Breaking the Screen Habit: How to Get Kids Outside and Loving It!

In today's digital age, getting kids outside and away from screens has become a challenge for many parents. However, the benefits of outdoor play are immense – from improving physical health and creativity to reducing stress and fostering social skills. As moms, it's crucial to actively engage our children in the wonders of nature and encourage them to embrace the great outdoors. In this blog, we'll explore actionable steps and ideas to help moms break the screen habit and get their kids excited about spending time outside.

Tip 1: The Digital Detox

Now I’m just as guilty as every parent. PawPatrol, YouTube clips, and Netflix was a habit in our house. We had it on in the early morning while my husband and I could drink our coffee or tea in (mostly silence). We had it on during the evening or when it was too hot or cold outside. Or when they were there getting rambunctious, we’d tell them to go sit down and watch a movie.

I knew this didn’t feel right and I felt guilty. Now I know some screen time is okay. There is a time a place. But we were relying on it more than I would’ve like.

So one day, we ditched it! I just said no more T.V!

And I honestly believe this is the first step in encouraging outdoor play…to implement a digital detox.

Set a goal for your family to avoid all screen time for two weeks. This means limiting television, video games, smartphones, and other electronic devices. By removing the digital distractions, your kids will have more time and mental space to explore the world around them.

Instead of watching mindless tv in the morning, we take a morning walk with our puppy and the kids (and bring along our coffee and tea). I have seen a massive change in the way our kids act just by eliminating screen time alone.

Tip 2: Create an Outdoor Oasis

Transform your backyard or outdoor space into an enticing oasis for your kids. Invest in age-appropriate play equipment such as swings, slides, and climbing structures. Designate an area for gardening, where kids can learn about planting seeds and watching them grow. A cozy reading nook under a tree or a small tent can also encourage outdoor relaxation and imagination.

Tip 3: Plan Outdoor Adventures

Organize regular outdoor adventures for your family. Explore nearby parks, nature trails, or nature reserves. Make it a fun and exciting experience by creating scavenger hunts or nature bingo games. Engage in activities like bird-watching, bug collecting, or geocaching to ignite their curiosity about the natural world.

I often take the kids on hiking trails and let them taking turns being the leader. We bring backpacks to collect cool things, find mushrooms, berries, acorns, cool rocks. Plus, all this hiking leads to a GREAT night sleep for the kiddos by playing them out!

Tip 4: Lead by Example

Children often emulate their parents' behaviors. Demonstrate your love for the outdoors by participating in outdoor activities yourself. Whether it's hiking, biking, or simply taking a stroll, involving your kids in your outdoor hobbies will make them more eager to join in and share the experience with you.

Tip 5: Integrate Learning with Nature

Combine outdoor play with learning experiences. Take a sketchbook or a journal on nature walks and encourage your kids to draw or write about their observations. Teach them about the plants, animals, and insects they encounter, turning each excursion into an educational opportunity.

Getting your kids their own clip board can be a fun way to bring arts and learning outside.

Tip 6: Arrange Outdoor Playdates

Organize outdoor playdates with other moms and their children. I love going to a park and little creek nearby with our neighbor and her little girls. It will not only keep the kids engaged but also provide opportunities for them to socialize and develop essential interpersonal skills.

Tip 7: Institute a "Nature Hour"

Set aside a specific time each day for a "nature hour" when your kids must play outside. During this hour, keep screens and electronic devices off-limits. It will become a routine they eagerly look forward to and help instill a lasting love for outdoor play.

Tip 8: Bring the Indoors Out

Extend indoor activities to the outdoor setting. Encourage art projects, science experiments, or storytelling sessions to take place under the open sky. This seamless blend of indoor and outdoor play will further enhance their appreciation for nature.

Tip 9: Encourage Physical Activities

Engage your kids in physical activities that they enjoy. It could be anything from playing soccer, flying kites, riding bicycles, practicing yoga, or simply going to the park! The more they connect outdoor time with fun and happiness, the more they'll want to spend time outside.

Tip 10: Embrace All Weather Conditions

Don't let a little rain or snow deter your outdoor plans. Invest in appropriate clothing and gear, and teach your kids to appreciate the beauty of nature in all weather conditions. Jumping in puddles, building snowmen, or collecting autumn leaves can be memorable experiences.

Conclusion

Breaking the screen habit and getting kids to love the outdoors may require some effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. By following these actionable tips, moms can create an environment that encourages outdoor play, sparking a lasting passion for nature and physical activities in their children. Remember, leading by example and making outdoor time enjoyable and exciting will go a long way in fostering a strong connection between your kids and the great outdoors.