Do any of your new years goals or resolutions have to do with getting outside more? I sure hope so! As we have been going about our days, I’ve tried to take note of the ways and reasons we get outdoors.  I put together a quick list in case you are looking for some motivation, inspiration, or just need a fresh start.

Plan a new rhythm or routine.

If you’ve been a long time reader of our blog, you probably know that we have a daily walking routine.  In the late afternoon, when Slaed gets home from work, we go on a walk.  We walk to parks, playgrounds, stores, cafes, you name it.  Our destinations vary.  The kids get outside during one of the toughest (have you heard of the witching hour?) times of the day, the dog gets out, and we all get our exercise.

Now both of the kids are using their own 2 feet, but of course when they were younger, they were carried or strolled. Weather and route dependent, bikes and scooters also come along!

Having a daily default helps to make outdoor time a priority, so pick a time of day works best for your family, and get out there.

Set some goals.

Your goal may be to add more outdoor time, but how about getting a little bit more specific? Here are a few ideas to get your started:

• Number of Steps: Decide on a specific number of steps or miles you want to walk each day, and keep track!  Since receiving a fitness watch for Christmas, I’m super motivated to reach my step goal each day.
• Places: Challenge your family to visit a certain number of parks or playgrounds for a month, several months, or even the whole year.
• Minutes/hours: Set an outdoor minute or hour goal for each day or each week.

Create a Family Bucket list

We have made seasonal bucket lists, where as a family, we come up with about 10 things to do that are special to the season, off and on for years.  I’m always so thankful when we take the time to choose these adventures and projects.  Of course having the list puts some intention around our “free” time, and it’s super motivating to complete.  View a few of our past bucket lists here.

Go on a Seasonal Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts can give outdoor adventures some structure, and can answer the looming question, “What are we going to do…?” once you actually get outside.  We have a photo based scavenger hunt for each season: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.  You can also just head to pinterest, and find something more general or even regional specific.

Also, I can’t talk about scavenger hunts without mentioning geocaching! As soon as I mention the word, my 7-year old is chomping at the bit to get outside. 

New Gear!

Sometimes it just takes something new and exciting to give you or your children a little push out the door.  Balls, frisbees, bikes, and other outdoor toys work well, plus here are a few more recommendations with winter in mind:

• Gloves that light up! Bergen received these gloves as a gift: fun to watch as they light up in dark, and helps with visibility too.
• Beanie with a built-in headlamp. Keeps the noggin warm, lights the way, AND allows us to be seen by cars at night.
• Hand Warmers. I often forget about this option, but they make such a difference, especially when we are taking a break at the beach or playground.
• Waterproof Notebook. Sketching, writing down what you see, and capturing memories in any weather!

Think Outside Boxes

Think Outside Boxes are a subscription-based service geared toward kids 7 & up.  Kids receive a themed (water, night, wildlife, fire, knots, etc) box each month, which includes several pieces of outdoor gear, challenges, and a detailed activity booklet.  The activity booklet includes engaging facts, puzzles, DIY projects, and of course, special motivation to get families outdoors.  We’ve received 7 boxes so far, and Bergen absolutely loves the service.  He is always so excited to jump into the activities.  Just this past weekend, we created a treasure hunt at the park! Use Coupon code WildTalesof10 for $10 off your first Think Outside Boxes purchase!

Bring Friends!

Georgia walks further, whines less, and smiles a whole lot more when one or more of her friends are out on the trail with her.  Then I get to catch up with a friend too–it’s a win-win!

Watch our video on how to get outside more as a family!

What’s motivating you to get outside in the new year?

Come join the conversation! You can keep up to date with each and every post by subscribing to the blog via email. We’d also love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page, following us on twitter, and joining us on Instagram! If you enjoyed this post, please “like it”, “tweet it” or “pin it”!