How to Get Outside More with Your Kids (and Why It’s the Best Kind of Self Care)
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Motherhood can feel a little like life on a hamster wheel. Snacks, naps, laundry, repeat. It’s easy to fall into the rhythm of staying indoors and keeping the kids entertained with screens, toys, and routines.
But the best reset button for both you and your kids might just be as simple as going outside.
Spending time outside isn’t just good for your kids—it’s magic for you, too. It’s one of the easiest and most accessible self care ideas out there.
But when you have young kids, it can feel daunting to get outside. When I had just one, it wasn’t so bad, but gearing two kids up can be a real task.
So, let’s talk about how to make nature play a part in your regular rhythm, even if your days already feel full.
Why Going Outside is a Self Care Win
If the phrase self care makes you picture spa days or bubble baths, let’s expand that a bit. Anything you enjoy can be considered self care. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to self care.
True self care isn’t about extravagance—it’s about regularly doing the things that help you feel grounded, calm, and energized.
Spending time outside checks all those boxes.
Fresh air, sunshine, open space—it’s good for your body, your mental health, and your soul. Whether it’s a quiet walk or a muddy hike with your wild crew, exploring nature with children helps everyone reset.
For moms, especially, getting out of the house can help break the monotony, boost your mood, and give you that deep breath you didn’t know you needed.
We talk about how kids need a certain amount of outside time, but I believe adults do, too. I always feel my best when I’ve been spending a good amount of time outside.
Nature Play: What It Is and Why It Matters
Nature play is simply letting kids interact with the outdoors in unstructured, creative ways. Think: climbing trees, building stick forts, jumping in puddles, collecting rocks, watching ants.
It’s not about perfect Pinterest-worthy nature crafts (though those can be fun, too). It’s about letting your kids explore, discover, and get messy in the real world.
I know letting your kids get super muddy can be tough. It feels like another thing you have to take care of. But it’s so beneficial for your kids to have unstructured play time in nature!
Benefits of nature play include:
- Improved focus and mood
- More creativity and independence
- Better sleep (yes, please!)
- Stronger immune systems
- And, bonus: less fighting and more curiosity
Plus, you get to be there too—walking, watching, sipping your coffee in peace while they dig in the dirt. That’s a pretty fantastic self care habit if you ask me.
How to Spend More Time Outside—Even When Life is Busy
You don’t need hours of free time or a national park pass to make going outside part of your life. Try these simple, realistic ways to fit spending time outside into your everyday routine.
1. Make It Part of Your Routine
Start or end your day with 20–30 minutes outdoors. Sit on the porch, go for a walk, or water the garden together. This small daily rhythm adds up and sets a calming tone.
If your kids are like mine, this won’t be enough time for them. We make sure that it’s just part of our daily routine to get outside for a minimum of an hour at a time, often more.
We live within walking distance of my in-laws, so on the days my kids are with their Grandmum, we walk them there in the morning and walk to get them at the end of the day.
Whatever approach works for your family is great as long as you work it into your routine.
2. Keep It Simple
You don’t have to plan a grand adventure. A walk around the block, playing in the backyard, or heading to the nearest park is more than enough. The key is consistency, not complexity.
Sometimes, we go on long walks to different places or explore the woods behind our house. But often, we’re just hanging out in our backyard.
3. Dress for Success
Keep a bin by the door with rain boots, jackets, and play clothes so you’re always ready for whatever weather comes your way.
We also have an adventure bag that we can put extra clothes into in case we need them. This makes me feel much more prepared.
The easier it is to get outside, the more likely you’ll do it.
4. Turn Boredom into Exploration
When the kids are bouncing off the walls, don’t reach for a screen—head out the door.
I do think letting kids get bored is a good thing. They get more creative that way.
But it’s much easier for them to get creative outside. There’s so much to do and see out there. The possibilities are endless.
5. Create a Weekly Adventure
Pick one day a week for a slightly longer outdoor adventure. It still doesn’t have to be anything super extravagant, but something more than walking the same trails.
It could be a new park, going for a walk in a different direction, or going for a woods walk.
Let your kids help plan it! It’s an easy way to build anticipation and spark joy.
Exploring Nature With Children Builds Connection
When you slow down and really notice the world around you, your kids learn to do the same. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life with little kids, and they pick up on that.
Watching a ladybug crawl across a leaf, jumping into a pile of crunchy fall leaves, or simply lying in the grass to spot cloud shapes—these small moments build big memories.
They also create space for real connection. Away from the distractions of dishes and devices, you’re just together. Present. Grounded. Connected.
And that, dear mama, is one of the most powerful forms of self care women like you can practice. When I feel connected to my kids, I feel like I’m a good mom.
Self Care Starts with Stepping Outside
If you’re tired, touched out, overstimulated, or just ready for a change in rhythm—try stepping outside. Literally, even ten minutes of sunshine and breathing room can help you reset.
Self care at home doesn’t always mean being alone—it can mean being in a different environment, with your favorite little people, doing something that fills your cup.
Here’s the best part: figuring out how to spend more time outside doesn’t have to be complicated. Just open the door, take a step, and let nature do the rest.
Ready to make outdoor time a habit? Try tracking your outdoor minutes for the week or making a seasonal nature bucket list with your kids. You’ll be amazed at how much more grounded, joyful, and connected you all feel.
Because nature isn’t just good for kids—it’s one of the best-kept secrets of self care for moms, too.
