By Jackie Edwards
Research shows that children who spend time in nature tend to be happier, more focused, and more reflective — and these benefits stick with them into adulthood. In fact, children who live near green spaces are less likely to develop psychiatric disorders later in life, whereas children who grow up in cities without much exposure to nature are a staggering 55% more likely to develop mental illness, the American Psychological Association reveals. So, as a nanny, it’s important to nurture a love of nature and outdoor activities in the children you care for—and there’s plenty of fun ways you can do this. If you let the children choose activities, join adventure clubs, and check out your local nature center, they’ll experience all the best parts of nature and develop a lifelong passion for it.
Give them freedom to choose
The best way to get children really excited about outdoor pursuits is to ask them what activities they themselves would like to do. Research shows children become more motivated and engaged when they have freedom of choice over the tasks they dive into. So, as long as the parents are okay with it, give them a list of fun outdoor options — include a good variety to appeal to different interests. For instance, maybe they’d like to go on an outdoor scavenger hunt where they explore the woods, park, or beach. As part of this, you give them a list of natural treasures to find, and the kids hunt them down. Alternatively, little thrill-seekers will probably love a visit to an outdoor adventure park. They can have fun on kid-friendly zip lines and climbing walls, which is great exercise against a beautiful backdrop.
Either way, when kids decide on an activity, they’re more likely to enjoy it. This also saves you the trouble of making the decision and wondering whether there’s something they’d like better. And, if there’s multiple children, they should each get a chance to select an activity to keep things fair.
Join outdoor adventure clubs
Children who regularly participate in outdoor activities are physically fitter than those who don’t, and have better coordination, balance, and strength. Joining an outdoor adventure club in your local area is a great way to introduce kids to these beneficial activities. Whether it’s canoeing, fly fishing, or camping, they’re bound to find something they love, and develop valuable life skills in the process. Some clubs even issue membership cards, which can be a nice touch that makes kids feel part of a group. These cards are usually pocket-sized, but if you’re looking after young children, it’s probably best you hold onto them. Another benefit is the social aspect of these clubs. Children can make friends and develop these relationships week after week. They’ll then become even more excited about the activities they’re doing and get more out of the experience as a result.
Check out your local nature center
Nature centers educate the public on the environment and the importance of conservation — and they also often have exciting programs specifically for kids. For example, Yellowstone National Park in northwest Wyoming sits on top of an active supervolcano! This is one of the world’s largest volcanic systems, and kids can learn all about it as part of the Young Scientists program. On the program, children solve science mysteries across the park, and are rewarded with a Young Scientists patch. There’s also plenty of other amazing kid-friendly outdoor activities on offer — from hiking and horseback riding to boating on Yellowstone Lake.
Alternatively, in Wisconsin, you can visit the wonderful Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, which preserves natural habitats along the Lake Michigan shoreline. On Forrest Fridays, children of all ages can attend classes and learn about bird migration, wildflowers in bloom, and the magic of metamorphosis. They can also go on easy hikes and play, climb, and explore. But, no matter where you’re located, there’s bound to be a nature center nearby. Start with one close to home to reduce your travel footprint, before you consider exploring further afield.
Nurturing a love of nature in children will bless them with long-lasting mental and physical health benefits. So, show them just how amazing time spent outdoors can be, and you’ll help them develop an appreciation of nature they’ll carry with them for life.