healthykids
OUTDOOR PLAY
MAKE EVERY WALK AN ADVENTURE
by Debra Bokur
H
elping our children form successful relationships with other people as a basis for getting along in the world is important, but building other connections is also vital—including a respectful relationship with nature, animals and the world we inhabit. Embarking on an outdoor walking adventure is an easy and enjoyable way of intro- ducing children to nature’s wonders.
Sandra Friend, author of numerous books, including
The Florida Trail: The Official Hiking Guide and Hiking Trails of Florida’s National Forests, Parks and Preserves,
says that many parents don’t realize the wealth of op- tions that likely exist a short distance from where they live. “County park and recreation offices can provide information on a wide variety of parks, urban walks and other resources that you may not even be aware are close by,” says Friend. “Check your county’s website, where you can almost always find excellent information on these and other resources.”
When she was young, Friend kept a ter- rarium on her bedroom windowsill, filled with the things she discovered while outdoors. She under- stands the benefits of giving children the license and space to explore nature in ways that stimulate their own imagination. Friend offers the following sugges- tions for engaging children while you’re out walking, and turning these experiences into memo- rable adventures that can help cultivate their inherent curiosity.
Urban Outings
Botanical gardens, parks, butterfly gardens and zoos are perfect settings for walking adventures, even on a rainy day. Should a child show interest in particular animals, make repeat visits at various times when the animals are being bathed, fed or cared for in different ways. Between visits, watch a nature video together or explore a picture book about the animal.
Do your research so that you can share facts about the animal’s behavior, colors, diet and habitat. If individual animals aren’t already named, let your child choose his or her own name. Then, as opportuni- ties arise at home, you can bring up the topic of George the Giraffe or Lucy the Lioness, and encour- age kids to use their imagination to create stories starring their animal friends.
Keep a Record
Whether it’s on your street, in a nearby city park or in the yard, a single tree can become an adventure all its own, especially for a small child who may not be able to manage long excursions. Make an outline of the tree on a piece of paper using a thick crayon or marker, and then run off multiple copies. Have the little one chronicle the tree’s seasonal
28 Collier/Lee Counties
swfl
.naturalawakeningsmag.com
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