In the new year, one of my resolutions was to get outside more. I decided to join the 1000 hours outside challenge, emphasizing the importance of spending time outdoors to match (or hopefully surpass) the amount of screen time kids receive each year.
This challenge significantly impacts childhood and family life, fostering a deeper connection with nature and each other through active, outdoor family engagements.
Having the challenge in place makes it so fun to stay motivated, get creative, and explore! You can read more about 1000 hours outside here. Our Travel Wallet and travel pencil case are perfect for this challenge and documenting all of your adventures.
1000 Hours Outside Challenge
The 1000 Hours Outside Challenge encourages families to spend more time outdoors. The average amount of screen time for American kids is currently quantified as 1200 hours per year, which starkly contrasts with their outdoor playtime. This challenge aims to balance that by promoting healthier childhood development through nature activities.
Research has consistently shown the benefits of unrestricted outdoor activities, highlighting the confirmed time needed for children's growth and development.
Introduction to the Challenge
The 1000 Hours Outside Challenge is a unique opportunity for families to prioritize outside play and nature-based activities for their children. By committing to spend 1000 hours outside, families can help their children develop a lifelong love for nature and a healthier lifestyle.
The challenge is designed to be flexible and adaptable to each family’s schedule and lifestyle, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting to explore the great outdoors, the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge is a great way to get started.
Benefits to Childhood Development of Unrestricted Outside Play
Unrestricted outside play is essential for childhood development, contributing extensively to every area of a child’s growth. Research has confirmed that nature time is crucial for children’s physical and mental well-being, and that outdoor play helps children develop important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
By allowing children to engage in unrestricted outside play, parents can help them develop a sense of independence, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Moreover, play outdoors is essential for children’s physical health, as it helps them develop strong bones, muscles, and cardiovascular health.
Getting Started: Simple Ways to Match Nature Time with Your 1000 Hours Outside Goal
Getting started with the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge is easy. Simply commit to spending 1000 hours outside with your children over the course of a year, and start tracking your progress. You can use a journal, a spreadsheet, or a mobile app to log your hours and stay motivated.
It’s also a good idea to set aside dedicated time for playing outside and nature-based activities, such as a daily walk or a weekly hike. By making outside play a priority, you can help your children develop a lifelong love for nature and a healthier lifestyle.
Here are 3 fun ideas of outdoor play with your kids to get those hours in:
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Nature i-spy: Create a list of items to search for on your walk. If you live somewhere that isn’t currently covered by snow you could also make it more challenging by adding a certain color to search for. It keeps those little minds busy and engaged while finding things to complete their list! Remember, childhood is a one shot opportunity, so make the most of these moments.
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Beach toys: No matter where you live, dig out those beach toys! Beach toys are not only a blast to use in dirt and at the beach, but they’re also fun to use with snow. Playing outdoors with beach toys encourages imaginative and independent play, allowing children to explore and enjoy the natural world away from screens.
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Make bird feeders: With colder temperatures, and less leaves we always love to make bird feeders to give the birds some extra food. All you need is a pinecone (which you can find on your adventures), peanut butter, a string, and bird seed.
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Tie the string to the top of the pinecone
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Roll the pinecone in peanut butter
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Cover the peanut butter with bird seed
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Hang on a tree for birds to enjoy!
Consider using an app to track the hours your children spend outside each week, setting a goal to encourage more time spent in nature. Start a garden or maybe make an outdoor kitchen for the kids to get messy in.
Make sure you invest in some really good waterproof and cold weather suits and boots for them to make they continue to enjoy being outdoors even in cold weather. As a parent, facilitating these activities is crucial for your child's development.
Camping is also a great family adventure to go on together, spending time sleeping and eating outside can be a thrilling experience for the kids.
It’s definitely a challenge committing to this schedule of outdoor activities. But the value of doing it far surpasses the challenging rainy and cold days!
Being involved in outdoor activities, whether we reached our 1000 hours challenge or not, has brought immense personal growth, creativity, and stronger family bonds. The importance of teaching children to respect nature is very also really important.
Good luck on your journey to 1000 hours outside.
Creating a Supportive Community
Creating a supportive community is an essential part of the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge. By connecting with other families who are also participating in the challenge, you can share tips, resources, and motivation.
You can join online forums or social media groups, attend local events, or start your own community group. By working together, we can create a movement that prioritizes outdoor play and nature-based activities for children. Remember, the goal of the challenge is not just to reach 1000 hours, but to create a lifelong love for nature and a healthier lifestyle for our children.
Here are some great outdoor activities to download for free for Earth Day or any day!
There is so much to explore outside. I hope these ideas will inspire you to join in!
If you are going exploring, outdoor activities can significantly enhance family life and contribute to personal growth. Additionally, consider using podcasts as a valuable resource for parenting and life enrichment.
Check out our collection of adventures toys and our toddler travel tips!