20 Ideas for Getting the Kids Outdoors This Autumn

The crisp air, the vibrant colours, and the cosy feeling of autumn make it the perfect time to get the kids outdoors.

Not only is it fun, but spending time in nature has a multitude of benefits for children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. So, let's explore some exciting ways to get your little ones immersed in the wonders of the natural world this autumn.

Why Outdoor Adventures Matter

Before we dive into the activities, let's quickly recap the incredible benefits of outdoor play:

• Physical Health: Outdoor activities promote physical activity, improving strength, flexibility, and coordination.
• Mental Health: Spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, enhancing children's mental well-being.
• Cognitive Development: Exploring the outdoors stimulates curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Social Skills: Outdoor play fosters social interaction, cooperation, and teamwork.
• Emotional Well-being: Connecting with nature can boost children's self-esteem, resilience, and sense of wonder.

20 Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family

Now, let's get inspired with some fun and engaging outdoor activities:

1. Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of natural items for your children to find, such as different coloured leaves, interesting rocks, or unique insects.
2. Have a Picnic in the Park: Pack a delicious lunch and head to your local park for a picnic. Enjoy the fresh air, watch the squirrels, and let the kids run free.
3. Visit a Local Nature Reserve: Many UK nature reserves offer guided walks, educational activities, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
4. Go Geocaching: Use a GPS device or smartphone app to find hidden treasures in outdoor locations.
5. Build a Den: Gather sticks, leaves, and blankets to create a cozy den in the woods or your backyard.
6. Go Stargazing: On a clear night, bundle up and head outside to marvel at the stars and constellations.
7. Have a Campout in the Garden: Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and tell stories under the stars.
8. Go on a Forest Bathing Walk: Slow down and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest.
9. Collect Autumn Leaves and Make Art: Gather colourful leaves and use them to create beautiful artwork, such as leaf rubbings or pressed leaf collages.
10. Go on a Bug Hunt: Explore your garden or a local park to discover fascinating insects and other creatures.
11. Plant Bulbs for Spring: Get your children involved in gardening by planting bulbs like daffodils or tulips so that they will be ready to blossom when spring comes around.
12. Go on a Nature Photography Walk: Encourage your children to capture the beauty of the autumn landscape through photography.
13. Have a Water Fight or Water Play (Weather Permitting): On a warm autumn day, have a refreshing water fight in the garden or at a local park, or enjoy water play outdoors. A couple of pots and some water can keep little ones busy for a very long time.
14. Go Paddle boarding or Canoeing: If you live near a lake or river, rent a paddle board or canoe and enjoy a peaceful adventure on the water.
15. Go Horse Riding: Many stables offer horse riding lessons and trail rides for children of all ages.
16. Visit a Pumpkin Patch: Pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating.
17. Go Conker Picking: Enjoy a fun day out looking for conkers and get creative with some conker games.
18. Make a Nature-Inspired Craft: Use natural materials like sticks, leaves, and acorns to create unique crafts.
19. Volunteer in a Community Garden: Teach your children about the importance of giving back by volunteering at a local community garden.
20. Simply Spend Time Outdoors: Sometimes, the best way to connect with nature is to simply spend time outdoors, whether it's playing in the park, going for a walk, or simply sitting quietly and observing the world around you.

Tips for Making Outdoor Adventures Memorable

• Dress for the Weather: Make sure your children are dressed appropriately for the weather, with warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep your children hydrated and energised with healthy snacks and drinks.
• Bring a First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with a well-stocked first aid kit.
• Check the Weather Forecast: Plan your outdoor activities around the weather forecast to avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Encourage Curiosity and Exploration: Encourage your children to ask questions, explore, and discover the wonders of nature.
• Make it Fun: Keep the mood light and playful, and focus on having fun together.

Spending time outdoors in nature offers a myriad of benefits for children. It provides opportunities for physical activity, promoting healthy growth and development. Exposure to fresh air and sunlight boosts vitamin D absorption, essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Nature also stimulates children's senses, fostering curiosity and imagination. Engaging with the natural world can reduce stress, anxiety, and improve mental well-being. Additionally, outdoor play encourages social interaction, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. By spending time in nature, children develop a deeper appreciation for the environment and a sense of connection to the natural world, which can inspire a lifelong love for conservation and sustainability.

By incorporating these outdoor activities into your autumn plans, you can create lasting memories and foster a lifelong love of nature in your children. Remember, the most important thing is to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and all the beauty that autumn has to offer.

KIDDYKIND is on a mission to make it easier to shop from planet-friendly kids brands that care deeply about the organic clothing, wooden toys, natural arts-crafts or whatever they create. On KIDDYKIND we have a range of organic kids clothes, sustainable kids outerwear, organic baby clothes, sustainable kids footwear and so much more to help you get outside this autumn. Browse our top autumn picks for your little ones here.