KIDS OUTSIDE

Children should be active for at least an hour each day to keep them health and fit.

But getting kids outside does much, much more than that, it gives them freedom to be themselves and the space to learn to play physically, interacting with each other without adult interference.

It gives them confidence and makes them happy! 

In past generations children often came home from school, had tea and went straight out to play, often completely unsupervised until they came in at bedtime. Nowadays we parents have become much more cautious and with good reason, there are dangers which stop us letting our children play out on their own, (increased numbers of cars on the roads being the real risk). There are also more temptations to keep children inside, television, games and phones so easily capture their attention. 

So it can be more of a challenge to get kids outside nowadays and maybe it’s not always possible after school and work, but weekends are a great time try some of the activities below.

There is a growing movement to ‘Rewild’ our children and here are some of the ways we can do it.

Just remember the key is to set up the opportunity and then take a step back, don’t be too bossy or involved and you will be amazed where their imaginations will take them.

Have a picnic

Just head for the nearest park or your favourite bit of local countryside or even your own garden. Involve children as much as possible in choosing and making some of the food and let them choose the picnic spot. You can find your nearest parkland by going to Play England choose the parks and open spaces tab and put your post code in. 

Build a Den

Visit Get Out With The Kids and look under games and activities for brilliant den building tips or check out Youtube for a variety of how to guides.

Fly a kite

Visit My Best Kite for great practical advice on how to make and where to fly a kite.

Take a dog for a walk

If you don’t have one of your own borrow one from a friend or neighbour or visit Borrow My Doggy don’t forget your poo bags and some biscuits for a doggy snack en route.

Climb a tree

Type 'tree climbing' into www.persil.com and get practical advice on how to teach kids to climb trees safely.

Ride a bike

Type 'biking' into www.persil.com and get practical advice on how to teach kids to ride a bike. You don’t need an expensive new bike, second-hand children’s bikes are really cheap, look out for ones that friends and family have outgrown.

Camp out

Go to GO Outdoors for a checklist for family camping and some good ideas and tips.

OR VISIT www.mountaineering.scot/activities