Whether you are at the beach, in the woods or at the park, having some structured activities for your kids to participate in always makes the day run a bit smoother. The following outdoor activities are simple and affordable. What’s more, they come in very handy when your child gets tired of exploring nature on his own.
AT THE BEACH:
Sand Obstacle Course
Materials:
Plastic shovel
Stick
Directions:
Use the stick to draw a winding line in the sand (this is the path your child will follow).
Use the shovel to dig ditches along the path for your child to jump over. Then, build sand hills for him to climb over or walk around.
IN THE WOODS:
Nature Wristband
Materials:
Masking tape
Scissors
Directions:
Wrap a piece of masking tape around your child’s wrist with the sticky side up.
During your nature hike have your child pick colorful objects to add to his wristband. Help him attach leaves, flowers, and other interesting discoveries to his wristband.
When he’s done collecting use the scissors to snip off the nature wristband.
Display the wristband on a bulletin board, shelf, or wall.
AT HOME OR AT THE PARK:
Digging for Treasure
Materials:
Small plastic toys (cars, dinosaurs, farm animals, rings, etc.)
Plastic shovels
Colander
Sandbox
Directions:
Hide small objects in the sandbox for your toddler to find as he digs about.
Show him how to use a colander by filling it with sand and sifting it to reveal hidden toys.
If you have more than one child, consider painting small rocks in with silver and gold nail polish and having your children search for the hidden “treasures.” The first one to find 5 or 10 “jewels” is the winner.
Mud Handprints
Materials:
Mud
Sturdy paper plate
Plastic knife for smoothing
Directions:
Fill the plate with mud and smooth into a flat, even surface.
Have your child press his open hand into the mud and remove.
Place the mud in the sun to dry. The print won’t last for very long, but it’s fun to look at for a while.
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