thoughts

The weather has finally gone back to “normal” in the Chicago area, so I’m enjoying the outdoors again. Being outside is amazingly refreshing for both body and soul, and there are so many ways to do it; taking walks in the neighborhood, enjoying the backyard, picking apples, biking to school, walking or biking to the subway/commuter train etc. Having grown up with the Swedish attitude that “There is no bad weather, just bad clothing,” means that being outside often is just part of life.

Kids Need Time Outdoors

This year, there has been quite a bit of buzz about kids needing to get outside more. Even yesterday afternoon’s Arthur show on PBS kids was about logging out from the computer in favor for a camp-out with roasted marshmallows. The most visible campaign is Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” , launched in June, but there are many others out there as well. Being in tune with nature and using all our senses to follow what’s going on with plants and animals is so relaxing. It also has so many health benefits. Exercising without even thinking much about it is the obvious benefit, but did you know it also improves vision and cognitive abilities and boosts your energy level?

The easiest way to get outside is to simply take a walk. If you can’t do it where you live, find a beach, forest preserve or a park that you like and follow it throughout the seasons. A short walk is better than none at all, so keep it at a level that fits your day. You might not call it “nature” but urban and suburban environments often have enough trees and flowers with birds, squirrels, chipmunks or other small animals to follow through the seasonal changes.

Outdoors in Your Back Yard

Do you care about nature and the environment? It is more likely that your kids turn into dedicated environmentalists if you let them loose to play in the forest or along a creek.  If it is not close enough to home you can bring a picnic blanket and take a rest. Do you know how relaxing it is just to watch the trees or clouds above you?  If you can’t relax, bring the book “Free Range Kids.”  The concept offers some ideas on how to teach kids to explore their surroundings safely by themselves. Pick one idea at a time and see how they grow!

The suggestions below and the web sites listed under “Outdoor Activities” in the right margin offer some ideas on what to do if you are interested in getting your kids and yourself outside more often.

The eartheasy site has lots of ideas. Especially intriguing is the article about making your backyard more wildlife friendly. Not only is it a great outdoor project to transform your yard, but most likely you will enjoy spending time there later. With a good choice of bushes and plants, the smallest garden can attract birds, squirrels and butterflies.

Outdoor Activities

Get together with some other parents and create an outdoor play group. Polarn O. Pyret, a Swedish line of children’s clothing has a great collection of outdoor clothes made for all weather and will sponsor new groups in the US with some free gear.

If you happen to be in the Chicago area on September 25^th, you can let your kids get to know Mulle. Mulle is a Swedish fictional character who has taught many, many Swedish children (including my brother and his friends) how to enjoy and appreciate nature and outdoor life. The Swedish American Museum is organizing a “Mulle’s Outdoor Andersonville Adventure” which is open to the public. Reservations are necessary, www.swedishamericanmuseum.org or 773-728-8111.

Do you feel inspired? In case you search the web for outdoor daycare for your kids, put “outdoor preschool” in the search engine! Otherwise you might only find a place to send your dog for outdoor fun.

Not yet convinced? Learn more:

Restoring kids’ connection to the great outdoors

 

Washington Post: “Report: Kids need to get out more”

What Me Worry?

Enjoy!

Elisabeth