Celebrating the Great Outdoors with Your Kids

May brings warm Spring weather, inviting us to spend more time in the great outdoors. Unfortunately television shows, video games, and computers keep many kids shut-up inside. In fact, kids aged 8 to 18 spend about four hours a day in front of a television screen and another two hours on the computer. So, even though the great outdoors is calling, your kids may need a little nudge in the right direction. The following are some ideas to get you into the great outdoors as a family.

Gardening
Although the phrase "the great outdoors" may conjure up images of luscious landscapes, you've got a little bit of
nature's wonders just outside your door. Planting a garden is a fun family projects, as everyone, no matter their
age, can get involved. A plus for gardening is that it will get you outside again and again as you maintain it. Gardening doesn't have to be a huge overwhelming project. Pick a few favorite flowers or vegetables to get started. You can even plant a themed garden, such as pizza. Plant tomatoes, basil, oregano, and your favorite veggie toppings. You will have almost everything you need for a home cooked pizza night.

Gardening is also very educational. You'll be able to teach your children to identify different types of flowers and
plants, as well as learning about insects and wildlife that are both harmful and beneficial to your garden. Even if you live in an apartment, you can use your balconies or porches for container gardening. An herb garden will even fit in your window sill.

National Parks
Want an extended period to enjoy the great outdoors? Plan a family vacation at a National Park. Many even offer
hotel like accommodations if your not up for camping out. Most National Parks provide a large selection of outdoor
activities to choose from, such as hiking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and swimming. Check out the historical sites as well and buff up on your American History. Observe and identify wildlife up close. This is also a great time to teach your children about respecting the natural environment by taking nothing from it nor leaving anything behind. Provide sketch pads, magnifying glasses, and binoculars to aid observation. Stores at National Parks are often great sources of local guides for identifying flora and fauna.

Art
Get creative with your time in the great outdoors with something almost all kids love: art. Take art supplies
outside and be inspired; or go on a nature walk together and gather items that you and your kids find interesting.
Provide a wide variety of mediums to your children for expressing themselves; and don't be afraid to participate in
creating as well. Supplies might include water colors, pencils, canvas, craft glue, and even embroidery supplies. Enjoy the creative process and take note of the many details of nature.

Collections
Start a nature collection. Children are natural collectors. They loving picking up interesting things and think of
them as treasures. A nature collection could be a family project or each could have their own. Bring pieces of the
outdoors inside. Collect pieces as you visit various places with different natural environments. Don't let the
collections get shoved away in a box, but find a place where they can be displayed and enjoyed in your home. Glass jars provide a pretty display for rocks, shells, or even acorns. Try setting aside a small table for a nature display that can be changed with the seasons.

Pick whatever works best for your family, but just remember the importance of connecting with your kids and enjoying the great outdoors together. You'll make memories that will last a life time, and your children will have a better understanding of the wider world around them.