OutGrown Blog

The joke among my friends for many years was that a depressing day for me was the same as most people’s emotional state on a good day. Then I turned 38, and I won’t go into details, but I reached a point where I couldn’t even talk to my life coach without crying, so she eventually suggestion medication. For the first time, I was depressed with a capital “D”. Things turned around eventually, and in 2013 I got married, became pregnant with my first child, and moved to Portland… an excellent change of scenery after years in Los Angeles. As my due date neared, I started to feel the old dark cloud edging back in. Everywhere I looked I saw stories on postpartum depression. People talked about it in my mama preparation classes and in prenatal yoga. I talked to my doctor about whether I could breastfeed and medicate once I had a child. I was convinced I was doomed to postpartum depression because the memories of my dark place were in the not-so-distant past. It’s estimated close to a million women a year suffer from postpartum depression. The news loves to latch on to stories about women who really go off the deep end. Publications like the Huffington Post and the New York Times often have stories about “lonely mama syndrome” where women wax on about how isolating it is to be a new parent. Believe me when I say that I read every one of those articles word-for-word. When my son arrived I was high with the euphoria of newborn love. But I was also weepy, overwhelmed, bleary eyed and hormone-whacked. One minute I was laughing at my baby pooping 12 times a day, and the next minute I was sobbing about my sore nipples and how exhausted I was. It didn’t help that my husband would just stand there looking at me like I was a stranger and say thing like, “Seriously what’s your problem? You are just sitting here nursing all day. It can’t be THAT tiring?” This, of course, was my mama-brained interpretation and would make me sob harder. The fear of depression was overwhelming. On about week three after Mason was born, I found myself sitting in a new mama group inside in the middle of summer. I heard myself complaining about my husband and how he just didn’t understand how tired I was and how scared I was of getting depressed. Everything was scary. I was scared of people on the street, cars getting to close to us on the freeway, lead poisoning in our windows, pretty much everything in the world was out to get my beautiful new baby. And as I thought and talked more about all of this, I could feel the symptoms of depression lingering darkly around the edges of my newborn bliss. As I looked out the window at the sunny July day I remember thinking, “What would happen if I got so depressed I couldn’t take care of Mason?” That’s when it dawned on me that the one thing that always made me feel a little better in the past when falling down the dark rabbit hole was sitting outside. Even if I did nothing, just sitting outside breathing fresh air made a difference. Then I thought, “what if we could be having this same experience of talking to each other about nursing and dealing with our new lives and our fears outside, instead of in this cozy, safe little room?” While it was lovely, it was also too sheltered and was not helping all of my depression anxiety. I asked the group if anyone wanted to go on a little hike with me. Nothing hard, just a half-mile trail down the street from my house. There was just one thing, I didn’t really know how to use my carrier, so I was scared to go alone. And it wasn’t really a very good stroller trail. The next week, armed with a ridiculous amount of stuff in my BOB stroller I went to a park near my house that had a mellow trail. For this “major” outing I brought a carrier, a days worth of diapers, diaper cream, water, food and who knows what else. Three women were waiting there at the trailhead and two more texted to say they were on the way. I was a bit shocked that they came. I was still nervous about carrying Mason, so I started out with the stroller on the hiking trail. Eventually we came to a place where it was obvious I needed to ditch the stroller and carry my son. These veteran mamas helped me slide Mason into the carrier, and off we went. I only made it about another 15 minutes before I got tired and turned around, but it was exhilarating to feel the dirt under my feet for that half of a mile. I felt my spirits rising, and I knew I wanted to do it the next week. The next day I woke up feeling overwhelmed about my husband working out of town for 3 weeks. That dark cloud was hovering in the back of my mind. Mark had gone out for the day, so I decided to go for a walk. I started with the neighborhood, pushing the stroller, but then as I neared the park, I decided to try stepping on to the trail. I locked up the stroller and asked a stranger passing by if she could help me buckle the back of my carrier. I tried to act nonchalant like I totally did this all the time. There were so many things going through my mind. What if Mason had a blow out? Did I bring enough stuff? I couldn’t carry anything but a baby in the carrier. What if I needed to nurse. I had only nursed in the privacy of my home at that point and was still struggling with it. What if he slipped down in the carrier or I just dropped him? What if a scary homeless dude was on the path? What would I do? As I got on trail, I felt the pressure still there in my chest, but with every step the fears and tears started melting away. It was so silent in the forest. The birds got louder, as did the bubbling water in the stream on the side of the trail. Everything was so green and lush in spite of the sweltering July heat. I felt Mason’s sweaty little nearly naked body snuggled up against me. I leaned down and kissed his head and breathed in the new baby smell. I moved so slowly, but with every step I felt a little lighter, a little calmer. That day I walked all the way up the trail to the stone house, doubling the distance I had done with the group the previous day. Along the way Mason got hungry, and I stopped and asked a random couple to unbuckle the carrier. I took my wailing baby to a quiet place off the trail and sat down to nurse. I was nervous and not as graceful as I would have liked, but I did get enough milk in Mason to appease him and get back home. And when my husband came home and I announced that I went hiking alone, I felt so proud of myself. The next week, ten women showed up to join me. It seemed I wasn’t alone in feeling the need to commune with nature and “hike it out”. As the weeks progressed my circle of friends widened and new faces showed up to hike with us. I also noticed something shifting in me. With every hike, I felt physically stronger and the dark clouds moved further and further away from me. In June, we celebrated our son’s second birthday on a hike with 30 or so friends whom we had met through hiking with our children. It was a sweltering day, much like those first days I ventured into the woods with Mason. As we approached a shady forested stretch and I watched Mason running and laughing and looked around at all of the smiling families around me, all I could think was how happy I was. The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other in an effort to evade depression got me here. It’s may be a cliché, but the first step truly is the hardest. Once you take it, you’ll notice how quickly the path will open up in front of you and the clouds will lift. Tips for Successfully Getting on the Trail Create a regular hike/walk day. Try to plan at least two hikes a week. (If you plan two, you’ll likely make it to at least one.) Pack the night before so you don’t use the next morning’s chaos as an excuse to stay inside and skip it. Choose a mantra for the trail. As heavier thoughts or stressful things enter your mind, go back to that word and look at the trail. Try to leave the cell phone out of reach so you can enjoy the hike. Find a hike buddy who will help keep you accountable and get you out there. Don’t let your gear hold you back. Think used, think simple, think repurpose. I put my old cashmere socks on my baby’s legs over his clothes and booties to keep him warm on cold days! Keep it close to home. No need to go on an epic journey to find adventure. Some of my best days hiking were no more than a few miles from my house. Don’t get hung up with weather. Rainy day? Carry an umbrella on trail. Too hot? Look for shady trails and water features. Find groups like Hike it Baby (or start one in your area) to help get you out on days you just don’t feel like it. Shanti Hodges hikes between 3-10 miles a week on average and tries to get outside with Mason at least 3 days a week year round. In spite of being viewed as a hike addict, she is not afraid to admit that she needs the Hike it Baby 30 Challenge to motivate herself out on the bad days! Her secret to getting out on days she's not feeling it and there isn't a challenge going on is to text a handful of her hike buddies and get them to guilt or motivate her out the door.  This article first appeared in Green Child Magazine. Check them out for awesome stories about healthy parenting. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted October 2018. In honor of International Babywearing Week (October 1-7), I wanted to share my own babywearing experience along with some evidence-based facts and community input regarding the many benefits of babywearing. My son, now an average, rambunctious 3-year-old, was born two months premature via emergency C-section, weighing just under 4 lbs. We were lucky in the sense that he was generally healthy, but he still stayed in the NICU for a little over a month until he was able to regulate his own body temperature and gain some weight. One of the best pieces of advice that the nurses stressed constantly was kangaroo care (also called skin-to-skin). They relayed evidence that keeping a newborn baby close (especially a preemie) would aid in bonding, breastfeeding success and overall mother and baby health – all of which we were struggling with. Keeping him close as much as possible made a world of difference for us! Breastfeeding became easier, I healed remarkably fast from the C-section, and he was steadily improving each day. Once he was released from the NICU, the nurses recommended that I wear him in a wrap or sling so that I could have by arms free to get things done while still keeping him close. Boy, did that make my life as a new mother easier! To this day, I still wear him several times a week on hikes and it provides wonderful mother-son bonding time, putting us both in a great mood. Show Me the Science! Anyone who has experience with babywearing will tell you that it definitely has its benefits. However, there are actual studies out there that provide scientific evidence for these benefits, and it turns out there are many! You can find out more by visiting this blog post by We the Parents where these benefits are discussed further. And check out the detailed infographic that covers 23 evidence-based benefits of babywearing along with the scientific studies that back these findings. Babywearing in our Community As a Hike it Baby community, babywearing has changed the way we experience the outdoors with our families. From great workouts to incredible family experiences, our community has certainly reaped the benefits of babywearing! Here are just a few of the responses from Hike it Baby members on what they love about wearing their babies and toddlers on the trails. The Bonding Time Olga, Ringwood-Bergen Branch – I just feel soooo connected to my baby!! The snuggles ... the love!! Nicole, Mountain Home Branch – My 2-year-old and I can chatter back and forth about what we see or hear. He’s getting really good at spotting birds! If he’s on my back, we can go places that aren’t necessarily super safe for kids — we’ve explored canyon rims, geothermal basins, and biologically sensitive areas without worry. Christie, Richmond Branch – The back snuggles! Connie, Grays Harbor County Branch – Being able to hold conversations and be "together." I rarely use strollers even in town. Vanessa, San Diego Branch – My baby loves to be carried. You can just tell that it is her happy place and she takes long naps while on me. I love seeing her so happy and peaceful. My 3-year-old tolerates being carried, but I love the chats we are able to have while we are walking and pointing out what we see and hear. Tanya, Adelaide Branch – How happy he is. My 15-month-old does these little jumps as soon as I put him in the carrier. The Workout Nicole, Orange County Branch – We go faster! Anais, Winnemucca Branch – We can go at my pace and it's more of a workout ... which is more rewarding for me. Alexandra, Salt Lake City Branch – Since my youngest is now 4.5 and just about 40 lbs., I enjoy the workout. The conversations we have are always fun and the peace is lovely when he falls asleep. Also, I love that he’s still even willing to be worn! The Sense of Safety and Security Erin, Omaha Branch – I don't have to worry about my 3-year-old running too far ahead on the trail. Jen, Conway-Myrtle Beach Branch – Nursing when [my daughter] was little; she's now 3 and loves to be worn for comfort. She gets overwhelmed when others are around at times, so she feels safe when I wear her. Plus, she gets to see things from up at my level and it's a whole different view. Tracey, Anchorage Branch – The peace. Both my sons, who are insanely active when NOT on me, turn into relaxed, quiet kids when I wear them. My 3-year-old could be throwing a fit about being worn, but the second he is strapped on his entire demeanor changes. More Family Adventures Colette, Harrisburg Branch – My husband and I have been able to explore so many places because of baby wearing! We just hiked the Narrows in Zion NP with our 3-year-old. That wouldn't have been possible without a carrier. I love that it enables us to experience more of our world together as a family. Laura, La Crosse Branch – I never found a good carrier match for my firstborn. Mastering carrying my youngest has been so empowering since day one! It meant we could still go anywhere and do all the things, even though I’m outnumbered. Now my “baby” is 22 months and this week she conquered the most difficult bluff trail in our area all by herself!!! But of course I still wore the carrier (full of apples – haha) because it’s excellent peace of mind for ALL of us, especially at this age where they can go from bounding with energy to NAP in 10 seconds. Vong, Kansas City Branch – We went to Yellowstone last year and it was so nice not to worry about the toddler falling into the pools. Melissa, Hampton Roads Branch – When my youngest was little: nursing on the go! He nursed coooooonstantly so it would have been really hard to go anywhere if I had to sit down every time he wanted to eat. What do you love about babywearing? Let us know in the comments below! Read more: 9 tips for soothing a cranky baby on the trail Hiking with young infants: Tips and Tricks Hiking with a newborn Featured photos by Amy Diebold and Laura Castro. Profile photos courtesy of Shanti, Rebecca, Vong, Vanessa, Adrienne, Mindy, Nicole, Jen and Tracey. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

In partnership with the awesome team over at Burley Photo: Michelle Pearl Gee @michellepearl It’s as simple as riding a bike, right? Said the person who never had to coordinate three kids at three different ages and three completely different skill sets ALL wanting to bike. But, that’s where we come in. Here’s a handy little guide and some parent-sourced tips for biking with kids, so you can take what you need for now and save some tips for later (these kids grow up fast!). And BONUS*** You’ll also find our brand new “Bike it Baby Workbook” at the end of this blog. That’s right, we teamed up with our friends at Burley to put together a brand new workbook full of all things biking: sensory bike rides, a bicycle safety dance (you choose the tune!), coloring pages, a “Bike-it” List, and more. So head outside with your family and find a place to ride, because we’re pretty sure bicycles and summer go hand-in-hand. :) Biking with Kids: GEAR  Photo: Michelle Pearl Gee @michellepearl Bike Seats There are front and back varieties of bike seats, but either way, it’s really nice to have your little one right there with you, to talk to you, sing to you, yell at you, you get the idea. ;) We really like bike seats because you’re closer to your little one and it feels like you are adventuring together. Keep in mind, bike seats aren’t for little babies. Your kiddo should be able to sit upright unassisted and hold their head up while wearing a helmet, usually this is around a year old. We know it might seem like a long time to wait if biking’s your thing, but trust us, you’ll have so many years of biking fun, don’t risk your little ones safety.  Baby fall asleep in their bike seat? Not to worry! One of our Hike it Baby mama's has this solution: " “I usually bring my soft structured carrier with me as well for when we were off the bike, and discovered it makes an impromptu head rest as well! I just roll up the carrier and clip it around the baby with hip belt clipping behind the bike seat. Works like a charm!” Thanks mama! Bike Trailers Ahh yes, the bike trailer, you tow it, your kids enjoy the ride, you move faster, explore more, and can even take on some gravel paths.  Plus, some bike trailers have conversion kits and can be turned into jogging strollers, win!! Photo: Michelle Pearl Gee @michellepearl Bike trailers are great if you want to get out and it’s a little rainy, and they can provide some extra shade on sunny days. Keep in mind that in the cold your kids are less active so bundle them up, and on warm, sunny days, keep an eye on them overheating, despite mesh screening and ventilation pockets, sometimes bike trailers can get warm!  If a child has not quite "grown in" to the trailer seat try folding up a towel and place it underneath or behind them. A pillow is another option that will provide a little more comfort and height. Also, remember that kids always need to be wearing helmets when riding in bike trailers!    Balance Bikes Photo: Ashley Schneider In our family (and pretty much any family I’ve ever talked to) balance bikes are the BEST! Why? Your kid can only go so fast. Hands down, best feature. So, barring you taking them to a steep downhill, you can keep pace with them on foot! Which is awesome when you just want a quick walk around the block, or are pushing a stroller, or Sibling 2 wants to ride their scooter. Your little ones learn the hardest part of riding a two-wheel big kid bike when they are short and close to the ground, and watching them go from unsteady wobbly new balance bikers to graceful, striding almost-speedesters is sure to be one of those proud parent moments. Balance bikes increase coordination and control, and also act as a nice middle point when your little one isn’t quite ready/attentive enough to pedal off into the sunset...alone...at top speed. Plus, some balance bikes have hand brakes! (for when you do come across that steep downhill part of the path)     All Together Now: Tips for Biking as a Family Photo: Michelle Pearl Gee @michellepearl   Bringing it back to where we started, with three kids, different ages, and different skills, here are some tips on biking together: Keep it contained: “I have twin incredibly confident 3 year olds and a recently two-wheeling 7 year old, I found the place it was most enjoyable to go was a big, fenced in, paved school yard. Everyone can ride around at whatever speed and direction they want, they can explore and be silly, and they can’t get out. It’s nice for them to be able to bike around without having to listen to me telling them to get over so the faster bikes can get by them. We’ll get there, but for now, this is a really fun way for everyone to bike at once.”   Go big, and wide, and preferably flat and drop-off free: In case your children haven’t yet demonstrated, sometimes following a path as a new biker can be much more difficult than you could have ever realized. With all of the swerving and veering, its much more fun to go out on paths that are wider, so look for multi-use paths in your area.   Ride your bike, tow your toddlers, and have your older kids ride beside you. You can go at whatever speed works for your kids, but sometimes it’s nice to give your bigger kids new challenges while bringing the little ones along for the adventure.   And finally, if you have the room: "Keep the bikes, helmets, and safety pads in the back of the car so you can just jump in and go, especially when biking is new. This helped us go out more often, which is a great way to advance learning and getting comfortable with new things. Also, keep outings short and sweet at the beginning! Everyone will be more willing and have more fun if it's 15 minutes of positive, playful practice versus 30 minutes of grueling fights, arguments, and stress. You can build longer outings as confidence and endurance grow." Above all, be safe, have fun, follow all safety instructions for the gear you are using, and make sure EVERYONE has a properly fitting bicycle helmet.  Bike it Baby Workbook! We know that sometimes keeping kids motivated and engaged while out can be challenging, which is why we are really excited for this biking workbook! Throw it in your pack, put it in your bike trailer, pull it out at snacktime along the bike path, you get the idea! Happy biking! -Love, Hike it Baby and Burley Download the workbook here! ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.      

We all know that it’s great to get kids outside and that nature play has a multitude of benefits, but sometimes getting out the door is difficult even if it’s just into your own backyard. If we at least have some idea of what we are going to do once we are outside, then we are one step closer. For infants, the actual activity really isn't as important as just giving your baby new experiences. These activities for infants are all simple, quick and easy and should be able to easily incorporated into your routine. Here are some activities for infants to 1-year-olds in the great outdoors: Hiking or Walking Outside From just about birth, you can start getting your baby outside to hike or walk with you. Whether they are in the stroller, baby carrier or just in your arms, and whether you are hiking a trail or just walking back and forth in the driveway, getting outside and moving is a beneficial experience for you and your little one. Tummy time, Reading or Playing Outside Bring your normal inside activities outside to the fresh air. Grab a blanket and some books or toys and take playtime outside instead of inside.  Even just napping or nursing your infant outside can feel like a new experience. Picnics What a better place to start your baby on new foods then outside? Sit them on a blanket and picnic together while they try out new foods and new ways of feeding themselves. Added bonus: cleanup for you doesn’t involve scrubbing floors, walls, windows or high chairs. If they still need support when sitting, try a “bumbo” type seat with a tray or just bring their high chair out with you. Sensory Play One of the key elements for development in babies is sensory play and the outdoors is filled with new things to explore and stimulate their senses. Let them crawl around in new terrains – grass, dirt, sand, leaves, etc. Let them pick up new materials – rocks, sticks, sand or mud. Just keep a careful eye to make sure their new finds don’t turn into their next picnic. Get dirty Don’t be afraid to let them get dirty! Let them squish the mud or scoot through the dirt or roll around in the grass.  If you don’t want to rush to the bath tub afterwards, then move right on to one of the next activities below… Water Play You can take them to a pool or body of water and take them in the water with you, or fill a few bowls with water and let them splash around with their hands. Don’t overthink it – babies thrive on simplicity. Playgrounds During off hours, when there are not many bigger kids around, playgrounds can be perfect places for babies to work on new large motor skills, such as crawling on new surfaces, pulling up and climbing. Bubbles Babies love bubbles. They are easy and cheap (if you are ambitious, you can make your own following this recipe) and you are sure to get some giggles! Balls  One of the best toys for little ones are different sized balls for them to push around and watch bounce.  Outside is the perfect place because there is nothing to hit and plenty of space. Feel free to experiment with different size balls. This will help with both gross and fine motor control. Walking Practice Once your little one starts trying to walk, bring them outside where there are less sharp edges and lots of softer surfaces for the inevitable spills. The only downside is that they may become more interested in a new discovery on the ground and may not get very far!   Photos Courtesy of Kirby Crawford, Ashley Scheider and Kim Ives What are your favorite outdoor activities for infants? Share in the comments below!     ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted August 2016. When I decided to leave my job as a mental health professional to become a full time dad, I was scared. I was going to be responsible for the care of my 1 year old twin girls. I didn't know what to expect, but one of the biggest of my concerns was just how to spend the time productively with them. I wanted to be able to promote learning and social development, so I knew I needed to get involved with something. That's where Hike it Baby came in. I met a branch ambassador at the library and she invited me to come out. At my first event, I felt the warmth and welcoming environment that I have come to know through my Hike it Baby experience. Instantly, I felt included as part of the group. My girls and I went on a few trail hikes and many urban strolls. The "no hiker left behind" philosophy was simple, but important. I enjoyed knowing that everyone would remain a part of the group, regardless of individual ability or fitness level. As an avid indoorsman, I was not in world class shape. I received an awesome amount of support and encouragement from others in the group. I was encouraged to push my boundaries and during HiB 30 in April, the girls and I covered more than 100 miles! I felt great to have reached a goal I wasn't sure I could. When some encouraged me to take the girls on a toddler led hike, I was nervous. But, when the Hike it Baby founder came to join one of our toddler led hikes, I figured the time might be right to give the girls a chance to lead. It was, as I expected, difficult to try to follow two girls who rarely seem to be headed in the same direction. Still, with a group, there were other eyes to help me keep track of them. That's what made the toddler led hike possible. Recently, I went on a hike in Glacier National Park with my family. My wife and I each carried one of the girls. We were accompanied by my mother in law and my brother in law and his wife. She carried their 4 month old and he carried their two year old. We did not establish any rules, such as " no hiker left behind." I started the hike with confidence high and we decided to take a 2 mile hike up to a mountain lake. I did not foresee an issue and we started along the trail. My brother in law and his wife are relatively fit and active people, whereas my wife and I are not so much. It wasn't long until I watched their backs disappear from my view. My mother in law and my wife hung back closer to me, but it became clear, rather quickly, that they were capable of keeping a much better pace than I was. The difficulty involved was that the trail was steep and there were large rocks to step over. It felt like a 2 mile staircase to me. As we continued, my wife and her mother got further ahead of me on the trail. I was slow, feeling pain, and struggling. Absent the encouragement of my fellow hikers, self doubt started to enter my mind. Those who know me, are aware of my issues with self doubt. When my wife stopped to let me catch up, I told her I wasn't going to make it. Perhaps I was blowing my pain out of proportion, but I'd had a while to convince myself I couldn't do this and I didn't. My wife and I turned around while the rest forged on. Heading back down the trail, I felt weak and embarrassed. We decided to stop carrying the twins and let them walk. That was when something inspiring happened. The girls led us the entire way back down the trail. It was the furthest they had ever walked in their entire lives. I was so proud of them. So, my positive takeaways from a seemingly unsuccessful hike were that I rely on the encouragement from my group. Hike it Baby has given me that and I value it highly. Also, I've raised little hikers! Hiking with my daughters became the best part of the afternoon. I'm glad to be a part of this organization and I'm ready to get my daughters involved with more toddler led hikes. Oh, and I promise not to be so hard on myself. See you on the trails! Dave is a full time father of twin girls. He lives with his wife of 8 years, Jamie, in Boise, ID. He's a novice but enthusiastic cook, writer, and hiker.   ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted June 2020. As a community of families who love the outdoors (or who are learning to love it), it is always inspiring to hear how that love originated. Some of us grew up camping and hiking almost since birth. For others, outdoor exploration didn’t start until much later in life. Either way, most of us can credit the role models in our lives for instilling that love of the outdoors in us, and for many of us, that role model is our dad. In honor of Father’s Day, we asked our Hike it Baby community to share how their dad—or other father figures—influenced their love of nature and the outdoors. How the Father Figures in Our Lives Have Influenced Our Love of the Outdoors "He influenced our love for outdoors by just BEING outdoors himself... tinkering, gardening, eating, relaxing, playing. He also EXPLAINED the outdoors to us, so we learned about the world around us...stars, plants, bugs, weather, water, history. There was always a science lesson to be taught.” Christine, HiB Calgary, AB, Canada “Growing up, camping was the only kind of vacation my family could afford, and thankfully my parents loved to [go camping] with our pop-up tent trailer. My dad was the one who took my siblings and me on hikes, to beaches and lakes, and on adventures while our mom stayed at the campsite and cooked. Just taking us to beautiful places and encouraging us to climb trees and boulders, wade in lakes and streams, heavily influenced my love for the outdoors.” Alex, HiB Salt Lake City, UT “My dad, a city boy from NY, dreamed of the mountains. He found his way to Alaska and climbed Denali, found my mom, had a family and raised us outside hiking and camping. We made so many memories on our adventures.” Juliana, HiB Fairbanks, AK “My dad 100% inspired my love of the outdoors. He took my sister and me hiking and camping many times each summer as kids!” Colleen, HiB New Brunswick, NJ “From birth, my dad would scoop us up and take us outside for a walk anytime we were fussy. Sibling argument?... Let's take a walk and talk it through. One of my clearest memories early on is sitting on the porch, churning ice cream, and watching a thunderstorm grow in the distance. It was the way that the outdoors were a part of every day and every activity that made it more than love, it made it life.” Jennifer, HiB Charlottesville, VA “My husband has helped encourage my love of the outdoors and he is a father. He gets our kids outside every chance he can and is always showing them new things. He also helped my love for the outdoors grow.” Beth Ann, HiB Pittsburgh, PA “I’m not even sure my dad consciously knew he was instilling his love of the outdoors in us! In the winter we would sit with our bird book identifying birds at the bird feeder. Long walks together down our country roads were a regular occurrence. He was and is still always puttering in the yard, gardening, observing everything around him. He would even take us hunting with him, and when we didn’t get anything, he would always say “It’s ok, I just like an excuse to walk in the woods.” Sarah, HiB Brockville, Ontario “My dad has always believed that fresh air clears the head and calms the nerves, so anytime my siblings or I were working through something, he would say “take a walk with me.” We would walk or hike for miles (and still do when I go back for a visit), and he would listen to us vent and give advice when it was needed. And now anytime I need to clear my head, I step outside and let the fresh air calm me, just like he taught me.” Becca, HiB Kitsap Peninsula, WA “My dad was my rock. He was calm, patient, and understanding. When he passed in 2018, I realized that the traits that draw me to the woods, to the top of a mountain, to the warm shallows of a lake were rooted in the love and support that I had felt from my father my entire life. And when I’m missing my dad, I find him again in nature.” Sara, HiB Grand Rapids, MI “My dad took me camping in Yosemite for the first time when I was 7 and then again every summer until I was a too-cool teenager. Without knowing it he introduced me to my favorite place in the world and to the beauty and wonder of spending time outside.” Linzay, HiB San Diego, CA   How has your own dad, or the father figure in your life, inspired your love of the outdoors? Share in the comments!   ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Summer has always been my favorite time of year, with its longer days, higher temperatures, and lots of outdoor fun in the sun. One of the easiest ways to keep the kiddos cool when enjoying some hot summer fun is to incorporate water play into your outdoor time. Whether splashing in a water table, exploring a nearby creek, or relaxing by the pool, water play has numerous benefits for our growing kiddos. Read on to discover these benefits along with ways you can incorporate water play into your summer fun and tips for doing so safely. **Please note: With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions are still in place for many parts of the country. Please take note of your local regulations before traveling, and practice safe distancing whenever recreating near others outside your family. Photo: Jessica Human 5 Sneaky Benefits of Water Play for Child Development Gross and Fine Motor Development Lifting buckets, swimming in a pool, jumping in puddles, and running through sprinklers are wonderful activities for gross motor development as children work on strengthening their large muscle groups. Pouring, squirting, and stirring water are all examples of fine motor and hand-eye coordination skills that water play provides. Cognitive Development Looking to include some stealthy learning experiences this summer? Water play provides numerous opportunities for children to problem solve and learn math and science concepts simply by playing. Children can learn what materials sink or float, how many small cups of water will fill a bucket, or how different types of rocks splash in different ways in a lake. Creativity and Imagination Add water to various containers and you get potions, a witch’s cauldron, or flower petal soup. Add a dose of imagination and a shallow creek becomes lava they must avoid by jumping on rocks, or their water table becomes a car wash for all their toy cars. There is truly no limit to the creativity that can be sparked by adding a little water! Language Skills While their imagination is at work, talk to your kiddos about what they are creating or what they see in the water. They’ll build their vocabulary, communication, and collaboration skills by working with you and other children to create stories and pretend play with water. Energy Release Encouraging kids to swim around in a pool, run around in the sprinklers, or climb and explore near a creek are fantastic, fun ways to release some of their boundless energy. Water can also help children calm themselves down through the repetitive motions of scooping, pouring, or running their hands or feet through the water. These therapeutic effects can lead to improved mood and better sleep for kids and adults alike. Photo: Jessica Human 5 Easy Ways to Include Water Play in your Summer Fun Water Table (or large bucket) All you need is a water table (or a plastic bin or bucket will do) and some plastic containers from your recycle bin, and you have hours of fun right in your backyard or balcony!  Add measuring tools, water beads, bath toys, kitchen utensils, etc. for extra creativity. Sprinklers and Water Toys Some of the best childhood memories involve running around the yard, jumping through sprinklers, sliding on the slip and slide, and avoiding water squirters and water balloons. Did you know there are now blow-up splash pads you can set up in your yard?! Pool Time Whether it be a community pool, a backyard pool, or even a small baby pool, swimming and splashing are a wonderful way to cool down and have fun. Creek and River Play Summertime adventures that lead to a creek or river for the kiddos to splash in are a favorite among our Hike it Baby community! Whether you look for water critters, investigate the sound a rock makes when dropped in the water, or simply wade in to cool off, a creek/river is a great option on a hot summer day. Head to the Beach Enjoy a family outing complete with sandcastles, tide pool exploration, and splashing in waves. Don’t live near the coast? No problem! Lake and river beaches can provide a fun adventure without the drastic changes in tide. Photo: Monique Vargas 5 Tips for Safe and Comfortable Water Play Discuss water safety with your kiddos This is especially important around pools (no matter how small) and bodies of water (rivers, lakes, and the ocean). The Red Cross has put together various short videos that cover water safety topics for kids.  For younger kiddos, check out these engaging water safety picture books to help teach the importance of water safety. Keep an Eye on the UV Index Ever wonder what the UV index reading on your weather app means? The UV (ultraviolet) index was created as a way to inform people of the risk of ultraviolet radiation exposure when planning outdoor activities The levels are generally strongest during midday (between 11 a.m.-4 p.m.). At these times, especially in late spring and summer, the damaging effects of the sun are strongest and hardest to avoid. Wearing extra sun protection at these times or planning outings during non-peak UV levels is safest (especially for little ones!).  Check out this article for more information. Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen The American Academy of Dermatology recommends looking for a sunscreen that has three main components: Broad-Spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays), water-resistance, and an SPF rating of 30 or higher. For infants and children, mineral-based sunscreens (containing titanium oxide or zinc dioxide) are generally more appropriate since they are less likely to irritate the skin. Just remember to reapply every two hours or right after swimming or excessive sweating! Wear Sun Protective Clothing Is sunscreen not really your thing? Or maybe your kiddos are like mine: whirlwinds of activity and nearly impossible to wrangle when they’re having fun in the sun. You can purchase breathable clothing that completely covers the body and utilizes fabrics that block the majority of the sun’s radiation (usually with a rating of around UPF 50). Top it off with a UPF Sunhat and you’re all set! Just remember that you still need to apply sunscreen on any exposed skin. Bring a Spare Set of Clothes Or maybe two! Small children cool down far faster than adults, especially when wet. Having dry clothes available when finished with water play can keep everyone comfortable and happy, especially when away from home. For more information on sun safety, check out this article on sun protection. We hope you find ways to incorporate water play into your family summer fun. Be sure to share your experience and tag @hikeitbaby on your favorite social media platform. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.  

In partnership with Natrapel As parents we have a million things going through our minds at any given moment. So, when we are outside exploring, one thing we CAN get out of our mind at least is preventing bugs bites. For that there are some simple instructions that can make a big difference in making sure the buzzing and biting critters stay away from our nature fun. Read through our tips for applying insect repellant, and be sure to watch our video below! When applying insect repellent, hold the spray about 6 inches from skin and clothing, too close and it may saturate a small spot, too far and it may disperse before covering the area.   Use just the amount of spray needed to cover the area. Don't let the little ones apply it themselves to avoid contact with eyes or mouth, because .. (sigh)you know they would otherwise.   Do not spray directly onto their face or neck, instead, spray the repellent onto your hands and then apply to them. And don’t forget behind their ears!   Lastly, If you are using sunscreen, apply the bug repellent after applying sunscreen so as to maintain the repellent properties on the skin’s surface. Now get outside, explore, and enjoy looking for bugs, without the fear of those that will ruin your day! And check out our video created in partnership with Natrapel Here!    ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.  

Originally posted January 2018.   When we start something new, we tend to need extra help. Heck! When my family returns to something we know after an absence, we seem to forget everything we knew. So whether it's your first time hiking with kids, or you're a returning or a seasoned hiker, I bet there's a tip here you can use. We asked our very own Hike it Baby community of hikers, "what do you wish you knew the first time you went hiking with kids?" and here are the replies - a fantastic list of tips to get out on the trail. First of all, remember, not every tip will be right for you, your family or the way and places you hike. Take what you like ... leave the rest. No worries.  Tips on What to Pack A magnifying glass makes for awesome discoveries. Bring a grocery bag or two. Fold them up and tuck them into a pocket of your pack. Dirty Diaper? Bag. Muddy shirt? Bag. Starts to rain on your camera? Bag. You get it. Pack a bug net or spray. Nothing makes changing a diaper harder than a horde of pests. Wipes always come in handy. You may find them useful for older kids, too, or yourself. We tuck a handful in a ziplock bag. It keeps them moist without having to carry a whole bucket of them. Bring an extra outfit for baby in case of a blowout. And also, layers to shear off and tie around your waist as you warm up. A bag in the car can be helpful with a change for each person. I can't recall the number of times I ended up in the creek unexpectedly and was SO thankful for that change of pants to drive home in. Pack extra water. If the kids are old enough, get them to carry their own CamelBaks and still have a bottle in the car for after. You can always drop it in the fridge if you don't use it, but will be sad if you end up needing it.  Have a Pull-Up for potty training littles. It can save your day if they need to be carried and fall asleep while on your back (or, a change of clothes for you if Pull-Ups aren't in your potty training strategy). If you feel like you might need more stuff, pack it in the car and decide when you get there. Sometimes less is more, especially if the car is close by. Don't over pack. We ditched the entire diaper bag for two diapers and a bag of wipes tucked into the CamelBak. We never took the babies on a hike that was long enough for more than the two diapers. Have walking kids? Pack the carrier in the car, even if you don't expect to use it. Better safe than sorry, or rather, tired because you had to carry the toddler who you thought would walk. Learn what your family's essentials are and leave the rest at home (or in the car). In a pinch, there is likely a hiking friend who has what you need. Pack cozy slippers (or flip flops) for post-hike driving. The times I was able to slip off my rain boots and have dry, free toesies on the way home? Priceless. Tips While on the Trail Don't be afraid to hike at nap time. A sleeping baby can leave you free to explore or hike a faster pace if you like. It's okay to go slow. It's not a failed hike if you don't make it to the end. It's the journey, not the destination. Plus, exploring can be just as rewarding. Expect to get dirty. Choosing not to wear the white running pants? Yeah, good choice; you don't need that level of stress on a hike. The kids will get dirty and you will get dirty; however, it'll bond you forever. Be patient. For your slow and exploring kids, yes. But also for you. It's OK to "call it" and give yourself permission to go home early, for any reason. Don't be afraid to let the little down from the carrier for a while. It will slow your progress, yes, but, as a result, you'll likely discover they're SO ready to hike like the big kids. For peeing on the trail, try the Holding Method. With their pants already down and their back to you, squat with them, holding the backs of their knees or under the shoulders. This body position ensures no one gets splashed. When back carrying, use a fanny pack worn on the front. Easy access to what you need and not in baby's way either. Be honest about your limits and when and how you're willing to challenge yourself and your kids. Snacks are your friend - while hiking and for the ride home. We quit packing "lunch" as kids tend to snack anyway. Plus, eating a snack is a great excuse to stop and take a break. Other Helpful Tips Plan ahead and add a baby carrier to your registry. Include an infant AND a toddler carrier, then tuck that toddler carrier away until you need it. Let your kids be (reasonably) uncomfortable. "Tired feet" when you step out of the car, a scratch you know they can walk off and carrying their own pack are all things they can get used to and, therefore, will be part of the adventure. Whining is only temporary - don't let it deter you from getting out! Seek out the right carrier for you. You can contact your local chapter of Baby Wearing International for a quick, concise assist with this. For a hard-framed carrier, go to an outdoor store and try on a few different models to see which fits you and your little one best. Start small. If you only have 10 minutes to hike, use it! Do it regularly, and when you feel ready, increase the time and distance. No one says you have to start with the 10-mile trek, uphill, both ways, in the snow. If hiking on your own (with or without kids), think of safety. Does someone know you're hiking and where? Is your phone charged? Will you even have coverage where you're planning to hike? What would you do if you strained your ankle? Make a quick plan, just in case.   Try doing a little "re-con" first and plan to just wander a little on a new trail, get to know the terrain and get a feel for it. Then "hike" it next time. And finally, just go! Aside from essentials (which can change from hike to hike and from family to family), quit over-thinking and just get out there. Sure, it may not be perfect but you learn each time and the important thing is you're out there doing it. Don't see your best tip listed for hiking the first time with kids? Comment below and help us start another list. Read More: How to Prepare for the Unexpected When Hiking in the Cold Hiking with Young Infants: Tips and Tricks Top Tips for Hiking with Toddlers Photos by Yanna Bennett and Laura Castro. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted July 2015. I was raised in the Southern California Mountains. I had a father who instilled a love of nature and hiking into my soul. It is a part of me. It is my therapy for recovering from a tough week. The thought of simply being out in the woods, on a mountain top, by a stream, just any beautiful spot outdoors, is what gets me going each morning. So in April of 2014, when my OBGYN told me I had to remain on bedrest for the remaining 4 months of my pregnancy, it was like someone had taken a part of me and thrown it out the window. 4 months, in a bed, only being able to get up to pee (I even had to sit in the shower), it felt like death warmed up. I realize that many women have hard pregnancies, and some of those pregnancies were worse than mine was. Yet that didn't change the fact that mine was still terrible, for me. As an outdoor enthusiast who found that being outdoors was what rejuvenated my soul, I was lost. Jumping forward a few months to August of 2014, I gave birth via scheduled C-section to a beautiful and healthy baby boy. We were in the hospital for a week before we could go home, but it was OVER. And as cliche as it may sound, all of the pain, the inside hell, was WORTH IT. I had a being I had created and he was perfect. But then what. My body had been ravaged by the pregnancy and the C-section. For another 2 weeks after returning home, it was painful to move, to breastfeed, to try to get to my crying baby without my uterus feeling like it would fall out of my body, and this terrified me. Would I ever be able to hit the trails again? Of course with time, the physical healing eventually came, but I was facing another challenge. All of the turmoil that was going on in my head and heart during the pregnancy, and the shock of how hard being a new mother was took it's toll on me. I felt sad often, when I knew I should be feeling joy that my child was alive and healthy, and that my body was on a great path to recovery. But finding the energy to hike, let alone get out of the house, was a daunting task. I began seeing a therapist who specialized in pregnancy and postpartum depression. It did help, to a point. I was able to say things to her that I was even scared to voice to myself, and oh how relieving that was. But I knew deep down what my true issue was. I was inside, all the time. I felt like the outdoors was drifting away from my heart. I finally realized that the ONLY way to find ME again, was to just do it! So my husband and I went to find the best baby hiking backpack we could find and planned a hike that same weekend. That first hike post-partum changed everything. I remember waking up that morning and telling my husband that no matter how many excuses I came up with to remind me that this was my path back to myself and to not let me quit. We got to the trail head, and that was it. I was home. I was free. And to make everything even better, I had the beautiful human being I created sleeping peacefully on my back as I walked through the woods, my loving and supportive husband at my side. It was hard. My body was nowhere NEAR where it had once been. The muscles that had turned to jelly during those 4 months of bed rest were screaming at me to stop. I didn't listen. I kept going. 10 months later I am still going. I make it a point to hit the trails at LEAST twice a week. It has been the best therapy I could have hoped for. I even joined a group of other like-minded parents called "Hike it Baby." It has been a life-saver, just seeing all of these little beings outside in the wildnerness. With each breath of fresh air, each sweat drop that drips down my face, each babbling brook, and each gorgeous vista, I'm 100% back to my old self. I smile all the time. I laugh. I have energy for myself AND my child. If I could share one word of wisdom with those mothers and fathers who could be feeling the way I did, it is to GET OUTDOORS. Even if you're not a rugged hiking type, just get your sweet little ones in a stroller and go for a walk. Let the sun shine down those magical vitamin D rays onto your face. Let the wind make a mess of your hair. There is something about the outdoors that I just can't explain, but what I can explain is that it works your inner-self, far better than any pill could ever do.   Mary Beth Burgstahler was born and raised in the Southern California Mountains and attended college at Cal State University Monterey Bay where she majored in Human Communications.  Having lived her entire life in Wilderness areas, she gained an affinity for the outdoors and outdoor activities, one of the main reasons Mary Beth agreed to moved to her husband's home-state of Minnesota in June of 2013.  Outdoor adventure abounds in the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes. Shortly after their move, Mary Beth and her husband, Jacob, welcomed their first son, Jackson, in August of 2014.  They now reside in White Bear Lake, MN. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted June 2017. I have gone hiking with my toddler since she was born, and although some aspects of hiking have gotten easier as she's gotten a bit older, some other parts have gotten more difficult. Now that my second and not-so-new baby is also growing into a toddler, I expect double the chaos and twice the joy on our family-of-four hikes this summer! If you're about to head out on the trail with a toddler, I have some tips for you: Adjust your expectations I'll admit that the first few times I hiked with my toddler (and new-ish baby) I had visions of us putting both kids in carriers and hiking for miles and miles, while the toddler blissfully explored nature and our baby slept. I'm sure you know where this is going. Those first few hikes were quite disappointing for everyone involved. I've learned that it's best to start out with almost no expectations for the hike itself. Maybe your goal is just to spend time together as a family. Maybe your goal is to get outside for an hour. Whatever your goal is, make sure that it doesn't necessarily involve long mileage and a peaceful experience. Bring snacks Healthy snacks are a welcome treat on a trail for the whole family! You can use snacks as an excuse to stop on a tree stump and enjoy a break from walking, or as a way to keep a restless toddler entertained in the carrier for just a bit longer. It may not be a bad idea to pack an entire lunch, just in case your hike takes a little more time than you originally anticipated. There's nothing worse than a hungry toddler! Use a great carrier I would love it if my toddler wanted to walk for miles through the woods with me, but alas, usually she gets about a quarter mile into our adventure and doesn't want to go any further. If you bring a comfortable carrier that you both enjoy using, you'll get quite few more miles in than you will otherwise. Pack extra weather appropriate clothing Shortly after we moved to the PNW I learned the hard way that just because it isn't raining at our house doesn't mean it won't be raining on the trail. Always pack a few layers in case of rainy or cold weather, and bring a change of outfit for the carride home. I also recommend bringing an extra pair of shoes in case your little one wants to jump in a few puddles or explore an especially muddy part of the trail. Make everything a game Are there stairs on the hike? Count them! Sticks on the ground? Find the perfect one for a walking stick! A river? Throw rocks into it! Puddles? See who can make the biggest splash! A long stretch of flat ground? Have a race! The more games you can think of, the more your little one will enjoy hiking. Stock up on patience The only thing that is guaranteed when hiking with a toddler is that you're going to need patience and a lot of it! Try to plan ahead so that you aren't stressed out by the time you get to the hike. Pack ahead of time and know which route you'll be taking. Then, drink your coffee and have a good breakfast and get out on the trail! If everyone's moods are high when you start your hike, you're already winning! Then just remember that whatever happens, the day is still a 'win' because you're outdoors with your family, making memories. Hiking with toddlers is unpredictable, but it's also fun to see the trails through their eyes. They notice things we don't and are entertained by the smallest (literally!) of things. If you take your time and let them examine rocks and streams and flowers, you're in for a slow-paced but enjoyable day. Expect the unexpected and enjoy your time with your little one(s)! ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

Originally posted May 2019. May 15 is national Kids to Parks™ Day. Kids to Parks Day encourages children and families to get out and explore their local parks, including county, state and national parks. Two years ago, I hosted a Kids to Park hike. Having never hosted a “hike” in a park, I didn’t really know what to expect. How would I entertain the little hikers? How would we stay together given the range of activities the park had to offer? I had my energetic 3-year-old son and my stroller-bound 6-month-old, so parks could be a challenge to begin with. This hike, however, brought cold weather, a bit of rain and no other hikers. At first I was admittedly disappointed that I planned this hike and arranged my day around it when nobody else showed up. The benefit, however, was that I realized that a park hike could be a fun, social experience despite my original anxieties. During this hike, my son ran along the trail collecting sticks while I pushed his sleeping sister in her stroller. I can still picture him with his socks pulled up over his pants and a blue and white hooded sweatshirt. After exploring the small trail, he played on the swings, climbed a large spider web, looked for dinosaur bone replicas and ran around in plenty of green space. We were able to see dogs, a creek, birds, cloudy skies, worms, squirrels and other kids enjoying the park. I went on to host other hikes at parks. Exploring parks, whether at the local, state or national level, can introduce kids to wildlife, dramatic play and nature in positive ways. FUN PARK ACTIVITIES Looking for activities to do at the park? Check out these suggestions below or print our list of 30 things to find at the park and add some variety to your hike! Sinking vs floating Nature scavenger hunt Animal watch Animal compare and contrast Shell or rock collecting – can expand into bigger vs smaller or more or less and counting Leaf shading Measure and meander – take a ruler or paint stick and measure things as you walk Texture walk Build a fairy house Stone painting Climb a tree Follow the leader Scavenger hunts For free park resources that can be incorporated into a Kids to Park hike or even in your back yard, visit the National Park Trust and check out the featured resources at the bottom! INSPIRED? GREAT! NOW GET OUT AND ENJOY KIDS TO PARKS DAY! The best part about park hikes is that they don’t need to be formal. Kids can be imaginative and have fun on their own, with their families or with friends. Make a point to get outside and check out a park on May 15; or better yet, make it a habit your family can enjoy year-round! Want to join a hike to celebrate Kids to Parks Day? You can check out the Family Trail Guide to find a new trail with the family. If you can’t hit the parks on May 15, it's okay - Kids to Parks Day hikes can happen all month long! Don’t forget to join in on the fun on social media with the hashtags: #KidstoParks #togetherwehike ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.