Recently my nephew went back to school, but only two days a week, so plans needed to be made for those other five days of the week. One of my clients has two kids at home with remote learning as the only option. With so much time spent at home and inside, it’s more important now than ever for kids to get natural sunlight as much as possible. And why not? Outdoor learning offers stimulating experiences and opportunities to connect with nature. To inspire parents and kids, especially after six-month on lockdown, we have rounded up a few #KKDL tips on how to introduce outdoor learning to your kids at home:
· Let the Sun Shine – According to the CDC, children ages 3-17 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Ask the kids what they liked to do in school and try to reinvent the time at home – do an exercise video together outside or with their friends via Zoom, or go on a family bike ride or hike.
· Outdoor U – Consider bringing a few “classes” outside, not only to get some natural sunlight but also to provide a change in scenery. This will help stimulate and motivate the kids school day. Have the whole family choose fun, outdoor furniture they can’t wait to sit on – class is now in session and outside.
· Keep it Fun and Creative – Stock up on arts and crafts that can be a bit messy for the indoors. Let inspiration strike and kids embrace creativity like outdoor painting, chalk art, tie-dying or leaf painting.
With parents looking to keep kids active and entertained, new traditions have started to take shape that offer families a way to spend more time together—and the backyard is center stage, with nearly one-third of moms ranking time outdoors as a top new tradition for their family.
