Battling Nature-Deficit Disorder: Outdoors Through The Ages

By Jenny Miller

Photo by Canco Park

Time in nature isn’t really an option. While it’s true that we can easily stay indoors 100% of the time, the truth is that being outside makes us healthier and happier. And when you have kids, it is your responsibility to ensure they have access to sunshine and fresh air no matter how old or young they may be. Here are some resources to help you avoid nature deficit disorder, a term many pediatricians use to describe the obesity, behavioral issues, and lack of activity associated with modern times.

Infants and Toddlers

Quality outdoor time starts now.

12 Fun Outdoor Activities for Babies

How to Build a Sandbox with Folding Lid and Seats

DIY Water Blob – Giant Sensory Water Bubble!

Best Baby Carrier For Hiking

School-Agers

Reinforce your children’s love of nature with these fun activities.

Take a Picnic to Canco Park, And Look for Butterflies The Ultimate Treasure Hunt – Geocaching with Kids

Increase Kid Activity Levels with a Backyard Playscape

Raising Butterflies: Butterfly Kits for Children

How to Safely Observe Wildlife at Home

Making Sun Prints with Children: Sun Print Results

Tweens and Teens

The older they get, the more adventures you can have together.

5 Caving for Beginners: Spelunking Tips for Families

4 Tips When Mountain Biking With Your Child

5 Ways to Get Kids Into Nature Photography

7 Tips for Camping with Teens

As you can see, there is an entire world out there waiting to be explored, and you do not have to wait until your children are “old enough” to enjoy an adventure. These links can help you change the way your children live today. And in doing so, can help them be healthier moving into tomorrow and onward.

Photo by Canco Park