This is a collaborative post
Exploring the great outdoors is great for children for many reasons. It supports their physical health and mental wellbeing, encourages them to take a break from their digital devices, and aids their learning. I have teamed up with a private school in Sussex to share some examples of outdoor learning activities you should try with your child.
Gardening
Gardening is a great activity for youngsters and a chance for them to learn about plants and photosynthesis, which is something that is explored in the UK curriculum. What’s more, it also teaches them about responsibility as they will need to take care of their plants in order to keep them alive.
Nature Walks
Take your child to a local park or nature reserve and take a stroll through the woods. Talk to them about how the trees will change with the different seasons and ask them if they know what might be living in the woods. Nature walks are also a great opportunity for your child to practise mindfulness, which is fantastic for their mental health.
Scavenger Hunts
Prepare a list of outdoor items that you’d like your child to find and send them out on a scavenger hunt. This can be things like acorns, pinecones, conkers, sycamore leaves etc. You could even turn it into a healthy competition and invite their friends along, with the first person to find all items receiving a prize.
Camping
If possible, take your child on a camping trip one weekend, or during the summer holidays. Teach them how to put up the tent and how to prepare basic meals using limited supplies. You could even explore various survival skills like map reading or starting a fire using natural materials.
Bird Feeders & Bug Hotels
Get crafty with your child and do some research into how to build a bird feeder or a bug hotel. This will help them learn about wildlife, while also allowing them to explore their creative side.
