You know how it is— between work, the school run, getting in the week’s groceries, ferrying the kids between their clubs, and the evening routine, it can be hard to fit in even a little bit of family outdoor time. While your children may well participate in sport activities after school or on the weekend, it’s also important to make time to do things together. After all, the media is full of scary stories about juvenile obesity, and it has been proven during numerous studies that those who are inactive during childhood are more likely to develop health problems later on in life – why not get fit and explore the great outdoors together?
Dragged, kicking and screaming
Taking those first steps out of the front door and into the unknown can be intimidating, but it really shouldn't be. You don’t need to be running marathons, hiking up mountains, trekking across deserts, or organizing week long camp-outs to enjoy the great outdoors; why not try a jog around the block, take your bikes up the street, walk your dog in the park, or have a few games of soccer or baseball in the yard? Being active with your family can be as easy or as hard as you want to make it; the most important thing is to incorporate the new-found freedom into your daily and weekly routines, aiming to get outside as often as possible. You’ll be amazed at the difference it will make to your family life.
One thing’s for certain, it is important to try and use your imagination when planning outdoor activities. After all, your kids will probably be more inclined to participate (as will you) in something new if you make it fun. Venturing into your own backyard can be an adventure of epic proportions if you do it right, whilst trips to the local park can be akin to exploring a whole new world. Encouraging your kids’ imaginations will also help them to develop their personalities, as well as important communication skills that can be applied elsewhere in their lives.
Of course, you don’t have to venture into a world of make believe to ensure that a simple trip to the park is fun; why not take a bike, a skateboard, or a set of roller-blades, like K2 Skates, with you. Already the afternoon’s looking more fun, huh?
Family bonding
So you may be thinking, “I’m okay, I go the gym three times a week and get plenty of exercise, and the kids do baseball and dancing…” but how much time do you spend doing these things together? There are so many benefits to getting out and about with the family, least of all getting your family’s quota of exercise. Heading outdoors with your children is a fantastic way of spending time together. We’re talking uninterrupted, family time, which will allow your little ones to grow and develop, both physically and mentally, as well as strengthening bonds that will last a lifetime. As you encourage your kids’ imaginations, fine motor skills, and physical abilities, you may find you even learn a little something too – seeing the world through a child’s eyes is something very special indeed.
What will you learn today?
Leave a Reply