Outdoor Activities in India

India is a diverse country that is known for its various aspects all over the world. There are a number of adventure and outdoor sports like mountaineering, jeep safari, tiger safari, paragliding, water rafting, trekking, hot air ballooning and angling for the adventure freaks. There is a large diversity in the landscapes and offers a number of options to its visitors that they can cherish the long lasting sweet memories for their entire lifetime.Some of the adventure sports in India are:Skiing: The snow covered peaks of Himalayas offer a variety of adventure activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, skiing and ice skating. Some of the popular places in India that specialize in such sports are Patnitop and Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, Kullu, Manali and Kufri in Himachal Pradesh, and Auli in the Uttarakhand state of India.Mountaineering: Mountaineering is one of the primary adventure sports in India. This sport provides you an opportunity to see and explore the fauna and flora in the dense forests in different parts of India. The mountain climbing also helps in keeping you fit and there is much more in store for you when you visit one of the facilities that offer mountaineering. Some of the best places in India to do mountaineering are Leh, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Ooty, Uttarakhand and Sikkim.Hot Air Ballooning: This is one of the latest entrants in the adventure sports arena. This sport allows you to have a bird eye view of the places. The main place in India to enjoy hot air ballooning is the Ballooning Club of India that is headquartered at Safdarjung Airport in Delhi. Some of the other places in India that are known for their hot air ballooning services are Ranthambore, Jaipur, Manali and Dharamshala.Para Gliding: The sport of Para Gliding will allow you to fly like a free bird. There are a number of places in India where you can enjoy the para gliding activities. Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh is one of the few places in India that are known for their para gliding competitions and other events that are organized here on regular basis. These events attract a number of gliders from different parts of the world.White Water Rafting: This is another popular adventure sport that is organized on the wild waters of Himalayas. The rafting facilities are provided on rivers like Indus, Sutlej, Ganga, Tista and Tsiang. Rishikesh is known as the hub of river rafting in India.

Top Outdoor Activities in Maui

This is a list of the top outdoor vacation activities in Maui, Hawaii, featuring Scuba Diving, Helicopter Tours and more. Learn how to get the most from your Maui vacation.- Swimming. Obviously swimming is one of Maui's favorite pastimes - and with over 120 miles of coastline surrounding the island they've plenty of beautiful beaches and water in which to do so.- Old Lahaina Luau. Luaus are a cultural tradition in Hawaii - it's something that every native Hawaiian has experienced numerous times, and it's something that every tourist should partake in at least once. And there's no better place for a luau than the city of Old Lahaina. Here you'll find great live music, games, and plenty of traditional food.- Surfing. Perhaps the most popular sport in Maui, surfing is enjoyed year round by both men and women of all ages. And don't worry - there are plenty of inexpensive surfing lessons available for those of you who are looking to hit the waves on your vacation to the island.- Scuba Diving / Snorkeling. There's no better way to see Maui than from underwater; thankfully, there's plenty of opportunities to do so. Beginners to scuba diving or snorkeling may want to find an instructor, but those who know what they are doing are free to explore the waters on their own.- Helicopter Tours. Aerial tours are particular popular amongst tourists to Maui, and they provide some breathtaking views of the island that simply can't be seen anywhere else.- Biking. One of the most popular methods of transportation around the island, biking is not only great exercise but it's a good way to see everything that Maui has to offer. With bike trails suitable for all ages and all skill levels, including a downhill ride down a dormant, 10,000 foot high volcano, the biking one can find here is simply unrivaled anywhere else.- Whale Watching. From December 15 to May 15, whale watching is at its prime; and there are plenty of tours and cruises that will get you up and close personal with one (or more) of these mammoths.- Iao Valley. Those who are traveling to Maui for the first time may not realize this, but there are some lush forests made up of trees that can only be seen here like the ohia and koa, along with a bevy of other tree and plant species.- Para-sailing. For those who are brave enough to be lifted up to 800 feet and towed behind a boat, there is no better thrill than para-sailing. If you want to see the island in a fun and unique way while getting your adrenaline fix for the day, para-sailing in Maui is a must.

A Great Outdoor Activity and Exercise That Will Build Muscles and Burn Fat

Running sprints are a great exercise that elevate your metabolism and burns fat when done in an interval basis. When you run sprints, you are running as fast as you can. This is best done in a very short term. It is very difficult and not productive to your fitness level or fat loss if you are sprinting at a longer interval. Personally, I do a lot of indoor sprints- either sprinting in place or using Pilates bands to enable me to do indoor sprints. These are good alternatives but nothing is better than sprinting outdoors. You will get a great workout that would require you to adequately recover so that you can do more sprints. Normally when I do indoor sprints, I would sprint for 20 seconds with a 10 second recovery. I would do that for 8-10 times (or sets). Outdoor sprinting requires more recovery time. Also, you must be more careful of not getting injured when you do outdoor sprints. What is the best way to make outdoor sprinting productive for your physical fitness and fat loss program?Before sprinting outdoors, make sure your legs are sufficiently warmed-up and that you are wearing proper foot gear. You are not running for time so you do not have to wear track shoes which have little or no padding. Instead, wear cross-trainer shoes or other supportive shoes. Rather than doing casual jogs for 30 minutes to an hour. It is more effective and productive to your fat loss program if you would sprint for 20 seconds with a minute recovery or so. Then, do that for 6-8 times (or sets). It should not take more than 15 minutes to do a great outdoor sprinting workout. Make sure your palms are open (rather than closed fisted). Pump your arms and bring your legs up with shorter and choppier strides. Afterward, make sure you do a light cool down and do ballistic and some static stretches so that you legs and back will cool down. Pay attention to your arc and to your Achilles. They can get injured easily during sprints.You will definitely workout when you do these outdoor sprints. Try it on a standard Track and Field track at a school or park. Your legs and back will get a great workout and may feel sore soon afterward. Also, you will be breathing hard long after the workout is over. That hard breathing is the difference that will make you lose weight.

Egg-cellent Recipes For Your Favorite Outdoor Activities

There is a great sense of satisfaction that comes for you when you have a relaxing and alluring backyard, and sharing your happiness is sometimes a great idea! Throw a party, have family members over for a barbecue - do whatever you like when you have a great backyard to enjoy. Add another sensation to the sound of nature, the fragrance of foliage, and the comfortable outdoor furniture. Put great taste into the mix and you have a virtually perfect environment. Share the love, not to mention the good food!Below I will mention a few, distinctive hardboiled egg recipes for your outdoor parties, picnics and other kinds of get-togethers. If you have an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit or barbeque grill you may consider some of these recipes for at-home, outdoor entertainment. The highlight of many occasions, or at least a significant part of the event (virtually never excluded in America) is the food. Despite the fact that we as a nation are growing more and more concerned about our health and good eating habits, we always want to have a nice selection of snacks on the side. This article will also introduce you to some healthier (but just as delicious) foods to cook and serve at outdoor (or even indoor) special events.First we will start with deviled eggs, an incredibly popular outdoor treat. Popular at poolside parties, barbeque's, pot-luck events, picnics and much, much more, deviled eggs are delicious. To make the proposition even tastier, I have two recipes for you. One is a less healthy deviled egg recipe for you, and the other is a lighter, healthier version of deviled eggs. Your guests will love to have the option, because some people especially when trying to loose weight - have few options in such circumstances.Mamma's Deviled EggsThis recipe makes twelve deviled eggs altogether, in halves, lengthwise. Therefore, if you choose, you can use the other six eggs in the carton to make the lighter version of deviled eggs.You will need the following items before you begin:6 eggs2 tablespoons and 2 teaspoons of mayonnaise1 teaspoon of mustard3 tablespoons of fried, real bacon bitsChives (optional)Paprika (optional)The procedure is simple. First you hard cook the six eggs and let them chill. Peel the eggs. Slice the eggs in half, lengthwise. Remove the yolks. Prepare the yolks for mixture by whipping them up. It is simpler to create a more creamy mix once you add the mayonnaise and mustard. Mix the bacon bits in with the mixture. Taste the mixture and add salt, pepper, and / or paprika to taste. Add a spoonful of the mixture into each of the deviled eggs. For appearance and / or presentation, garnish your deviled eggs with chives. You can also choose to garnish with the bacon bits instead of using them in the deviled egg mixture. Some people also prefer to use a kind of spicy mustard instead of regular mustard.A delicious as well as a beautiful treat to add to any occasion is the deviled egg tray. Whether you are serving a meal, or simply offering appetizers, these quite traditional snacks are perfect for any outdoor occasion. On the lighter side, you may consider making an alternative and healthier type of deviled eggs for your guests to choose from. Here are the ingredients you will need for the lighter recipe:New Light Deviled EggsThis recipe actually calls for 8 eggs. Therefore, if you purchase a carton of eggs for the party you will need a couple extra . . . or you will need to alter the recipe a bit. Many cooks, such as my self and my mother and her mother before her, like to make their own little alterations to popular recipes. You will need the following ingredients for this new, light deviled eggs recipe:8 eggs1/3 cup of fat free, plain yogurt1/3 light mayonnaise3 tablespoons of pickle relish1 teaspoon of dried, ground mustardPaprika (optional)Take 8 hardboiled eggs chilled. Peel the eggs in halves. Extract the egg yolks. Combine all ingredients together, with the exception of the paprika. Spoon the mixture into the halved, hardboiled egg whites. Sprinkle paprika over the eggs, adding spice and a lovely presentation as well. They are still delicious, and they are definitely still deviled eggs. This great new recipe offers the wonderful taste with about half of the fat and less calories than those you will consume by eating most other kinds of deviled eggs.You will love the taste of your food, and you will love the enjoyment you get from your outdoor furniture, landscaping and overall design even more with great tastes like traditional or distinctive hardboiled egg recipes. From entrées to side dishes, outdoor events such as picnics or barbecue get-togethers require excellent food to enhance the fun and the ambiance of the occasion. There are several recipes for pot-luck get-togethers, outdoor barbeque's and outdoor home parties. Improve it all with the sweet taste of great foods, the outdoors scenery, the good times that your friends and family members will always remember.

The CamelBak Hydration Pack - The Perfect Outdoor Activity Companion

There is one sports equipment innovation available today that any outdoor activity enthusiast should not be caught without. The CamelBak hydration pack is a must-have for those who wish to get the most out of their outdoor activities. Using these hydration packs will ensure that there is adequate water supply to keep the body in tip-top condition to fully enjoy everything an outdoor activity has to offer. It is no secret that the lack of water amidst the exposure to heat and the prolonged physical exertion in most outdoor activities could cause a number of physical impairments.For starters, the huffing and puffing that comes from tiredness in the middle of a long walk signals the start of dehydration. All the sweat that has come out from the body during the physical exertion has disrupted the body's hydration balance. Medical experts stress the importance of keeping the body hydrated during the activity in order to prevent the onset of dehydration. In fact, drinking water before any form of physical exertion is recommended. During the activity, taking in about 10 ounces of fluids for every quarter hour to half hour of strenuous physical exertion is advised. In any outdoor activity, stopping every quarter hour or half hour to get a drink of water is not exactly an appealing thought. In most cases, such stops could be perceived as bothersome and a tad unnecessary.With the advent of the CamelBak hydration pack, drinking water during an outdoor activity ceases to be inconvenient and bothersome. Hydration packs conveniently allow a user to carry his water supply in a water reservoir on his back or around his waist. When the need for water arises, all the user has to do is to put the bite valve into his mouth and bite onto it to get his drink. This bite valve is connected by a hose to the water reservoir in the hydration pack that sits comfortable on the users back. This eliminates the need to stop and lose those precious minutes of outdoor activity. As drinking water is more convenient, more time can be devoted to enjoying the activity and the perils of dehydration are averted.While there are some contentions as to the safety of such packs, most reputable brands like CamelBak have proven their mettle. Top manufactures have even added their own proprietary hygiene and safety features to ensure that consumers get only the best products. For a price tag of not lower than $40, consumers can expect hydration packs that are treated with antimicrobial components, constructed with durable and resistant materials, and designed with features that promote comfort and convenience. Needless to say, cheaper products of the same type do not necessarily mean the same quality. Comparing one brand versus another is still a good practice when making any purchase decision. Make a checklist of features you consider important and compare brands and styles side by side. In as far as hydration products are concerned, CamelBak hydration packs have been in the market longer than most brands and are considered to be one of the pioneers in hydration pack technology.

The Importance of Outdoor Team Building Activities

Businesses of all sizes across the globe are beginning to understand the importance of taking part in team building exercises and activity days in order to develop stronger relationships within their teams. It has been found that paying your employees to participate in a team building activity or day away from the office environment can dramatically increase the whole team's productivity and ability to work well together. The most popular form of team building activity is the outdoor team building days.Whilst your employees are busy enjoying themselves doing a whole host of activities such as treasure hunts, abseiling, canoeing, raft building and high rope challenges, they will also be bonding and learning to work as a team to achieve something. Although it may look like just fun and games, there are some important lessons being learnt which can then be transferred back to the office. It provides your employees with a topic of conversation and therefore something they have in common, which is a great basis for the further development of their relationships.The most difficult thing to do within a team of colleagues is to 'break the ice' between them or introduce a new member to an established team. In an office environment it can be even more complicated to do thus providing the perfect opportunity to partake in an outdoor building day.The activities undertaken on days like these force people to communicate and work together in order to achieve the task in hand. It also helps that the activities undertaken are really exciting and usually something most people have never done before which brings out peoples personality and helps conker fear. Once the task has been achieved, there is a great sense of teamwork and it helps to build upon the participant's confidence.By the end of a team building day you will have a team who are far more confident and able to work together. The activities also improve the relationship between the employees and employer as they feel rewarded for their efforts, and are therefore more likely to work harder for the company.Using a specialist company is the recommended route for organizing such outdoor activity days due to the fact they will be able to provide all the necessary materials, equipment and safety procedures to follow. There are many companies which run events like this so it is important to look around for one that is reputable. Some of the companies can also recommend the most suitable experience and activities for the outcome you wish to achieve. This is a great idea as they will be able to guide you into a bespoke team building day suitable for your individual company.

Outdoor Recreation in a Recession

Times are tough. I know it... you know it... everyone knows it. Many people are no longer able or wanting to spend the big bucks that some outdoor sports require. Boating for example can be a very expensive outdoor recreational activity. Gas prices have sky-rocketed and storage fees are high. Fun and carefree days out on the motorboat are no longer a stress-free activity.Outdoor recreation should not only be enjoyed by everyone but it should also cost very little if any money as well as be completely stress and worry free. There are enough things to be concerned with without having to worry about not being able to enjoy the great outdoors with our family and friends.Luckily there are several fantastic activities that cost very little money, if any at all. The outdoor recreation activities below can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Frisbee at the park Hiking in the trails - if you have kids with you it can be really fun to do a treasure hunt (with a little pre-planning) Geo-caching Riding bikes Badminton Basketball or volleyball games All of the above activities are freebies... meaning you don't need to spend money to be able to enjoy them. One of my personal favorite all time outdoor activities happens to be kayaking. It can cost money to purchase a kayak of course or even to rent a kayak. If you are used to boating though I guarantee you the costs are minimal compared to running a gas-guzzling motorboat.Kayaks are self-powered and eco-friendly. They do no harm to the environment and allow for some excellent exercise. I love the inflatable kayaks as they can be easily transported and taken anywhere.In my opinion the days of big gas powered boats are numbered. The costs to run them are simply too high and the destruction they are doing to our waters and our shorelines are practically irreparable. Kayaking is the perfect outdoor activity while in a recession. The kayak business is booming and it is not necessary to spend a bundle. There are several great quality inflatable kayaks that can be purchased for a decent price and enjoyed by the whole family.The point is that just because money is tight, do not allow it to keep you from enjoying the outdoors. We are so fortunate to have such a beautiful world to live in and getting out for a huge gulp of fresh air doesn't cost a cent.

Appropriate Outdoor Sports Wear For Your Outdoor Activities

If you are planning an outdoor sports activity then it is important to keep in mind that each sports activity requires different set of apparels. There are many factors that have to be kept in mind like the outdoor weather conditions, the intensity of activity involved in a certain sport, etc. It is advisable to create a checklist of different clothes to be worn for different outdoor activities.Hiking
Never choose your hiking apparel based on appearance only. It more important to keep yourself protected. The usability of the clothes matters more. If you go for appropriate hiking apparels, it will enrich your hiking experience. Always go for hiking apparel that is made of synthetic material. Synthetic material is lighter and has the ability to soak and absorb sweat and water easily. It is very important to choose layered clothing as the warm weather can take a sudden swing and become cold or vice versa and you do not want to be stranded with inadequate or too much clothing. Also carry lightweight jackets and coats which are rain and water proof. It is also important to wear waterproof and sturdy hiking boots.Fishing
Mainly people wear clothes to protect themselves from the sun, rain and other climatic vagaries. You are extremely prone to the harsh weather conditions especially when you go on some outdoor activity like fishing. You should choose fishing attire according to the weather on that particular day. If it is hot and sunny, then be sure to wear your shades, a hat and light clothes which are also water proof. But be sure to keep in mind that the weather does not stay constant throughout the day. A warm and sunny day can suddenly become chilly in the evening. So be sure to keep appropriate warm clothes handy. Also it is important to cover your hands with proper water proof gloves. In case you are going ice fishing, then be sure to wear heavy clothes in layers so that the upper layers can be taken off in case you feel too warm later on in the day. Suitable waterproof fishing boots are also recommended.Mountain Climbing and Skiing
Activities like Mountain climbing and Skiing involves low temperatures and snow which requires mountain climbers and skiers to wear heavy, warm and water proof clothing. Proper eyes and head gear is also recommended. There are special mountain climbing and skiing boots which should be worn while undertaking these activities.Apart from having particular clothes for specific outdoor activities, it is also wise to go in for customized and specially designed clothes wear which are multipurpose and can be used for all activities. Many outdoor sports stores offer specially designed clothes which are tailor made to suit your requirements and which can be worn for all different outdoor activities. It is hence essential to wear proper clothing for outdoor activities if you fully want to enjoy your sporting adventure.

Out of the House and Towards Healthier Activity

Having difficulties in finding ways to encourage your children to have some fun in the outdoors? Stressed and worried about having them addicted to unhealthy leisure activities such as video and computer games?Then, you must do all that you can the earliest time possible to help them love the outdoors. Let them discover the kind of outdoor activity that they would be interested in to.It's a very challenging task since the world is already plagued with a lot of indoor entertainment. Even parents tend to forget the importance of healthier activities done beyond the four walls of the home.
It's about time to stop the cycle. Here are some few things that parents can do:o If we start early, this should not be so hard. Babies or toddlers do not need that much entertainment to be encouraged, unlike adults do. They just need the exposure. It could be as simple as taking some time to walk outside with the baby safely seated in the stroller.o After some time, as they get a bit older, you can find a nearby park where they could spend some time to play and enjoy. If it is possible, find a friend who could take their child along with them, to make it even more fun.o There are a lot of other options available. There are a lot of sports activities that could encourage them to love the outdoors. You may also take them to the zoo. Most children love the zoo. These are just few of the things they could enjoy, as you also spend some time to relax. You may also pack some lunch and get to have some picnic.o As children get older, it gets more challenging. This is just about the time when they have already learned to love and fall in love with television shows, video and computer games for hours and hours.o You will have to set some boundaries by this time, and carefully plan setting up active outdoor activities to get their attention. You can get them into hiking. You can get them to learn water skiing. If they do not know how to swim yet, take them to swimming lessons.o If you've got adventurous bone in your family, why not go on an overnight camping expedition? Each area has some special feature that makes it a unique type of outdoor activity.After all is said and done, hopefully teenagers will be able to appreciate your efforts in getting them to appreciate healthy recreational outdoor activities. With luck, you can create an open communication line with them as you manage to build special connections during those activities that you have spent together.
Mowing the grass, weeding, and planting flowers may not sound exciting but you may also teach them to your children to. These skills may even get them some part-time job. Think creatively and explore on the things that you could actually add to these suggestions. Later on, the children themselves will start to tell you what they like, which will only include more ideas for it to be more effective.This will not only benefit them individually, but the whole family as well. More outdoor activities spent together equates to more family bonding time that makes the family even stronger.

The Many Advantages of Outdoor Sports

Outdoor sports can never outweigh computer or video games in terms of advantages. Spending a day outdoors may take high amount of energy from us but the benefits are priceless. For one, you may never be aware of it, but the energy being exerted by people who have done even the simplest walk or jog or run for a few significant minutes can actually energize us and give us certain "high" and adrenaline. Exercise is even advised to people suffering from a minor depression for sweating can actually normalize internal processes in our body like blood circulation and oxygen flow. Breathing that comes from strenuous activities allows a good amount of oxygen to flow up until our brain, enabling it to function more productively.Those are only a few advantages of active outdoor sports in our body. Its benefits are not only limited to health reasons that can help us physically, but also a few other significant reasons that may help our entire being. For one, outdoor sports allow us to be one with nature. Enjoying outdoor activities allow us to explore the wonders and the beauty of our natural environment. Surfers are challenged to surf at significantly thicker waves, and spot seas that produce such waves. They know when to surf ideally and at what time of the day.They develop a certain attachment with the ocean and are familiar with the behavior of the water. Hikers take a long day exploring the wild, being able to be challenged with what the nature can offer. They find fulfillment in being able to satisfy themselves with the basic things nature offers. Scuba divers and snorkelers are always amazed by the colorful world under the sea. They find time to go under water and feel relaxed and fascinated by the creatures they see. Outdoor sports allow people to be close to nature, and to God. Being an outdoor enthusiast not only inspires a person to the beauty of nature but also empowers people to use the strength given by the Almighty to the fullest.Outdoor sports can also be a perfect stress reliever. Workaholics who work hard during the entire week can spend a weekend doping their favorite outdoor activity to relax or to relieve any stress or tension. A quick getaway at a tourist destination might do the trick. It is best to not just spend the weekend by being a couch potato watching a movie marathon, it always pays to sweat it out and feel energized. Companies often do team buildings not just to develop camaraderie among employees but to also allow workers to unwind on a different place doing other things where they can exert more energy and feel healthier.Outdoor sports are also great chances for a family or friends' bonding. A simple swimming weekend activity can help family members to catch up on each other's lives after a busy week spent on them. Couples can also spend quality time for themselves doing an enjoyable outdoor activity such as fishing or diving, if they are fond of doing it.

Outdoor Playtime

Outdoor activity is not only fun and exciting; it is a need for most people to be outside. Spending too much time indoors can give you headache and mood swings. What more does it do to a baby being inside the house for hours or even days. We all know that outdoor activities clear our mind from our daily worries and stress. It is a great way of escaping the stress of everyday life.Going out for a walk in the park or spending an hour in the playground with your toddler is enough to soothe their restless minds, it does not only let minds rest from everyday worries it also strengthens the bond between your kids and you. Outdoors activities also help improves your health and your family's health.If you have kids, doing outdoor activities with them is a must. It helps develop their social skills and motor skills. Also being outdoors helps your kids be more creative and gives them opportunity to practice their physical skills.Whether you have a toddler or an infant being outside means a lot to these little angels, there are lots of communities that offer outdoor playground, for big kids and even for infants. Babies from 3 months old to 1 year old can easily enjoy a nice rocking movement of an outdoor baby swing as well as other outdoor playing equipments.If you have no time or live far from an outdoor playground and you have no use of your spacious backyard you can choose to buy outdoor play set for your children, you can have those that can easily be installed such as plastic play sets which also includes an outdoor baby swing for your little one, other play equipments such as slide, monkey bars, crawl tunnels and so on.Little tikes offer different kinds of play sets, the benefit of having plastic play sets is that you can take it indoors as well, or you can easily store them away when the weather is not up for an outdoor playtime. Having your own outdoor play set means outdoor playing anytime of the day.Outdoors activities are essential to your child's development it also helps tighten the relationship between family members. So encourage the whole family to spend time outside even for just a couple of hours.

Why Should I Engage in Outdoor Recreation Activities?

More and more people engage in outdoors activities these days, as outdoor sports are becoming very popular. The top recreational activities include kayaking, jogging, walking, hiking, and camping.This article is for the people who love to spend their time outdoors, enjoying new adventures in fresh air.How can outdoor recreational activities be beneficial to you?The foremost advantage of spending time outdoors is gaining a good mental spirit and healthy balance of your body. Not only will it help in giving you the liveliness that everyone should have, but it will also pump your life force and the love of living.Activities such as walking, bird watching, kayaking and camping all make you feel happier while appreciating the beauty that we often forget during our busy hours at the office. Nowadays the stress level has increased so much in everyone's life that everyone, without exception, deserves a small break to get rid of this stress. Sometimes a small walk in the park will do the trick and can lighten up your tensions and make you feel happy.In today's hectic life styles, we hardly find time to spend with our families and friends. Engaging regularly in various outdoor activities can help you create much stronger bonds with your family and friends. You can interact and talk more with your friends and family while sharing the astonishing experiences of a different outdoor activity each time you go out.How can outdoor recreation help you in saving money?Our lives are never smooth and secured; everyone comes across various difficult times in their lifetime. Taking the time to engage in simple outdoor recreations will not only help you mentally, but you will also find that it costs close to nothing. For example hiking does not cost anything when compared with cycling. All you need is a pair of good shoes and a mountaintop to hike to. Another example is simply playing outdoors with your kids. Nothing will beat playing soccer or tags with your kids, especially when you take time off from a stressful job.While there is other activities like hunting that are somewhat costlier however they will provide you with a lot of thrills and great sense of accomplishment. If you can't afford spending money on such activities then you still have many options that will definitely suit your pocket.You should try to spend as much time as possible in these types of activities. You should also encourage your friends, family and kids to spend such a wonderful time together building good memories. Nothing can be more enjoyable and beneficial than gaining a good and healthy lifestyle by being in the outdoors.Take full advantage of the beautiful world we live in and its alluring nature that surrounds us that we inheriting for centuries from our ancestors.

The Benefits of Taking Your Child Outdoors

There are an unlimited number of benefits to being outdoors, especially for a parent of a school aged child. Many children participate in different after school activities like sports, but many children who do not, miss out on the advantages of being active.Children who are active are also healthier children. You do not even have to leave your own backyard to enjoy the outdoors. Just getting outside and moving around is a great way for your children to burn calories and stay in shape. There are a lot of different outdoor activities that will keep your children's interest while allowing them to be active. Swimming, basketball or volleyball are good choices along with just hiking or bike riding. These activities get your children outside and at the same time provides them with the greatest benefit of exercising.Start encouraging outdoor play at an early age and you could be helping your children develop a love for the outdoors. No matter what the ages are of your children, it is never too late to take them outside regularly to develop their interest in the outdoors. This could prepare your children for a lifetime of outdoor fun.The outdoors can be very educational and especially appealing to young children like toddlers, who love to explore. You can make your backyard a great place to learn all about nature. To assist you with your explorations, consider borrowing books and resource guides from the library to add learning and excitement to your outings. Books on bugs, plants, flowers, and birds could turn your outdoor activities into an unforgettable adventure.Depending on the age of your children, you may want to introduce additional backyard activities. Some activities or games may require purchasing equipment that might be expensive. You could look into low-cost alternatives in used sports equipment stores that will keep your expenses down. Try to offer a variety of activities based on the interests of your children and what would be age-appropriate.You can make your backyard a place that encourages outdoor activity and attracts other children. Outdoor activity is even more fun when it is shared with friends. Making play dates with other children is a great way to share the fun and continue to hold your child's interest in outdoor play. Using some creativity and imagination and organizing some outdoor family activities for the backyard will help to hold your children's interest in the outdoors. You can plan a backyard camp out or barbecue as a family. Encourage your children to help you organize the activity. This will help them learn responsibility and gain confidence while reinforcing their love of the outdoors.

Kids Outdoor Games And Activities - Get Back To Nature!

In this day and age of computer games and television, some fun kids outdoor games and activities are what we need to get our kids physically fit and active.Kids these days are hooked on to Television and Video games. A little bit of fresh air can provide huge health benefits. Here are some fun games and outdoor activities for children that your preschooler will enjoy.1. Have a neighbourhood Bug or Insect HuntHere is an outdoor activity for a warm sunny afternoon. When you are out on a neighbourhood walk with your little one, try this game. Its easy to begin by trying to find simple things like "Who can point to a birds nest first?" Simple games like this one are enough to get a preschooler all excited.2. Create A MapIf you are out camping with your preschooler there are plenty of fun kids outdoor games and activities that you can do. Try this one of making a map.After a bit of hiking, sit your preschooler down with some crayons and a paper and ask them to draw a map of where you have walked and landmark you have seen.You will be amazed to see and listen to a preschoolers view of things.You don't have to restrict this kind of activity to camping alone. Try this even on a simple walk back from from your neighbourhood with your little one and it is still a fun activity.3. Duck Duck GooseIf you plan to entertain few little guests outdoors, this is one of the most popular traditional kids outdoor games that they can play.Ask the kids to sit down, facing inwards, forming a circle. One of the kid is chosen to be the "It". The "It" is supposed to walk around the outer side of the circle, tapping on each kids head, and calling out, "duck" or "goose"The "duck" stays put, and the "goose" is supposed to stand up and chase the "It"" around the circle. The "goose" has to tag the "It" before he or she can sit on the empty spot in the circle left behind by the new "goose"If the "goose" tags the "It", then they can sit back in the empty spot and if the "goose" cant' tag the "It", they become the new "It".Where as if the "It" manages to reach and sit on the empty spot in the circle, the "goose" then become the new "It".These are just few of fun kids outdoor games which kids can enjoy playing.

Let's Play Outside - 4 Fun Outdoor Activities For Families

With the weather finally starting to cool down, now is a great time to go outside and play with your kids. Not only is the sunshine and fresh air good for everyone in the family, but playing outside is also a great way to get some exercise. Here are some ideas for you and your kids.Ride BikesWhen was the last time you took a bike ride through the neighbor hood? Riding bikes is a great way to spend some quality time with your kids outside after work. Dust off your old bike, put helmets on everyone and go out for a bike ride. You can also go on a longer ride on the weekends. Check with your local bike shop or the city's parks and recreation department about trails that are family friendly. Pack a few sandwiches and fill up those water bottles and you are ready for a ride and a picnic.Go On A Nature WalkA nature walk is a fun way to spend some time with your child outside. It is also a perfect opportunity to teach him about nature, lifecycles, the climate and more. If you have binoculars, take them with you for a close up view of any wildlife you may come across. Even a squirrel becomes an interesting viewing object with binoculars. Take some small plastic or paper baggies with you to collect leafs, rocks or pinecones. When you get back home you and your child can make a leaf collage or use all objects to recreate a forest scene in an old shoebox.Dig Out The Roller-skatesDo you remember how much fun you had roller-skating when you were a kid? Dig out the roller skates or roller blades and get out there. You can find a smooth sidewalk to ride, or consider visiting a skating ring with the whole family. Roller-skating is another great way for the entire family to spend some time outside together. You can push very young children around in a stroller or have your preschooler ride a tricycle while the rest of the family skates.Explore A New Park Or PlaygroundGrab a map or make a call to your local park and recreation office and find a new park or playground you can all explore together. Spend an hour or two at the playground, go for a walk on the trails in of a new park, or pack a few sandwiches for an easy picnic in the park. You never know what you may have been missing until you start exploring all the different parks and playgrounds in your area.

Outdoor Activities - Gardening With Preschoolers

Preschoolers love to help with all types of activities, and gardening is no exception. Young children love to dig in the dirt and water the plants. Provide the opportunity for your preschooler to get involved with the gardening and watch their excitement for Mother Nature grow! Whether you are gardening with flowers or veggies and fruits, there are some helpful things to remember to make your preschooler's gardening time the most fun.1. Tools - Provide your child with age appropriate tools to work with in the garden. If you can't find or don't want to purchase the kid sized gardening tools, use old kitchen utensils such as a large serving spoon.2. Plant selection - Allow your child to select one special plant or seed packet for the garden when you are purchasing your flowers or veggies for the season. This will help your child learn to take ownership when caring for their own special plant.3. Planting - Kids can help in the planting process by digging holes and gently patting around newly placed plants. Always demonstrate first and talk them through the step-by-step process of planting a new plant.4. Watering - Water new plants yourself first and then allow your child to add a second round of watering. This will allow you to make sure you get all the new plants the water they need, dampen the surrounding soil and prevent any missed spots or overly harsh watering. Your child can then come right behind you watering a second time. If you have a hose attachment for spraying, the "mist" option is a great second round water choice, but "shower" works well too.5. Continued care - Ask your child to help with continued care of the garden. Allow them to help water, add mulch or otherwise tend to the successful growth and health of the plants.Garden safety tips:1. Avoid allowing children to use heavy or sharp tools.2. Do not allow children to trim or otherwise cut the plants. Garden clippers are very sharp!3. Although vegetable gardens are edible, make sure to explain to your child that not all plants are safe to eat.4. Do not allow children to help use any kind of chemical treatments when gardening, including plant food.5. Always make sure to put all gardening tools and supplies away and out of reach when not in use.Bonus Tip: find a little bucket to store your preschooler's garden tools separate from your own. This will encourage your child to feel like they have ownership in the caring for the garden on their own as well.

Best Belize Places for Diving, Adventures & Outdoor Activities

A county of Central America, Belize is a popular travel destination especially for the adventurous travelers. Moreover, adventure combines with history in the country. It has the second barrier reef in the world. It is a tropical place to explore and a place that teaches the meaning of travel. Belize is a place of various attractions and activities.Various cultures and ethnic groups make Belize an interesting travel destination. Among the people living in Belize, there are Creole, Maya, Mestizo, Garifuna, Spanish, English, Mennonite, Chinese and more. Belize owns a rich Maya heritage with archaeological remains such as temples, ceremonial centers, pottery etc. Though a few of the ruins are found, it is estimated that there are hundreds.Belmopan is the capital of Belize. The country is divided into six districts: Corozal District, Orange Walk District, Belize District, Stann Creek District, Cayo District and Toledo District.
The most important city of the country is Belize City. It is also the main port of for cruise ships coming to Belize. Among the most important attractions of the city, there are Museum of Belize, colonial-styled buildings like Baron Bliss Light House Monument, Paslow Building etc.The Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and Lamanai and the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary are accessible from Belize City. Altun Ha known as Rockstone Pond is the name given to the ruins of an ancient Mayan city. Apart from Altun Ha, other popular Mayan ruins are Lamanai, Lubaantun, Caracol, Cahal Pech, Xunantunich.Belize Zoo is one of the popular sights of Belize. It is like a wildlife park due to the fact that it is set in very natural bush surroundings that makes you feel, you are observing them in the wild life.Ambergris Caye is the largest of several islands Belize. It is a must-see place in which all water sports such as snorkeling, windsurfing and sailing are available.Belize's natural environment is its most precious resource. Thanks to The Belizean people that they have protected natural reserves. Among the best natural attractions of Belize are Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Barrier Reef, Community Baboon Sanctuary, Offshore Cayes and Atolls, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Mountain Pine Ridge etc.Bordering the Caribbean Sea and owning lots of cayes, Belize offers number of beaches for tourist enjoyment. Beautiful beaches are both for relaxation and ideal for water sports.
For the tourists, all kinds of activities are available. Sailing, fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, birdwatching, caving, kayaking, windsurfing, hiking, rafting, horseback riding and more.Belize is a great vacation choice not only for adventure lovers but also for families. To get more information about Belize, Travelovideo publishes videos about the country for the ones that would like to see visually before going.

Need an Outdoor Activity? Read Through

Planning an out door activity can be a very daunting task. Most individuals and families will go through this with mixed feelings and moods. It's not a surprise to find close family ties tried at these times; this is due to difference in ideas, opinion and so forth. However, to get the most on the set vacation experience days, lots of time and proper arrangements must be put in place to make the venture successful.Can One Get Help In Planning An Out Door Activity?Yes, there are many vacation sites and out door companies all over the world, all with unique packages for interested clients. Some of the common out door activities are motor sports, combat games, water sports, winter sports range shooting, sky diving and so on. These packages are tailor made to suite any family outing. Activity days may vary from one company to the other, but on summer holidays all companies have a high influx of people streaming in to enjoy themselves, its high season for these companies.In the US and the UK, driving experiences are quite a popular activity for many. These driving experiences could pass out to be the ultimate gift experience for any car fanatic; packages to ride in one of any of ones fancy cars are readily available. Motor package will include a wide range of top of the class motor vehicles, be it an Aston martin or a Ferrari or just one of the classic car models you envy, you will definitely give yourself an opportunity to ride on it for a small fee. Rally sports activity days may vary from time to time, but this does not water down any other range of motor sport activity since there are several to choose from.Most of the out door companies will work in partnership with other companies to bring a whole lot of experience to their clients. For instance, an out door company will collaborate with another company that may be known to offer extra curriculum activities such as team building, special massage packages and so forth. In fact in searching for this look for an out door company, that offer discount vouchers to this effect. You may land yourself great discounts to a service you've been longing for if you utilize this approach.Companies that offer all round packages may come in very handy, especially if you have some children on board. However, there some activities that will appeal more to children than adults, but if engaged adults may have as much fun from this as the children. Better experience days are felt when people find fulfillment and satisfaction together from an activity they all enjoy.What Each Group Member Should NoteFor things to work out well, every member of a family or group should contribute on every aspect of the envisioned outing. This should include the envisioned activity days, time, dates and places to visit. It's highly recommended for families or groups to consider purchasing out door package plans from out door companies. This way, they would not need to worry about what to do and not to on their experience days.

Outdoor Activities to Do on the Isle of Wight

If you're planning a holiday to the Isle of Wight, there are many things that you can do while you're there, depending on what you like to do and what kinds of interests you and the rest of your travelling companions have. The Isle of Wight festival is certainly big each and every year, but if you don't get to take your holiday break during the time that the festival is scheduled, don't despair. There will still be a lot for you to do and see when it comes to what to do on your holiday. The Isle of Wight is very beautiful, and a lot of people go there for the enjoyment of nature that they get while they walk around the area. Walking and hiking are popular things to do on the Isle, so be aware of that and bring good walking shoes or hiking boots if you intend to participate. You don't want to get left behind or have to forego activities simply because you came unprepared. If you don't plan to walk, though, or don't enjoy it, you can certainly find many other things to do on your Isle of Wight holiday.
 
Even if you're not there during the time of year to experience the Isle of Wight festival or if the weather isn't good for you to walk around the area a lot, there are many things to enjoy, including other festivals. The weather on the Isle of Wight is usually relatively good, so you don't have to worry too much about being stuck indoors. Instead, you can do a lot of things outdoors no matter what time of year it is. There are places to eat, festivals to enjoy, walks to take, and the beauty of nature that's just everywhere.With that in mind, it's difficult to find a good reason to stay indoors during the day. Rain showers are generally brief, and since they're over quickly they won't ruin what you plan to do while you're on the Isle of Wight. There are many sights there that offer information and artefacts from the past history of the Isle, too, and exploring them can be a very rewarding experience for young and old alike during their Isle holiday.

Outdoor Activities at Alabama's Little River Canyon

The Little River Canyon National Preserve is one of the most scenic areas in northern Alabama. The canyon is located in the northeast corner of the state, near Fort Payne. The Little River flows on top of Lookout Mountain and then carves a deep canyon as it flows off the mountain to join the Coosa River. Alabama has designated the Little River as a State Wild and Scenic River. The area offers plenty of outdoor recreation for visitors to enjoy.A scenic drive, Alabama Hwy 176, runs along the western side of the canyon. Overlooks and stops along the way offer visitors the chance to get out of their vehicles and enjoy spectacular views or take short hikes. Three trails are easy to moderate hikes. Little River Falls Trail is a.4 mile loop trail to the falls. Beaver Pond Trail is a 1.8 mile loop of moderate difficulty. Canyon Mouth Trail is accessed from the park and picnic area at the bottom of the canyon. Two other trails, Eberhart Trail and Lower Two Mile Trail, are steep hikes.Horseback riding is popular in the Backcountry Area of the preserve. Twenty-three miles of dirt roads are open to riders. There are two parking lots for riders to park and unload horses. Mountain biking is also allowed on these Backcountry roads.Hunting is allowed in the Backcountry Area in season. The area is managed by the Little River Canyon Preserve and the Alabama Department of Natural Resources. A hunting license and permit are required. Fishing is allowed anywhere along the Little River. A valid fishing license is required. Fly fishing is popular at the Canyon Mouth Park.Bird watching is another popular activity at Little River Canyon. Waterfowl are often seen on the Beaver Pond Trail. The canyon overlooks are good places to spot hawks, vultures, and sometimes bald eagles. Many bird species including bobwhites, tanagers, and warblers may be observed in the Backcountry Area.Rock climbing is allowed in the canyon. Climbers must have their own equipment and cannot add or remove bolts. Most of the climbing areas are rated for expert climbers. Primitive camping is permitted February 1-September 30 at three campsites in the Backcountry. Water and electricity are not available. There is no charge for camping, and sites are available on a first come basis. Camping is not allowed in the canyon.Little River Canyon's facilities are open seven days a week during daylight hours. There is a $3 per vehicle day use fee for the Canyon Mouth Picnic Area.

Best Free Outdoor Activity For Four Year Olds!

The activity is called Letterboxing, an outdoor treasure hunt. It is stimulating socially, intellectually, and physically. Playing collaboratively is a new developing skill for four year olds and Letterboxing encourages teamwork and communication. I will detail below why this is the best activity for four year olds.A letterbox is a waterproof box with a stamp, a passport, and sometimes other special prizes inside. Four year olds love collecting and finding things. Also the letterboxes are usually located in unique, special areas of interest such as a museum, a zoo, a park, or a historical building. So besides the excitement and adventure of finding the letterbox there is usually something else fun to do for four year olds. Many times the hiding place can also be educational.Parents can buy each child a stamp but I recommend having the kids make their own. Making their own stamps builds anticipation and excitement. They will also need their own passport book as well. Once a letterbox is found the kids put their stamp in the letterbox passport and also put the letterbox stamp in their passport. Dating and writing notes by each stamp is fun too. Over time the kids have a history of the places they have gone. Usually the stamps relate to the unique area in which they are found.The clues can be hard but mostly are very simple. As the parent reads clues the four year olds will have no problem racing around, finding markers, and continuing to move towards the letterbox. The kids get a lot of exercise.Parents only need an internet connection to access the clues. If necessary, a parent can scout out clues in advance too. Letterboxing is great to do as a family, with friends, or for a party. Letterboxing is a fabulous vacation activity because it is a great way to see and explore a new area. Eventually the kids may want to make and hide their own for others to find too. There is no limit to the creativity and fun for four year olds while Letterboxing.

Useful Outdoor Gears For Outdoor Activities

Are you a girl who is crazy about outdoor games? Unlike boys, you don't need to carry the heavy things like tent or stoves. However, there are seven necessary outdoor gears you should take. We will discuss it in detail in the following.SunglassesFirst, it will protect you from the UV. Next, it can make you look cool. There is something you should consider when you make a purchase. The parallax and aberration are two important points. The quality sunglasses can weaken the bright light.The color of the lens shouldn't be too dark. Otherwise, it will have a bad influence on your eyes. The grey or green one is the best choice. You'd better choose the sunglasses with hard resin lens. In my opinion, a sunglasses mp3 player would be a wonderful choice.Swim-suitsIt's not widely applicable, but it can never be a bad idea to swim in clean pond when you go hiking.HeadscarfYou will see the cobwebs caught on the bushes. It's absolutely unpleasant to be troubled by the webs. The headscarf will protect you well. It will make you look fashionable.HeadlightYou will feel safer with the light in the dark night. In fact, the headlight is also essential at home.AlpenstockIt does much help when you are walking in the open air. It will save you much energy.Sealing bagSometimes if you are caught in the rain on the way, the bag will play an important role that you can put your mobile phone, GPS, MP3 player, battery and digital camera in it. Also, the dirty clothes and socks can be saved in it. You may take it to hold in special case.Water bottleWater is the basic component of all life. It's especially important in the open air. The LAKEN and SIGG are the famous brands on the water bottle market.

Phoenix Arizona - Outdoor Activities at Papago Park

Papago Park , conveniently nestled between Scottsdale, Tempe and Phoenix, is a desert oasis packed with activities for every age group. From leisurely picnics to more strenuous activities such as hiking and mountain biking, the desert terrain and park amenities are sure to provide endless sources of entertainment for residents of the greater Phoenix area.
For fans of team sports, Papago Park has a number of great sporting fields for baseball and softball, volley ball courts, as well as great courts to join a pickup game of basketball. If your tastes lean more toward golf, the Papago Park Municipal Golf Course is constantly recognized as one of the best municipal golf courses in the valley.For hiking and bouldering fans, Papago Park's beautiful red stone buttes offer a great opportunity to hike and climb, but are easily accessible to most anyone. The park is fairly flat, so the the trails represent a great opportunity for those just getting in to hiking or mountain biking, or people that are looking for a chance to get out for some activity, but not looking to climb a mountain. Trail running is another popular activity and the large numbers of trails through the park offer an excellent variety for switching up your routine. For a nice view or an excellent place to relax and watch the sunset, or just to see an interesting geological formation, climb up the rocks and check out the large hole in the rock.Want to try something new? Papago Park is a favorite with local Geocachers. Geocaching is a fun activity where people hide objects and give the GPS coordinates for finding them. People hide a container with an object in it; someone else goes and finds the container, takes the object and replaces it with another. It's an interesting activity to get out for a bit and explore. All you need to get started is a handheld GPS or even an iPhone and you are on your way.Papago Park is also home to a couple of the Phoenix areas great attractions, the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Gardens. The zoo offers a number of great exhibits as well as some great areas for children to play and explore, while learning about wildlife and conservation. Whether you are looking for a quick getaway, a great spot to get out and exercise in the fresh air, or just enjoy a nice Sunday picnic, Papago Park offers endless outdoor entertainment opportunities in a location that could not be any more convenient.

Family Crafts: Five Outdoor Activities for the Entire Family to Enjoy

The kids are home... it's a beautiful day outside... it's time to get crafting! Let's start the craft ideas countdown!
It's Time to Rake Leaves!
Just joking, but you do need to find a few really cool ones! This craft project is all about print making using leaves in all sizes and shapes as stamps. From the house you will need: paper towels, Styrofoam plates, colored construction paper, and various colors of craft paint.First fold a paper towel in fourths then place it on a Styrofoam plate. Pour enough paint into the center of the towel to make it into a stamp pad. Repeat this step with additional paint colors to add to your stamping color palette.Dip the back side of a leaf into the paint to lightly cover it. Press the leaf onto a piece of paper gently pulling it off when done. Add more leaves to your picture until you are satisfied with your design. Once dried you can frame it, make it into a card, use it for wrapping a present, or cut it up for use in a collage.Another idea: use fabric paint for imprinting your leaves on t-shirts, ball caps, kitchen towels and more!
Pine Cone Bird Feeders
This is a fun and very easy family craft. What you need are pine cones, peanut butter, wild bird seed, twine, a shallow plate, newspaper and a wood craft stick for each family member.First cut a piece of twine 3 to 4 feet in length. Tie it to the top of a pine cone to make a hangar. Smear peanut butter over and into the pine cone. Pour birdseed into the shallow plate and roll the pine cone over the seeds until covered. Set the seeded cones aside on a piece of newspaper until ready to hang in a tree.Note: Some crafters like to place the finished pine cones into the freezer for an hour before hanging them in a tree. This helps bind the seeds and the peanut butter together (optional).
Pet Rocks
This is a great family craft that will encourage not only creativity but a lot of laughs! First go on a backyard hunt for a bunch of various sized rocks (golf ball sized work well). I like to use smoothed faced rocks that can easily be painted.Gather up some crafting supplies including paint and/or paint pens, yarn, chenille stems, ribbon, feathers, buttons, beads, pom-poms, wiggle eyes, felt, glitter, and craft foam (basically anything that you and the kids would like to use to create your pets). You will also need the basic tools like glue, scissors, paint brushes, and paper towels.First scrub your rocks of all dirt and grime. Once dry choose and organize the rocks you will want to use for your pets head, body, feet, and so forth.Starting with your pets' head make its' little face. Wiggly eyes, a fuzzy pom-pom nose, a painted or yarn mouth are all great ideas. Add some chenille stems or feathers for hair, a few painted freckles, and maybe even ears. Once finished glue the head to its body and let dry until completely adhered.Now decorate the body, add the feet and hands if desired and decorate those too. Have fun creating your pets and have fun being together crafting.
Make a Toad Village
Giving toads and frogs a hiding place in your garden is not only fun but it also is a great way to help control flies and mosquitoes. Gather up a few flower pots and/or empty coffee cans, paint primer (for metal coffee cans), outdoor paint, clear acrylic paint for sealing, and any small decorative items you might want to add to your houses like marbles, broken ceramic or stained glass pieces, any items that can be used outside that are interesting or fun.Start by making sure your pots and cans are thoroughly cleaned and dry. If using coffee cans paint them with primer and let dry. Use outdoor paint in your choice of colors to create your toads abode. Paint on little windows and doors, a tiled roof, and flower boxes are a few ideas for you to use. Another idea for your village is to mosaic the flower pots using ceramic and glass pieces. Once finished give your house a couple of coats of the clear acrylic paint and let dry.Bury your coffee cans on their sides half way down into the dirt to keep them from rolling away while giving your toads the dirt floors they love. Set the flower pots upside down on the ground then raise up one side using a rock to hold it in place. This gives the toads an entryway into their new home. To add more fun, detail your toad village to include little roads between the houses, make little entry way signs, pebble walkways, add a few small plants, and even a few little toy cars and people would be cute. Make it a place for toads and children to play.
Hand-print Stepping Stones
This is my favorite family craft. Creating personalized stepping stones embedded with hand-prints or footprints are so fun to make and can last a lifetime. There are several methods of making your own stepping stones but the easiest by far is using the stone topper method. You use a pre-made garden stone and top it with cement mortar using duct tape to hold it in place. Since there are no kits to buy you can decorate the stones anyway you would like allowing your children to use their wonderful imaginations to come up with unique designs. This is a great project for even parents to imprint their own hand and/or foot prints. Kids have a blast measuring their growth every year to their parents' prints.It's also fun to include the pet's prints into stepping stones. You just might just want to create a whole pathway of personalized stones.I hope this has given you some great ideas and projects for your family crafting activities. There is nothing more memorable than the times we spend sharing our days with our children. Crafting projects that can be kept for years to come add to the enjoyment of reunions where their memories can be relived once again.

Popular Backyard Activities For Teenagers

Almost everyone enjoys spending time outdoors, even teenagers. There's just something about being outside that creates excitement. Although almost everybody enjoys relaxing or playing in the back yard, some people get more or better opportunities than others, including teenagers. Most teens love being outdoors, and in fact many can be found in their back yards during the summertime.You might already realize that many teens can be difficult to please. The reason is that they are at that certain age where it is easy for them to lose interest in certain activities or to even get bored. If you have a son or daughter who is a teenager, you might want to become familiar with some of the backyard activities that are popular with teens, especially if yours will be spending their summer break with you at home. The process of familiarizing yourself with these activities might give you some great ideas for outdoor family fun, but it might also mean the difference between your teen spending the summer indoors or out.Your teenager might be set for the entire summer if you have a backyard swimming pool. Many teenagers lose interest in certain activities, but swimming pools have something unique about them. If they could, many teens would choose to spend their entire summer in the swimming pool. Not all teenagers are proficient swimmers, however, so you might want to set some ground rules for using your pool, especially if your teen will be home alone. These ground rules can help keep your teen safe while swimming alone.Although swimming is extremely popular among teens, not everyone has their own backyard pool. If you want to give your teen a way to keep cool during the summer but you don't want to buy an expensive swimming pool, you might want to consider getting a kiddie pool instead. They provide a safe and fun way for teenagers to keep cool during hot weather. Not every teen will want to use one, but many teenage girls enjoy wading in kiddie pools, especially if their friends are with them.If a swimming pool or kiddie pool isn't feasible, try focusing on other outdoor water activities that can be fun for your teenager. Water guns and water balloons are always popular with teens. They're not only a great way to cool off, but they are a lot of fun to play with when others are around. Everyone present will stay cool and have a fun time, whether your teen is playing with friends or his or her siblings.Other outdoor activities that don't involve water can also be fun, including football, basketball, soccer, horseshoes, kickball, volleyball, baseball and softball. Like most games, what your teen will be able to participate in will vary, depending on whether they are alone or with other people. Shooting hoops is one possibility for teens playing alone. Teenagers playing with their friends or siblings will have a wide assortment of games they can choose from, because most backyard games are intended to be played by at least two people.Although it is important to think about backyard games and other outdoor activities, you might also want to consider the food your teen will eat. You might even want to let your teen eat in the back yard if he or she will be spending a lot of time there. When an adult will be present, a barbeque is perfect. If not, you could suggest a backyard picnic to your teen. An easy and safe backyard meal can be created with a few sandwiches, snacks and drinks.Because teenagers are at the age where they want to make their own decisions, you might want to get yours involved in the actual planning or organization of any backyard activities. Your teenager may have something specific in mind, even if you make some good suggestions. It's fine if this happens, but make sure your teen's outdoor activities are safe as well as fun.

Outdoor Activities in Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, California boasts 138 trails with some of the best hiking in the entire state. Combine this with gorgeous weather for the better part of the year, and it's clear that this desert jewel is a perfect getaway for those who appreciate nature and outdoor activities. Whether you love to hike, bike, rock climb, or you just want to enjoy clean fresh air, breath-taking mountain views, and bright blue skies, you'll love Palm Springs!Looking for an exhilarating experience? Glide up to the top of Mt. San Jacinto on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, and get a bird's eye view of the entire valley. Mt. San Jacinto State Park offers 54 miles of hiking trails located within a 14,000 acre pristine wilderness, one of the last in California. Hiking is popular throughout the summer, and in the winter there is fun in the snow. Visiting Mt. St. Jacinto State Park is always one of the most popular outdoor activities in Palm Springs.Centuries ago, the Agua Caliente Cahuilla Indians settled the Palm Springs area, and as early as 1890 this area has been described as a recreation oasis. Today it provides a unique hiking opportunity for those with an appreciation for the beauty of nature and outdoor activities - the Indian Canyons hiking trails. Unlike other trails in the area, most of the trails here follow running streams. This beautiful gem is comprised of the Palm, Murray, Andreas, Tahquitz, and Chino Canyons. Tahquitz Canyon, and three southern canyons are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and Palm Canyon, is considered one of the world's largest California Fan Palm oases.Without a doubt, the world-class golfing, dining, resorts, and spas, of Palm Springs have enchanted travelers from all over the world throughout these past several decades. Here in the Southern California area, there are 22 million people living within driving distance to Palm Springs, and a large number of them have enjoyed the convenience of being just a car trip away from paradise. Outdoor activities in this region are a big reason why. Many folks who come out to this little slice of heaven enjoy staying in hotels, but for added space and privacy they often make the choice to invest in their very own property and then rent it to others when they're not using the home. This is precisely what we did, and now after many years of vacationing in this beautiful part of California we are full time residents.One of the maybe less publicized outdoor activities which we personally enjoy is gazing up at the desert night sky. The lack of bright lights here provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy a crystal-clear view of the sparkling stars. Sometimes we even take out the telescope to get a better view of the brilliant light show in the sky.If you are one of the countless people that have fallen in love with Palm Springs and the surrounding cities, and are interested in taking advantage of the incredible deals that are currently available in this housing market, contact M&M and we'd be happy to introduce you to what could potentially be your own slice of paradise in the beautiful outdoor playground of Palm Springs. If you need anymore information on outdoor activities, we have links below.

Hiking and Camping - Two Great Outdoor Activities

Hiking and camping though are different but majority of their characteristics are similar. You can enjoy these fun filled activities with your friends, family, partner etc. In fact, many people tend to mix hiking with camping. Majority of the hiking parks that you will find today have their very own site camping grounds.Another distinctive characteristic of both these activities is that these outdoor activities are suitable for people of almost all the ages. This is of much importance, if you are looking for an activity that allows you to spend quality time with your friends and family.The costs of these activities are also very less in comparison to the satisfaction you will get. Both of them are affordable activities in which you can participate. If at all you are interested in going for camping and hiking together, then you should ensure that you have made your arrangements well in advance. Camping as well as hiking is extremely popular in US and other European countries. You will face countless choices when it comes down to these activities and thus, you can handpick the camping spot that you like.Since by now you must have understood the dependence and linkage between these two activities, you should definitely plan them in order to a have a fun and adventurous time. Hiking in thick forest or over mountains may seem extremely tough to you. However, it just takes some basic equipment, sound understanding of some basic concepts and a good fitness level.Equipping yourself properly and anticipating weather conditions are must before you go for these outdoor activities. Ideally, you should pack clothing and equipment for any outcome. Good footwear is equally important as you have to walk a lot, no matter whether you are going for camping or hiking.

Outdoor Activities - Fun Events Galore

If you are planning a unique stag or hen night - or perhaps a teambuilding event to bring staff closer together - a selection of outdoor activities such as white water rafting and archery can be the ideal solution. Not only do these events offer great, simple fun, they will also get people working together in ways they may not have done in the past.There is a huge selection of events on offer in the UK and elsewhere. Whether you want to get the adrenalin pumping or are looking to take part in a more sedate activity, there will be something for you. For example, quad bike trekking is one of the most thrilling outdoor activities available. Riding a quad bike at speeds of up to 40 mph, through some of the roughest terrain in Scotland, is a truly breathtaking experience.Weaving between the trees, splashing through rivers and racing across the open country on a quad bike is something that is unforgettable. If quad bike trekking appeals, you may want to try off road driving or blindfold driving. Relying totally on your co-driver when blindfold driving, you will be in control of the vehicle - but they will have to navigate for you. Paintball is a wonderful opportunity to improve team working, as it requires communication, strategic thinking and effective leadership. Alternatively, you can rush in all guns blazing - but you should expect to be tagged.More relaxing events are also available. For example, mini highland games involve taking part in a range of traditional Scottish sports. This includes tossing the caber, tossing the hammer, the weight over bar and the tug of war. Archery is another excellent activity, whether it forms part of a corporate event or a day out with friends.If target practice appeals to you, clay pigeon shooting and the more technologically advanced laser clay shooting are also available. So, whether you want to take part in a selection of relaxing outdoor activities or a range of events that will get the heart racing and the adrenalin pumping, you will be able to choose from a variety of games in Scotland and the rest of the UK.Enjoying these sorts of outdoor activities is an unforgettable way to celebrate a friend's upcoming nuptials. However, they can also make a fun and effective teambuilding event. And this can help any business work more efficiently.

Idaho's Top Ten Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Idaho. To residents and visitors alike, Idaho is like a big backyard. A vast, year-round playground for adults and children. But, which activities rank as the top ten favorites? Based on personal observations, and not in any particular order, here they are:FishingFor some, fishing means trolling for sizeable lake trout in waters like Idaho's Lake Pend Oreille. For others, tracking down the huge, prehistoric sturgeon in the Snake River is great angling. And, fly fishermen, using insect imitations, ply Idaho's famous blue ribbon streams for the coveted brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout.HuntingIdaho has some of the finest hunting in the Western United States. There are trophy moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goat, plus mule deer and whitetails, as well as elk and antelope. Hunters can also find black bear and mountain lions, along with turkeys, upland birds and waterfowl.Winter SportsIf you love winter's snow, downhill skiing leads the Idaho list, with snowboarding and snow tubing gaining popularity each year. Nordic-style cross-country skiing is almost a way of life, and snowshoeing could not be better. Snowmobiling is also quite popular. Groomed trails await, or make your own tracks! In addition, ice skating and ice fishing are both favorite winter activities for many.HikingHiking trails of varying difficulty can be found throughout the state. There are trails of under a mile on up to the famed Idaho State Centennial Trail, a 1,200-mile Mother of All Trails that extends the entire length of Idaho from the Canadian border to Nevada! In all, some 19,000 miles of trails for the hiker, backpacker and trekker are available all around the state.CampingWhether your camping style is in a luxurious motor home or a simple, canvas tent, Idaho offers hundreds of maintained campgrounds as a base camp for outdoor activities. Most are located at or close to popular recreation areas and the state's varied scenic highlights. These public campgrounds are operated and managed by federal and state government agencies.History RewindMany travelers enjoy walking in the footsteps of Idaho's early movers and shakers. The American Indian thrived for centuries in much of the state and courageous explorers and daring pioneers left their mark on the terrain. One can observe the path taken by Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they searched for a new overland route to the Pacific Ocean. Wagon wheel ruts still found in the rugged Idaho terrain tell a story of the hardships encountered by those who defied odds heading west on the California and Oregon Trails.FloatingFrom the sheer terror of whitewater one can experience on Idaho's famous river runs to serenely bobbing along in an inner tube on the Boise River at Boise, the state's 3,100 miles of navigable rivers become memories for many adventurers each year. Rafting, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and jet boating are satisfying outdoor activities you are sure to enjoy.BoatingIdaho boasts over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs for your boating pleasure. Some are quite large. For example, Coeur d'Alene Lake, known as the most beautiful alpine lake in the U.S., is over 25 miles long with more than 120 miles of shoreline. Great boating. About 250 miles to the south, popular Dworshak Reservoir is a 53-mile long impound of the Clearwater River. Great boating. In southeastern Idaho, near Pocatello, one can spend quality boating time at American Falls, a 56.000-acre reservoir on the Snake River.BikingBike Idaho! There are 19,000 miles of trails. Mountain biking trails. Trails along desert back roads. Trails along rivers, and trails in most urban areas throughout the state. A big favorite with many is the Route of the Hiawatha Rail-Trail, an easy-grade, 17-mile long abandoned rail-bed, now paved for biking. This trail, near Wallace, passes through nine tunnels, around a closed tunnel, over seven high trestles, past waterfalls, with amazing vistas and interpretive signs along the way.MiscellanyMore specialized outdoor activities are found all over Idaho. Horseback riding is a favorite, as is landscape photography, wildlife and bird watching, golfing, swimming, water skiing, wind surfing, spelunking, rock climbing and the search for wildflowers, mushrooms and wild berries.You will never run out of fun outdoor activities when you visit Idaho!

10 Outdoor Activities You Forgot Were Fun

Whether you're feeling stifled indoors or dreaming of a warmer season, the outdoors has a significant place in our imaginations and fantasies. Being outside reminds us of childhood, freedom, and natural beauty. If you have been looking for a way to get back outside, here is a list of outdoor activities you may have forgotten were fun.1. Slip-n-SlideThe childhood steeple of a summer in the backyard, the slip and slide can provide hours of enjoyment on a hot day. Getting wet and sliding across a slick, plastic runway can be fun for more than just kids. Instead of the iconic belly-flop landing, try using inner tubes for less bruising and scraping. Setting this activity up near a pool or sprinkler can add some variety to the backyard.2. BBQ/ Grill PartyHaving a barbeque or grill party is a great way to bring together a lot of friends to enjoy each other's company and the weather. Nowadays, the menu choices available for a backyard grill make it possible to appease even the pickiest eaters. Getting outside to cook and eat with a bunch of loved ones is a great way to enjoy the best parts of life.3. StargazingBeing outside means there are no walls around you and preferably no roof for this activity. Stargazing is a great way to connect with not just the outdoors, but the universe in general. Find an open field or elevated area away from the light pollution of streetlights and buildings. Taking the time to look up at the natural light show of the universe can remind us of the truly important things.4. BonfireAs a social event, standing around a big fire may seem a bit primitive. But maybe the simplicity is what makes it so easy to enjoy. Go down to the beach or dig a pit in your yard to build a suitably sized bonfire. Inviting some friends and grabbing some drinks can transform standing around a fire into a magical experience.5. Yard WorkDespite its common association with chores, doing yard work is a great way to get some exercise and engage with the outdoors. Gardening, pruning trees or bushes, and raking up leaves can be a constructive means of interacting with the natural world. Taking responsibility for the plant life in your yard can be unexpectedly rewarding, as most acts of nurturing and care-taking turn out to be.6. Climbing TreesTrees are obligated to a life entirely outdoors. Therefore, appreciating trees is a fitting means to connecting with nature. To reach the heights they do, it takes years and years of subtle growth. Take some time to climb a tree or at least consciously examine their form; you will see the world from a unique perspective.7. HammockFor the less active activity-seekers, lying in a hammock can be the ideal way to experience the outdoors. Choosing to lie in a hammock is distinct from simply lying down because itconnects you to more than just the ground. Suspended between two trees or set up in your yard, lying in a hammock is like floating on a cloud. Your body can sway in the wind or to the momentum you choose, but it is always supported.8. Smelling FlowersThere is scientific evidence that proves the correlation between literally taking the time to smell flowers and reduced stress levels in the body. Whether or not this is proof of aromatherapy, smelling flowers is a fantastic way to appreciate the beauty of nature. Beyond visually striking blooms, flowers offer so many nuanced sensory details that they are the embodiment of nature's expressive beauty.9. Bicycle RidingTaking a bike ride offers you exercise and travel. Unlike other forms of travel, there is a balance between the effort it takes to ride a bike and the amount of the world you experience. Driving in a car will take you farther, but won't offer you the same quality of experience. Incorporate a bike ride into your day to experience a bigger slice of the outdoors.10. TagFor many, the epitome of childhood is chasing your friends around while giggling and screaming. This is playing a game of tag and it does not necessarily require outdoor space, but works better that way. To appreciate the fundamental appeal of this activity, you don't need to play any specific game. Playing sports or even going for a stroll connects you to the same flow of energy. Being outdoors is about being able to move freely and accessing the many features of the natural world. Getting some exercise while appreciating the beauty of nature will teach you a lot about the fundamental appeal of a great lifestyle.

Outdoor Activities in Victoria, BC

There aren't many locations across all of Canada that offer as many choices for outdoor activities and the opportunity to participate in them year round as you can find in the Victoria BC and the surrounding Greater Victoria area. It's hard to beat our proximity to rivers, lakes, oceans and mountains as well as urban, suburban, country and wilderness locations. The temperate climate means you can indulge in your favourite outdoor sports and recreation practically all year long.Living on an island (albeit a big one) means that we are surrounded by the ocean, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Fishing is perhaps the first to come to mind, but there is also sailing, kayaking, canoeing, or just boating for pleasure. If you'd prefer to get right into the water, there's swimming (for the cold-hardy), surfing (a short jaunt up-island to Tofino) and scuba diving. The waters surrounding Vancouver Island offer world class diving with spectacular undersea biodiversity.If you favour fresh water over brine, there are a number of lakes within a 30 minute drive of downtown Victoria where you can swim, waterski, canoe, fish, or just lounge on your air mattress, cold beverage in hand.Another very popular outdoor activity is camping, and there is a plethora of options within or close to Greater Victoria. Pitch a tent or park your RV at a private campsite or in one of the local provincial campsites at French Beach, Goldstream, and in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park at China Beach, Sombrio Beach and Parkinson Beach. Some of these BC Provincial Parks feature trails suitable for multi-day hikes and wilderness camping. Be sure to check with BC Parks about registration, rules and closures before you go.If your idea of camping means really fending for yourself, there are a number of recreation sites located on Crown land outside of the parks and away from settled areas. These public campgrounds are generally accessed by gravel roads and offer only basic facilities. Learn more about these recreation sites at Recreation Sites and Trails BC through their website at Sitesandtrailsbc.ca.You can find other popular wilderness outdoor activities like rock climbing, orienteering, mountain biking, spelunking (caving) hunting, and for the truly fearless, mushroom hunting! In winter, a quick drive north to Mt Washington will take you to a world class ski resort that is fairly uncrowded and often boasts the deepest snowpack in North America. In fact, during the winter of 2010-2011, Mt. Washington claimed the deepest snowpack in the world!If wilderness activities aren't your thing, there are numerous entertaining outdoor activities you can participate in closer to civilization. One of the most popular is golf, and the Greater Victoria area boasts and inordinate amount of golf course, both private and public, where golfers of all abilities can play pretty much year round.As well as golf, you can enjoy bicycling, skateboarding and walking, and horseback riding along the extensive urban trail systems around Victoria BC. And we haven't even begun to talk about the range of outdoor sports that people who are living in Victoria love to participate in. There are opportunities for you and all your family members to play just about any outdoor sport that you can think of.One of the many benefits of living in Victoria BC is year round access to outdoor activities due to our temperate climate. And because of this Victorians enjoy a superior overall quality of life and are probably healthier and happier too!

The Pros of Outdoor Activities and Sports in Houston

If it's Houston and if it is outdoor activities which you love doing then there are plenty of options you can exercise. Being outdoors is always a good thing to do. You remain healthy, fit and it helps promote physical as well as mental well-being. There are sports you can choose from such as cycling, hiking, travel and social gatherings to expand your circle of friends.Some of the clubs that have outdoor activities on a regular basis in Houston are - Bayou City Outdoors, Audubon Society, Gulf Coast Cycling, Seeing Mountains, Skate Trash Street, Houston Canoe Club and Football Association. Most of these clubs keep organizing events for the benefit of their members and also have recruitment drives to get people more interested in outdoor activity.If paddle sport is your thing then you can join up clubs that will take your interest to the next level with sports such as canoeing, white water rafting and kayaking. There are also clubs that organize proper biking routes through the many trails Houston has to offer. They will ensure you make the fullest use of your mountain bike for off-road and tough trails.The Audubon Society promotes interest in wildlife and ornithology if birds are your mainstay interest. Fishing buffs can practice their new found passion for fly fishing. The Texas Fly Fishers is a good club for people who would like to learn and enjoy fly fishing.The benefit of sports and outdoor activities is immense since it helps boost self-confidence and regulates and balances the work life equation. If you like the rush you will want to do it more often and also keep a tab on your lifestyle since you want to keep healthy and at it. Houston is the ideal place to be for everything outdoor and adventure.

Outdoor Activities for Those Who Can't Stay at Home

If you are a homebody, the things you love to do may include reading classics or romance novels, watch television, baking in the kitchen with your mother, watering your backyard plants, taking your dog for a walk, and sleeping. However, activities are far from these when you are an outdoor kid.Staying inside the house is not your most favorite thing to do and you always want to go out and explore the world with your friends. Danger may be a part of your everyday life yet you do not contemplate on this one since all you ever want is to be out in the open.If you are one of these happy kids who can't take watching television at home, then here is the list of the things you might want to do then.
Extreme Activities. When we speak about outdoors, most likely than not, extreme activities are so in the picture. Outdoorsy people have this craving for adrenaline rush and would treat bungee jumping as riding on a carousel. These activities which include drag racing, gliding, skydiving among others are dangerous so to speak. Yet these danger-sucking creatures are up to it. And as a reminder, these are the things not advisable for the faint hearted.
Wildlife Adventures. Probably one of the major reasons why safari holidays in South Africa are being flanked by visitors is because of their wildlife abundance. African safari is one of the places where wildlife is preserved and outdoorsy souls are after this. They would go all the way from the other side of the globe just to take a glance at some of the fiercest animals. Safari holidays in South Africa, because of its scenic view, attract those who are no-homebody.
Camping. Not all outdoor kids are sucker for adrenalin rush. There are also those who may want to stay outside and far from their comfort zone, yet they stay away from those who seemed to have death wishes. For these types of outdoorsy people, camping is appropriate. Although camping are the best in African safaris, a nearby forest is good enough. It is cheap and not too far away from home, not to mention safe from the dangers of extreme activities. That is a relief already.
Sports Activities. What is an outdoor activity if without sports? It would surely be boring. Sports is the life of every outdoor human beings in the face of the planet. Everybody's addicted with basketball, the whole neighborhood is hooked with football, badminton and tennis are catching up, and the whole town is either a volleyball player or a fanatic. Whichever applies, sports remain as the top activity for those who can't seem to stay put on their dwellings.If you visit all the places and would talk to about a hundreds of outdoor human beings, you will find out that the activities listed above are just a speck of dust. However, it cannot be denied that most, if not all, are still doing these activities since it is a part of what they were accustomed to. Not a surprise at all.

Outdoor Activities

Most of us have too much stress in our life, and the greatest and easiest way to reduce that stress is to get outside. Simple, right? Well, no. Not if we're used to being inside, or don't understand our options for outdoor activities. We need to consider what helps us to relax: being with other people, or being alone? Physical activity? Quiet contemplation or reading?Each of these options has an equivalent outdoors activity. And we improve our health and mental focus when we make changes that allow us to get outside more.Consider these activities:
Backpacking
Camping
Canoeing & Kayaking
Climbing
Cycling
Hiking and Trekking
Running
Swimming and Snorkeling
Travel
Triathlon (or some form of it)
Winter Sports
Each of these activities offers something for individuals or for groups and families. Each offers minimal, basic activities or full-blown, expert challenges. And you can select outdoor activities that allow you to expend large amounts of physical energy - or to sit quietly and pursue more quiet pursuits. There's something for everyone!The Internet today offers a handy, readily available source of information on the how's, why's and where's for outdoor time. Pick one of the above activities, decide which shape of that activity you're interested in, and search ahead!In addition to commercial sources of information, there are enthusiasts' sites that offer personal experience, expert tips and specifics about getting started. The only thing holding you back is your own motivation. The outdoors is always available in some form - now you just need a good idea for what to do outside. Find out.The season of the year and the weather involved obviously shape what you can plan to do immediately. But if it's not time for the activity you're ready to begin, use the time to read and research. Again, online sites offer more information than you will have time to explore, and often the information is valid and valuable.

Plan an Old-Fashioned Picnic as a Kid Outdoor Activity

While the weather is pleasant, plan an old-fashioned picnic with your kids. This is a perfect kid outdoor activity to get back to some old-fashioned outdoor fun. Include the kids in planning and preparing for your picnic. Putting together a picnic is easy and well worth the effort.Vote on the location for your picnic, which can be your neighborhood park, local nature area or even your own backyard! Decide on the day and time for your picnic. Picnics can be planned for breakfast or dinner, not just lunch-time. Make an easy menu that the kids can help prepare for, finger foods, fruits and vegetable sticks, healthy cookies and drinks. If you plan a breakfast picnic, make some hot chocolate for the cool morning air.If you don't have a picnic basket, the kids can decorate a plain cardboard box or use a plastic tub to carry the food and supplies in. Don't forget the paper goods, utensils, cups and a tablecloth. You can also use a lap-size blanket throw or twin sheet instead of a tablecloth to lay on the ground.Bring along the book Teddy Bear's Picnic by Jimmy Kennedy to read aloud with younger children. For older children, the book Rattlebang Picnic by Margaret Mahy and Steven Kellogg is a lot of fun to read. These books can be found at your public library. Reading can be a fun outdoor activity for kids!An old-fashioned picnic is not complete without fun games and activities. Bring a ball to play a game of catch, fly a kite if it is breezy day, go on a nature walk and see what you can find and organize relay races. Old-fashioned relay races include the three-legged race, sack races, wheelbarrow race, carry-an-object-in-a-spoon race and a kangaroo race (put a ball between your knees and hop to the finish line).To remember this kid outdoor activity, bring your camera so you can take lots of photos of your fun-filled, old-fashioned picnic.

Fun Outdoor Activities To Do With Children

It is important for children to remain active and enjoy various activities outdoors rather than at home. There are a number of fun things to do outside depending on what your children enjoy doing and their general activity level.For example, for children who are more active and like to move around, you can play simple sports games. For children who love group activities, you can play games which involve two or more teams. For children who just want to enjoy the natural environment calmly, then more relaxing activities would be suitable.Some outdoor sports games that children love include soccer, ball tossing, and running. Soccer will enable children to kick the ball with their legs and that will train their leg muscles. It is important for children to have a balanced workout in both their arms and legs. With ball tossing, children will learn better hand-eye coordination and also train their arm muscles. Various rules can also be incorporated into soccer and ball tossing such that the children will have enough variations to keep them excited. For instance, soccer can involve manoeuvring the ball around cones and ball tossing can be turned into basketball.Running is also a fun outdoor activity for children because it is a very free activity. There are no rules and children just get to run as enjoy the wind on their face. Running games can be added such as short races, small obstacle courses, and tag.Developing cooperation and teamwork skills is also a vital part of children growing up and those skills can be learned in some outdoor group activities. For instance, you can play group games such as Pictionary, Twenty Questions, and singing and dancing. These can train mental thinking skills while in an outdoor setting and enhance teamwork. In Pictionary and Twenty Questions, children will have a chance to discuss and interact with each other in small groups to guess the answer to the question.Singing and dancing are other fun activities that many children enjoy because music and moving around is a combination that excites them. You can play some popular Disney music or cartoon theme songs which all the children are familiar with.Finally, some relaxing activities such as blowing bubbles, reading books, and cloud-gazing are other ways to enjoy the outdoors with children. They are entertaining and creative options for children who are tired from doing the activities above or for children who just want to like calmness and quietness. You can be creative in imagining what the bubbles blown look like and what the clouds in the sky are like.It is fascinating to see what your children's minds are thinking. With all these ideas on fun outdoor activities for children, you will be sure to find something to entertain children of all ages. Many variations can be created with the above ideas, so there will always be new and innovative games.