We’re focusing on getting outdoors with our kids this week because we’ve all read the 7,000 articles on why it is about the best thing ever. And if you haven’t read those 7,000 articles, trust us, those exist and it is the best thing ever. But, there’s a good way and a not so good way to do it. We’ve enlisted Sabrina from Forest School For All to help set us straight!

Top 5 Ways To Get Outdoors With Your Kids

We talked to Sabrina about our thoughts about getting outside and got her perspective on how to make it better……

5. I should open my back door, push them outside, then close it, right? I try not to lock it after them…..

You know you’re off to a great start whenever there’s force involved. But the challenge of getting outside, even just to your own backyard for some, is real. It can involve some of the most creative aspects of parenting, right there with figuring out how those veggies end up in your kids’ tummies. Which is funny because spending time in nature is as good for us as a big bowl of kale. Tell that to your kids, I’m sure that’ll win them over. Some things make being outdoors more fun than others (i.e. friends), and you may want to involve those things more often than not (i.e. friends), because when you’re having fun you don’t really think about it as something to do, but rather something to enjoy (i.e. friends, go with friends!).

4. Oh right, you probably want me to spend some time with them outdoors. I get it. There’s this great 5 mile hike I used to do, we’ll do that. What could go wrong?

Some kids will naturally take to hiking five miles in the woods right off the bat. They came out of the womb ready to summit rocky terrain. If this is your kid, I’d love to meet her. (Note: If you don’t mind, I’d also like to chat with Everest – I’m assuming that’s her name? – about some of her latest trail and gear recommendations. Just for kicks.) No! Most kids don’t look at the woods and think, “Hmm, let me walk by all of these cool spots full of rocks and mud and sticks and plants to go five miles to another spot full of rocks and mud and sticks and plants.” Not even for a killer view. Most of them want to go a few steps and dive right into exploring. That’s natural. And honestly, that’s golden. Your kid is learning to know and love the woods. Hikes will come, and you may do that together from time to time, if you want. But most often, it’s different than how you’d spend your typical day in the woods. It’s more being than doing, but the kids will take you to their fun. And if they leave having had fun there’s a good chance they’ll want to keep coming back.

3. It is sometimes super hot, so we go outside in the least amount of clothes possible. Playing outside naked is a thing, right?

Actually for my kid, often, yes. The fewer the clothes the better, in her opinion. We just have lots of talks about the elements – if she wants to go barefoot, we’re looking out for glass. If she wants to go light all around, we’re conscious of the sun. When we leave, we’re doing tick checks – all that fun stuff. So if your kid wants to explore the woods in their birthday suit or underwear or just less than this image, rest assured, you’re not alone. But for the rest of you, gear is great. It can make your kids happier, your play last longer and your clean up easier. Gear does often come with a question or two, or bajillion, so check out more tips here if you could use some guidance.

2. I’m soooo bored going out there with them. They must be close to bored too – I mean, how many times can they pick up a stick? I think next time they’ll bring cars, the ipad and their dolls. As long as I have wifi I should be fine.

You know that old my-kid-liked-the-box-the-toy-came-in-more-than-the-toy story? There is a reason it happens. Kids connect with things that can become something else, anything else. They connect with things that spur their creativity. Now imagine acres upon acres of those boxes. This is the woods, chock full of open-ended materials. Things like rocks and mud and sticks and plants. These are the boxes of the natural world. And frankly, it’s kind of amazing to see what kids come up with and to get a glimpse into their imaginary world come alive for a day. It’s is a slower pace than many of us adults are used to in our day to day. A culture shock of sorts. But there are things other than a phone to help (i.e. friends), I promise (i.e. friends, go with friends!).

1. I’m totally cool with going outside and playing when its the perfect temperature, but a hint of cold, wind, rain or snow and I’m OUTTIE! My dad’s mother’s sister’s mother-in-law always said it would make my kids sick.

Here is where gear shines. With the right gear, your experience can change dramatically from something unpleasant to something well, more bearable. To be honest, our outlook is what really kicks it up the last few notches to enjoyable. Those days are never going to be the same as a sunny, 75 degree day in late spring, where you could go from sun up to sun down like this. But they do have moments of fun and adventure, and they’re chock full of many of the same physical and emotional and social benefits of getting outside on your ideal day. Even if it takes a little mirror pep talk for yourself, a little, “Let’s do this!” with a chest thump, give it a whirl and see what happens. Nature offers moments of goodness all year round, for you and your kids (and yes, your friends!).

Ok, ok Sabrina, I think you got me!  I’m ready to do a chest thump and jump in!

What have your experiences in nature been?  Tell us by commenting below or continuing the conversation on the Bleeping Motherhood facebook page.