New Year’s Resolutions for Families Who Love the Outdoors

The New Year is here, and it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and dream up ways to make the upcoming year even better—especially for families who cherish time spent outside. Setting New Year’s resolutions as a family is a wonderful way to foster togetherness, set shared goals, and create memories that last a lifetime. Why not make this year’s resolutions revolve around the great outdoors and sustainable living?

Here are some inspiring ideas for nature-focused New Year’s resolutions:

1. Spend More Time Outside as a Family

Commit to increasing the time you and your little ones spend outdoors. Whether it’s weekly nature walks, backyard camping adventures, or exploring new hiking trails, regular outdoor activities strengthen family bonds and boost physical and mental well-being. Start small with 30 minutes a day or plan a bigger adventure for the weekend.

2. Embrace Sustainable Habits

Make sustainability a family mission this year. Teach your kids the importance of protecting the planet by:

• Packing zero-waste picnic lunches.

• Using reusable water bottles and snack containers.

• Choosing eco-friendly clothing and gear (like Play Outside apparel!).

Small changes can make a big impact, and involving kids in these practices instills lifelong habits.

3. Create a Nature Journal

Encourage your children to connect with nature by keeping a family nature journal. Document the seasons, wildlife sightings, or even the muddiest trails you’ve conquered. This simple activity nurtures curiosity and creativity while teaching kids to observe and appreciate the world around them.

4. Plan Outdoor Family Goals

Set fun, achievable goals together—like planting a vegetable garden, completing a certain number of hikes, or mastering a new outdoor skill such as fishing or rock climbing. Achieving these goals throughout the year will keep everyone motivated and excited.

5. Volunteer for Environmental Causes

Get involved in your local community by participating in park clean-ups, tree-planting events, or conservation projects. Volunteering is a meaningful way to teach children the value of giving back and the importance of protecting natural spaces for future generations.

6. Prioritize Outdoor Safety

Make outdoor safety part of your resolutions. Ensure your kids are sun-safe year-round with hats and sunscreen, teach water safety for beach days, and invest in quality outdoor clothing that keeps them comfortable in any weather.

7. Celebrate Seasonal Adventures

Make it a point to embrace the unique joys of each season. From snowman-building in winter to beach days in summer, plan activities that make the most of the year-round beauty of the outdoors.

Looking Ahead to a Year of Adventures

By setting resolutions that encourage outdoor play and sustainable habits, you’re not just creating fun experiences—you’re laying the foundation for a lifetime of love and respect for nature. And who knows? This could be the year your family discovers their new favorite activity or adventure spot!

At Play Outside, we’re here to support your family every step of the way. From versatile, sustainable clothing to tips and ideas for outdoor fun, we’re excited to help make 2025 your family’s best year yet.

Here’s to fresh air, muddy boots, and endless adventures. Happy New Year!