Photo by Charles Parker
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Part of the joy of going on holiday as a family is getting to explore and experience a new place together. Whether you’re just travelling a few hours away, or are getting on a plane or train to another country, there’s sure to be something different about the nature around you. Away from familiar surroundings, parents may feel more able to relax and kids can enjoy the break from their normal routine of school and strict bedtimes.
It’s easy to feel like the holiday magic is fading the moment you step back through your front door, but there are some things you can do to make sure that your children’s relationship with nature lasts far beyond your holiday break. Here we list our top three ways to keep your whole family connected with the great outdoors.
Why is it important to connect with nature?
Staying connected to nature is vital. Not only is going outside a change of scenery for most of us, but learning about the plants and animals around us makes sure we feel connected to the wider picture, not just our immediate environment.
Nature can provide us with opportunities for mental restoration, which has been linked to optimism and creativity, as well as improved physical health. For kids, running around outside is a chance to flex their creative brains and enjoy just playing, both of which can aid their development.
Bring nature back with you
If you’re travelling to a park or preserve, it’s best to follow Leave No Trace practices. As the saying goes: Take nothing but pictures; Leave nothing but footprints. However, you might go somewhere much less wild on your family vacation and still enjoy the natural environment.
Younger children tend to love collecting mementos of their holidays. Whilst you might not be a big fan of carrying their chosen sticks, shells or stones back with you in your suitcase, these items can remind children of the fun that they had outdoors. They may also get some benefit from showing these to their friends, sharing their knowledge and spreading the joy of nature.
This doesn’t mean that you have to keep hold of every item they pick up, but choosing a select few to return home with you can be fun. Why not use these items to spark their imagination too? Older children can write stories or facts about their new keepsakes, keep a nature journal, or even do some art based on the things they’ve seen.
Support wildlife at home
Especially for children who live in built-up areas, seeing wild flora and fauna on your travels might be an exciting new experience. Or, going on holiday might be a chance for you all to connect with plants by trying some fruits and vegetables that you haven’t had before.
Whatever it is that amazes your children in the outside world may well be an interest that you can continue to support at home. Encourage your children to follow up on these new interests, whether that’s learning about those new animals or growing vegetables on your windowsill.
Continue to explore regularly
Of course, one of the best ways to continue to connect with nature is to get outside in your local area. Now you’ve come to appreciate the value of the outdoors, you may see your neighbourhood in a new way, and appreciate the family time it can offer you.
Going on hikes with kids can be a great way to spend time together, whilst keeping you all fit and healthy. Even if you’re in the heart of the city, parks like Couturie Forest are amazing spaces to make you feel like you’re away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For those who are a little more adventurous, why not take up a new outdoor activity together? Canoeing can be a great way to get the whole family out on the water, and little ones can be safely strapped in with you. The NORD outdoors team offers free sessions and tuition, so you’ll be in safe hands, no matter your experience level.
An outdoor holiday can inspire a lifelong love of nature in children and adults alike. So strap on your boots, pack a picnic and go and enjoy the great outdoors.
