OutGrown Blog

Nature is all around you!  Taking a few steps out your front door and down the street, or out the back door to explore your yard will show you that there are a variety of plants, insects, fungi, animals and other wildlife all around you.  Let’s get started exploring the nature near you! Make a Plan Decide where to look - do you want to explore trees, in the grass, bushes or even cracks in the sidewalk?  You’ll find different types of creatures in all of these spots. Looking for more ideas? Think outside of the obvious nature spots.  You can even find dead plants teeming with life.  For example, check out this activity sheet from Oregon Metro and Sneak a Peek at a Snag!  Gather Some Adventure Tools Have your kiddos grab their favorite tools to help them investigate further! Have them grab binoculars, a magnifying glass, a nature journal and pencils, a camera or anything else that helps them explore their environment.  Since you might be holding the phone and using the SEEK app, make sure your helpers have the tools to get excited about identifying native species so they can learn more about the nature around them.  Photo by Ali Chandra   Download the SEEK app Visit SEEK by iNaturalist to download the SEEK App on Google Play or the Apple Store.   Head out the door with your kiddos to go on an identification exploration!  Get down on the ground and see what insects, plants, birds or fungi you might encounter.  Snap photos in the SEEK app to identify what you’ve found. Photo by Kim Ives   Once you head back inside, let’s learn more about what you found outdoors!   There are so many ways to learn more about the nature near you. I don’t know about you, but my kids constantly have questions beyond “what’s that bird” or “what kind of bug is that?”.  They usually want to know what the bird eats, or what kind of predators live off of bugs. Between library books and internet searches, we can find the answers!  To satisfy your little explorers, here are some suggestions on how to take your adventure one step further:   1- Native v Invasive Plant Species What are native plants? The term “native” plant refers to plants that are indigenous to a particular geographic region. Native plants, animals and other wildlife exist naturally in an area, and were not introduced there by humans. They've been in your region longer than you have!     Why are they important? According to the National Wildlife Federation, native plants help the environment the most when planted in places that match their growing requirements. They thrive in the soils, moisture and weather of your region. That means less supplemental watering, which can be wasteful, and pest problems that require toxic chemicals. Native plants also assist in managing rainwater runoff and maintain healthy soil as their root systems are deep and keep soil from being compacted. Native plants also provide the best food, shelter and diversity that wildlife needs to thrive over the long term. Invasive Species are those that have been introduced to an area by humans. They can be very damaging to local ecosystems as they may cause the extinction of native species of plants and animals by using up resources needed by those native plants. They can alter habitats, and if they don’t have any predators in this environment, they may grow unchecked and change the whole ecosystem. Take a look at the plants you identified in your SEEK app, and search on one of these plant finder websites like the The National Wildlife Federation's Native Plant Finder or The National Audubon Society's Native Plant Database.   2- Learn More About Bugs, Worms, Butterflies and Creepy Crawlies There seem to be two camps of kiddos - those who LOVE bugs, and those who are terrified of them! Both groups can benefit from learning more about insects.  Those who love bugs and want to learn more will be excited to see more pictures and learn about how they grow and where they live.  The kiddos that aren’t the biggest bug fans might enjoy learning more about why certain bugs are important, and how they can help the nature around them.  Once you identify some interesting insects, look them up at a place like Insect Identification. Photos by Ashley Scheider   3- Discovering Birds If you happen to find a lot of birds on your adventures, be sure to check out The National Audubon Society's Bird Guide to learn more about the birds you’ve identified. You can find out where they live, what they eat, how they grow, the impact of climate change on them, and even hear their songs and calls.  Maybe you’ll be able to identify some of those calls that you hear all of the time but weren’t sure who was making them!   The best part about checking out the nature around you is that it will constantly change with seasons and weather! What did you find on your adventure today? 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.

Created in partnership with our friends at    Spending time outside is so important for the mental and physical health of both adults and their kiddos. However, getting everyone ready and out the door can be a daunting task, even if it’s just for a quick walk around the block! We get a lot of questions such as “What should I bring?” and “What if my baby gets hungry or has a blowout?”.  We’ve been there, and we’re here to assure you that it’s likely easier than you think. Check out the following lists of what to bring for nearby adventures (broken up by the age of your little one(s)) along with tips to get you out the door, enjoying nature as a family. What to Bring Regardless of the destination, the question of what you should bring likely rings in your head anytime you head out the door. When you’re heading out for a nearby adventure, consider including the items on these lists in your adventure bag depending on the age of your little one(s): General – include these items regardless of the age of your children Something to Carry Your Gear – you don’t need to get fancy here, anything that is big enough to carry your essentials will work! I prefer either my cross-body bag for short adventures or my small hiking pack for longer treks. You can also use a diaper bag or fanny pack. A Stroller or Child Carrier for Little Ones – This one speaks for itself. I will often bring a carrier for my 3.5-year-old just in case he decides it’s more fun to sit in the middle of the road while the rest of us are ready to continue. It’s easy to strap it on my back and tighten it when not in use. Water – Even short excursions can build up a sweat. Bring enough water for yourself and any little ones who are old enough to drink it (6 months and up), but may be too young to carry their own. Snacks – For myself, I prefer a small bag of almonds or a snack bar if I’m sticking close to home. For your kiddos, see below for some great options broken down by age. Sun Protection for Everyone – Even on cloudy days, the radiation from the sun can damage any exposed skin. Stick a hat on everyone and bring along some sunglasses for those that will keep them on. Also, consider sunscreen for kiddos who are old enough to use it (6 months and older). A Small First Aid Kit – You likely won’t need a large kit for a nearby adventure. You can buy a small pre-made kit or pack your own into a small, labeled bag or container (for example, an old Altoids mints container works great) A Wet Bag (or plastic bag) – This is handy if your kiddo has a blowout or needs a diaper change while you are out. It can double as a trash bag for any snack wrappers or trash you find along the way. Babies- Newborn to around 1.5 years old A Diaper or Two and a Small Pack of Wipes – You never know when your youngest adventurer will have a diaper worthy of an immediate change, so having a few diapers on hand is always a good plan. Also, wipes are great for cleaning up all sorts of unexpected messes (such as spit-up or muddy hands). An Extra Onesie or Outfit in Case of a Blowout – Baby outfits roll up nicely to stash in the bottom of your bag for those times when an outfit change can’t wait. A Pacifier and/or Small Toy – These generally attach easily to your carrier or stroller and can provide entertainment and comfort for your little one. Both of my boys preferred a pacifier on a chain that doubled as a teether along with a small stuffed toy that made noise. A Bottle if Needed - If your little one uses a bottle and you plan to be out for an extended period, pack a serving of formula or breastmilk. A Snack for Older Babies – For babies old enough for solids, bring along a snack such as a fruit and veggie pouch (we like these pouches from Beech-Nut) or melties snacks to enjoy on your adventure. Toddlers – Around 1.5 years old to around age 4 Water Bottle or Sippy Cup – My kiddos prefer to have their own water on hand during nearby treks. This makes it easy to promote hydration since they have their preferred bottle (and it cuts back on post-snack backwash in your water bottle!). A Diaper/Pull-up and a Small Pack of Wipes – As with babies, it’s always smart to be prepared in case your toddler fills their diaper while you’re out and about. Also, wipes are lifesavers when wrangling a messy toddler who discovered a mud puddle or messy snack. Snacks! – My toddler would live off of snacks alone if I let him. We bring along some easy-to-handle finger foods that won’t make too much of a mess. Our current favorite are these mini Waffles with Hidden Veggies in Pumpkin, Apple, and Cinnamon from Beech-Nut since they are tasty while also sneaking in some veggies. A Change of Clothes – Whether it’s a blowout or a massive mud puddle, toddlers tend to be magnets to all things messy. Rolling up a spare top and bottom in your bag ensures you won’t have to carry a messy child back home or cut your adventure short. Adventure Items – Bringing some binoculars or a magnifying glass can increase the wonder and decrease the whining. Just be sure it’s small and you don’t mind carrying it for them if they get tired. Older kiddos – Ages 4 and up Water Bottle – At this age, your kiddo is more likely to be able to carry their own water. We prefer kid-sized stainless steel bottles that fit well into smaller hands and can be clipped to a backpack. Snacks! – Again, snacks are essential for a successful family adventure. Older kiddos can generally eat whatever you eat, so throw a pack of nuts or a snack bar (these oaty bars are delicious!) in the bag, and your set! Their own Backpack – While not a necessity, my kiddos enjoy having their own backpack for even nearby adventures. We call them “adventure packs” in our house and they are always stocked with a snack, a nature journal and writing utensils, observation tools, etc. They just add their water bottle right before we leave and they’re set! A Nature Journal (with colored pencils or crayons) – While they don’t always bring their journals, if we are going to be out for more than a quick walk around the neighborhood they like the have the option to sketch their surroundings. Check out this article for more information on nature journaling with kids. Observation Tools – Along with a nature journal, consider bringing a few small tools that kids can observe nature with. This can include a small magnifier, some binoculars, or a handheld microscope. 5 Tips for Getting Out the Door Quickly Build it into your Schedule or Routine – With our busy schedules, it can be hard to fit in even nearby adventures. Consider adding it into your week as a family “appointment” for nature therapy. Make it a habit to take an after-school stroll to the playground to discuss their day, or a post-dinner walk around the neighborhood to enjoy some fresh air. Have your Bag Packed and Ready by the Door – We prefer to have a specific “adventure pack” for nearby adventures so that it’s always ready to go (we found a great second-hand hiking backpack at a consignment store). Once you have the necessities in your bag (such as extra clothes and snacks), it only takes a few minutes to add the water and any extras you may want. As soon as you get back, replenish as needed and you’re set for the next adventure! Have a Designated Spot for Outdoor Gear – You don’t want to have to go searching for sunhats, sweaters, rainboots, play clothes, etc. Having a specific spot for outdoor gear (such as a hall closet or coat rack) makes it easy to grab what you need based on the weather and head out the door. Pick Out Your Route Ahead of Time – Whether it’s a neighborhood walk or a nearby trail, pick an appropriate route ahead of time. A simple glance at your phone’s map app or a study of an easy trail on Hike it Baby's Family Trail Guide or AllTrails can take away the stress of figuring out where to go. Looking to Sneak in a Workout? Consider letting older kiddos use their scooters or bikes while younger kiddos ride in a stroller or carrier. This allows you to move faster and cover more ground. Just be sure you set some ground rules ahead of time and choose an area that is safe with low traffic. Do you have any tips for getting your family out the door to explore nearby nature? Let us know 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.

Numerous studies have shown that a little bit of what we like to call “nature therapy” can go a long way to restore our sense of balance and well-being. Whether you’re facing times of great uncertainty and stress or you’re just looking to get some fresh air, nature can help. However, it can be hard to find the motivation to step outside with the intention to enjoy nature when we have so much on our plates inside. This is especially true as we transition out of the carefree summer mindset and into the busy back to school schedule. We are here to remind you that an outdoor adventure doesn't have to include a well-planned outing far from home. It's as easy as shooing the family out the door and into nature. Not sure what to do with the kids once you get them outside? We’re here to help! We have compiled this list of 30 easy, free outdoor activities you can do with your family this month. And the best part is, you likely won’t even need to leave your neighborhood to do any of them! As an extra bonus, we have partnered with our friends at L.L. Bean to create this gorgeous Back to Nature School Workbook, which is full of fun ideas to bring the learning outside in a fun, effective way. Photo Credit Monique Vargas Easy, Free Outdoor Activities to Get you Started Take a walk around your neighborhood. You can create a fun neighborhood scavenger hunt for the kiddos to complete, or check out our Back to Nature School workbook for fun ideas on how to include outdoor learning on your walk. Go for a bike ride around your neighborhood. Practice family-friendly nature yoga in nature.  “Paint” with mud or water. See what masterpieces your kiddos can create! Identify local plants using a free app on your smart device (such as iNaturalist or PlantNet) and talk about the life cycles of plants. Ignite the senses by going on a sensory walk or backyard sensory exploration. Read a nature book outside. Build a fort. You can use anything available such as sticks, tree branches, a hammock, blankets, etc. Check out these fun printables to help your kids track the weather or the phases of the moon throughout the month. Birdwatch using binoculars. Don’t have binoculars? Here is an easy DIY craft to make your own with two supplies you are likely to have in your house right now: Duct tape and toilet paper rolls! Eat a meal outside. Check out this article for some fun bug-themed snacks to include. Ants on a log anyone? Go on a rainbow search. Search for items outside in every color of the rainbow, from a purple flower to a red tricycle. Keep track of your finds on the Rainbow Walk page of our Back to Nature School Workbook! Pitch a tent in your yard and camp or play in it. Stargaze and identify constellations. Check out this article for printable star charts showing the most prominent constellations by season. Bring crafting time outside! Whether you break out the watercolors, haul out the construction paper and glue, or just grab some paper and crayons on your way out the door, nature can be an incredible inspiration for creating art! Head out after dark and go on a glow stick or flashlight neighborhood walk. Go on a backyard scavenger hunt. You can make up a quick list of things for your kiddos to find such as a yellow flower, an ant, something rough, etc. Check out this article for more inspiration. Have an outdoor dance party. Play music on your phone or a speaker and dance away! Create an obstacle course using anything around you. Have kids balance on a log, crawl under a chair, hop over a rock, walk along a chalk path, the sky’s the limit! Play classic kid games such as freeze tag, hopscotch, Simon Says, red light, green light, or “Mother May I”. Make a nature journal and have your kids find a sit-spot outside to write or doodle whatever comes to mind. Play outdoor hide and seek with toys. You can hide dinosaurs, stuffed animals, etc. and have your kiddos find them around your yard. Pull out the sidewalk chalk to create masterpieces or write encouraging words for your family and others passing by to enjoy. Be a nature photographer. Let your kiddo point out what interests them and help take a photo with your phone. Or let older kids borrow a camera and see what they come up with. Search for images in the clouds. Want to take it a step further? Here is an article that explains the differences between the different types of clouds. Go on a backyard bug hunt. Grab a magnifying glass and search for spiderwebs, camouflaged critters, pollinators, etc. Play with sticks and see how many things that stick can turn into. Check out this adorable book for some “Not a Stick” inspiration. Bring out the water table or create your own with buckets or plastic bins. Grab some small containers such as old butter or yogurt containers and watch their imaginations go to work. Go on an alphabet, number, or shape hunt. Look for letters or shapes in the outdoors such as a rectangle brick or the letter V-shaped by tree branches. Challenge older kiddos to find the letters of their name or see if your toddler can find 3 different shapes in the backyard.  Bring along the Back to Nature School Workbook for more ideas and handy sheets to keep track of their findings. Do shadow drawings of favorite toys such as dinosaurs or animals. Check out this article for more shadow drawing inspiration. Photo Credit Ali Chandra Enjoying the outdoors is as easy as stepping out your front (or back) door! Don't forget to print out a copy of our Back to Nature School Workbook to make your outdoor adventures even more fun while sneaking in some learning along the way!   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.

Hike it Baby ran our second Bring it Outside workshop series this summer in Gresham, Oregon at Nadaka Nature Park. Thanks to the support of a generous grant from the Oregon Conservation & Recreation Fund, Hike it Baby was able to run programming on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, with both English and bilingual Spanish & English workshops available.  This four week workshop series was capped off by our Bring it Outside Family Festival at Nadaka Nature Park in July. The Family Festival brought together families from our workshop series, curious families walking or driving by, plus a variety of community partners looking forward to spending an afternoon outdoors with families! Community partner attendees included the Oregon Zoo, Nurturely, and Northwest Family Services. The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) also attended, and shared that this event was one of the first times they had seen some of these families laughing and playing together. All registered families got Merrell shoe codes for all their kids, Deuter Dirt Bags and a Rumpl Everywhere towel.  We also provided resources in Spanish, English and Arabic, plus had giveaways from HumbleBee, Onya Baby, Retrospec and Burley.  Families could take a Wander Walk together, paint, play with huge bubbles, visit a mini campsite from Teton, learn about infant carrying and try on baby carriers with our friends from Nurturely and enjoy lots of free food and drinks!  There was a Sip in the Shade area for families to eat and enjoy free beverages from Athletic Brewing Company, or just relax on this warm summer day.   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.

Hike it Baby ran our second Bring it Outside workshop series this summer in Gresham, Oregon at Nadaka Nature Park. Thanks to the support of a generous grant from the Oregon Conservation & Recreation Fund, Hike it Baby was able to run programming on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, with both English and bilingual Spanish & English workshops available.  This four week workshop series, each led by a different facilitator, covered a variety of topics to help encourage families to spend time in nature together.   The facilitator led curriculum covered the basics of getting outdoors, sensory play and how to continue the outdoor time habit in the future beyond the workshop series, plus introduced kiddos and their families to Leave No Trace principles and conservation basics. The workshop setting allowed participants to receive community and facilitator support, plus each family was provided with bilingual resources and gear to help make getting outdoors accessible to everyone.   Although the programming was geared towards young children ages 0-5, the whole family was encouraged to attend to enjoy some outdoor fun together, and Hike it Baby was able to serve 15 families through this workshop series. We provided backpacks to all participants, and a variety of supplies so all families could participate in the outdoor activities free of charge, plus snacks and water at all events.   We wrapped up the four workshop series with a Bring it Outside Family Festival in July, where all attendees received more free gear, resources, food, drinks and an afternoon of outdoor fun. We enjoyed spending time with all of these wonderful families over the course of the series and the Family Festival event, and are looking forward to our next workshop series!       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.

Created in partnership with  If these last few years of dealing with a global pandemic have taught us anything, it’s that time in nature is more important than ever. When my city was shut down, I took refuge in my neighborhood parks and natural spaces. Like many, I felt safer being outdoors where exposure was minimized, and I could reap the benefits of nature during an extremely stressful time. In fact, more and more doctors are recommending time in nature as part of their patient’s mental health treatment. And the benefits don’t stop at mental health. In addition to an increase in overall happiness, various scientific studies have shown evidence that making outdoor time a priority improves sleep quality, enhances the immune system, and increases heart health. For more information on the many benefits of nature, check out these articles on how nature can play a role in disease prevention  and how nature contributes to your child’s health. With so many benefits, access to greenspaces (land that is partially or completely covered with vegetation) for everyone should be a no-brainer, right? Unfortunately, access to nature is not so easy for many in the U.S. For example, as my family works on finding parks for the 10 Park Challenge, I have discovered that we have no parks that are a safe walking distance from our home, forcing us to drive to every park we visit. This surprised me since we live in a fairly "green" area of our state. Read on to uncover the problems we face with greenspace availability and what you can do to help.     Greenspace Availability With so many science-backed benefits tied to getting outdoors and exploring nature, it’s disheartening that many people in our country don’t have access to safe local greenspaces. This is especially true for our under-represented and low-income communities that have historically low access to safe local greenspaces. Many in our community don’t have the option to just “jump in the car and drive to the park”. This is something that needs to change. We need to make it a priority for EVERYONE in our country to have safe, local access to natural spaces. Thankfully numerous mayors across the nation are answering the call by signing and implementing the 10-Minute Walk Initiative. What is the 10-minute walk initiative? According to their website, this movement seeks to “create a world in which 100% of people in U.S. cities have safe access to a quality park or green space within a 10-minute walk of home by 2050”. That means they are inspiring leaders across the country, from the smallest city to the largest metropolis, to ensure their citizens live within a 10-minute walk (or roughly half a mile) of a natural space they feel safe visiting. That’s no small feat with more than 100 million people across the U.S. lacking access to a park within a half-mile of their home. However, local green spaces provide some surprising benefits to both local and global communities. Local Greenspaces Can… Provide opportunities for locals to be physically active. Improve the environment as the trees and other foliage help to clean and cool the air. Provide opportunities for environmental education through programs and features within the greenspace. Build community through interaction with neighbors and provide opportunities to work together to improve the surrounding area. Improve the local economy by boosting nearby businesses.   How You Can Get Involved Here at Hike it Baby, our vision is a world where EVERYONE can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. That’s why this movement is near and dear to our hearts, and we hope you will join us in making the 10-Minute Walk Initiative a reality. Here are three ways you can help this cause and aid in the construction of natural greenspaces within all cities across the U.S. Write a Letter to Your Mayor. Click here to find out if your mayor has signed on to the 10-Minute Walk Mission. If they haven’t, write them to encourage their participation. Better yet, spread the word and encourage your friends and neighbors to flood their mailbox (or inbox) with letters asking them to join the cause. Participate in trail clean-ups, programs, or fundraisers to build new greenspaces. This helps improve current parks and programs and helps raise the funds needed to build new, quality green spaces. Need a place to start? Hike it Baby branches across the United States host trail cleanups in mid-July as part of our annual Together We Hike birthday celebration. Check out our events page to see if there is a trail clean-up near you. Support businesses that actively support local trails. There are companies out there who have taken up the call to improve local parks and build new ones. For example, the Two for the Trails program from Athletic Brewing Company aims to protect the outdoor places we love. This company donates 2% of their sales to protecting and restoring local trails. Last year alone, they donated $1 million to trail-based non-profits and IMPACT programs that work to protect outdoor spaces. Over 60 grant winners were able to earn funds to fuel their tireless efforts to improve natural spaces for us to enjoy.   How do you plan to get involved? Let us know in the comments below!     Photos by 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.

A Visual Guide created in partnership with our friends from  Photo by Deanna Curry Although summer weather often goes hand in hand with swimsuits and shorts as it heats up, it's time to re-think those clothing choices. Our Hike it Baby covers the basics of keeping cool all summer long by layering, planning out your adventures, plus our favorite parent tips to make getting outside this summer no sweat! So step out, embrace the season, and feel better once you do!  Download our Summer Adventure Basics here.   Descarga los conceptos básicos de la aventura de verano aquí.   For more information about summer layering and planning your outdoor adventures, check out this video!   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.

This blog is part of our Elevating Voices series in partnership with      Meet Dineo Dowd.  Dini is one of Hike it Baby’s Board of Directors members, and a former Branch Ambassador.  She’s an author of multiple children's books and has a 7-year-old daughter.  Her family lives in Madison, Wisconsin, but this wasn’t always the case! Growing Up I grew up in South Africa, but did not have a connection to hiking. Hiking was something tourists did. They carried their stuffed packs and headed out, and I always wondered what ARE they doing? What is even IN those packs? Hiking and camping just were just tourist activities, and I wasn’t involved in them at all until moving to the United States. Moving to the United States When I moved to Utah, my husband and I went hiking very frequently and became very outdoorsy. I was hiking regularly, camping all the time, and had an amazing group of friends to do all of these activities with. It was everything, and an important part of my identity.   My husband and I planned to keep up this outdoorsy lifestyle even after the birth of our daughter, Armani. However, once Armani arrived, I found that hiking with a baby was new and different. Those friends that I hiked with didn’t always want to listen to a baby cry, or wait for diaper changes and feedings. One day, my husband and I attempted a difficult hike with the baby, and I slipped and fell, breaking my camera. This left me frustrated and lacking confidence in hiking with my daughter. An important part of my life was gone and I felt defeated.              Enter Hike it Baby One day, I was chatting with a stranger who mentioned Hike it Baby. This mom mentioned a group called Hike it Baby, where moms and babies would go out for hikes as a group. This sounded amazing, and I looked them up for a hike to attend. I ended up going on my first Hike it Baby hike, which was also the first hike for the Salt Lake City branch. Hike it Baby changed my life. I began hiking five days a week with other parents, building my confidence in hiking with my daughter and spending time outside. Armani has had the opportunity to grow up outside, thanks to our adventures together and my deep desire to raise her with a connection to nature. In spending time in nature, I've learned the most important piece to getting outside with kids is just that – Get outside! Worry about the gear later. People get overwhelmed with all of the things and gear to get outside, but it usually doesn’t matter – just start going outside. Simply open the door and start exploring together. There are so many benefits to taking those steps outside and embracing nature. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I've had the opportunity to embrace nature, meet amazing new people, and travel to awesome places (next up, Mount Kilimanjaro!). Inclusivity in Nature When I first sought out diverse children’s books about hiking, I found that there simply were none on the shelves. I wanted Armani to be able to see herself in nature, and so I wrote a children’s book to make that happen. I'm now a published children’s book author with multiple titles, diverse books and is helping children everywhere see themselves in nature! I may have started with Hike it Baby Salt Lake City, but have since been involved in multiple Hike it Baby branches and my advice is that there are so many resources and ways to be inclusive, there is no excuse not to be inclusive in nature.  Just make it happen!       Watch Dineo's Story 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.

You wake up in the morning and go through your normal routine. It’s going to be a good day- you’re ready to adventure and explore with the kids and enjoy all the beauty that the summer has to offer. Before you get dressed, you decide to check the weather: “Alexa, what’s the weather today?” “Today, there will be sunny weather with a high of 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 72 degrees.” WHAM- suddenly all your hopes and dreams of taking your family on a fun outdoor adventure seem to come to a screeching halt. But, never fear! While hot and sticky weather can put a damper on the plans you had for outdoor exploring with the family, as long as you plan your day appropriately, it will all be ok. One key to a successful outing in the heat is to set your sights on locations where you will have lots of opportunities to cool down. Then there’s no need to shut the door on family adventuring because of the heat (unless it becomes an unsafe level of heat). Other things to consider to help you have a more enjoyable experience are to time your outing during the coolest time of the day, pack lots of water, and wear hats and light clothing. Here are some additional tips on how to keep your kiddos cool while hiking during the summer. Photo Credit: Monique Vargas Incorporating water in your outdoor summer adventures is a great way to keep cool and have fun on those really hot summer days. Here are 10 super fun ways that you and your family can incorporate water fun to help keep cool while adventuring out and about during the summer: 1. Splash and wade hike: Choose a hike or location for your family that includes a clear stream or lake where you can put your feet in a refresh yourselves in cool water along the way (clear running water is the best for wading because it is more likely to be clean and safe). Make sure you have appropriate footwear figured out before the hike to help things run a bit more smoothly once you reach the water. 2. Waterfall hikes: Find a waterfall hike in your area and enjoy the sights, sounds, and perhaps even a little mist here and there to help cool you off. Some waterfall hikes may offer opportunities for wading or swimming as well. 3. Beach exploration: Plan a trip to a local beach and explore the surrounding area on foot with your family to get a little extra exercise and adventuring in. 4. Splash pad fun: Check out your local parks and see if any of them include a splash pad during the summer season.  The kids will love running through the cool spray on a hot day and moms and dads can cool off a bit too by standing nearby and enjoying some of the accompanying mist. *Be aware of fees, as some splash pads do charge for entry. Photo Credit: Anna North 5. Backyard water adventuring: All you need is a hose and something to hold water and you are all set for a fun time in the backyard with the kiddos. If you don’t have a pool or water table, grab an empty tote or bucket. You can have the kids test different items to see if they will float or not. Maybe use some aluminum foil, or use sticks and string to build your own boats. Or, you can even give the kids some kitchen utensils to play with if you don’t have any toys specifically made for the water. Play with water balloons or grab the hose and (on a low-pressure setting) take turns spraying each other. 6. Splash pad at home: Turn on the sprinkler and just let the kids run through and around it (or splash through the puddles, as my youngest prefers to do). To add a little extra fun, you can find creative and fun places to put the hose or sprinkler to change the height of the spray (make sure it is safe and secure) or even use it to make a water slide with one of your outdoor slides (test the bottom to be sure that it doesn’t get too slippery). 7. Neighborhood sprinkler hunt: Take a walk with the family with the intention of seeking out active sprinklers in the area and, perhaps, spending a little time in the spray. This might not work out timing-wise, but if that’s the case you’ll at least have had a lovely family walk around the neighborhood together. 8. Stone skipping: Find a local pond or lake where you can skip stones together. 9. Learning with water: Fill some cups with a little bit of water and add a couple of drops of various colors of food coloring. Let your little one explore how different colors combine with other ones to make new colors. Talk about it with them. 10. Puddle jumping: Just after the rainfall, take the kids out to search for puddles in the area to jump and splash in (rain boots and rain suits are helpful to keep the kids from getting too dirty and wet). Photo Credit: Anna North Let’s all get on our swimming gear and keep to good times rolling despite the heat in order to make summer memories with our kids that will last a lifetime!  Do you have any tips for beating the heat in the final days of summer? Let us know 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.

WHAT IS THE SUMMER SOLSTICE Oh, wonderful summer! Just saying the word brings on thoughts of long days, short nights, and rising temperatures to enjoy. For those of us with kids, it also means early sunrises, late sunsets, and a lot of “but the sun is out!” arguments for waking up early or staying up late. But what is the summer solstice, and why does it mark the start of summer? Read on to find out more! On the summer solstice (also called midsummer in some cultures), one of the earth’s poles reaches its maximum tilt (23.44 degrees) toward the sun. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on June 21 this year and marks the longest day and the shortest night of the year. Interestingly, countries and territories north of the Arctic Circle (such as Alaska) witness what is called the “midnight sun” where the sun is visible for a full 24 hours. While we consider this day the start of summer in the United States, other cultures consider it closer to the middle of summer. The summer solstice has been associated with everything from the start of the new year in ancient Greece to the feminine “yin” force in ancient China. Regardless of which way you look at it, this is a day worth celebrating! Here are some activities, crafts, and book recommendations to help your family celebrate the longest day (and shortest night) of the year.   Photo Credit: Jessica Human   ACTIVITIES Welcome the early sunrise with yoga —  Greet the sunrise or sunset with a few rounds of sun salutations to give thanks for the blessings the sun brings us. You can follow it up with a few poses depicting some of those blessings, such as tree pose and flower pose, or some fun animal poses to keep the kiddos interested. Discover more family-friendly yoga poses in this article. Sunrise or sunset hike — Usher the family out the door for an early-morning hike to welcome the sun on the longest day of the year. Don’t want to wake up that early? Aim for a sunset hike instead and stay to marvel at the starlit sky as it comes to life on the shortest night of the year. Create a summer-themed nature table — Creating an area where kids can place items that remind them of summer is a wonderful way to kick off the season! The area can be as small as a bowl with a few special items or as large as a table with numerous summer projects on display. A few examples to include are seashells collected at the beach, postcards from a vacation, summer crafts, or potted flowers. Any items that remind your family of the endless fun of summer will work! Spend time with the local flora — What better way to show your gratitude for the sunlight than by spending time in the garden or visiting a farm to give thanks for the bounty that is made possible by the sun? After all, without the sun, plants couldn’t exist, which in turn means that animals (like us) couldn’t exist.   Photo Credit: Ali Chandra   CRAFT IDEAS Construct a sun suncatcher — Capture the radiance of sunlight with a sun-shaped suncatcher to hang in your window! This craft is sure to brighten your day even when the weather turns gloomy. Make a flower crown — Celebrate the season with a bright and sunny flower crown. If dandelions are plentiful in your yard this time of year, here is an easy tutorial for a dandelion crown using no extra materials. Then you can harvest the dandelion greens to make a yummy salad! Looking to save the flowers and leave no trace, or you don’t have dandelions in your yard? Here is a tutorial that uses fake flowers to create a gorgeous summer crown. Create a sundial — Get in some stealth learning by teaching the kiddos how ancient humans determined the time of day by using the shadow cast by the position of the sun. This easy craft can make a great addition to your garden, patio, or outdoor play area. More sun crafts — Looking for more crafts to help your family celebrate the sun and the start of summer? Here are a plethora of easy options to try with your kids. Photo Credit: Ali Chandra   SUMMER BOOKS TO READ As the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” These beautifully illustrated books help children of all ages understand what happens as spring turns to summer. BIRTH– 3 YEARS I See Summer by Charles Ghigna — Pea pods, cucumbers, and strawberries provide plenty of opportunities for counting in the garden! This brilliantly illustrated, summer-themed book gives readers an opportunity to search and learn with hidden numbers on every page. Summer Days and Nights by Wong Herbert Ye — Follow a spunky little girl as she finds ways to entertain herself and stay cool on a hot summer day. From catching butterflies to searching for frogs, the author focuses on appreciating the small but special details that define the summer season. Summer Is Here by Heidi Pross Gray — Read along as the author covers some of the best highlights of summer, from picking blueberries to diving into the water on a hot day. Amazing watercolor illustrations and rhythmic, whimsical text lead the reader on a summer adventure in this book. The Wonders of Summer by Kealy Connor Lonning – Follow an adventurous little girl and her father as they experience the wonders of summer, from wading in a river and catching fireflies to enjoying ice cream. This heartfelt book will inspire families to get outdoors and appreciate the wonders and beauty of nature in summer. 4 YEARS AND UP The Longest Day – Celebrating the Summer Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer — This book takes readers on a journey through the history and science behind the summer solstice, with a focus on summer celebrations from various cultures around the world. The author also uses kid-friendly language to describe the science behind summer phenomena, such as the growth of a butterfly and the longer day length. Summer Sun Risin' by W. Nikola-Lisa – Join a little boy as he spends an activity-filled summer day helping his family on their farm. Feeding animals, mowing hay, picking vegetables, and eating freshly caught fish fill the hours on a summer farm in the 1950s. And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner — Lyrical text is used to describe the sights, smells, sounds, and favorite outdoor activities of summer. The book is accompanied by cheerful illustrations depicting the joys of summer and is enough to get anyone excited for the warmest season of the year! Under Alaska’s Midnight Sun by Deb Vanasse — See summer through the eyes of an Alaskan girl as she enjoys the “midnight sun” of her region. With beautiful illustrations, follow along as she dances, watches wildlife, and stays up late with the sun that doesn’t set. How does your family celebrate the start of summer?  Let us know 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.

This Father's Day, we would love to take a minute to share the story of one of our Board Members and Hike it Baby Dad Julio Soria.  Read below to learn about Julio, how he found Hike it Baby and his thoughts on being a dad. (en español abajito!) How has nature been a part of your life? Where do you find your family exploring nature the most? I was very fortunate to grow up with parents who took me camping at a young age. My grandfather would also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables on his property, a tradition that he brought with him from growing up on a ranch in Mexico. That planted a seed within, a love for connection to soil and the food that grows from it. Now I practice urban farming at home, complete with backyard chickens   and incorporating native plants and wildlife ponds for the benefit of the wildlife. Our backyard became an oasis and provided escape from the pandemic lockdowns, a privilege that unfortunately many didn’t have in Los Angeles. People think of Los Angeles as a city devoid of nature, but the opposite is actually the truth. LA is NOT A DESERT! We live in a Mediterranean climate and our region is within a biological hot spot known as the California floristic province. LA is bisected by two transverse mountain ranges, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. We have miles of coastline dotted by tide pools and kelp forests. We also have urban rivers to recreate in. All these places have not only set the backdrop for my career but provided many sites to recreate in. I also can't not acknowledge that all this “public land” sits on the unceded territories of the Tongva, Kizh, Tataviam, and Chumash peoples. These days my family and I find ourselves exploring the tide pools most often. My son loves looking for critters, especially sea hares!   How did you learn about and get involved with Hike it Baby?   I first learned about HiB in 2014, when my son was born. I was an experienced naturalist and   outdoorsman. I was not so much looking for tips on how to hike with a child, but for a community of parents who liked to hike. Since HiB had just been founded, there were no groups in Los Angeles (originally Tovaangar, home of the Tongva people) where we live. Fast forward seven years and a career working for intersectional environmental organizations that guide young adults from historically excluded communities on a pathway to careers in parks and conservation. I joined the HiB Board of Directors this year and I am very happy to bring my experience as an outdoor professional and as an outdoor parent!     Why is it important to you as a dad to raise your child to love nature and being outdoors? That’s a layered answer for sure! I am the proud father of a beautiful child who happens to be on the autism spectrum. We have found that nature provides a therapy that he can’t get anywhere else. Being outdoors calms him down. He seems to get grounded. The stress of city stimuli melts away. So first and foremost nature provides socio-emotional, mental health, and physical exercise benefits. My son is 7 years old. He faces a changing planet challenged by extreme weather events driven by climate change. Have you studied the 2022 IPCC report?! The only way we humans can turn around this course is by all of us pitching in. By raising our children to love and appreciate nature and the outdoors, we raise the next generation of stewards to care for the planet.       What has surprised you most about being a dad?  Every day presents a new surprise, a revelation! This question is probably best answered by a book. I think for me it would be my ability to be more sensitive around him and to sense what he needs. It’s true, we dads get a sixth sense at child birth. I think mine has evolved more  to meet his emotional needs above all. We know that Dads are sometimes perceived in society as ‘babysitting’ when taking care of their kiddos.  However, we know that Dads aren’t babysitters, they are involved parents! Can you share your perspective?  I’m definitely more than a “weekend dad” who only takes him on outings. For me, being a dad mostly means advocating for him at school, therapy, and at doctor’s visits. Being involved in IEP meetings. Not giving in to endless requests for screen time all the time. Desperately trying to encourage him to eat healthy. Teaching my son to have body positive values, especially to respect women of all shapes. Teaching him to respect his elders. And teaching him the values of tending the land. But I don’t do it alone. I have an amazing support system in my parents and partner.   Welcome to the Hike it Baby Board of Directors, Julio!         Este Día del Padre, nos encantaría tomarnos un minuto para presentar a uno de nuestros nuevos miembros de nuestra Junta Directiva de Hike it Baby y padre, Julio Soria.  Lea a continuación para aprender sobre Julio, cómo encontró Hike it Baby y sus pensamientos sobre ser padre.   ¿Cómo ha sido la naturaleza parte de tu vida? ¿Dónde encuentras a tu familia explorando más la naturaleza? ¿En qué partes de la naturaleza se encuentra explorando más tu familia? Fui muy afortunado de crecer con padres que me llevaron a acampar a una edad temprana. Mi abuelo también cultivaba una variedad de frutas y verduras en su propiedad, una tradición que trajo consigo al crecer en un rancho en México. Eso plantó una semilla en mi, un amor por la conexión con la tierra y la comida que crece de ella. Ahora practico la agricultura urbana en casa, mi jardín está completo con gallinas e incorporando plantas nativas y estanques de vida silvestre para el beneficio de la vida silvestre. Nuestro jardín se convirtió en un oasis y proporcionó un escape de los bloqueos por la pandemia, un privilegio que desafortunadamente muchos no tenían en Los Ángeles. La gente piensa en Los Ángeles como una ciudad desprovista de naturaleza, pero lo contrario es en realidad la verdad. ¡LA NO ES UN DESIERTO! Vivimos en un clima mediterráneo y nuestra región se encuentra dentro de un punto caliente biológico conocido como la provincia florística de California. LA está dividida por dos cadenas montañosas transversales, el Área Recreativa Nacional de las Montañas de Santa Mónica y el Monumento Nacional de las Montañas de San Gabriel. Tenemos kilómetros de costa salpicados por pozas de marea y bosques de algas marinas. También tenemos ríos urbanos para recrearse. Todos estos lugares no solo han establecido el telón de fondo para mi carrera, sino que también han proporcionado muchos sitios para recrearse. Tampoco puedo no reconocer que toda esta "tierra pública" se encuentra en los territorios no cedidos de los pueblos Tongva, Kizh, Tataviam y Chumash. En estos días, mi familia y yo nos encontramos explorando las pozas de marea. A mi hijo le encanta buscar criaturas, ¡especialmente liebres marinos! ¿Cómo aprendiste y te involucraste con Hike it Baby? Aprendí por primera vez sobre HiB en 2014, cuando nació mi hijo. Era un naturalista con mucha experiencia. No estaba buscando tanto consejos sobre cómo caminar con un niño, sino una comunidad de padres a los que les gustaba caminar en la naturaleza. Desde que HiB acababa de ser fundada, no había grupos en Los Ángeles (originalmente Tovaangar, hogar del pueblo Tongva) donde vivimos. Avance rápido siete años y una carrera trabajando para organizaciones ambientales interseccionales que guían a adultos jóvenes de comunidades históricamente excluidas en un camino hacia carreras en parques y conservación. ¡Me uní a la Junta Directiva de HiB este año y estoy muy feliz de aportar mi experiencia como profesional y como padre! ¿Por qué es importante para usted como padre criar a su hijo para que ame la naturaleza y estar al aire libre? ¡Esa es una respuesta con capas! Soy el orgulloso padre de un hermoso niño que está en el espectro del autismo. Hemos descubierto que la naturaleza proporciona una terapia que no puede obtener en ningún otro lugar. Estar al aire libre lo calma. Parece estar conectado a tierra. El estrés de los estímulos de la ciudad se desvanece. Entonces, ante todo, la naturaleza proporciona beneficios socioemocionales, de salud mental y de ejercicio físico. Mi hijo tiene 7 años. Se enfrenta a un planeta cambiante desafiado por eventos climáticos extremos impulsados por el cambio climático. ¿Has estudiado el reporte del IPCC de 2022?  La única forma en que los humanos podemos cambiar este curso es mediante todos nosotros colaborando. Al criar a nuestros hijos para que amen y aprecien la naturaleza y el aire libre, criamos a la próxima generación de administradores para que cuiden el planeta.   ¿Qué es lo que más te ha sorprendido de ser padre? ¡Cada día presenta una nueva sorpresa, una revelación! Esta pregunta es probablemente mejor respondida por un libro. Creo que para mí sería mi capacidad de ser más sensible a su alrededor y sentir lo que necesita. Es cierto, los papás tenemos un sexto sentido. Creo que mi sentido ha evolucionado más para satisfacer sus necesidades emocionales por encima de todo.   Sabemos que los papás a veces son percibidos en la sociedad como "niñeras" cuando cuidan a sus hijos.  Sin embargo, sabemos que los papás no son niñeras, ¡son padres involucrados! ¿Puedes compartir tu perspectiva? Definitivamente soy más que un "padre de fin de semana" que solo lo lleva de excursión. Para mí, ser padre significa principalmente abogar por él en la escuela, la terapia y en las visitas al médico. Participar en las reuniones del IEP. No ceder a las interminables solicitudes de tiempo de pantalla todo el tiempo. Tratando desesperadamente de animarlo a comer sano. Enseñarle a mi hijo a tener valores positivos para el cuerpo, especialmente para respetar a las mujeres de todas las formas. Enseñarle a respetar a sus mayores. Y enseñándole los valores de cuidar la tierra. Pero no lo hago solo. Tengo un sistema de apoyo increíble en mis padres y mi pareja.   ¡Bienvenido a la Junta Directiva de Hike it Baby, Julio!   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 May, Hike it Baby attended the Children & Nature Network Inside Out Conference in Atlanta, Georgia which is "is the largest gathering of children and nature advocates in the world. Leaders from a broad range of sectors—all committed to the health and well-being of children and communities—come together to explore best practices for turning our indoor society back out to the benefits of nature."   Although we had a booth at the event and were able to meet many other organizations, one of the highlights was our Board of Directors Member & Treasurer Dineo Dowd presenting her story  and how she found her place in nature. At the end of the conference, Hike it Baby hosted a Bring it Outside Family Festival at Rodney Cook Park in Atlanta.  The event included nature crafts, family friendly hiking, games, activities, plus free outdoor gear and giveaways. We even had a pop up camp site for the kids, courtesy of Teton Sports, plus a smores kit for little ones to have some fun pretend camping play! Thanks to several generous prize sponsors, we were able to provide families with not only an awesome outdoor experience, but plenty of resources and free gear!  This included a Burley Honey Bee, Sunday Afternoons hats, Turtle Fur Beanies, Solly Baby Wraps, Onya Baby carriers, fiftyfifty water bottles, and rain suits from Oaki. Several Atlanta based organizations also showed up and shared great activities like nature bracelets (WAWA), sidewalk chalk (Children & Nature Network), and a nature wagon (Trees Atlanta). Hike it Baby’s Executive Director, Jessica Carrillo Alatorre, and Dini Dowd were interviewed by the local news, and had the opportunity to share about Hike it Baby, and our mission to connect kids and families to nature.  Check it out here to learn more about the conference, our family festival and Hike it Baby’s mission to help families bring it outside!     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.