Nature-Based Family Activities For Summer

Summer isn’t over yet! While we may be having more than our fair share of wind and rain, there is still plenty of time before the days become shorter and the temperature drops dramatically. Being outdoors as a family can be a wonderfully enriching experience for all involved. From nature walks to beach days, there is much to discover and plenty of opportunities for family fun simply by taking advantage of natural beauty. If you find yourself stuck for ideas and in need of a little inspiration, consider the following suggestions for nature-based family activities, perfect for the summer months.

Nature Walks

Simple, enjoyable and absolutely free, you can’t go wrong with a nature walk. If you’re fortunate enough to live in an area close to a park or nature reserve, heading out for a walk in the great outdoors is likely already a regularly scheduled family activity. However, you don’t necessarily need to be based in a rural location to enjoy the wonders of nature. Simply go for a walk in your neighbourhood and notice everything around you, grass, trees, flowers, birds, etc. - the amount you find might just surprise you. 

Orienteering

Orienteering can be a fun and educational activity for children of all ages, combining physical exercise with mental stimulation and problem-solving. By teaching your kids how to use a map and a compass, you equip them with a valuable life skill that few of us have in today’s technology-reliant world. Orienteering also encourages teamwork and communication as you will have to work together as a family to navigate through a course or find specific points. If nothing else, orienteering is an excellent excuse to get moving and enjoy some fresh air.

Geocaching

Geocaching is another navigation-based activity that involves finding specific points on a map using a GPS device or your smartphone. The beauty of Geocaching is the reward of discovering treasures hidden in plain sight, whether they are in the middle of nowhere or a town centre. Like orienteering, Geocaching requires participants to use their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. You will need to decipher clues, read maps, and employ logical reasoning to locate hidden caches, making this activity as educational as it is enjoyable. 

Picnic Trips

If you and your family would prefer something a little less competitive and more relaxing, a simple picnic could be just the thing you’re looking for. Again, you don’t need the luxury of living amidst a vast expanse of countryside to find an idyllic picnic spot - your local park will do. Pack plenty of easy-to-eat finger food. You could opt for picnic classics like sandwiches and crisps or push the boat out with puff pastry pinwheels and homemade sausage rolls. 

Bird Watching

Bird-watching can be a tremendously beneficial activity for children, aiding their development and connection with nature. You don’t have to be an expert - with the right kit, including binoculars, bird calls and a field guide, you can explore various bird species in your area while learning about their unique characteristics and ecological roles. Keep in mind that bird-watching requires patience and attentiveness; hence, it may be better suited to older children and teens. Here is a guide to everything you might need as an amateur bird watcher. 

Gardening

If you want your family to spend more time outdoors, your own back garden is an excellent place to start. Getting your kids involved with the gardening can be a wonderful way to spend time together as a family while achieving a common objective, whether it's growing vegetables or building a bug hotel. Gardening with your children provides an opportunity to teach them about the importance of environmentalism and biodiversity by allowing them to interact with nature in an enjoyable, hands-on manner. 

Beachcombing

There is nothing quite like a day out at the beach with the whole family. Beachcombing is a wonderfully simple activity requiring little more than a keen eye and a bucket for discoveries. Better yet, children of all ages can join in on the fun. From shells to rocks to creatures, the coast is a treasure trove of natural curiosities. You may even be lucky enough to happen upon a fossil, particularly on beaches between Charmouth and Lyme Regis, Dorset or Bracklesham Bay, West Sussex.