If there’s one thing I’ve learned the past few weeks , it’s that going outside saves sanity during social distancing.
My kids haven’t left the house in three weeks, so they fight constantly. My almost 6 year old acts like a 2 year old half the time. My 2 year old bites, hits, and pinches like he was made for it. It’s insane, you guys.
But listen: even with my crazy kids, I just want you to know…I’m thankful. I’m thankful for our health, their health, my MIL sticking around longer to do a couple weeks of homeschooling for us, thankful my kids have each other even though they fight like cats and dogs. I’m thankful for our evenings and weekends outside when it’s nice. I’m thankful for all the little moments I’m seeing in between all the crazy…little moments where Mav’s goofy personality comes out or Harlyn is truly the most caring sister and loves her brother fiercely.
So yes…it’s been intense, and yes, we do need to get outside every day. But I’m still one lucky mama and I’m still counting my blessings.
Here’s why going outside is a life-saver:
1.A change of scenery
Sometimes, everyone needs a change of scenery. If emotions are going crazy inside the house, heading outside can be just the ticket. The fresh air and the change of activity will help everyone reset. The fighting will (hopefully) pause with the welcomed distraction.
2. It tires them out
All the running, biking, hide n’ seek, t-ball…it’s bound to wear a kid right out! And that is not a bad thing with all the energy these kids have right now. We all live such busy lives that our kids are used to going at the speed of light. So when we’re suddenly all home, they need a way to release the energy that they usually get out through their normal schedules. And if we’re running and playing along with our kids, we’re getting exercise and getting tired too!!
3. Vitamin D
I’m a huge believer in the sun lifting moods. I personally will feel the effects of the weather even in ONE day…so staying indoors days on end just won’t work for me unless it is absolutely necessary. But right now, we’re all allowed to be in our yards and to go on walks or runs in our neighborhoods, and I am sooo down for that. I need as much sun as humanly possible!!
4. Playing outside with kids is way more fun than playing inside
I’d rather do just about anything outside with my kids than whatever they’ve got planned for me inside. Inside it’s endless “hiding” under blankets, playing house, Barbies…and it is kind of irritating. But outside, they’ll be happy doing things like bikes and walks. I can deal with that ANY time!
We’ve been having so much fun outside recently…here’s a few things we’ve been up to!!
- Plastic T-ball set
- Plastic Golf set
- Catching game (with tennis ball/velco catchers)
- Giant frisbee
- Chalk
- Frozen Jeep-Power Wheels
- Cozy Truck
- Bikes
- Runs with the double stroller
- Family walks
- Tag
- Hide n Seek
What’s your favorite way to play with your kids outdoors?
