By Jannifer Powelson
A big nature enthusiast and children’s author, Jannifer previously wrote about her books that teach kids about nature as they discover plants with their “two new pals”. This time Jannifer gives us some ideas on how we can make more time for the outdoors.
Growing up on a farm, I spent much time playing and working outdoors. There were days when we did livestock chores in blizzard-like conditions, and we baled hay on some of the hottest and most humid summer days. Working outdoors in extreme weather makes me appreciate being outdoors in nice weather.
Kids Spend more Time Indoors than Outdoors
With so many electronic devises available these days, children seem to spend more time indoors and less time outdoors. While sitting inside and being relatively inactive may lead to weight and other health issues, children are also missing out on a wonderful education on nature by not running, playing, and exploring outdoors. I have fond memories of playing in the creek, cattle pasture, yard, garden, and there is a whole natural world, waiting to be discovered.
Ways to Spend Time Outdoors
There are many ways that parents can encourage their children to spend more time outdoors, and hopefully learn more about nature in the process.
- Picnic at the park - In our fast paced lives, we often rely on quick meal options and eat on the run. But, you have to eat somewhere, so why not take your take-out to the local park or natural area and picnic outdoors? When the weather is nice, our family enjoys eating on the patio and front porch, watching the critters flitting around our yard while we eat.
- Walk the trails - If you are going with your youngsters to take a walk or ride a bike, why not use a trail? You may come across plants and animals that you may not see just using the sidewalks.
- Vacations and day trips to natural areas - Incorporate nature into the family vacation. While many like vacationing at a water or amusement park, branch out a little and visit state and national parks. Keep in mind age appropriateness, but even a short hike with toddlers to see nature's beauty is a way to get them interested in nature. As children grow older, you can expand the time you spend hiking, swimming, and learning outdoors.
- Backyard Nature - Plant a variety of plants (try some natives!) in your yard, and have your children help you with planting, watering, and maintenance. Also, install bird feeders and houses, and other shelters for backyard inhabitants. You'll be amazed at the buzz of activity that will follow.
- Visit the local nature center - There are many local nature centers that have indoor museums and outdoor trails. Take advantage of free and low cost nature programs provided by these centers.
- Assign outdoor chores - It's important for children to have household chores to help them learn responsibility. You can also create jobs that can be done outdoors.
- Spend time as a family outdoors - When children see their parents working and relaxing outdoors, it encourages them to be outdoors.
- Specified play time outdoors - Even on a blustery, winter day, it is nice for children to spend a little time outdoors. Bundle them up and have them frolic in the snow. The nicer the weather, the more they will want to be outside, and there is much to discover about nature, no matter what time of year!
- Take the toys, books, and homework outside - When the weather is nice it is hard for me to work indoors. Even on a school night, when schedules are tight, we can make the best of the situation and spend time reading and doing homework outside. It's a nice change of pace and can allow children to be outside, even if they are busy working on something else.
- Make use of driving time - As you and your family drive down the road, point out unusual wildlife, plants, crops, landscapes and other natural wonders. It will make the time go faster and help children learn to observe the world around them.
- Use the many excellent educational books available - There are some great books, both for youth and adults, that can help teach about plant and animal identification and general information. Take the books outdoors and have them compare live specimens to the photos and drawings in the books. I am the author or "Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie", "Rachel and Sammy Visit the Forest", and "Rachel and Sammy Learn About Trees". All three books use cute characters, fun storylines, realistic illustrations, and colorful photographs to teach children about nature.
- Take time to point out every day natural wonders, such as acorns on an oak tree, the smell of wild bergamot, or a spider web shimmering with morning dew.
When my children get excited about nature, I get just as excited! Children's excitement over a new discovery will hopefully develop into genuine appreciation of nature as they grow older.
Jannifer is employed as a conservationist and resides in Princeton, Illinois with her husband and two daughters. She enjoys reading, writing, photography, and travel. Her books follow the adventures of Rachel Racoon and Sammy Skunk. You can reach Jennifer at:
www.janniferpowelson.com
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Author-Jannifer-Powelson-Fan-Page-II-Strategic-Book-Group/188817801155701?sk=wall
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Rachel-and-Sammy/112780165400802
http://powelson.bookblogworld.com/
