School’s Out: Let’s Go Screen-Free!

Make Nature Your Playground

This week, we kick off our Screen-Free Summer Adventure by embracing the great outdoors. Spending time outside not only promotes physical health but also boosts mental well-being and fosters a deeper connection with nature.

Here are some simple and fun ways to make nature your playground:

Set a Daily Outdoor Routine: Establish a specific time each day dedicated to outdoor activities. Whether it’s in the morning, afternoon, or evening, having a routine helps make outdoor time a regular and anticipated part of your day.

Nature Walks and Hikes: Explore local parks, nature trails, or even your neighbourhood. Nature walks and hikes are a great way to observe wildlife, enjoy fresh air, and get some exercise. Encourage your kids to look for interesting plants, animals, or rocks along the way.

Back Garden Adventures: You don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors. Transform your back garden into an adventure zone with activities like scavenger hunts, mini beast safaris, or garden projects. Set up a tent for a back garden camping experience complete with stargazing and storytelling.

Water Play: Beat the summer heat (hopefully!) with water activities. Set up a sprinkler, fill a small paddling pool, or organise water balloon fights. Visit a local lake, river, or beach for swimming and splashing around. Water play is both fun and refreshing.

Sports and Games: Encourage physical activity by playing sports and outdoor games. Organise family tournaments in football, cricket or badminton. Classic games like tag, hide-and-seek, and hopscotch are also great for keeping kids active and entertained.

Creative Outdoor Projects: Combine creativity with outdoor fun by working on nature-inspired projects. Build birdhouses, create rock art, or start a nature journal. Collect leaves, flowers, and other natural materials for art and craft projects.

Picnics and Outdoor Meals: Enjoy meals outside by organising picnics in the park or having dinner in your back garden. Pack healthy snacks, sandwiches, and fruits, and enjoy the open air while you eat. It’s a delightful way to spend quality time together.

Biking and Scootering: Go for family bike rides or scooter adventures. Explore different routes, visit new parks, or simply ride around your neighbourhood. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise.

Gardening Together: Start a family garden where everyone can contribute. Plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs and take care of them together. Gardening teaches responsibility, patience, and the joy of seeing things grow.

Wildlife Watching: Spend time observing birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Set up a bird feeder, make a butterfly garden, or visit a nearby nature reserve. Learning about different species can be both educational and fascinating.

By designating daily outdoor time, you create opportunities for fun, relaxation, and bonding in nature. This week, make it a goal to explore and enjoy the great outdoors with your family.