What Outdoor Families Know That You Don’t (Yet)

Wonder why some families spend more time outdoors with ease? Discover the mindset shifts that make outdoor parenting effortless and learn how to adopt them yourself.

The Secret Behind Families Who Spend More Time Outdoors

You’ve probably seen them—the families who always seem to be outside. Their kids are happily running on trails, climbing trees, and playing in the dirt. Meanwhile, you’re juggling schedules, trying to keep up with homework, and struggling to find even an hour for outdoor time.

So what’s their secret?

It’s not about having more time, better gear, or superhuman patience. The difference is how they think about outdoor time. Families who regularly spend time outside have embraced a few key mindset shifts that make getting outdoors easier, more natural, and stress-free.

The good news? You can adopt the same mindset, too. Let’s take a look at what outdoor families know—and how you can start thinking like them.

1. They See Outdoor Time as Essential, Not Optional

Many families treat outdoor time as a “nice-to-have”—something to squeeze in when everything else is done. But families who spend a lot of time outside view it differently.

What They Know:

Outdoor time isn’t a luxury or a special event—it’s a core part of their family life. They treat it with the same importance as school, meals, or sleep. They know that time in nature improves their children’s mood, health, focus, and resilience.

How You Can Shift Your Mindset:

• Reframe outdoor time as essential—something that benefits your child’s well-being just as much as schoolwork or extracurriculars.
• Make it a non-negotiable—just like brushing teeth or eating dinner together, outdoor time can become a family habit.
• Start small—commit to a 15-minute outdoor routine every day, whether it’s a walk, playtime, or just sitting outside.

Try This:

• Use habit stacking—pair outdoor time with an existing habit, like playing outside after breakfast or taking an evening walk before bedtime.
• Set a family challenge—track how many days in a row you can get outside together.
• Create a visual reminder—post a calendar on the fridge and let kids add stickers for every day they play outside.

2. They Don’t Wait for Perfect Conditions

Many families think outdoor time requires perfect weather, a well-planned trip, or the right gear. But families who spend a lot of time outside know that waiting for ideal conditions means you’ll rarely go out at all.

What They Know:

• There’s no such thing as “bad weather”—only inappropriate clothing (as the saying goes!).
• Kids don’t need a structured plan—they thrive on unstructured, free play.
• Adventure doesn’t require a road trip—the backyard, a neighborhood park, or a city green space is enough.

How You Can Shift Your Mindset:

• Go outside even when it’s cloudy, chilly, or drizzly. Invest in layers, waterproof boots, and gloves for all seasons.
• Stop overthinking the “where” and “how.” Nature is everywhere—even a sidewalk walk can be an adventure.
• Embrace spontaneity. Some of the best outdoor moments happen when you least expect them.

Try This:

• Keep a “go-bag” ready with seasonal outdoor essentials so you can head out anytime.
• Have a list of “bad weather” outdoor activities—splashing in puddles, playing in the snow, or bundling up for a short nature walk.
• Let your kids lead—ask, “Where should we explore today?” and follow their curiosity.

We’ll never forget our family trip to Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The journey started with a perfect, sun-soaked day in Vancouver, but by the time we reached Revelstoke, Glacier, and Yoho National Parks, the weather had taken a dramatic turn. Rain poured steadily, drenching the forests and turning the mountain trails slick and muddy.

With a flight to catch at the end of our trip and peak-season accommodations booked in advance, there was no option to wait for better weather. So we zipped up our rain jackets, covered our backpacks, and set out anyway, determined to make the most of our time in the mountains.

Hiking to the base of the Illecillewaet Glacier in a downpour was an experience we won’t forget. The rain fed the already powerful glacier outflow, turning the Illecillewaet River into a thunderous, churning force beside us. Mist clung to the towering peaks, and the sound of water—raindrops, rushing rivers, and distant waterfalls—filled the valley.

It wasn’t the clear-skied, postcard-perfect hike we might have imagined, but in many ways, it was better. We learned that adventure doesn’t wait for perfect conditions—it’s about embracing the moment, rain or shine.

3. They Prioritize Simplicity Over Perfection

You don’t need to plan an elaborate trip, pack Pinterest-worthy picnic baskets, or have the latest outdoor gadgets to get outside.

What They Know:

• Simple outdoor time is the most sustainable—low-effort activities like backyard play, nature walks, or creek exploration are the most repeatable.
• The perfect plan is the one you actually do. Overthinking leads to inaction, while simple outdoor habits lead to consistency.
• Kids don’t need entertainment, just opportunity. They’ll find ways to explore, create, and engage with nature on their own.

How You Can Shift Your Mindset:

• Ditch the pressure to “plan”—just open the door and step outside.
• Create an outdoor go-bag with basic essentials so you can leave at a moment’s notice.
• Give your kids free rein—let them take the lead on what to do outside.

Try This:

• Start with “micro-adventures”—short, simple outings like watching the sunset, walking barefoot in the grass, or stargazing.
• Remove barriers—if packing feels overwhelming, keep a set of outdoor gear by the door.
• Say yes more often—if your child suggests going outside, make it happen, even if just for a few minutes

Living in the city, it can be hard to find easy outdoor opportunities. One thing that’s worked for me is to watch for interesting outdoor spots when I’m out running errands. I’ve discovered that there’s a park behind my grocery store, a snow hill on the road we take to the rink, and a small outdoor trail just down the road. Watch for new playgrounds to explore, and then be creative – maybe you can get your bikes out and ride over to the park together.

4. They Make Outdoor Time a Social Event

Spending time outside is even easier when it becomes part of your social life. Outdoor families often plan adventures with friends, making nature a shared experience rather than a solo effort.

What They Know:

• Kids are more engaged when they have peers to play with outside.
• Group hikes, park meetups, or neighborhood walks create natural routines for getting outside.
• Social outdoor time builds stronger family and community bonds.

How You Can Shift Your Mindset:

• Plan regular outdoor playdates—meet friends at the park instead of an indoor space.
• Join or start a nature club to create accountability and structure for outdoor adventures.
• Encourage family outings with neighbors—turn outdoor time into a shared tradition.

Try This:

• Create a rotating outdoor adventure group—take turns choosing simple outings with friends.
• Use social motivation—start a family-friendly hiking challenge and invite friends to join.
• Host an outdoor potluck—combine food, fun, and fresh air for an easy social gathering.

While outdoor adventures don’t need to be big to be impactful it’s so much more fun to include family and friends! Our friends started kayaking at the same time we did, we made plans to kayak together. Over time, we’ve introduced many other friends to kayaking, and we now often have a group of 8 or more of us going out! A simple shore-side picnic mid-trip provides a great chance to catch up.

5. They Value Experiences Over “Things”

Outdoor families often spend less time worrying about gear and more time focusing on the experiences they create. They know that adventure is about what you do, not what you own.

What They Know:

• Fancy equipment isn’t necessary—most outdoor fun requires very little.
• The best outdoor memories come from connection, exploration, and play, not gear or gadgets.
• Kids thrive in an environment that values time together more than material items.

How You Can Shift Your Mindset:

• Prioritize time over equipment—start with what you have and get outside.
• Opt for experience-based gifts—camping trips, park passes, or nature exploration kits.
• Model a love of adventure—when kids see parents excited about the outdoors, they will be too.

Try This:

• Swap material gifts for experience gifts—plan a special outdoor trip instead of buying more toys.
• Create an adventure jar—fill it with simple, low-cost outdoor activity ideas and let kids pick one each weekend.
• Make memories, not purchases—focus on storytelling, nature journaling, and capturing moments instead of collecting gear.

Final Thoughts: Adopt the Outdoor Family Mindset

The biggest difference between families who get outside often and those who struggle isn’t time, money, or even motivation—it’s mindset.

When you start treating outdoor time as essential, embrace all conditions, and let go of perfection, getting outside becomes second nature.

And if you’re ready to make outdoor time a habit—but want support along the way—my book, Natural Escapes, is packed with simple, actionable ideas to help your family build a lifelong love of nature—without stress or overwhelm. Get your copy today and start planning stress-free family adventures!

Do you want to make outdoor time easier and more meaningful? Join the Paddles and Packs community and grab your free Outdoor Adventure Starter Pack. Click here to get yours now!

You only get one chance to live this life with your kids.

Let’s make it count — outside.
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Related Posts

• How to Add More Nature to Your Busy Day
• How to Make Outdoor Adventures a Regular Part of Your Family’s Life
• The #1 Mistake Parents Make When Trying to Get Kids Outside (And How to Fix It)

Want to make outdoor time a natural part of your family’s life? Check out Getting Started in the Outdoors – your go-to guide for building a nature-rich routine, finding the best outdoor activities, and planning stress-free adventures.

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