Outdoor Families - Nature Connect Central Oregon

There are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors!

Spending time in nature is good for our bodies, minds, and families. We’ve shared some DIY activities, parks, and organizations that are great for outdoor family time. Try some of these ideas, or create your own adventure!

Good for minds

Time in nature increases a sense of belonging and connection, attention & focus, good mood, and empathy.

Good for families

Families who spend time in nature develop incredible memories, stronger bonds, and better communication.

Good for bodies

Children who spend more time outside learn to balance risky play with safety, are more physically active, have lower BMIs, have better motor skills, and are less likely to develop myopia.

Free play is best!

Free play (or unstructured play) is child-led play where children are motivated by their own desires and curiosities. Free play is a fundamental necessity for children to thrive physically, emotionally, and mentally. It builds imagination, problem-solving abilities, and social skills. Getting outside is a great way to encourage free play. Read more about the importance of unstructured play and how to encourage it with your kids.

Outside made easy!

DIY Nature Activities

Picnic: Make a family meal special by enjoying it at a favorite park or outdoor area.
Sit Spots: Spend a quiet minute or more in nature and tune into your senses. Pick a spot to return to regularly and notice the changes over time.
Fairy houses: Use natural materials to create a fairy house or home for a toad. Add fun details like a bed, walkway, or decorations.
Scavenger hunt: Create a list of things to find, collect, or take pictures of on your next outing.
Mud pies: Grab some dishes and spoons and head to a dirt pile. Create mud pies by mixing dirt and water. The fun is endless!
Nature art: Gather leaves, sticks, rocks, or any nature design and create designs in nature.
Photographer: Let your child be a nature photographer while out at a park or on a hike. You’ll be amazing at how much they notice when they are taking photos.
Trail Bear!: Add some motivation to your next hike by hiding gummy bears or other treats along the way for the kiddos to find.