Getting Your Kids Outside

I recently posted an entry at my minti site TheMentorMom.minti.com about my frustration in getting my kids outside (here's the link:  Getting the Kids Outside).  Getting my kids to play outside in our yard is a source of frustration for me. 

In order to keep them from experiencing "nature deficit disorder,"  we are off today to spend the day at the lake.  Unlike our home, my children play for HOURS outdoors at the lake, swimming, fishing, exploring.  Sigh.  If I only had a lake in my backyard...

Thought I'd share this interesting article on the importance of getting kids outside to experience nature.  Please feel free to post your experiences with getting your kids outside to experience nature.  Is it a hassle or do they love it?  Make sure you share any tips that have worked for your family for those of us who have kids that would rather be inside turning pasty white.

Enjoy and until next time!

Comments

[Izzy]

Oh man...I wish my daughter would play outside more, too. But I have to say I undertsan her reluctance. It's really hot here and when it's not hot, the mosquitoes come out so for 8 months out of the year, it's kind of hard to find the will.

[Jill Urbane, The Mentor Mom]

I hear ya Izzy. Glad to know that I'm not the only one who's kids would rather be in. Damn mosquitos...

[Jackie]

I hear you! I grew up with two brothers on a farm, so we were outside constantly. Even in the winter. I cannot wrap my mind around why my 3 girls don't want to go outside. I thought maybe because they're girls...they'd rather read, play Barbies or whatever in the house. I did that stuff too, but there has to be a balance. I've also talked to parents of boys who say they have the same problem getting them outside. We don't have cable or a dish, so it's not like they're glued to the t.v., and I limit their computer time. But to get them outside is not an easy thing to do.
I am happy to report that my oldest is at basketball practice right now, but the other two are OUTSIDE! :)
Only because they were playing Barbies in the basement most of the day and came upstairs wondering if we could get a pizza for dinner. I told them if they got outside I'd be glad to have pizza! I do whatever it takes! :)

[Jill Urbane, The Mentor Mom]

Hey, if a pizza is all it takes good for you! Sounds like everyone wins with that deal (wink, wink).