These top tips come from parents and playworkers who regularly go out and about with families. The aim really is for you all to have a great time and give kids an experience of nature which makes them hungry for more!
- If no-one’s keen to go out don't call it a walk: Call it an adventure.
- Wearing the right clothing before you leave the house makes the whole thing much more fun!
- Get stuck in and play but ….don't take over from what your kids are doing - if they are building dens and come across a problem wait to see if they can solve it.
- You don't have to be an expert to take children on a nature walk. It is far more important for the kids to get out and smell the woods on an Autumn day or watch magical blue creatures zooming over a pond than to know what species the trees are or whether it's a dragonfly or a damselfly.
Going back somewhere can enable you to develop a real sense of place and it feels special to you.
- If you have found a nice spot to play and suggest something don't be put off if the kids don't want to do that and find something else to do - free play is often the best way to explore the natural world.
- Challenge yourselves to go out in all weathers. Even if it’s just a short time out on a chilly winter day it gives everyone a sense of the seasons changing.
- If you have discovered somewhere you all really enjoyed going - go back and visit it at different times of year. What are the differences?
- Everyone loves a picnic? Even a little one can turn a trip to the woods into a real treat. A flask of hot chocolate and a box of sandwiches will do!
- You don't have to be setting off to walk for miles to play outdoors. Often just a few paces into the woods or meadow from the bus stop or car will present a whole world of exploring opportunities to your family. Be prepared to let them enjoy it rather than feeling you have to get to the other side of the park or nature reserve!
