Three surefire ways to get the kiddos outside

Now that warmer weather is coming it’s time to hustle the littles outside. I know I talk about this until I’m blue in the face, and all of you are sick to death of it, but seriously, kids who get outside = kids who love nature = kids who grow up into adults who WANT to preserve nature.

That said (again) below are some surefire ways to get the kids outside and keep them outside.

1. Get artistic: The best thing about outside art time is that your inside stays tidy! Set up easels or an art table with a tie on tablecloth (so they don’t blow away). Set out paper (place a rock on top for blow away days), wooden boxes with paints and crayons, and other artsy goodies. If you have no clue about how to get started with outdoor art projects read the following…

• Great Summer Projects, Crafts, & Nature Activities for Kids…
• Homemade Organic Paint Soap for Kids
• Homemade Non-Toxic Finger Paints
• Make Your Own Natural, Colorful Dyes

2. Pitch a tent: I never had a tent growing up (not my mom’s bag) but I REALLY wanted one. Kids and tents go together like peanut butter and jelly – but you know possibly less sticky. In any case kids can use an outdoor tent for a clubhouse, as a nice retreat for snacks and books (without the wind), for shadow puppets at night (grab a flashlight), or for the good ol’ all night camp out. See some eco friendly camping gear options.

3. Greet some critters: Set up a birdbath, build a birdhouse from recycled wood scraps and metal, dig a shallow pond for frogs, install an eco-friendly swimming hole and add some fish, plant a butterfly garden (or another eco-friendly kid style garden), and more. There are plenty of ways to encourage wildlife to come for a visit. Your kids will adore the critters, and the critters will adore the habitat.

BONUS: By the way, now is the perfect time to start researching summer camp for your child. This year why not go green with your choice? Read Green Summer Camps for ideas.

You tell me: What are you doing to get your kids outside this spring?

PS – this is almost the last day to enter to win FREE Tickets to the Seattle Green Festival!

[image via stock.xchng]