10 Easy Ways to Spend More Time Outdoors as a Family (Without the Overwhelm)

As Earth Day rolls around, it’s the perfect excuse to shake off the cobwebs, grab the children (and the snacks), and spend a little more time outside together.

Now that spring’s finally showing its face — with longer days, a bit more sunshine (we hope), and the odd daffodil popping up — you might be thinking about how to get the family back outdoors again. And honestly? There’s no better time.

Spending time outside is good for all of us — little ones, teens, tired grown-ups, grandparents, and anyone else in the gang. It boosts moods, gets bodies moving, helps us all feel a bit more connected to each other and the planet. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s where the best memories are made — the muddy knees, the wobbly bike rides, the impromptu tree-climbing contests…

If you’re struggling to figure out how to get the children off their screens, or how to squeeze it in between work, school, and everything else, don’t worry — I’ve pulled together a bunch of simple, practical tips to help you build outdoor time into your everyday routine.

Because Earth Day isn’t just about thinking big — it’s also about taking small steps that make a difference. And what better place to start than right outside your front door?

10 Simple Ways to Spend More Time Outdoors as a Family

1. Schedule Regular Outdoor Days
   • Pick a consistent day each week (e.g., “Adventure Sundays”) and make it non-negotiable family time outdoors – even if it’s just a trip the park!
2. Create a Family Outdoor Bucket List
   • Let everyone contribute to a fun and achievable list of outdoor experiences to look forward to.
3. Turn Everyday Tasks into Outdoor Activities
   • Transform meals into picnics, storytime into backyard camping, or homework sessions into outdoor study breaks.
4. Set Up Simple Nature Challenges
   • Easy, repeatable games like scavenger hunts, treasure maps, or spotting wildlife in your local area.
5. Embrace Micro-Adventures
   • Squeeze in short, close-to-home adventures – like exploring local parks, woods, or trails after school or work. Why not walk to school ‘the long way’, or if you drive, park a bit further away and walk the last bit.
6. Try Seasonal Family Activities
   • Pick activities specifically suited for each season, such as kite flying in spring or leaf collecting in autumn. If you need more unusual ideas, check this out!
7. Join Outdoor Family Groups or Clubs
   • Engage with local family hiking groups, wildlife trusts, or outdoor activity clubs to build a sense of community and motivation.
8. Make It Fun and Interactive for Kids
   • Use tools like binoculars, compasses, or nature journals to encourage curiosity and active participation.
9. Capture and Celebrate Memories
   • Take photos, create scrapbooks, or start a family outdoor adventures wall at home to reflect on experiences and encourage new ones.
10. Reduce Screen Time, Increase Green Time
    • Set clear screen-time limits and offer outdoor alternatives to promote healthier routines.

Conclusion:

Spending more time outside as a family doesn’t have to mean epic hikes or perfectly packed picnics (though those are nice too). It’s about making the outdoors part of your everyday — a quick walk after dinner, a weekend bike ride, or just sitting outside with a hot drink and watching the clouds.

The more you build it into your routine, the more natural it becomes — and before you know it, you’ve got muddy boots by the door and stories to tell.

So start small, get a bit grubby, and see where the next path leads.
Because the best family memories? They’re often made under open skies.

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