The #1 Mistake Parents Make Trying to Get Their Kids Outside (and How to Fix It!)
Struggling to get your kids outside? You’re not alone! Discover the #1 mistake most parents make—and an easy fix to make outdoor play fun again.
Why Won’t My Kids Just Go Outside?
You plan a fun outdoor activity, tell your kids it’s time to go outside, and… they groan, complain, or say they’re bored before you even get out the door. Sound familiar?
It can be frustrating when you know that outdoor time is good for them, but they resist it at every turn. You’re not alone—many parents experience this same struggle. But what if the problem isn’t that kids don’t like being outside, but rather the way they’re being introduced to it?
The truth is, the biggest mistake parents make when trying to get their kids outside is treating outdoor time as something forced rather than something fun. The good news? This is completely fixable. Here’s how to make outdoor play something kids actually want to do.
The Problem: Outdoor Time Feels Like a Chore
Many parents introduce outdoor play as something that needs to happen, like brushing teeth or finishing homework. While well-intended, this approach often backfires. When kids feel like they are being told what to do, they resist—even if it’s something they might actually enjoy.
A study from the University of Cambridge found that when children were given unstructured playtime in outdoor settings, they were more engaged and self-motivated compared to structured activities led by adults. This means that when outdoor play feels like another task on the to-do list, kids are far less likely to embrace it.
Instead of saying, “Go play outside,” try making outdoor time feel like a reward, an adventure, or a natural extension of play.
How to Fix It: Make Outdoor Time Irresistible
The goal is to create an outdoor environment that is engaging, exciting, and driven by your child’s interests. Here are simple ways to make that happen.
1. Give Kids a Sense of Control
Children are far more likely to participate in outdoor play when they feel they have a say in it. Instead of dictating what they should do outside, offer choices.
- “Do you want to go on a scavenger hunt or build a nature fort?”
- “Would you rather ride your bike or play with sidewalk chalk?”
- “Do you want to explore a new trail or visit the park today?”
By letting kids make decisions, they feel ownership over the activity, which increases their willingness to participate.
2. Start Small and Build a Routine
If your kids are resistant to outdoor play, don’t start by planning a full-day hike. Instead, introduce short, low-effort outdoor experiences and gradually build up to longer adventures.
- Five-minute backyard breaks to chase bubbles or look for bugs.
- A short walk around the block after dinner.
- Sitting outside to read or draw.
Once outdoor time becomes a habit, kids will begin seeking it out naturally.
3. Create a Sense of Wonder
Kids are naturally curious, and nature is full of opportunities to spark that curiosity. Instead of presenting outdoor play as something routine, introduce it with a sense of excitement.
- “I wonder what kind of birds we’ll see today.”
- “Let’s go on a treasure hunt and find the coolest rock.”
- “Have you ever tried painting with mud? Let’s experiment!”
When outdoor time feels like an adventure, kids are far more eager to participate.
4. Bring a Favorite Toy or Activity Outside
Sometimes, the easiest way to get kids interested in outdoor play is to bring something familiar outside. If they love building with blocks, bring a set outside. If they enjoy drawing, take their sketchbook to the park. By incorporating activities they already love, you’re creating a bridge between indoor and outdoor play.
5. Make Outdoor Play Social
Kids are often more motivated to go outside when they have someone to play with. Invite a friend or neighbor to join, or make outdoor time a family event.
- Organize a simple nature scavenger hunt with friends.
- Plan a “family challenge” outside, like who can find the biggest leaf or build the tallest stick tower.
- Set up an outdoor picnic with snacks and a story time.
When outdoor play includes social interaction, kids are more likely to embrace it as a fun experience.
Final Thoughts: Shifting the Perspective on Outdoor Play
Instead of viewing outdoor play as something that needs to be “enforced,” think of it as an opportunity for your child to explore, create, and have fun on their own terms. The more positive and inviting outdoor time feels, the more kids will want to engage with it naturally.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to get your kids excited about outdoor adventures, check out my book, Natural Escapes. It’s packed with easy, stress-free outdoor ideas designed to make getting outside effortless and fun.
Get your copy today and start your journey toward more nature, more joy, and more meaningful family moments!
Related Posts
- Overcoming Outdoor Resistance: How to Get Kids Excited About Nature
- Nature vs. Screens: How to Encourage Outdoor Play Without a Battle
- How to Make Outdoor Time a Habit
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.
