We’re in unchartered territory here- schools are closed for the next month, normally scheduled activities are being canceled, and “social distancing” is a phrase that is now a part of our everyday lives. As a parent to a preschooler, my focus has shifted to how to maintain some sense of normalcy in our daily lives. Most children (my own included) thrive off of routine and being cooped up inside is not a part of my family’s daily routine. Going outside is the perfect way to break up the day and have little ones get some of that never-ending energy out. The weather may not be ideal but with these fun outdoor activities, your family will get some much needed fresh air and quality time outside of the house.
Think of the things you can see around your neighborhood (trees, cars, stop sign, etc) and create a visual checklist with clip art or hand drawings. Take the list on a walk and let the kids check off what they find during a walk around the neighborhood.
Create a Chalk Obstacle Course
Follow the line, spin on the circle, jump on the square, turn around on the triangle. Make a life-size board game the kids can explore on the driveway.
Go on a Sensory Scavenger Hunt
Think outside the box, outside the house. What can you find in the yard to climb on or play catch with? What can you walk across or jump over? What can you find that is hard or squishy? Create a check list and challenge your kids to discover new things outside.
Put on your listening ears and pick out a seat on the porch. Listen for animals, cars and other noises in nature. Ask your kids to identify the sounds, repeat them and even practice writing them down to record their scientific research.
Make a Bird Feeder for your Backyard
Use lose materials you have at home or order a kit from Amazon. Since we’re all stuck at home these days, let’s build one for the birds too.
Play a “Classic” Outdoor Kids Game
We’re all a little nostalgic for simpler times. Teach your kids the joys of capture the flag, hopscotch, jump-rope, Simon says, and telephone.
Have fun with S.T.E.A.M – search for leaves in nature, document your findings by placing paper over the leaves and rubbing them with crayons, measure the length of the leaves and create a chart – and some art.
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ABOUT ASHLEY HUBBARD-PORTER
Ashley Porter is a Chicago native who now calls Birmingham home. Ashley and her husband Mike and son Jake love attending local festivals, exploring Detroit’s diverse food scene, and venturing outside of Metro Detroit to enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan. With a background in Early Childhood Education, Ashley loves connecting with and supporting families in her community, which is why she is so excited to be a part of LittleGuide Detroit.
