Unless it was raining and no matter how hot it was, my mom would tell us to go and play outside. I also remember her calling us in for the evening and we’d beg for five more minutes outside to catch one more lightening bug before we had to set them free.

My sons loved playing outdoors. No matter where we moved, we made sure to find a kid friendly neighborhood and a house with a decent yard. I wish I’d bought stock in companies that made sunscreen, super soakers, and freeze pops because I’d be set for life.

Things have changed a lot since my sons were children and I was a child. Today, we now have so many TV channels, smart phones, and tablets to keep kids occupied and inside. With the rising temperatures it’s hard to blame them for staying inside, but unplugging, getting outdoors, and enjoying family time is important.

How do we make sure our kids find a balance? We  start with ourselves. Children learn by example. If we are constantly inside on our smart phones or glued to the TV, they will be too. If we want them to appreciate nature, we need to show them why by sharing it with them.

I’m not advocating everyone become a helicopter parent and stick to their children like glue. I’m suggesting you start when they are small by taking them for walks around the neighborhood or pushing them on the swings at the park until they are big enough to push themselves. Teach them how to play kickball, basketball, baseball, or soccer. You’ll be surprised how quickly other kids will show up and you’ll be relegated to spectator.

Take your kids hiking or camping on the weekends and show them the beauty of nature. Teach them about safety, the importance of staying hydrated and using sunscreen. Teach them to respect our Earth and all living things. You’ll be helping them develop self-reliance and kindness. Take these opportunities to talk to your kids and above all, use this time to listen to them. Help them realize their words have value and give them the confidence to share their idea with others.

Is your backyard a place your kids want to be? Do you have a variety of toys/games available? Is the area safe and free from rocks or trash? At the end of this article, I have included links to websites with outdoor games, to make and play with your kids. For those of us in the Pittsburgh area, there’s a guide to 101 family day trips.

I’ve also included a link to Virginia Yurich’s website, 1,000 Hours Outside. She has materials to help you get started and help your kids match their screen time with outdoor time. You should definitely check it out.

Resources for a fun summer:

https://1000hoursoutside.com

https://family.lovetoknow.com/family-values/family-outdoor-games

https://pintsizedtreasures.com/creative-outdoor-games-for-families/

https://lajollamom.com/best-outdoor-games/

https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/g2477/outdoor-games-to-make-this-summer/?slide=37

https://pittsburgh.kidsoutandabout.com/content/101-family-day-trips-pittsburgh