In the 1990s and early 21st century, summer months for kids in the UK meant spending as much time as possible outdoors. In today’s digital age, however, our children are all hooked on their various screens, making it an uphill challenge to coax them outside. A bit of time spent in the fresh air, however, can still work wonders. Encouraging kids to enjoy more time outdoors not only supports their physical health, but you’ll also notice how it enhances their mood, sharpens focus, and promotes better hobbies.
The only problem is convincing a generation raised on Minecraft and Fortnite actually to take the plunge. That’s where we come in—helping them enjoy more time outdoors and all the benefits it brings.
How to Encourage Kids to Spend More Time Outdoors in 4 Simple Steps
1. Make It an Adventure
Outdoor time becomes far more appealing when framed as an exploration rather than a task to complete. Try to turn it into a scavenger hunt (perhaps something as simple as spotting different leaf shapes, stones, or colours), and it instantly transforms something that would otherwise seem boring to children into a fun game.
2. Lead by Example
It is a fact that children learn by observing, so making outdoor activity a regular part of your routine together sends a powerful message. You don’t have to be outside all day, every day; simply going for walks together, kicking a ball around, or exploring a local hiking trail sets a standard for getting out of the house. These shared experiences reinforce that the outdoors is a space for the whole family. This means you will need to keep up with them, especially on longer hikes or rugged paths.
You could even take it a step further and get matching attire for the walks, so they feel part of something and become more excited to go outside with you. Walking boots for men are an ideal example, as you can easily find pairs that look the same in a variety of sizes, allowing you to match while still providing stability to keep up with an excited child. Ensure you’ll still have a decent amount of energy in the tank during the excursion and afterwards to keep up with and cope with any tired tantrums!
3. Create an Outdoor Oasis
When you can’t always supervise every outdoor activity, setting up an inviting play area in your garden or a nearby park encourages independent exploration. Try creating a designated digging zone, installing a swing, or, if you’re really into it, building a DIY playscape with natural materials. Incorporate loose parts like stones, shells, scraps of wood, or pine cones to provide open-ended play opportunities and develop their imagination, something that has likely been compromised by the brain roto on TikTok.
4. Reap the Rewards: Healthier, Happier, Calmer
Exposure to green space has been proven to significantly reduce behavioural issues, boost working memory, and support emotional regulation. Children who can play outside regularly also exhibit greater creativity, emotional resilience, and better sleep patterns, which naturally help them wind down and rest more soundly at night. This, in turn, benefits not only them but also you. Of course, moderation is always key here, as you don’t want to tire them out so much they never want to step foot outside again, but a few hours a day spent outdoors should more than suffice, and you’ll soon start to see (and enjoy) the results.
Final Thoughts
Encouraging your children to step away from screens may not seem easy, but it starts with making it fun. Make outdoor time feel like an adventure by modelling it yourself, getting involved, and creating spaces that invite independent exploration. The payoff? Kids who are physically active, mentally refreshed, and naturally calmer.
What are your favourite ways to help kids spend more time outdoors?
*Disclosure: Collaborative Post
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