. Ranging from nature crafts to adventure games, there is bound to be one that they will find enjoyable. You can check for more information on The Outdoors Project Holiday Clubs to see what is being offered in your area. There are even seasonal clubs, so don't miss out on the opportunity to attend autumn activities.

If you can’t find one your child likes, consider starting one. A past article on ‘Why the Children’s Activity Sector is a Great Franchise Choice’ details how you can start your own club that can be based outdoors and involve fun activities that your child, and other children, will find enjoyable.

Arrange a playdate in a park

Playdates are important for children and encourage social development and may even help them find their first friends. Parenting advice writer Jessica Schrader discusses how playdates can also aid in emotional, cognitive, and language development for your child. This can also help you bond with other parents as you spend time together. Your child will be able to spend time outdoors while you both get to build relationships with other people. It’s a great way to let your children have fun while also building a community.

As autumn arrives, it may be more difficult to get your child to spend time outside, but with these tips they should help encourage them to do so. Just remember to prepare them for the cold weather and let them enjoy their time out. 

Post solely for the use of theoutdoorsproject.co.uk by Pami Quinn