I am truly happy to have a special Guest Writer making an appearance here! Please welcome and enjoy this piece by Jenny Miller.
“Jenny Miller joined together with a coalition of other retired teachers to raise awareness to end Nature-Deficit Disorder (NDD). They found that children aren’t the only ones glued to their phones and TVs. In fact, all of us tend to take Mother Nature and her beauty for granted.” See more at stopndd.org.
Are you looking for ways to get your family out for fun in the sun? Given the current state of things, most of us are. It turns out time in nature is so necessary that when we don’t get enough, we can suffer from something called nature-deficit disorder. That’s partly why even the strictest stay-at-home order allows for outdoor time — provided you can follow the 6-foot-rule.
There are some serious consequences from nature-deficit disorder relating to reduced mental and physical health, such as a higher risk for depression, a lack of focus, inactivity, and poorer academic and job performance. With all that scary stuff to think about, here’s a roundup of awesome links to help your family find its way into the great outdoors. Most are fully enjoyable now, but there are also ideas on how to stay outside once the restrictions are lifted.
Outdoor Family Fun Without Traveling
Plan a Picnic Lunch with the Kids
9 Great Outdoor Learning Activities for Springtime
38 Outdoor Games to Make with the Family This Summer
10 New Ideas for a Secret Garden Nook Designed Just for You
The Cost to Build a Deck: 4 Ways to Save (Typically Costs $10,950)
Add a Playground for the Kids (Typically Costs $343 to $654)
Outdoor Family Fun Near and Far
Find Parks and Playgrounds Near You
The Top 5 Outdoor Sports for Kids
Top 10 Family-Friendly Hikes in the U.S. Parks
30+ Tips on Camping with Kids, from Parents Who Have Been There
7 Best Ziplining Parks Across the US
Nature provides not only mental and physical benefits, but the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s right at home or across the country, there is plenty to do and see. Just get outdoors with the fam — you’ll be glad you did!
Jenny Miller
