There’s nothing quite as good for the soul as getting outdoors and enjoying the fresh air, even in the winter! No matter the time of year, we’ve always been ‘forever weather optimists’, so pull on your jackets and scarves and step outside with our list of wonderful outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy.
1. Go on a dog-spotting walk
January is ‘Walk Your Dog Month’ so what better way to enjoy the outdoors than with a dog walk! This game is a twist on your traditional dog walk: simply count the number of dogs you see on your walk and keep count as you go. The first person to see the dog gets the point! You can also add in extra points depending on the breed, collar colour, etc… it’s up to you!
2. Look after the Wildlife
A wonderful way to spend time outdoors and look after nature at the same time is a trail clean up. Simply grab a bag (and maybe even a picker tool) and get hunting! Not only is this good for the environment but it gives little ones something to hunt for and something to feel proud of.
3. Start a nature diary
The beginning of the year is a great time to start this project. A nature diary can be as simple or as complex as you want and is really good for getting kids to practice their observational skills and have them learning about all nature. All you have to do is write down what you see – how the seasons are changing, what they’ve spotted in the garden, the colour of the plants… Get as creative as you like with it: add drawings, facts they’ve discovered or even pressed flowers and leaves too.
4. Pretend to be nature pirates!
How much hidden treasure can you find in your back yard? Go on a quest for natural items and see who can find the most – look out for mini discarded snail shells, interesting twigs, shiny pebbles and tree seeds and leaves. Set a time limit and see who will be the winner!
5. Make a journey stick
Make a story out of your walk with your very own journey stick! A journey stick is really easy to make, all you need is a stick and a piece of string and you’re good to go. Take the stick with you on the walk and use the string to tie any little treasures you find on your walk to a stick: perhaps a leaf to remind you of a tree you climbed, or a feather to remind you of a bird you saw. Then at the end of your adventure use the items to share stories about your outdoor adventure.
We hope you’ve enjoyed these outdoor activities. If you have any more you think we should try, let us know in the comments!
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