A never-ending parenting challenge is knowing, and then deciding, when to let go. Let go of little hands, because a child is strong enough to swim in deep waters. Let go of the fishing rod, because the child has learned how to cast. Let go of confidence in protecting them 24/7 as you drop them […]
10 Years of Out There Kids Read More »
Ideas and strategies to help parents work toward better health and wellbeing for their children as well as the entire family.
5 Tips for Healthier Kids Read More »
A few years ago I knew next to nothing about skiing with kids. But after three seasons of doing my best to teach my son, I’ve learned a few things. I hope these tips will help you keep your little shredders happy on the snow this winter! 1. Keep Them Motivated A positive day on
4 Tips to Keep Kids Happy on the Slopes Read More »
Long before we met each other, my husband and I were passionate about the outdoors and committed to adventurous recreation. Now, 10 years later and with two children, ages 5 and 4, being an outdoor family comes naturally. But we work hard at being intentional, active and adventurous year-round with our kids. What helps us
Waterproof Kids: Gear to Keep Your Little Ones Playing Dry Outside All Winter Long Read More »
I remember the first time I stopped to listen to the sound of snow falling hard in the countryside. It sounded like the rush of water, distant and muffled. I can also remember the sting of staying out too long in wet clothing at the sledding hill. Winter can be subtle, or gloomy, or hostile,
Personal essay by Lisa Laughlin reflecting on how motherhood has changed how she experiences trails, hiking, and the great outdoors.
On Walking a Toddler in the Woods Read More »
Learning from those farther along their parenting journey can inspire and encourage the less-experienced among us. Jonathan Johnson and Amy Howko, from Cheney, Wash., have appreciable insights after raising their daughter, Anya, now 17 years old. OTO: What values and attitudes about outdoor recreation and travel did you prioritize and emphasize once you became parents?
Raising A Kid as an Outdoor Family Read More »
Books are one of my few obsessions. Re-reading a great book feels like returning home as I revisit that author’s ideas, insights, experiences, encouragement, or advice. These books inspire me in my resolve to better help my outdoor family be the best version of us—determined adventurers; curious explorers; fun-loving recreationists; caring, informed, and compassionate conservationists.
4 Books for Outdoor Families Read More »
Hiking Areas Finch Arboretum Finch Arboretum is fun all year for children. It is delightful in the Spring with flowers and blossoms on trees. Fun in the summer to play in the stream floating stick boats or leaves downstream and climbing rocks. In the Fall children can make big piles of leaves and jump in
Regional Trails–With Children Read More »
Camping days stretch long for children to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy time free of schedules and technology. Camping is as transformative as it is fun. Make one of these Inland Northwest campgrounds the new happiest place on earth for your kids this summer. Sam Owen Campground Located near Hope, Idaho, this semi-rustic campground
Family-Friendly Campgrounds in North Idaho & Eastern Washington Read More »
