If you want to shake up your outside time a little, try making some crafts. Here is an easy nature mask craft for kids – a found item leaf mask! These can be made in several ways and toddlers through older kids (and adults) will enjoy this activity. If you allow the creativity to flow, you may find your kids take your idea, change it, and run off in their own direction with it. This creativity is a very good thing!
Natalie
It’s okay to go outside. It’s okay to continue to be wild. The recent news invites us to panic and to change our daily habits. Even though our normal routines were disrupted, it’s okay to go outside. It’s okay to go for walks, play in backyards, or spend some time in the front yard.
Yes, even with the chaos of right now. Especially right now.
I’m a big fan of the Zoey and Sassafrass series, written by Asia Citro (as you can tell here). When she agreed to an interview with me, I may have had a bit of a fangirl freakout. But I’m not about to admit that here!
Asia Citro’s fourth book of the Zoey and Sassafras series, Caterflies and Ice, came out last November. I was lucky enough to interview her and talk a little bit about her characters, writing process, and bugs. Yes, bugs!
Though I’ve not met her in person, she is warm, funny, and her love of bugs is infectious. There’s also a little surprise contained within!
Messy play is great for children. It helps build coordination, fine motor skills, and can provide a completely child-led sensory experience. Sometimes, really great photographers can make it look beautiful and that is wonderful! However, most of the time, our messy play is just that. Messy.
As delighted as children are when allowed to explore as they desire, play can quickly turn from a cute activity into an ugly, glorious mess. However, there are many messy play benefits.
Fall is one of my favorite seasons to get outside. The weather in Ohio is usually crisp and sunny. The mornings are cool, but I often find I’m shedding layers by the afternoon. Autumn weather in central Mexico is similar (except it never freezes). I’m always looking out for great fall activities for kids outside!
When Asia Citro first advertised her series Zoey & Sassafras, I jumped at the opportunity to read them. The books are about a young girl with a cat that includes science and magic? Count me in! My kids and I have devoured these books because I love this series. Lucky for us, the series keeps growing and the 8th book is coming out in October, 2020. Here’s why I love the Zoey and Sassafras books so much!
It has been a struggle lately to get outside. I’m often met with whining and crying when I suggest it. It’s often easier to just stay indoors than deal with the challenges of actually getting outside.
First, it seems like no one is ever dressed. I have to find clothes and socks for both children, encouragement to get dressed or dress them if that’s what they want, and then go outside. Sometimes, the furthest we go is our front porch.
I’ve failed, I desperately think during those moments. My kids hate the outdoors!
Moms, sometimes we forget that we need to have appropriate gear for the weather, too. A rain poncho is a great addition for the wild-outdoor wannabe! Ponchos can be worn while babywearing (use your best judgement), can be easily thrown over any outfit, and can fold up fairly small to keep in an outdoor gear bag.
It’s best to be prepared for whatever the weather is going to throw at us, especially if our goal is to get outside more in all weather. Let’s check out all the best rain poncho options!