This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #poweringtheholidays #CollectiveBias

With cold temperatures settling in, and an increase in rainy (or snowy) days, we are in need of extra motivation and inspiration to get outdoors.  A full schedule of holiday events can also get in the way of spending time outside.  It may feel like there is less time to connect as a family, and breathe in that fresh crisp air.

We build outdoor activities into our daily advent tradition throughout the month of December.  Outings such as winter scavenger hunts, walks to see holiday lights, and neighborhood trash pick-up help us to be intentional with our time.

In addition, I’ve compiled a list of fun and educational gifts to engage kids and inspire outdoor adventure.  One quick tip before we get to the goodies: Don’t forget the batteries!

Our local Walmart has battery centers near the check out and right outside the electronics department, which is where I stocked up on Energizer MAX® and Energizer® Ultimate Lithium™ batteries in preparation of the holiday season.  There’s a special promotion too! Click here to receive a $5 Walmart eGift card with your $15 Energizer® battery or lights purchase.

Walkie Talkies

From communicating with the kids while they are playing in the backyard to engaging in fun games while hiking, we really enjoy using walkie talkies! Because they get heavy use, quality batteries are essential.  I’ve been impressed with Energizer® Ultimate Lithium’s™ performance.  They are the longest lasting AA batteries (achieved by the Guinness Book of World Records!), and have a 20-year shelf life! Head to our previous post for tips and ways to use walkie talkies on outdoor adventures.

Nightlight Projector

Even though Bergen’s beloved turtle is an inside toy (though it would be a great camping companion too), the stars and actual constellations projected inspire him to learn more about the night sky.  Accompany the nightlight with some constellation cards, and the family is set for an evening dedicated to astronomy.  Note: I worried that the stars’ projection on the ceiling might be distracting for our son, but instead it became a part of his nightly bedtime ritual: Soothing, relaxing, and comforting.  Since the turtle is used daily (displays on a timer for 45 minutes), I’m so thankful for the Energizer® MAX’s long-lasting power to keep those stars shining brightly.

Interactive Flashlight

For toddlers and preschoolers, a flashlight with a few bells and whistles will motivate them to get outdoors even though it might be chilly (and dark by 4:30pm!).  Songs, changing light colors, and even games keep things interesting.  Plus, hey–a flashlight is also practical in both seeing our own surroundings, and being seen by other cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians in the evening. For older children, Energizer® also has lightweight headlights, allowing kids to have their hands free to be donned with warm mittens, or a walkie talkie!

Pitching Machine

While we are far from baseball season here in December, if you have active and energetic kids like we do, they’ll want to hone their batting skills no matter the weather.  I love that Bergen can be independent with his pitching machine, and there’s just something about a machine pitching a ball at you that keeps the excitement going. If only it could also help sweep up all the whiffle balls that make their way into our neighbor’s yards!

Camper/RV

There is so much imagination that occurs when our kids play with there RV/Camper Van! I love that it can be played with both indoors and out, and it packs up perfectly to be a great toy to bring along on an actual camping trip.  When I hear the songs and phrases coming out of the little camper’s speakers, I immediately want to plan an adventure, and my kids are definitely along for the ride!

Share a toy/gift that inspires your child to get outside and adventure!

See Offer Terms & Conditions for complete details