By Emma Grace Brown
Image via Pexels
If your kids spend much of their time cooped up indoors, you may be worried about nature-deficit disorder (NDD), a term that describes the physical, mental, and emotional effects of spending too little time in nature. To assist you in getting your children outside and teaching them to appreciate the great outdoors, we’ve put together the following list of backyard activities and nature-based outings for families. NannySavvy invites you to read on to get started!
Unique Strategies for Getting Your Kids Outside
These days, it can be tough to pry those kids away from the television or iPad, but don’t worry. Here are lots of things you can try.
- If your little one has a fondness for bugs, or you want to prevent them from developing an irrational fear of insects, Fatherly suggests you try sending them on a backyard bug hunt. And if they’re really ambitious, you could even challenge your little nature-lover to build a backyard bug hotel!
- If you’re looking for something cheaper, how about installing an in-ground trampoline?
- If you’re looking for some fresh air and fairly easy set-up, a badminton net is one idea that never gets old.
- Ready to cool off from the hot sun? Then follow these instructions for building a backyard splash pad.
- There’s more to camping than tents and s’mores, including this whole list of games and treats to get the most out of your backyard.
- Keep in mind that any major changes you make to your home can have a huge impact on your home’s appraisal value if you decide to sell.
Nature-Based Outings for the Whole Family
Looking to venture a little further than your own backyard? Well, we have you covered there, too!
- Maybe a friendly round of golf is just what you — and your kids — need to bring you closer together.
- Here are 10 tips you should review before hauling your kids onto the hiking trail.
- Looking for fun activities that end in tasty meals? Try taking your kids fishing or hunting for morel mushrooms.
- From scenic trails and idyllic sunsets to abundant fresh air, national parks have it all!
- Finally, if your kids are animal-lovers, you could always tour or volunteer at a local animal sanctuary.
There you have it: a variety of family-friendly activities to get you and your kids outdoors and exploring the natural world around you. Whether you build an outdoor basketball court or go mountain biking as a family, you’ll be exposing your children to the great outdoors while protecting them — and yourself — from nature-deficit disorder.
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