Explore Outdoors

Childhood is a time of wonder and exploration. There are but a few precious summers that a child has before he or she grows up and does not have free time during the summer to just be a kid! Parents and caregivers need to recognize that going outside is not only a good way to get kids out of the house–time outside is a full opportunity for children to learn about nature, play physical games and spend time with friends learning how to function socially with peers.

Our “indoors” culture might need a little bit of help once we make the decision to go outside and explore. That’s why we have developed a list of what we consider to be the best books and guides for all sorts of outdoor activities. Find books on gardening with children, exploring nature and wildlife, exploring the night sky, becoming familiar with the world of birds, outdoor games and activities for kids and grown-ups and much more.

Whatever your reason for spending time outside, you will never go wrong by taking the kids with you. When you go outdoors, we want you to have as good experience as possible. So, why not identify what it is that is your family’s “thing”, then buy a book and learn all about it together?

Many families will use the books on this list as guides as they go on hikes, go on a trip where thy will see new wildlife and more. However, one need to travel far to create a good experience outdoors. Going to a park or even your own back yard can prove to be a rich experience if you have a purpose in mind–like finding bugs.

The point is simply this, if your kids are in front of the TV and looking board indoors, you will need to be the one who initiates a fun activity outdoors. Once a child has a positive experience outside, he or she will suddenly want to go outside without pleading from an adult.

The secret here is that going outside is not only good for kids, it’s also great for grown-ups. There will always be another task at work a chore in the house that needs done and other responsibilities. But, the window of opportunity to take a young child outside for a fulfilling experience has a sure expiration date on it.

GO OUTSIDE!