Childhood today looks WAAAAAAAYYYYYY different from when we were growing up. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing. I mean looking back on some of the things we did growing up with zero supervision... well let's just say it makes me proud to be standing here with all of my appendages intact and working. But as a whole we have shifted towards viewing going outside as a means to get somewhere, rather than viewing the outdoors as a destination in and of itself. Which is a shame since we believe our children should grow up with a healthy curiosity and respect for the world around them.
Maybe that's why we're a little grateful for the topsy turvy trials of this year. I mean one huge good thing to come of all the coronavirus/work from home/shelter in place life was an increase in family time. And we loved hearing all about it in our weekly zoom chats and in class. We love that so many of you took advantage of this time to go outside. We loved hearing of all the biking, walking, hiking, and swimming you guys were enjoying together. It inspired us to do this in our own homes more. But as our world continues to open up, and schedules get back to normal and we find ourselves increasingly busier we feel strongly that it's important to keep that family centered focus going. So whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or you just want happy, healthier children here are some great benefits of venturing beyond and some ideas to get your family outdoors more this summer.
Because not everything needs to be fast
If you're like us. You relished the change of pace that coronavirus brought. It really helped you reorient and prioritize what matters the most. And as we get back to a semblance of our new normal we are realizing we don't have to be spread so thin. Life doesn't have to be a continuous string of one activity or task to the next. It is okay to slow down. It can be wonderful actually. And slowing down in nature, whether its lazing about in a hammock, watching the clouds glide bye or waiting for the fish to bite can be just the change of pace and reset we need to recharge and refill after a long week.
Because not everything needs to be planned
2020 has been a testament to this fact. Life happens whether it's planned or not. And even the greatest plans have to be rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstance. It's just a fact of life. We know how little we truly have control over. So breathe. Don't stress so much. You don't have to fill every spare second of your weekend with activities, company and outings. Some of life's greatest moments happen by accident. So if you're tired of being home get out and go. See where the road takes you. Take a drive together, go on an impromptu hike, get lost together, be spontaneous, have a picnic, utilize local walking trails, do whatever brings you joy. Just get outside together and relish those lazy unplanned days of summer.
Because facing obstacles is a skill
Anytime we put ourselves against nature we are facing something bigger than us. And as we push the boundaries of what we thought was possible, as we stretch outside our comfort zone we are learning to face our fears and overcome obstacles. And that is a skill essential to success later on. So push them to climb that tree. See who can climb the rock the highest. Pit yourself against nature by hiking the harder paths. The views are always worth it and we can take pride in doing something we thought we couldn't before.
Because adventure is what childhood memories are made of
Some of my fondest memories as a child involved being outside. Hiking, camping, swimming in natural water holes, slipping across algae covered rocks, catching tadpoles or hunting for crawdads, fighting over the hammocks, building rock monuments, playing in mud, finding the best walking stick, climbing the biggest rock. These adventures held magic in them. And although we were tired and often whined about the journey it was always worth it. Those trips are the ones I remember. How we went camping for a week and it rained every day. How we saw a baby bear cub, and tried to smash rocks to make arrowheads like the Native Americans of old. I don't remember Disneyland or Sea World or even much of Lego Land in Cali. But I do remember the wonder of standing beneath the great sequoias and many misadventures in the great outdoors.
Because it can spark a lifelong love
Our many adventures growing up has sparked a lifelong love. I will always love to travel. I will always love to hike. And while camping in a tent is no longer my favorite there is nothing like a day spent exploring new places and ending the day around a fire. I owe that to my childhood. And one day I too want to take my family to as many National Parks as I can. I want them to do the Junior Ranger Programs, to explore, to collect the badges, and rocks and shells. I want them to build a home and a life but be brave enough to step out of it and explore. So let them collect those rocks or pinecones or whatever it may be. Those are memories of the magic of childhood. And by building a love for the outdoors now it can touch your family for many generations to come.
Because it makes us healthier
It's no secret that today's busy, fast food filled, but also sedentary, electronics based lifestyle isn't doing our society any favors. Getting outside is an active endeavor. It isn't easy walking, hiking, biking, skating, or swimming. It isn't easy to camp or gather firewood. And it is definitely up and moving. So find a way to get your family outdoors. Create traditions. There are plenty of things to do in the local area and a short day trip away. Instilling these habits and this love now will payoff today and for years to come.
Because you don't even have to go very far
We know that with all the continued uncertainty going on today you might not feel up for a grand adventure. Camping in your back yard, walking or biking the paths of our locale, having a picnic, trying all the playgrounds in our city are all minutes away. And they take minimal prep to make happen. If you're up for something more Turner Falls, The Wichita Mountains, lakes and more are a short trip away. The best thing of all is it's easy to social distance in the wide open spaces of the great outdoors. So no matter how big or small the adventure start getting your family outside more. We know you won't regret it. Happy parenting!
#RaiseAWarrior
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