Pro Parenting: 3 Ways To Encourage Kids To Love & Explore Outdoors

The lure of electronics is pretty powerful, especially when it comes to entertaining the kids. 

For the most part, devices are quiet and engaging, and with the proper controls in place, they're pretty safe—compared to, say, neighborhood traffic and stranger danger.

The problem, though, is that with each passing year, our affinity for technology is causing future generations to lose touch with life (and play) outdoors. 

And while the days of all the neighborhood kids riding their bikes to some secret location, digging in the dirt just for fun, and clotheslining their friends may be long gone, all is not entirely lost.

"​​Encouraging children to explore and love the outdoors offers a myriad of benefits related to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being," says Fider. "Physically, outdoor activities like running, climbing, and hiking promote movement, aiding in the development of motor skills, coordination, and strength. Mentally, spending time outdoors exposes children to natural light and fresh air, which can enhance mood and mental clarity while offering a break from the overstimulation of technology. Nature's calming effect reduces stress and anxiety, providing a sense of freedom and space for exploration." 

But that's certainly not the end of it. 

Finder adds, "Outdoor play also provides opportunities for children to push their physical boundaries, fostering confidence and resilience as they conquer challenges such as difficult hikes or mastering new skills like riding a bike." Moreover, she notes, "The outdoors can stimulate creativity and imagination, encouraging children to invent games, stories, and adventures." 

And while she tells mindbodygreen that being outdoors is great for the individual, Fider says it can ultimately benefit the world around them as well.

"Outdoor experiences cultivate a sense of connection and appreciation for nature, instilling values of environmental stewardship and responsibility from a young age," she says. "This can be so necessary given the reality of climate change. Socially, outdoor play can teach kids valuable skills like communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation (if children engage in activities with peers)."

What are the benefits of being out in nature?

Fider says, "Where possible, plan outdoor activities that are enjoyable and age-appropriate. This may involve incorporating games, scavenger hunts (for stones, birds, or other things that exist in nature), or nature crafts to make outdoor adventures fun and interactive." 

And finally, Fider says, adults should look for opportunities to talk about nature and be intentional about it. She notes you don't have to literally be out in nature to enjoy and share the experience. 

For example, parents can encourage thoughtful exploration even while traveling in a vehicle. "Talk about what you can see out the window—the sun, the clouds, the birds, the trees, the sunset, the rain, a rainbow, etc.," she says.

"That could be the starting point to suggest getting outdoors to explore the things they saw. Another idea is to encourage children to notice and share observations about seasonal changes, wildlife sightings, or natural phenomena like lightning and cloud formation."