OutGrown Blog

Go Take a Hike: A Three-Generation Tradition of Hiking the Sabino Canyon By Karen Francis-McWhite I distinctly recall a time in my childhood when the most contemptuous thing I could think of saying to another person was, “Go take a hike!” At that time, having never been on an actual hike, I am sure it was just an expression I’d heard someone spit at another person in a Saturday morning cartoon, or after school special. Thankfully, it wasn’t long before that “curse” faded from my lexicon because I learned that a hike - even a grueling one wished upon my “enemies” - can be a gift.  Hiking became something I did with friends, my Girls Scouts troop, and eventually with my Mom. Our hikes bore more in common with sauntering than with peak-bagging. We even flirted with a ranger-led snowshoeing excursion in the Sierras during one of our winter roadtrips. And many of the trails in other times of the year were paved or at least groomed with interpretive signs or historical sites. There was always laughter, and huffing and puffing, and satisfied joy. It was in those outdoor spaces where we came to experience each other in more conversational, playful, and grace-filled ways. When our two generations eventually became three, Mom and I continued our outdoors journey and introduced Zora to it at a young age.  There are places whose presence in my life seem as endemic to my person as my own two feet. I have no memory of when I first encountered them. They have always simply been part of my world and very much a part of me. The Sabino Canyon Recreation Area in Tucson, Arizona is such a place. It feels like I have known that Canyon for much longer than the fifteen years Mom has lived in Tucson; I was born in Arizona, after all. Even Mom does not remember when we first began to explore it. Shortly after my first Covid vaccination shot in March, I found myself looking forward to two things: (1) going to Tucson to see (and hug) Mom for the first time in a year and a half; and (2) hiking Sabino Canyon with Mom and Zora.  Hiking as a family, especially a three-generation family, means the hike is more of a vessel for conversation and creating memories, rather than a set destination to be achieved in order for the hike “to count.” In our Sabino Canyon tradition, we have always mixed riding the tram up the canyon while listening to the history and naturalist narration, and walking most of the way back down.  A Hiking Tradition The first time we hiked this gorgeous desert riparian canyon together, Zora alternated between nodding off in her stroller, and toddling at a sprint downhill (good times 😳). Other times, the Canyon became a backdrop for our family photos. And it’s landscape is ALWAYS the subject of my attempts at photography. Last month, our visit was more leisurely than usual. It was midday, and thus hotter than when we usually have gone to the Canyon. Nevertheless,  Zora tempered her tweendom and channeled the little girl who likes to leap-frog among the rocks by the low-flowing creek, while Mom took care not to twist an ankle or knee, and I closely scrutinized the underbrush to look for birds, and monitor for cougars and snakes. Thankfully, neither Zora nor Mom slipped, and I got to fan-girl a cardinal and a hummingbird. Though we did not see any mountain lions or snakes, there was one lizard sighting that nearly gave Mom a heart attack as it scurried out of the road, into the neighboring bush.  “That wasn’t really a hike. It was more of a walk,” the Tween would later quip. The child I once pushed through the Canyon has now become the pace-setter. “We all walk our own hike,” I reminded her… and myself. My hike was punctuated by photo stops with blooming ocotillo and saguaro cacti. Mom’s hike was the chatter and conversation with her only grandchild. And Zora’s hike … was hot. … But also “kinda fun,” which I claim as a win. As I always do, when we go to the Canyon, I declared that next time, we should come back and make a day of it - if some of the pools are high enough and flowing enough for us to take the occasional dip. But there was no doubt that we would be back. After all, it’s just what we do.  We learn a lot about each other when we take a hike. We witness the awe in each other’s eyes … and sometimes the irritation. There are a lot of photo stops (Zora says “too many”). Always there’s the realization of what our bodies can still or finally do. And there is the grace we grant each other to experience and appreciate those epiphanies. A Chance to Anchor and Clear my Head A few nights later, we went to the other side of town and explored the Tucson Mountain Park, a little before sunset. It was the day after the Chauvin verdict was announced and I felt a powerful yearning to “go take a hike” and clear my head, anchor my heart, and remind myself that “Yes, with determination, we can and WILL do hard things.”  The trail we came across was more rugged than the Sabino Canyon tramway, thus requiring that we take greater care of each other, and of our foot placement. Zora - as sure-footed as ever - skipped up the trail like a mountain goat despite wearing Merrell sandals. Mom did not let her upcoming 70th birthday stop her from carefully and determinedly gaining elevation. And I found myself left nearly speechless by the rugged beauty so that, more than once, I shed a grateful tear. Eighteen months of separation made it necessary to re-anchor ourselves with each other. Go take a hike. Returning to Sabino Canyon was a rekindling of family tradition. Go take a hike. I was anxious and befuddled. Go take a hike. I did and it calmed and centered me - a mother, playing outside with her mother, encountering a new experience with our Mother Earth.  What was once a curse has become a benediction. Go take a hike.   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.  

The Gift of Shared Experiences In partnership with LL Bean If there’s one thing that holds true for everyone in this incredible group of parents at Hike it Baby, its that we feel our children grow so quickly. The years fly by in a blur of happy/tantrumy/unpredictable chaos while we try to juggle work, school, quality family time, and maybe even a few quiet moments for ourselves. No matter what, it seems we are always pulled forward faster than we’d like, and all of a sudden out sweet little babies have grown up while we just stare in amazement at how quickly it all went.  Your little daughter who used to nap in the carrier while you hiked through the forest now climbs mountains by your side. Your son who used to hold your hand as he learned how to walk on the trail now runs and leaps and bounds from the rocks ahead of you. Photo by Krystal Weir HiB’s 2021 Mother’s Day Gift Guide of Experiences This Mother’s Day, we’re taking a page from the grandmothers, and the great-grandmothers, who know that when it comes down to it, the best gift you can ever give and receive is time-- time spent with your family, making happy memories together, and slowing down enough to appreciate the meaning of a day.  We’ve pulled together all sorts of ideas on how to spend this Mother’s Day. Some are a bit more active and involve the whole family, while others give mama some space and downtime to herself so she can reset and recharge.  All of the ideas are something to do, most of them are outside, and none of them are things to buy.  So get reading, and find the best gift for the mom in your life.   Reading in the Hammock That’s right, believe it or not, most of what our mamas wanted was a bit of rest and some time off task. And we all know that relaxing is always better in a hammock, and that taking some quiet deep breaths outside is good for the soul.  “I’ve requested my iPad (books) in my hammock. With no interruptions .” Kayla, HiB Hampton Roads Photo by Michelle Pearl Gee     A Family Photo Expedition Sure, you could take a family photo in your living room, but what makes this photo special is the where. Head outside, to a nearby city park, to a local trail, or somewhere completely new. Enjoy the moment together outdoors, watch your kiddos run and laugh and play, and play with them! Then, at the end of it all, take a family photo.  “I'm a fan of photos, so planning an adventure outside, propping up a phone or camera to get a family photo, and then someone else printing that for me, (29 cents) is lovely!” -Elicia, Hike it Baby Olympia Photo by Monique Vargas   Mom’s Choice This one has it both ways!  Let mom start the day her way, give her some space and time to relax, and then let her choose a place outside where you can all go and spend the afternoon together.  “Having the chance to sleep in, take a shower, enjoy my favorite cup of coffee with NO interruptions, followed by an afternoon visit to the iris fields where I can wander around taking pictures of and enjoying my family among my favorite flowers.” “Jessica, Hike it Baby Portland Photo by Michelle Craig   Hike & Brunch For those mamas who want a bit of an adventure, choose a destination a bit farther from home, pack a picnic brunch, and get going! After a hike, find a spot to sit and pull out all of mom’s brunch favorites for a lovely outdoor meal.  “I love using special occasions as a means to have an adventure, maybe somewhere farther than I would normally drive, to find an incredibly beautiful spot to make memories and spend the day. Having a delicious lunch that I didn’t have to plan and pack is the best! And I love getting to enjoy the fresh air and giggles from my daughters while we try to eat our treats with the wind blowing through our hair.” -Eva, Hike it Baby Portland Moments For Herself and Family Snuggles And finally, sometimes moms just need a reason to slow down for the day and enjoy the simple moments that make life as sweet as it is.  “I’d like to sleep in and drink my HOT coffee in quiet, maybe sneak in an afternoon nap, and absorb all of the Mothers Day snuggles and gifts in between!” Jen, HiB SE Pennsylvania   We hope all of you mamas enjoy a wonderful day with your little ones. We know this parenting stuff is hard work, but it’s the best work, and you're doing an amazing job!    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 published August 13, 2018 We live in a busy world. This is even more true for families with children! There are multiple schedules to juggle, chores and errands to accomplish, and meltdowns to conquer. This can make getting out of the house, let alone at a specific time, seem like a monumental task. The same rings true for outdoor activities, both scheduled and unscheduled. That’s why we compiled this handy list of hiking tips and tricks from our awesome Hike it Baby community to help you get out the door quickly with the confidence that you are prepared for anything Mother Nature and your tiny humans throw at you! Keeping the Car Packed and Ready Nicholl, Charleston Branch – I keep seasonal weather supplies in a soft, underbed storage container in my car. So in the winter, it is hats, socks, gloves, extra layer, blanket. In the spring, it is rain coats, puddle boots, towels, change of clothes. In the summer, it is bathing suits, towels and sunscreen, etc. There is also always a baby carrier. So if we want to go somewhere, I always have everything I need already packed. I just need to grab the diaper bag and our lunch. Jessica, Portland Branch – Pack lots of snacks and leave the extra nonperishable ones in the car in case you forget in the future. Lacey, Kanai Peninsula Branch – Go-bags in the car with snacks, extra clothes, emergency stuff, water bottles (used for drinking and washing off, if needed), extra shoes for littles, etc. Photo by Lyndsey. Getting Things Ready Ahead of Time Jessica, Hanover-York Branch – I keep my boys' hiking backpacks packed, ready and hanging by the door! Perfect for last-minute trips and one less thing to worry about in the morning. Also, less impressive but equally convenient, my three boys always take their shoes off in the car so they are always with us when we head out! Becca, Southern Adirondacks Branch – I try to set everything out the night before so that we can grab and go in the morning. This includes clothes for both me and my toddler, my "hiking side bag" filled with snacks, a packable towel since we tend to find puddles regardless of where we go, and a car supply bag with sunscreen, bug spray, extra change of clothes for both of us, extra shoes, hats, rain gear, "adventure toys," etc., depending on the season. Lyndsey, Monadnock Branch – I have three plastic drawers in the back of my SUV with food and extra gear; a basic beach bag with bathing suits, towels and small sand toys; packs ready to go and in my car; and a gallon or two of water. I also keep a small bin with our basic tenting supplies by our door (that I will often bring "just in case"). That way we are always ready to go anywhere and can stay as long as we want! Missy, Gettysburg Branch – I started keeping my stroller in the car for last-minute adventures, a “bin” for all hiking supplies (sunscreen, bug spray, hats, carrier, fanny pack, water and Capri Sun) and a “rainy day” bin with rain boots, extra clothes, rain suit and stroller cover) in case rain is in the forecast so I don’t have to spend time hunting everything down every time we want to go hiking. Photo by Jessica. Be Prepared for Anything Samantha, Portland Branch – Bring a carrier even for a toddler/preschooler. If they get tired, your fun doesn't have to end. Gaila, Ames Branch – I keep a (little-kid-sized) basketball and soccer ball in my truck, so whenever we end up at a park, even if the play equipment isn't good for the 3-year-old, he has something he can play by himself or with other kids that he will enjoy! Alexandra, Salt Lake City Branch – I have a set of inexpensive trekking poles that broke a while back. I duct taped them back together and now they’re exclusively for my kids to use. They’re always in my car. Sometimes getting to use them motivates my boys to hike. I also always carry a packable blanket from Matador in my backpack so we always have a clean-ish place to sit for impromptu picnics. Kate, Hampton Roads Branch – My Onya soft carrier and hats are always in the car. I consider my hiking backpack as a supply kit for any and all hikes. At the beginning of each season, I’ll check to see if stuff is running low (medical kit, tick kit, towel, maps, etc.) and pack a seasonally appropriate change of clothes. Annie, Ann Arbor Branch – Never clean out your car and you'll be prepared for everything. Dealing with Wet Gear Vong, Kansas City Branch – I stuff wet shoes with balled-up newspaper and they dry overnight. (Yes, it really does work!) So if the kids want to jump in puddles or stand in a creek, by all means, "GO FOR IT, SON! Wet shoes? No problem!" Emily, Emerald Coast Branch – My husband is a runner and living on the Gulf Coast makes life super damp. I bought a boot dryer this time around and it dries two sets of shoes fairly quickly and they don't get too stinky. From there, we use a charcoal insert to dry the last parts and it removes the remaining foot smell. Becca, Southern Adirondacks Branch – I have hooks in my garage specifically for wet clothes and a fan nearby if I know I need them to dry more quickly. This works well for winter and rain gear along with swim gear. I also use newspapers in wet shoes, and I will place wet snow boots (which tend to dry more slowly) near a heating vent, just close enough to be effective without being dangerous. Photo by Emily. Change Your Mindset Katie, Ann Arbor Branch – I try to remember to keep spare clothes in the car for me too so that I can join in on the fun. It's fine if the 2-year-old rides home mostly naked not so appropriate for me. I just keep the mindset that we're all washable and having fun is more important than being clean! Melissa, Hampton Roads Branch – Remember that short jaunts are ok too! Kids don’t have a great concept of time, so for them, 30 minutes outside is often just as satisfying as two hours – sometimes more so if it means they avoid getting hungry or tired. Big adventures and long hikes are fun, but backyard time, playground trips and neighborhood walks can be great too! Especially if it gets you outside on a day when otherwise you might not have. What tips and tricks do you have for making outdoor adventures fast and easy? Let us know in the comments below! Read more: Tales from Sky Baby: Road trip tips Hiking with young infants: tips and tricks 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.

By Karen Francis-McWhite   It looked like a whim. But when I decided to backpack the Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile trek around the highest mountain in Washington state, it was actually a goal years in the making. I started training in 2005 when I moved to Washington, but only a couple months in I learned I was expecting my first child. I put a pin in my plan, and set a new goal: backpack the Wonderland Trail by the time I turned 50 in 2023.    A few weeks ago, while massaging my latest unexplained (though probably age-related) ache in my hip, it hit me—50 is only three years away. I needed to start working on that goal that had been lingering. The real kick in the pants that made me start planning the trek was when I joined  the growing BIPOC Brave Space community of women and was invited to participate in the writing and filming of Expedition Reclamation, a documentary seeking to redefine “outdoorsy” and reclaim belonging in the outdoors for Black, Indigenous and Women of Color.    The invitation came at a time in my pandemic introspection when I was becoming aware of how much the outdoors anchored me. But I was also lonely for connecting with women of color, since there were so few in my local community. The opportunity to combine my love for the outdoors with my need to connect with those with similar experiences as mine, was too good to pass up. Hearing their stories and sharing both our experiences and our goals, I began to think, “Well, what about the Wonderland Trail? Can I do it?”   By this point though, I had a few more responsibilities than when I was a childless 30-something with a big backpacking dream. I had too many family and work commitments to spend two weeks in the woods—the amount of time I would need to complete the trail in one trip. So I reasoned with myself. I’d segment hike the trail over the next three years.   Though there are two important things you should know about me and my backpacking journey: 1: When I made the commitment in 2009 to complete the 93 mile trek around the highest mountain in Washington state I had never been backpacking.  2: The first time I went backpacking was July of last year.  I had a long road ahead of me. But even though backpacking wasn’t part of my past, I had a long and varied history of recreating in the outdoors...pre-baby. I was a certified SCUBA diver at 14, had camped in the mountains and deserts of California with friends since high school, learned to sail in Australia in graduate school, and took my first solo camping trip in Mount Rainier National Park the year before I met my future co-parent. I wasn’t a “badass” outdoor adventurer in my mind. I was just a quirky Black woman who really liked exploring, playing and relaxing in the outdoors.     My daughter, Z, was 16 months old before I went camping again, after a nearly three year hiatus. Our first family camping trip was with friends at Cougar Rock in Mount Rainier. It was clear parenting, especially single parenting, had changed my relationship with the outdoors. Watching my toddler savor the trails of Paradise lit something inside of me. Not only would I someday backpack the Wonderland Trail, but also hopefully with my wonderfully free-spirited nature child.   By the summer of 2020, my daughter was 10 years old and eager to go backpacking. Living in the Upper Wenatchee Valley, she was becoming accustomed to learning, playing, and exploring the mountains, trails and rivers near our home. She was ready, but I on the other hand wasn’t so sure if I was “fit enough” for a near-100-mile trek. Though I am a seasoned hiker, with decades of grueling day hikes ingrained in my treads, my body had come to reflect my current reality as a middle-aged, office-based, single parent, who had eaten all of her pandemic feelings by the time the summer backpacking season kicked off. I may not have contracted COVID-19 but I sure as rain had put on my covid 19. So I was nervous about taking up backpacking at all, much less resuscitating my 12-year-old goal to backpack the Wonderland Trail.   But three factors came together compelling me to dust off my unused four-year old Osprey backpack and start training:  watching my daughter develop her confidence in outdoor recreation, and wanting to be able to keep up with her.  being invited to be part of the Expedition Reclamation community the patient encouragement of another dear friend, who joined Z and I on our first backpacking trip to Spider Meadows.   Despite a silly misstep (thankfully without my backpack) that rolled my ankle and had me hobbling the nearly six miles back to the trailhead (Sidebar: trekking poles make great crutches), I was hooked. No matter how long it took my ankle to fully heal, I knew I was going to eventually segment hike the Wonderland Trail.  The Brave Space women I knew before the film, and have come to know thanks to it, have been gracious wayfinders, helping me find my path to that goal … and stay on it. As the oldest woman in the project, I was concerned I wouldn’t be fully welcomed. But the Expedition Reclamation film community has been a pleasant surprise, and the stories, examples, and friendship of the other women have been inspiring, welcoming, and lasting. Though filming wrapped in late 2020, we have continued to create ways for us to recreate together in the wilderness we all love and honor, like snowshoeing, a sport I have enjoyed since the 90s.    Looking ahead to the rest of this year, I cannot adequately express my gratitude to and for this community, for the ways they have welcomed, encouraged, and truly included both Z and me. They have helped me find the confidence to reclaim my sense of place in the outdoors.   It’s not too late and I’m not too old. I may not be as physically fit as I was twelve years ago when I put a diaper pin in my goal to backpack the Wonderland Trail. But I am absolutely fit enough to set my own pace, rediscover my own joys in Nature, and reboot my expedition pursuits. AND since I successfully secured a spot in the Mount Rainier Early Access Wilderness Permit Lottery, I look forward to doing the first of 3 segment hikes this summer, with a goal of completing the Wonderland Trail by my 50th birthday in 2023. And I suspect at least one of our fellow Brave Space Women, will join me and Z on the journey. Follow Karen’s journey as she segment hikes the Wonderland Trail on Instagram at @hidefkaren.     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.    

Kid complaining that they are bored? Have you tried everything to help get your children out of the house and active? Make something fun for them! This article will provide you with a few ideas to get your children outside and active. It is a great activity to do with your kids, siblings, or friends, and is fun for all ages! So head outside and have some fun at the park. Avoid boredom by getting creative and making an outdoor scavenger hunt!  CAR HUNT Hide and seek but in the car. A child has to find someone's keys, which are placed in random areas around their car. The first one to find them gets a prize. It can also be done by placing toy cars inside or outside their backpacks or bags before heading out, so they are familiar with where they need to look next time. TREASURE HUNT It is another game where the person must look around for hidden objects. It could be anywhere from an adult's purse, to a toy in the backyard, on a bench somewhere, etc. ROCK HUNT Make a list of different types of rocks found in the park. Have the child find the different types of rocks and see how many they can get. Then, they have to match all of the types with the correct names on their card. ANIMAL SOUNDS Have a sheet together with animal pictures and corresponding animal sounds for each one. Have your kids see what animal sounds they hear in the park. Or have them listen to a specific sound and then find the matching animal picture. BALLOON SCAVENGER HUNT Blow up some balloons and hide them in different areas of the park. Have your child find them all and then pop them. THINGS I LOVE SCAVENGER HUNT In this activity, you may need to print a list of things your child is grateful for. For instance, you can include phrases in the list like "something I like to wear" or "Something I like To Share." You can add as many phrases as you like. It is an ideal activity to boost your child's self-esteem. NEIGHBORHOOD SCAVENGER HUNT It is another scavenger hunt game you can play at any neighborhood park. Show children all there is to explore in their nearby streets with this entertaining scavenger hunt — and spot everything from bikes to birdhouses. You may need to print figures of different items that can be seen in the neighborhood, like pots and animals. EASY OUTDOOR SCAVENGER HUNT Children will love this entertaining open-ended scavenger hunt, but first, you must come up with a list of descriptions of items you want your child to hunt. For instance, in the list, there would be phrases like "find something thin," "something brittle," or "something rough." Allow your kids to explore their surroundings and learn. The clues will teach your kids about textures, colors, and scientific concepts. PHOTO SCAVENGERS HUNTS In order to enjoy this game, you may need to provide your kids with cameras. Instead of instructing them to collect objects, ask them to take pictures of the items they find. For them to deliver you interesting pictures, give your kids ideas of what pictures to capture, for instance, items that are a particular shape or color, Items that begin with a specific letter, or local landmarks. ALPHABET SCAVENGER HUNT It is a great game for introducing letters and numbers to your kids. The object is to find everything in the park that begins with a specific letter or includes a certain number of items. For instance, if the items that begin with the letter A are soda bottles, apple trees, and anthills, the child will need to find these items that begin with B. Count how many objects your child finds so that now they will have a better chance of finding the item correctly. Author Bio Andrea is currently the head of content management at SpringHive Web Design Company, a digital agency that provides creative web design, social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization services to small businesses and entrepreneurs. She is also a blog contributor at Baby Steps Preschool where she writes storytime themes, parenting tips, and seasonal activities to entertain children. 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.  

Your Fool-Proof Guide To Getting Your Family Out the Door This Winter (without all the hassle and sweat!) It’s beautiful out- the sun is finally shining for once and, with the gleam of the sunshine reflected off the freshly fallen snow, you’re just aching to get out and have some fun with the kids.  You envision the joy on their faces as they slide down the snow-covered hills or stick their sweet little tongues out to catch snowflakes.  You look forward to the sound of their full belly laughs as they chase one another around with snowballs and the calm that comes with returning home to wind down after an amazing day of wintery fun.  You know that it is an outing filled with untapped potential because, well you’ve experienced it at its best.  But there’s only one problem... getting your family out the door. Get ready moms and dads for the full-body workout that is getting the kids together, prepared, bundled up, and, at long last, finally being able to step foot out the door! It is not an exercise for the faint of heart.  There is often fighting, complaining and various levels of toddling/ running off involved before you can really experience the bliss and comfort that comes with knowing that you are finally ready to go! Here is our fool-proof guide to getting out the door in one piece with minimal sweat and hassle: Plan ahead. Check the weather at the beginning of the week and plan your outings based on the forecast that works best for your family.  Any time you have a big outing planned it’s a great idea to get everything together in a central location in advance, maybe the night before or early in the morning before the kids wake up- that way everything is together and ready to go when the bundling up fun begins.  If possible, make separate piles for each child in order to avoid getting everyone’s gear mixed up and confused.  If you are planning an outing that involves driving, it’s also a great idea to pack the car up well beforehand. Bathroom before you go. Make sure you get fresh diapers and bathroom trips out of the way before you start layering up.  The last thing you need to worry about during the arduous process of layering everyone up is having to undo it and do it all over again.  Plus, there’s nothing worse than hearing, “I have to go potty,” as soon as everyone is ready to go and you have finally made it through the threshold and out the door. Practice makes perfect. Work on teaching older children skills such as getting on snowsuits, boots, gloves, and jackets so that the task isn’t so daunting when the time comes to get everyone ready to go outside.  If your children are old enough- it would be great to teach and task them with helping younger children to get ready as well, this will instill a sense of purpose and responsibility in them as well as increase productivity. Layering is key.  It’s a great time-saver to stack inside and outside layers before pulling everything on.  Also, mapping out an order in your head (or on paper even) before you begin is a great idea in order to avoid having to undo and redo the process all over again.  This may vary depending on the child and the gear.  For instance, I find that my older daughter hates having her gloves on before her coat because they get bunched and pushed up too high, so I intentionally leave her gloves for last.  Knowing these kinds of things and being prepared ahead of time will lessen the hassle substantially. Stagger bundle.  If you work to get everyone ready a little bit at a time then you will be less likely to have one person waiting around sweating indoors while everyone else is still getting ready to go.  Depending on the length of the process, it might also be a good idea to have toys, books, or snacks around that are of interest in order to keep the attention of anyone waiting their turn.  I know that, for my toddler, any moment she’s not being kept busy is likely a moment she spends running away from me while I’m trying to get us all ready.  For new walkers, it’s also a good idea to get boots on as soon as possible to avoid having them running around in socks and possibly slipping (particularly if you have hard floors). Don’t let the process ruin the fun! Make conversation about what everyone might like to do once you get outside while you are getting ready.  Keeping conversation light and fun will help keep spirits high and avoid stressful fighting and arguing.  It’s also good practice to build up older children who are working hard to get themselves ready to go so that they feel encouraged and appreciated.  If your family enjoys music- perhaps there are some calming songs that you could play to help the process be more enjoyable all around (calm instrumental music, for instance). Don’t Get Discouraged. Remember that getting out of the house all together is a win no matter how long the process seems to take.  It can be really hard to get everyone ready and out the door but I bet that once you’ve done it you’ll be really glad that you did!  Happy winter adventures everyone! Hike it Baby works to be the most effective hub of tools, information, and community inspiring all families with babies and young children to get outside and connect with nature. Learn more about Hike it Baby's mission and how you can get involved.     Photos courtesy of Michelle Pearl Gee.     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.

"You never know how or when you'll have an impact, or how important your example can be to someone else." - Denzel Washington As Black History Month comes to a close, it is important to remember to continue to recognize all the amazing and powerful Black individuals and organizations that are continuously working to better their communities and the world. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it is full of really amazing and empowering Black organizations doing wonderful work in the great outdoors! Here are 7 Black outdoor organizations making a difference that everyone should know! Black Girls Trekkin’ Website     Instagram  This LA based organization was created to increase representation of black women in nature (but is open to anyone from any underrepresented group). They also are working to build a community of people who get outside and strive to preserve and protect our planet. Black Kids Adventure Website     Instagram  Zenovia and George Stephens founded this Alabama based non-profit to help introduce and expose Black and Brown families to outdoor adventures. They know the key to changing the outdoor narrative is to expose children to outdoor activities as early as possible. One aspect of their organization is a twice annual family sleep away camp. This camps aims to help bridge the gap that exists in the outdoors and provide a foundation for a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable outdoor future. Black Outside Inc. Website     Instagram After noticing that only 1% of Texas State Park goers were Black, Black Outside Inc. was founded to reconnect Black youth to the great outdoors. The volunteer developed and run programs include an overnight camp for girls, a communal space of healing for youth impacted by incarceration, and a pilot high school program focused on building social-emotional skills. Each of these programs center on exploration of self, culture, and the outdoors. Melanin Base Camp Website     Instagram  Founded in 2016 by Danielle Williams, Melanin Base Camp aims to increase ethnic minority and LGBTQ+ participation in outdoor recreation. They are also striving to expand visibility and representation in the media of outdoorsy black, indigenous, and people of color. Outdoor Afro Website     Instagram  The organization’s goal is to connect Black individuals to outdoor adventures, while also promoting Black leadership in nature. This national not for profit organization is operating in 42 cities and has over 80 leaders across the United States. Soul Trak Website     Instagram With a goal of connecting people of color to the great outdoors while also building a group of diverse leaders, this D.C. nonprofit provides several hands-on and experiential programs. Their vision is “to act as a bridge to wild spaces by uplifting outdoor leaders of diverse backgrounds and create an outdoors that more accurately reflects the diversity of our nation.” TheBlackOutdoors Instagram  When Tramond Baisden and Ezedube Eze noticed a lack of representation and participation of black people and other underrepresented groups in outdoor recreation, they decided to do something about it. They founded this organization to “highlight folks who look like you doing dope, new things.”   Black History Month may only be one 28 day month, but Black history is not separate from American history. In fact, it is deeply interconnected to it. So even though the month is coming to a close, it is important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black individuals all year. Whether you are looking for inspiration or a wonderful organization to donate to, these 7 Black outdoor organizations are an amazing place to start. If you are looking for other Black or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) Hike it Baby content, we've got you covered. 9 Diverse Children’s Nature Books to Add to Your Collection How One Mom is Breaking Racial Barriers to Find Her Place on Trail Addressing Racial Disparity and Taking Action for Change at Hike it Baby Hike it Baby's Mission to Change what it Means to be Outdoorsy   "We all have dreams. In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort." - Jesse Owens 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.

Elicia Giffin has served as Office Manager at Hike it Baby for a year. Her main responsibilities are responding to emails, spending time preparing mailings, processing monthly bills, editing documents, and supporting the rest of the amazing HiB team where and when she’s needed. One of the most inspiring parts of Elicia’s job is the team she works with.  What is your favorite quote? “This is the shadow of HOPE. Knowing that we may never see the realization of our dreams, and yet still showing up.” -Austin Channing Brown How do you like to spend your free time? With friends! But lately, it's been a lot of time outside with my family, playing games or reading. What is something in the outdoor industry people have to deal with that you want to fix? Inequities around who is seen as "outdoorsy." If you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it? One Page At a Time: How The Stories I Read Changed My Own  Anything else we should know/you'd like to share?  Brene Brown's Unlocking Us podcast has been great. It's hard for me to pick a favorite book. I finished more than 100 last year! My husband calls me a "raging extrovert," so spending 2020 so far removed from most of my people, let alone strangers that I can befriend, was rough.           Hike it Baby relies on volunteers to help our growing non-profit meet our goal of connecting families with young children to nature and each other. We currently have over 70 national volunteers and over 370 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. Learn how you can get involved in Hike it Baby by making a donation or connecting with your local branch. ABOUT HIKE IT BABY Hike it Baby is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to getting families outdoors and on trails across the U.S. and internationally, supporting, educating and inspiring families through their more than 300 communities across North America. Since its grassroots inception in 2013 in Portland, Oregon, Hike it Baby is now a growing community of 270,000 families and 500 volunteer branch ambassadors hosting more than 1,600 hikes per month. More information, as well as daily hike schedules, can be found at WeAreOutgrown.org, YouTube, and Pinterest. Photos courtesy of Elicia Giffin.

Hike it Baby's Winter Walk with Wox encourages individuals and families to head outside for a ten-minute walk every day in the month of February. The Winter Walk Challenge aims to get people outside during the part of the year where most of us could use extra outdoor time. February brings cold temperatures, more cloudy days, and snow and ice for many parts of the country, making it one of the toughest months to get outside. However, a ten-minute walk outside helps you gain both the mental and physical benefits of activity outdoors. Winter brings colder temperatures and sometimes extreme weather conditions. It brings more rain, wind, maybe sleet, ice, and/or snow, and it gets dark earlier. Many animals hibernate during the winter. Humans have a tendency to bundle up and hunker down as well. We may start to feel cooped up or notice that we have less energy and motivation in the winter months. When kids are kept inside and expected to sit still for too long, negative behaviors may appear, voices get louder, and everyone feels crankier. Through the holiday season it can be hard to maintain a routine of going outside or being active, especially with all the demands of family, entertaining, and celebrations to attend. A short, easy ten minute walk outside can help everyone reset and find their inner calm again. It’s also a great way to test and get used to winter gear like heavier coats, hats, gloves, and boots that might be challenging for younger children. How do you wear your baby and a winter coat? Is your jacket water resistant or waterproof? How much does that matter where you live? Does your baby need a fleece layer under their rain suit? Are those new boots from Grandma really waterproof and ready for puddle jumping? In the winter, we often have many questions and concerns about our outerwear, but it can be daunting to go out and try it if it means packing the car, traveling to a favorite spot, and spending a significant amount of time outside. Here’s where the Winter Walk With Wox Challenge can save the day. We’re encouraging you to take a ten minute walk outside every day for the month of February with your family. It doesn’t have to be far, it can just be out your back door into the yard or around your block. It can be a quick trip to the park on the way home from school. Or it can be walking to the library or grocery store nearby. Whatever it is, it should be short, sweet, and easy, but it should be outside. Join us and find a national community of like-minded families to help encourage you along the way. Share your triumphs and your challenges. Ask questions. Build a habit together! Most of all, have fun! Let's Start with A Walk Walking alone is good for your health. According to the CDC, physical activity accumulated in segments of at least ten minutes can improve a variety of health-related outcomes. Healthier Hearts Walking, as they say, "gets the blood flowing". It helps reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and lower blood sugar which can help fight heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Improves Brain Function A walk can help refresh your mind. Cognitive benefits including improved attention, concentration, and problem-solving. Better Sleep According to the Sleep Foundation, researchers have found that people who exercised regularly, including walking, fell asleep more quickly, slept longer, and had better quality sleep than those who did vigorous exercise or lifted weights. Reduces Anxiety and Depression According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, a simple 10-minute walk may be as effective as a 45-minute workout in terms of reducing anxiety and depression. Take Your Walk Outside There is plenty of research on the health benefits of spending time outdoors. Time outside is an immediate mood booster and has proven to be beneficial to mental health. Researchers from the University of Essex found that spending as little as five minutes doing “green exercise,” or activity in nature, was enough to boost study participants’ mood and self-esteem. Among office workers, even a view of nature out a window is associated with lower stress and higher job satisfaction. The outdoors activates all of our senses. When we walk outside the scenery changes as we move so we are more present in our environment. This practice of mindfulness has lasting effects on our overall mental well-being. How to Make Your Outdoor Walk a Habit Mix up your ten-minute family walks with these ideas, including playing a follow the leader game or looking for signs of nature. Mind, Body, Green offers a few simple ways to squeeze the walk into your day: 1. Go for a walk first thing in the morning (you won't believe how well this works to wake you up)! 2. Make your meetings walking meetings (instead of sitting meetings). 3. Go for a lunchtime walk. 4. Take public transportation or drive a few blocks away from your final destination and walk the last part instead. 5. Get in an after-dinner walk (this can feel great for digestion). Here's the best part, friends. That daily walk will become a healthy habit. And if you can make it happen in February, you know you can make it happen any time of year. Who's up for a walking streak?   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. Sources: https://www.thehealthy.com/exercise/walking/walking-benefits-15-minutes/

It’s Been Quite a Year  Thanks 2020, it’s been real. Australian bushfires, a long-overdue cry for social justice and reform, Megan and Harry leaving the Royal family, a US Presidential election, and let’s not forget a global pandemic and all of the extra baggage that brought with it. The silver lining is that when we go through tough things it often brings clarity and helps us to focus on what’s really important.  At Hike it Baby, the tumultuous year brought changes both big and small. Some were reactive and some came from the knowledge we gained by looking at our organization through a different lens. Our actions intend to better serve our communities, our environment, and the many people we haven’t reached yet but hope to. Despite the hurdles, we made a lot of progress this year and we’re pretty dang proud of how far this non-profit has come.  A New Hike it Baby Mission Statement At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our communities were confronted with the need to stay close to home, local park and trail closures, and trails and outdoor areas that were too crowded for comfort or safety. The lack of access helped us realize how much we need time outside and what it feels like to lack open and safe outdoor space. And the unfortunate reality sunk in that many people never have access to outdoor space or feel welcome and safe in outdoor spaces. We amended our mission statement to focus on two matters that have become abundantly clear as we navigated this year: That all families with babies and children have safe, equitable, and welcome access to outdoor space That spending time outside in any form makes you “outdoorsy”. 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. Free Hike it Baby Membership In revising our membership and recognizing that there should be no barriers to the outdoors, we made the big decision to remove paid membership. Anyone, anywhere can join Hike it Baby for free.  Open Events Like membership, we want our programming and resources to reach as many people as possible. We opened Hike it Baby 30, our bi-annual fundraiser challenge event in April of 2020 to anyone, free of charge, during the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic. We quickly realized that instead of trying to tackle major goals or milestones, the goal should be to simply get outside. In our mission to remove barriers to getting outside, no-cost events, with a suggested donation for those who are able, make it accessible for everyone to benefit from event resources, community and increased outdoor time. Change to Virtual Events & Added Resources Due to the pandemic, we closed in-person, group hikes. To compensate for the inability to gather, local Branches organized virtual hike events in their Branch Facebook groups to encourage families to continue to get outside safely. Participants shared their experiences with photos and comments. We also created a national community Facebook group, open to everyone, where parents and caregivers can ask questions, learn from one another, and share their adventures.  Additionally, we built a library of downloadable activity sheets and articles that encourage and motivate families to get outside in a way that works for them.  Goals moving forward in 2021 We will continue our work to change the narrative on what it means to go outside and who is welcome there. 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. We hope to accomplish a number of milestones in 2021, including:      ♥️  Engage over 500,000 families so our message to normalize nature connects more families with the outdoors.      ♥️  Continue to grow our local communities with free membership.      ♥️  Provide diversity, equity, and inclusion training opportunities for staff and volunteers (over 400 people) and continue to develop and share diverse content with our community that reinforces our belief that all families have the right to connect with nature.      ♥️  Support our communities with resources that help families get outside, including workbooks, articles, virtual speaking events, and inspiring stories.      ♥️  Introduce an interactive, in-person guided walk program with the help of our partners and our local community leaders – more information to come soon! You can help achieve these goals by making a one-time donation or set-up a monthly recurring donation.  The Best is Yet to Come Despite the challenges of 2020, the Hike it Baby community continues to grow and we are grateful for the ongoing support of our mission. We’ve served over 275,000 community members and fostered over 16,000 hikes (read more in our 2019 Annual Report). Our communities rallied and made the best of this year, together. While we don’t believe like the lifting of a magic spell in a cartoon movie that when the clock strikes midnight on December 31st all will be right again in the world. But we remain hopeful about the future. Small progress adds up to big results, always. If we consider the added time we’ve spent outside, the more time we’ve spent at homes and with our family, the ways we found to connect despite the distance, and our ability to adapt, perhaps you can find a silver lining in this year, too. About Hike it Baby Hike it Baby 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, Hike it Baby is a growing community of 270,000 families and over 400 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information, as well as outdoor engagement events, can be found at on our website, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram.   Photos courtesy of Arika Bauer, Monique Vargas, and Jessica Human.   Editors Note:   We hope you enjoyed reading this article from Hike it Baby. 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.  

Hike it Baby Executive Director, Jessica Carrillo Alatorre, explains Hike it Baby's goal to change what it means to be "outdoorsy" as the first step in ensuring all families have the ability to create a connection with nature. The Traditional Picture of the Outdoorsy Type 2020 has been a year of reinventing, redefining, and resilience. To that end, I am proud that Hike it Baby’s 2020 contribution includes our work to change what it means to be outdoorsy. We’re all familiar with the epic photo ops used to represent the outdoor enthusiast ideal. Scenes of snow-capped mountain peaks, sunrises behind a breathtaking vista, or rushing rivers hidden deep in a lush, green forest. These images have historically featured white males. Over the years, small changes and subtle shifts occurred and now you see women and, sometimes, people of color represented here and there. Mostly, it is still an image of a fit, athletic, affluent, and well-equipped individual who has the time to enjoy the outdoors as a hobby, the money to buy the right gear for their adventures, and the freedom of knowing they belong in those out of reach places.  Creating a Connection with the Outdoors from Birth In my experience, going outdoors doesn’t require athletic ability, high-end gear, or hours of driving to find the perfect, picturesque location. I grew up with parents who believed that children belonged in the fresh air, outside playing, imagining, and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible. Yet, I was never an avid outdoor adventurer, just someone who enjoyed the benefits of fresh air and nature’s beauty wherever and whenever I could find them. When I became pregnant with my first child, I wanted to make sure she had the opportunity to connect with nature, but I also worried about keeping her safe and healthy. My postpartum body was nowhere near ready for treks of more than a mile of easy walking in those first few months after I gave birth. I didn’t have fancy hiking boots or clothes. Many of my old clothes didn’t fit yet and I didn’t have the energy or means to shop for a new wardrobe. Even so, when my baby was crying and inconsolable, when my nerves were shot and my brain fogged with a lack of sleep, my hormones raged, and my tears flowed, I found the trees and bushes of my front yard to be the kindest of friends. The fresh air brought comfort and new life. It swept away the fear, the frustration, and brought calm, allowing me to breathe deeply. The grass between my bare toes helped ground me and allowed me to re-center. As soon as I walked outside, my baby would quiet down, take her own deep breaths, and settle into me, relaxing as we both felt the sun wrapping us in comforting warmth.  The Disconnect with the Outdoors Of course, those images of sweeping views and stunning nature are inspiring. Yet for most of us, they feel unattainable in our everyday lives. According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s Outdoor Foundation 2019 Outdoor Participation Report, “just under half the U.S. population does not participate in outdoor recreation at all, less than 20 percent of Americans recreated outside at least once a week, and of the people who report they go outside, 63 percent report they go outside within 10 miles of their home.” With this information, it seems like we need to redefine what it means to be outdoorsy and how we represent that definition so more people can identify with it. At Hike it Baby, we believe we can apply our creativity and daring to shape a new definition of what it means to be outdoorsy. It is no longer that lone, perfect athlete in pristine, remote nature. It’s a mom with two kids playing in the mud at the park. It’s a new dad giving his baby a bottle on the balcony. It’s a grandfather examining leaves with a toddler at the library. It’s a babysitter taking kids to a picnic lunch. It’s eating as a family outside or sitting on the front steps and waving to the neighbors. The outdoors is within reach and anyone can enjoy it.  We're Outdoorsy We want everyone to see themselves as outdoorsy because ultimately, we all benefit from spending time outside. Our mental and physical health improves within just a few minutes of being outside. Our social connection is strengthened. Our stress levels decrease. Infant brain development is positively impacted. Simply put, we feel better and happier with more time outside. It is such a simple thing, yet still, so many people don’t have the opportunity to do it or don’t feel like they belong outside. We hope you will help us shift that narrative. By representing more families, more people, and more experiences in the outdoors, we will demonstrate that anyone can identify with being outdoorsy.  Normalizing Nature with the "We're Outdoorsy" Year End Giving Campaign Hike it Baby’s Year End Giving campaign for 2020 is the kickoff for our “We’re Outdoorsy” initiative. It is under this umbrella that we will continue our work to change the narrative on what it means to go outside and who is welcome there. We have a big list of goals that directly connect to our mission of ensuring every family with babies and children has safe and equitable access to the outdoors, and the support and resources make getting outside a regular part of their lives. In order to make this a reality, we know we have to normalize nature and change what it means to be outdoorsy.      ♥️  Engage over 500,000 families so our message to normalize nature connects more families with the outdoors.      ♥️  Continue to grow our local communities with free membership.      ♥️  Provide diversity, equity, and inclusion training opportunities for staff and volunteers (over 400 people) and continue to develop and share diverse content with our community that reinforces our belief that all families have the right to connect with nature.      ♥️  Support our communities with resources that help families get outside, including workbooks, articles, virtual speaking events, and inspiring stories.      ♥️  Introduce an interactive, in-person guided walk program with the help of our partners and our local community leaders - more information to come soon! Support Hike it Baby in Changing the Narrative on Nature You can donate to our Year-End giving campaign or support Hike it Baby with monthly donations here. You can also share how you are being outdoorsy across social media. It can be as simple as walking to the mailbox instead of pulling your car up next to it to get the mail or stepping onto your porch or balcony for 10 minutes for some fresh air. Tag it with #hibwereoutdoorsy and tag @hikeitbaby to help inspire others to get outside however it works for them.    Together, we can make sure everyone, starting at birth, can experience the benefits of the outdoors for generations to come. Thank you! About Hike it Baby Hike it Baby 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, Hike it Baby is a growing community of 270,000 families and over 400 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information, as well as outdoor engagement events, can be found on our website , Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram.   Image courtesy of Monique Vargas.

Emma Carsey, Membership Manager for Hike it Baby As Membership Manager, Emma Carsey is responsible for all major Hike it Baby events, including fundraising efforts. She manages event support and resources for Ambassadors, Hike Hosts, and branches, as well as oversees the technology department. She has been part of the Hike it Baby team for a little over a year and is inspired knowing she can contribute to helping children spend more time outside. Emma is a mother of two, with a third on the way, and is part of the Dayton, Ohio, branch. In her free time, she likes to get outside with her kids, cook and bake from actual cookbooks, practice yoga, and read. Below are some fun facts about Emma.   What is your favorite quote? "Feel the fear and do it anyway." - Susan Jeffers How do you like to spend your free time? Cooking. Baking. Eating. Being outside. Eating outside. What is something in the outdoor industry people have to deal with that you want to fix? The definition of what it means to be "outdoorsy". If you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it? Oh gosh, I have no idea! Probably just "Emma". Anything else we should know/you'd like to share?  I’ve been a vegetarian for 18 years. I’m a first-generation American and am conversational in French. I love Ben Rector music and Two-Buck-Chuck (Merlot), and I've never met a lazy morning I didn't like. Join a community of like-minded parents and caregivers with a shared mission of connecting families with babies and young children to the outdoors and each other. Get involved and join the fun for free today! ABOUT HIKE IT BABY Hike it Baby is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to getting families outdoors and on trails across the U.S. and internationally, supporting, educating, and inspiring families through their more than 300 communities across North America. Since its grassroots inception in 2013 in Portland, Oregon, Hike it Baby is now a growing community of 270,000 families and 500 volunteer branch ambassadors hosting more than 1,600 hikes per month. More information, as well as daily hike schedules, can be found at HikeitBaby.com, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram Photos courtesy of Emma Carsey.