How To Encourage Your Kids To Get Outside This Summer

With so many entertainment-providing technological devices at their disposal, youths might not see the need to spend time outside. Witnessing young people avoid the outdoors can be discouraging for parents, especially during the nice weather that occurs during the summer months. That said, parents may be able to help their children overcome this frustrating and potentially unhealthy habit by employing tips such as the following.

Relocate Activities To The Outside

Parents are encouraged to relocate specific activities and games they enjoy outdoors. At the very least, young people will be outside. Moreover, sunlight and warmth might encourage them to partake in more physical activities.

Foster Outdoor Family Outings

Parents may be able to stimulate a youth’s interest in being out and about by organizing outdoor family events like neighborhood walks, picnics or nature hikes.

Have Children Partake In Outdoor Chores

Adults might drum up their children’s interest in being outside by requesting their assistance performing specific outdoor chores such as washing the family car, raking leaves, painting or performing a variety of yardwork-related tasks.

Champion An Outdoor Hobby

Sometimes young people who lack the interest have no desire to participate in sports or other physical activities. However, that should not deter parents from encouraging them to spend time outside. Adults might be able to circumvent this issue by championing participation in certain outdoor activities such as gardening.

Do Not Get Upset If A Mess Occurs

In certain instances, young people might express hesitation over engaging in outdoor activities in fear of returning home looking messy. Adults are encouraged to not frown upon messes that occur when their children enjoy the outside. A little dirt and mud can be part of that experience.

Set Up Outdoor Play Dates

Parents with young children are encouraged to organize outdoor play dates with other neighborhood kids. The only prerequisite for the excursion is that the young people are engaging in some type of outdoor activity.

Incorporate Your Pets

Many young people enjoy spending time with family pets. Animals, especially dogs, typically like to spend time outside. Another method adults might employ to get their children outside is to allow them to walk the family dog. They can also play fetch. Your dog will be grateful for the exercise, and chances are your children will enjoy themselves as well!

This article was originally published JamesCrickmore.org.uk.