Parenting Hot Topic: The Great Outdoors

Read our monthly parenting e-newsletter for June 2022, featuring tips and strategies for families with young children.

Do you remember playing outside during the summer until the street lights came on or being outside every day until you were called for dinner?

For a child, playing outside always means there are adventures to be found and experienced.

Over the past few decades, we’re all spending less time outdoors. The reasons for this shift are many, from advancing technology and spending time on screen to families concerned about safety. But there are also many proven benefits to being outdoors, too, such as:

Soaking up vitamin D, which promotes healthy bones
Improving mental health by easing stress and depression
Making exercise fun for kids
Promoting less screen time for children and families
Inspiring children to use their imagination
Teaching and learning opportunities about seasons, stars, weather, and more

Spending family time outside doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple ideas for outdoor family time.

Take a walk in your neighborhood, downtown, or around your house
Play catch in the backyard
Go stargazing
Eat dinner outside, picnic-style
Go on a bike ride
Play tag, I Spy, or make up your own game
Go on a nature walk
Visit your local park
Find pictures in the clouds
Read books outside

We all want quality time with our families that is enjoyable, easy to plan and doesn’t always involve spending money. Explore more resources below.

The great outdoors is literally right outside the door. Plan a fun day outside. You won’t be sorry you did!

Learn Through Play Daily Activities: June

Help children learn through play by using one of the following age-specific monthly calendars that feature daily activities.