I grew up swinging from branches, stepping on stones, running in fields and balancing on logs. That was my playground. I want the same for my boys. So, how do I do it? There are wonderful companies that will create a natural play scape for you but given that it is natural, I wonder: is it possible to create one on my own? The answer is, of course, but take a step back: if you go on day trips or happen to be lucky enough to have a backyard forest, these natural playgrounds are all around you. No need for a fancy landscape. No need for a fancy play structure. Nature is the play structure. Here are a few examples of Nature’s Playground Activities:
Nature’s Playground Activities
{A Beach is Your Sandbox}
{A Tree is Your Monkey Bar}
{A Log is Your Balance Beam}
{A Leaf Pile is Your Foam Pit}
{A Field is Your Gymnasium}
{The Sand is Your Trampoline}
{A Cliff Side is Your Jungle Gym}
{A Long Windy Path to Find the Beach is Your XBox}
{A Hill is Your Slide}
{Observing a Caterpillar is Your Netflix}
{Watching a River Run is Your iPad}
I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. The world is facing a Nature Deficit Disorder, especially our children. This concern will negatively impact society as a whole. Kids need real authentic experiences and one of the best ways to achieve these experiences is with nature. If you not had the chance yet read Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder
Thank you for reading today! Please leave a comment, I love hearing from you!
Here a few other post you may like:
Authentic Experiences for Kids
Simplicity Living & Parenting
Gardening Tools for Kids
5 Ways to Bring Nature into Your Home
Simple is Best {Nature’s Playground}
20 Earth Day Activities for Kids
Warmly,
Marnie