The Ultimate Guide to Raising Outdoorsy Kids (Even If You Aren’t One)

Not every parent grew up hiking trails, pitching tents, or catching fireflies. But even if you wouldn’t call yourself “outdoorsy,” you can still raise kids who love and appreciate nature. Encouraging outdoor play isn’t about extreme adventures—it’s about fostering curiosity, independence, and a love for the natural world. Here’s how to raise outdoorsy kids, even if you’re starting from scratch!

Why Outdoor Play Matters for Kids

Spending time outside isn’t just about fresh air—it’s crucial for a child’s development. Here’s why:

🌿 Boosts Physical Health: Running, climbing, and playing outside build strength, coordination, and immunity.

🧠 Improves Mental Well-being: Outdoor time reduces stress and improves mood, attention, and sleep.

💡 Encourages Creativity & Problem-Solving: Unstructured play in nature helps kids think independently.

Step 1: Start Small (You Don’t Have to Climb Mountains!)

You don’t have to go on a week-long camping trip to get your kids interested in nature. Start with easy, everyday activities:

✅ Walks Around the Neighborhood – Point out birds, leaves, or clouds. ✅ Backyard Adventures – Let kids dig in the dirt, plant flowers, or chase bugs. ✅ Local Parks & Trails – Short, stroller-friendly walks count! ✅ Beach Days or Creek Exploration – Water play is a great way to connect with nature.

💡 Pro Tip: Make outdoor time part of your routine—walks after dinner, weekend park visits, or even eating snacks outside.

Step 2: Dress for Success (Weather-Ready Kids Are Happy Kids!)

One of the biggest deterrents to outdoor play is discomfort. Investing in the right gear makes a huge difference.

🧥 Cold Weather: Layer up with breathable fabrics, waterproof outer layers, and warm gloves. ☀️ Hot & Sunny: Lightweight, UV-protective clothing and hats help prevent overheating. 🌧 Rainy Days: Waterproof boots and rain jackets = puddle-jumping fun!

Step 3: Make Outdoor Play Fun & Engaging

Kids won’t want to go outside if it feels like a chore. Keep it exciting with:

🎨 Nature Art: Use leaves, sticks, or flowers to create outdoor crafts.

🔦 Nighttime Exploration: Flashlight tag, stargazing, or firefly catching make evenings magical.

🕵️ Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of things to find—like a pinecone, a feather, or a cool rock.

⛺ Backyard Camping: No need for a big trip—set up a tent outside for the night.

💡 Pro Tip: Let kids lead the way! Ask them what they’d like to do outside.

Step 4: Set Screen-Free Outdoor Time

Screens can be a big barrier to outdoor play. Instead of forcing kids outside, make it part of their routine.

⏳ Screen Swap: If they get 30 minutes of screen time, they also get 30 minutes outside.

🏡 Outdoor Zones: Set up a backyard play space with a sandbox, mud kitchen, or water table.

📅 Weekend Challenges: Try “30 minutes outside” challenges or create a family outdoor adventure list.

Step 5: Lead by Example (Even If You’re Not an Outdoor Person!)

Kids mimic what they see. Even if you’re not a nature lover, showing enthusiasm helps.

🚶 Take Short Walks Together – It’s less about distance and more about experience.

🍽 Eat Outside – Breakfast on the patio or a picnic in the park makes everyday moments special.

🌿 Show Interest in Nature – Ask questions, explore with them, and express curiosity.

💡 Pro Tip: You don’t need to be an expert. Learning about nature with your kids makes the experience even better.

Step 6: Involve Friends & Family

Outdoor play is more fun with company. Encourage group adventures with:

👩‍👧 Playdates at the Park – Meet friends at a nature-based playground.

🚴 Family Bike Rides – A fun way to get outside together.

🏕 Join a Local Outdoor Group – Find hiking or adventure groups in your area.

Step 7: Make Nature a Reward, Not a Punishment

Encourage outdoor time in a way that feels like a privilege, not a task.

✅ “If we finish chores, we can have a picnic at the park!”

✅ “Let’s race to the big tree and back!”

✅ “How many different kinds of birds can we find today?”

💡 Pro Tip: Create excitement by letting kids pack their own “adventure bag” with snacks, a magnifying glass, and a notebook.

Final Thoughts: Every Child Can Be an Outdoorsy Kid

You don’t need to be a camping pro or an extreme adventurer to help your kids love the outdoors. By making nature part of daily life, dressing appropriately, and keeping activities fun, you’ll create lasting memories and build a lifelong appreciation for nature.

So go ahead—step outside, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. You and your kids will be glad you did!

For more outdoor parenting tips, visit our Play Outside blog.