What parent or guardian hasn’t heard this one during spring break: “I’m bored. There’s nothing to do here. It’s so lame.” There is just so much social media that can entertain young people, and even then, they become sick and tired of the same old-same old stuff. That’s why heading for a great outdoor adventure can be thrilling, new, and loads of fun. Our activity experts have a list of their favorites to try with your child this spring.
Just Get Out And Do It
Let’s face it. People have had enough isolation and of putting a limit on social activity, but the trend for outdoor fun is back on track, and nature reigns supreme.
More than 7.1 million more Americans participated in outdoor recreation in 2020 than in the year prior.
Kite Flying
Okay, this one’s old-school, but it’s a blast at any age and gets the body moving. Also, flying a kite is affordable, and your child will enjoy choosing their very own kite, where there are tons of wonderful options. Kites are popular in the classic diamond shape, and then, there are more elaborate designs, including 3-D box kites and dragon kites.
You can do this activity in any wide open space such as a windy day on the beach, in a park, on a farm, baseball field, etc.
Go-Kart Racing
There are plenty of outdoor go-kart tracks to visit, and Kart Kountry in Kentucky boasts the largest location in the country. There are five different outdoor tracks that provide fun for the entire family.
For instance, drivers must have a valid permit and be 16 years or older, but it’s also a kid-friendly park, where kids ages five and up can enjoy go-karting fun on the smaller tracks.
White Water Rafting
It doesn’t get any more exhilarating than this spring activity, and it’s easy to see why.
“River rafting” as it’s called by folks who’ve been doing it for years now is addictive and exciting. Did you know that some 10 million have already tried it?
The beautiful Golden State is highly regarded for its fantastic, white water rafting California adventures. From young kids to seasoned thrill-seekers, you can find packages that are designed for paddlers of all skills and comfort levels.
Talk about a memorable journey into nature, this one’s hard to beat!
Geocaching
Here’s a modern-day activity that can best be described as high-tech treasure hunting. In geocaching, your child will use a Global Positioning System receiver or mobile device to “hide and seek containers.” These are known as”geocaches” or “caches” and are hidden at specific locations marked by coordinates. You can find local geocaches near you.
Pick up a trinket or prize, and leave one of your own.
Skating
Ice is nice, but you can also go skating this spring and have a ball when you strap on a pair of quad or inline roller skates. What fab exercise as you explore your neighborhood or park.
Don’t forget to put on a helmet and some pads. Then, just go!
Horseback Riding
There are many locations to try this classic, outdoor activity. You can ride horses up in New Hampshire’s stunning mountains, and there are pony rides for kids ages three to nine.
You could also go horseback riding through nature’s trails and see the world from a totally new perspective. All you need are closed-toe shoes and leggings or pants to protect against the saddle and the horse. Helmets will be provided.
Drawing/Painting
Some kids have a wonderful artistic side and would enjoy drawing and/or painting outdoors in the open air. You can choose a spot in the park, at the lake, or just about anyplace else.
You can bring along a folding table, easel, or even sit down at a park bench and draw with your child. Let them explore art with colored pencils or paints and create little masterpieces.
Being outside during spring offers some of the best moments to run around, participate in thrilling activities and enjoy what nature has to offer. Your child will engage and have a ball!