One of the challenges that you will be facing as a parent nowadays is to convince your kids to go outside. There are many indoor distractions like computer games and TV to discourage them from going out. But it is possible to get them to experience the outdoors with these tips:
Have a Child-friendly Backyard
One of the big complaints that children have about going outside is what exactly are they going to do? Well, if you’re a smart parent, you’ll give them something to do with a child-friendly backyard. Some would interpret this as getting a swimming pool, but it doesn’t always have to be that extravagant.
Your backyard is the natural place to go for going outside since it is a safe spot and easily accessible. This is why you should encourage them to go here by making some child-friendly modifications. For example, if you have a dog, have his kennel be outside so that your kids would be encouraged to play with him near there.
If you’ve got a solid tree then build something around it. A simple bench is nice so that kids take advantage of the shade, but what would really encourage them to go out is a tree house. It’s a place to play and meet with friends. Plus, it is technically outside.
The key thing to remember here is that you need to make your backyard a good place to go to for your kids.
Get Some Outdoor Games
Another part of making the outside an attractive place to spend time for your kids is to have some outdoor games. This can range from a simple basketball hoop to something more unique like a cornhole board. Note that your kids will want to personalize these games if they like them. For example, the vinyl wraps for cornhole boards allow it to be personalized with various themes.
Don’t just have a single game either. Rotate them around and tailor them to your kids’ interests. For example, they may be on an archery kick. Buy them a set of lawn darts or maybe a suction cup archery kit. Your backyard should become a source of fun for your kids.
Go Outside With Them
Leaving your kids outside and letting them handle themselves may be a good sign that you’re teaching them independence, but they will like to go out better if you are with them. Spend some time with them in the outdoors; not just in the backyard either.
Why not invite your kids to go on a run with you? Or if you’re less athletically-inclined, on a short walk to run some errands? This gets them out of their rooms and gives you quality time. Try to invite them for a camping trip or go to the beach. Make it a special day so that they can have good memories spending time outside.
It’s great fun for the entire family if you manage to convince your kids to come out and play. They may start disliking it or a bit disgruntled, but if you show them the joys of the outdoors, they’ll have good memories of it for the rest of their lives.
