by Lani Derrick posted in Parenting

As the weather warms up, I know my kids are looking forward to spending more time outside and soaking up those warm spring days. I want them to have fun and get out of the house, away from their screens, running around the neighborhood with their friends.
Yet often when we are stuck indoors due to weather, they complain of being bored or not having anything to do (trust me, this house looks like a toy store exploded, there is plenty to do). I want their passion for playing outside to come from within and not from me forcing them out the door for the day.
So how do we do that" Here are a few ideas I've come up with to get my kids to love being outside:

Nature scavenger hunt: Whether you live in the city or a rural area, send the kids on a scavenger hunt. Make a list of items to find and send them on their way. Older kids can use a camera or smart phone to capture photos, or if the hunt items are something they can hold or collect, attach a plastic bag to the list so they can bring back their findings. Little kids can find larger items one at a time. Even toddlers can look for leaves, flowers and bugs! Sweeten the deal with a reward for the first group or kiddo to return with all items accounted for. Outside activity basket: Build a fun basket the kids can grab and head outside with when the sun is shining. Our basket includes sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, bubble wands, and yard games. Make sure that you have multiples of each item be...