The flowers are popping, the rabbits are hopping, and that dark winter sky is in the rearview mirror. That can only mean one thing: spring is finally here!
Your kids may feel more cooped up than usual this year thanks to the pandemic, homeschooling, and a series of winter storms throughout much of the U.S. So dust off your outdoor clothes and head into the sunshine—we’re about to make up for that lost time.
There are tons of things to do outside with kids in the spring . . . and these are our personal favorites (in no particular order).
Of all the things to do outside with kids in the spring, this is the most versatile. Grab your bikes, running shoes, walking clothes, scooters—whatever you like. The important thing is to reconnect with nature and each other by exploring the beautiful walkways, paths, and trails available in your area.
It’s great to take in the wildflowers, but it’s even more fun when you can sit back and admire your own handiwork. You can make this project as simple or complex as you like, choosing from a variety of flowers, herbs, and even fruits and veggies. Plus, your home will benefit from all that beautification!
Hit the backyard, a neighborhood park, a scenic overlook, or any other spot that screams sunshine and warmth. Then dig in! Like the garden, this is a diverse project. Homemade sandwiches and a blanket work just fine, as do grab-and-go picnic kits, beach chairs, and folding tables. Choose your level of involvement, then have at it.
This may be a list of things to do outside with kids in the spring, but that doesn’t mean you can’t foster your inner child. Remember that passion for art you’ve long abandoned? Well, tap back into it! All you need is a little sidewalk chalk and creativity (well, and maybe a sidewalk).
Colorful kites look so beautiful soaring up there in the sky. Invest in a solid one or two, watch a couple of YouTube videos for helpful tips and tricks, then find a nice, wide-open area where you can let yours soar. Be sure you’ve got a little runway so you can give your kite some momentum —and extra points for the added exercise!
Take advantage of a windy day or let your lungs do the work—either way, bubbles provide plenty of fun and entertainment. Purchase a variety of wands to stretch out this activity. When it comes to things to do outside with kids in the spring, this one will elicit some oohs, ahhs, and even giggles. Let the dog in on the action as well if they enjoy being the bubble “catcher.”
Summer camp may be a few months off, but fire pits can definitely be enjoyed now. Break yours out and indulge in a range of treats from hot dogs to s’mores. Not feeling the cooking angle? NBD. Set the sticks aside and sit around the fire with a warm drink, then see who can tell the best campfire story.
What can we say? Thinking about things to do outside with kids in the spring has put camping on our minds! You can set up a tent as a backyard “play area” during the day or have a campout on the weekend. The whole family can join in or, if kids are old enough, you can leave them to their “private” outdoor sleepaway.
Create bingo cards that feature common occurrences in your neighborhood. Incorporate all the typical sights and sounds. If your kids are young, these bingo cards may include items like a bird, bicycle, flower, or red car. If your kids are older, you can get more specific with it. Maybe they’re looking for a Mourning Dove, beach cruiser, rose bush, or convertible car. Then hit the neighborhood and see who gets bingo first!
The type of bird you target depends on your neighborhood, but bird feeders are an easy project that can yield entertaining results once they’re in use. Little kids can collect a pinecone, spread some peanut butter on it, and then roll it in birdseed before it’s hung up for their winged neighbors to enjoy. Older kids can use a variety of materials like teacups, paper plates, unused bowls, and even string. The important thing is that the birdseed is plentiful and accessible no matter what you use or how you hang it.
We know you’re just as excited as your kids are that the long winter haul is behind us. No need to dampen that mood by worrying about what types of things to do outside with kids in the spring. This list—plus a couple of outdoor adventures unique to your family—will provide hours of entertainment as you take advantage of Mother Nature. Before you know it, you’ll be pulling out the beach chairs and heading toward a summer full of sun and sand!
If buying a home is on your list of things to do this spring, give us a call. APM is available all four seasons and would love to make sure your family has the outdoor space it needs to thrive. Go here to find an APM Loan Advisor near you.