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Researchers also suggested that not all outdoor time is equal. They concluded connecting with nature in a meaningful way was more beneficial than simply running around a parking lot. This is where that pretty strong bias I mentioned earlier comes in. I believe any <\/em>kind of outdoor time is extremely valuable. Getting a lung full of fresh air and feeling the sun on their face can do a child a world of good.<\/strong> The emphasis on a meaningful connection with nature makes sense, but a more holistic approach could be another way of helping kids feel the benefits of connecting with the outdoors. Let\u2019s look at a range of options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modeling<\/strong>: Let the kids know you personally love being outside or at least that you\u2019re trying to get out more. Whether it\u2019s a mini-break on the balcony, a bike ride around the neighborhood, or a snow ball fight, share how it makes you feel to be outdoors. If you have a few stories from your childhood you can share about things like hide and go seek or capture the flag<\/a>, all the better. Kids LOVE hearing about when their parents were young!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get out there:<\/strong> You might have to hop in the car or take a bus for this one, but hit a hiking trail nearby and focus on the sights, sounds and smells all around you. The trails are often quieter in the winter so it\u2019s a great time to explore. It\u2019s amazing how often we forget just to listen or take a big breath. Talk to the kids about what you\u2019re experiencing as you connect with nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Write or draw:<\/strong> Want to take it up a notch? No need to go far. Why not get the kids to write something about what they see outside or draw something after they get inside from playing? A recreation on paper of a snowman, flower or tree, can be a masterpiece waiting to happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No pressure air time:<\/strong> Just open the front door and walk outside. Take a breath, hang out on the driveway or sidewalk. Seriously, sounds simple but sometimes we have to be intentional<\/strong> about getting out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s immensely encouraging to read so many stories talking about the benefits of nature for children\u2019s mental health. There\u2019s value in big and small connections with the outdoors.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As it turns out, I didn\u2019t end up becoming a forest ranger after all. I\u2019ve spent many years tapping away on a computer instead but I spend every spare moment I have in the great outdoors. Nature trails and exploring were a fundamental part of my children\u2019s lives. As the kids got older, they sometimes grumbled about going on \u201cmom hikes\u201d but guess what? As young adults, all three of my children weave outdoor time into their weekly schedules. I think they\u2019re just relieved I don\u2019t ask them to draw pictures of their adventures anymore! Have fun out thereJ<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"\/EN\/US\/wp-content\/uploads\/HappyInSnow.jpg\")
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