Many of us worry that our children are spending a lot of time on tablets and games consoles, and not enough time exercising and enjoying the great outdoors. If we’re being completely honest, the same could be said for ourselves. The best way to get away from screens is to get outdoors, together as a family. If you’re stuck for ideas or your suggestions have been met with opposition, why not give these fun outdoor activities a try.
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Photography
Photography is a great hobby. While it can be done indoors, getting outside, exploring nature, and finding new things to photograph is a great way to practice. To get started, all you need is a camera phone. Digiscoping is a great way to capture shots at a distance. Photography is a fantastic way to capture memories and can be a wonderful hobby for older children and teenagers.
Team Sports
If you or your children are involved in any teams, that’s great. But, playing team sports doesn’t need to be a big commitment. Get some more friends together and head to a local park for a game of baseball or soccer. Many of us give up playing team games as we get older, which is a shame as they can be exceptionally good fun, great exercise, and a wonderful way to bond.
Roller Skating
Kids love seeing their parent’s roller skate. Because many of us haven’t done it since we were younger and our center of gravity has changed considerably since then, the kids are often much better at it. Swallow your pride and let them help and/or laugh at you.
Bike Riding
Family bike rides can be a lovely day out. Get out there and explore new areas. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. You could even take your bikes on family vacations.
Scavenger Hunts
Scavenger hunts are a brilliant way of introducing younger children to nature. Print out or make your own hunt. Tailor it to the seasons and make it more difficult, depending on how old your children are.
Camping
Camping is probably the best way to get outdoors as a family, but it’s even better if you go somewhere you don’t have a phone signal and you can only use your smartphone to take photographs. Get in touch with nature and try some of the other activities on this list while you are there. Just don’t forget to tell stories and play campfire games.
Fruit Picking
Fruit picking appears to have died out slightly, perhaps due to health and safety concerns. But, most of us did it when we were younger. Get out as a family and pick some seasonal fruits. Then, spend an afternoon together baking a fruit pie (after washing them thoroughly). It’ll no doubt be healthier, cheaper, and tastier than a pie bought in a store.
Spending time outdoors is a great way to reduce stress, get some exercise, and have fun re-connecting with your family. You’ll be amazed at how much better you all feel and how much fun you can have spending time outdoors together.
