10 Ways to Encourage Outdoor Play and Reduce Screen Time

Outdoor play is not only beneficial for children’s physical health, but also their mental and emotional well-being. The problem is , in today’s tech-savvy world, it can be hard to get kids to put down the screens and go outside. If you’re struggling to get your little ones to play outdoors more, try out some of these tips:

1. Schedule outdoor time into the day: Just like any other activity, outdoor play time should be scheduled into the day. Set aside a specific time each day for your child to go outside and explore.
2. Get involved:Kids are more likely to want to play outside if they see their parents doing it too. Make a point of going outside with them, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
3. Choose the right time:The temperature and weather can play a big role in how much kids enjoy being outdoors. Try to pick a time when it’s not too hot or cold, and there’s no chance of rain.
4. Set up an outdoor play space: If you have the space, set up a dedicated outdoor play area for your child. This could include things like a sandbox, a small table and chairs, or some fun garden toys. 

Try this Ring Toss Game Set. It’s perfect for indoors and outdoors.

5. Buy some new outdoor toys: Sometimes all it takes to get kids excited about playing outside is some new toys. Pick up some balls, Frisbees, or water guns that they can use in the yard.

Check out this Giant Jelly Balloon Ball.

6. Make a game out of it: Turn outdoor play into a fun game or competition. See who can collect the most leaves, race each other around the block, or see how long you can all balance on one leg.
7. Get crafty: If your child is more creative, try doing some arts and crafts outdoors. Set up a little table and chairs, and let them get messy with paint, chalk, or clay.
8. Go on an adventure: Take your child on a mini adventure in your own backyard. Look for bugs, hunt for treasure, or build a fort out of sticks and leaves.

An intercom walkie talkie will help complete your outdoor adventure.

9. Visit a park: If you don’t have a lot of space at home, visit a nearby park. Let your child run around and explore, and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while they play.

Don’t forget to bring these binoculars for your child.

10. Make it a family affair: Spending time together as a family is important, and there’s no better way to do it than by spending time outdoors. Go for a hike, play some lawn games, or just sit and chat in the backyard.

How to Bring Outdoor Play Indoors

Bad weather? No problem! There are plenty of ways to bring outdoor play indoors.

1. Go camping: Set up a tent in the living room, tell spooky stories, and roast marshmallows over a make-shift fire.
2. Have a picnic: Spread out a blanket on the floor and enjoy a meal together.
3. Make an indoor obstacle course:Use chairs, pillows, and blankets to create an indoor obstacle course.
4. Play “I Spy”: Take turns finding things around the room and giving clues to help the other person guess what it is.
5. Build a fort:Get creative and build a fort out of blankets, pillows, and furniture.