As a former teacher and an avid explorer of Florida’s wild spaces, I’ve seen firsthand how connecting with nature can transform a child’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence. But in a world filled with screens and structured activities, how do we inspire kids to step outside and experience the wonder of the natural world?
Here are some simple, engaging ways to get your kids excited about nature—no expensive gear or far-off destinations required!
Follow Their Interests
Not every child is drawn to the same outdoor experiences. Some love climbing trees, while others are fascinated by bugs or drawn to the quiet of a garden. Observe what sparks your child’s curiosity and encourage it!
Animal lovers? Take them on a bird-watching walk or to a local wildlife rescue.
Treasure hunters? Try beachcombing, rock collecting, or fossil hunting.
Budding scientists? Start a simple nature journal where they record plants, insects, or weather patterns.
Creative kids? Let them paint with natural materials, press flowers, or build fairy houses with twigs and leaves.
When kids feel like they are leading the adventure, they become more invested in the experience.
Turn a Walk into an Adventure
A simple walk around the neighborhood or a trip to the park can become an exciting exploration with the right approach.
Give them a mission – Make a scavenger hunt list with things like “a yellow flower,” “a bird’s nest,” or “a heart-shaped rock.”
Use all five senses – Ask, What do you hear? What do you smell? How does the tree bark feel?
Tell a story – Pretend you’re explorers mapping new territory or detectives searching for clues about the animals that live nearby.
Children naturally love to play—if you make outdoor time feel like a game, they’ll want to do it again and again!
Get Hands-On with Nature
Kids learn best by doing. Instead of just looking at nature, let them touch, smell, and create with it!
Grow something together – Whether it’s a windowsill herb garden, a sunflower in the backyard, or a small vegetable patch, kids love watching plants grow.
Go barefoot – Let them feel the grass, sand, or mud between their toes. It’s a simple sensory experience that builds a connection with nature.
Catch (and release!) critters – Chase fireflies, observe tadpoles, or carefully scoop up a crab at the beach. These up-close encounters make a lasting impression.
Let Nature Be the Playground
Outdoor play doesn’t have to be structured. Let your kids experience the wild side of play by giving them freedom to explore.
Build a fort out of sticks and leaves
Climb trees and balance on fallen logs
Dig in the dirt and make mud pies
Skip rocks across a pond
Roll down a grassy hill
Unstructured play in nature helps children develop creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills—plus, it’s just plain fun!
Make it a Tradition
One of the best ways to instill a lifelong love of nature is to make it part of your family’s routine.
Sunday morning nature walks – A weekly tradition that gets everyone outside.
Beachcombing after a storm – Discover the treasures the tide brings in.
Backyard camping – Set up a tent and stargaze without leaving home.
Seasonal nature challenges – Find the first flower of spring, collect colorful leaves in fall, or make snow angels in winter.
These small rituals create lasting memories and build a natural love for the outdoors.
Lead by Example
Children are more likely to love nature if they see you enjoying it, too!
Put down your phone and engage in the moment with them.
Express wonder at a butterfly or a sunset.
Share stories about your own childhood adventures outside.
Your enthusiasm is contagious, and before long, your kids will be leading you on outdoor adventures!
Final Thoughts
Nature is one of the best teachers, playgrounds, and sources of inspiration we have. Whether it’s a small backyard discovery or a big adventure, encouraging kids to explore the outdoors helps them develop a sense of wonder, resilience, and appreciation for the world around them.
So grab a pair of comfortable shoes, step outside, and see what you can discover together!