10 ways to get Under 10s Outside

Do you ever struggle getting the kids to go and explore the great outdoors? In our top ten ways to get under tens to get outside, there'll be something for everyone.

1. Make a treasure hunt.

This one can be done on a variety of scales. You could leave clues around the garden and get them to hunt around, or go out into your local area and give them clues along the way.

2. Take mealtime outside.

Sometimes it's easy to forget that mealtime can be taken outside; there are less distractions outside and you'll get to enjoy quality time together. A lot of experts actually say that there are psychological benefits to eating outside including reducing stress, improving concentration, improving sleep quality and creating healthy bonding time. You can also use this as an opportunity to give the kids some responsibilities, like carrying things outside ready for tea.

3. Make a den.

Making a den is one of those universal experience that kids just love to do. By encouraging your children to make dens outside you're giving them the opportunity to get creative, enjoy some fresh air and work together. The great thing about dens is you can make them as simple or complicated as you want. Eden Project have some great tips on making dens here.

4. Do some gardening.

This one is definitely one that they'll need a little help with to start off with but, it's also rewarding for the whole family. Start off by planting some seeds or plants and then encourage them to keep checking on their crop. Growing fruit and vegetables are especially fun for children to grow as it means they get to try the different things they grow. Our top tip for this one, is choosing seeds or plants that grow quickly to have the best chance of keeping them engaged.

5. Do some outdoor crafting.

The beauty of outdoor crafting is that the kids get to let their imagination's run free, but you don't need to worry about the living room carpet turning green. Some of our favourite ideas for outdoor crafting include: Making a Nature Mobile, Making a Natural Bird Feeder, Outdoor Painting, Creating Rainbow Bubbles and doing some Sun Printing.

6. Have a cosy outdoor evening.

It's very easy to get into the habit of only going outside when the sun is shining. Getting outside on an evening could be anything from going for an evening walk, playing games in the garden or getting cosy round a firepit.

7. Make a fairy garden.

A fairy garden is a small garden typically made from things you can find around the house or garden. They typically start with one small object such as an old pot, dish or teapot; you can then surround this with whatever other details you like, depending on your theme. Some examples of themes include a classic magical fairy garden, a farm-inspired garden or a even a festive-themed garden depending on the time of year.

8. Host a teddy bear's picnic.

Just like in the song, if you go down in the woods today, you're sure of a big surprise... But don't worry, you don't have to go into the woods to enjoy a teddy bear's picnic; still though, you might still be surprised at how much your little ones will get out of this classic fun. Get the children to get a nice big blanket out, gather all their teddies and they'll have fun for hours.

9. Create a time capsule and bury it in the garden.

Time capsules can be as small as a tin can or as big as you choose for them to be. They can also be filled with anything you like - notes to your future selves, items that represent the present or anything else you can think of!

10. Play Outdoor Bingo.

We've made a Bingo Card for exploring The Great Outdoors. You could also make your own, based on what's in your garden or what's in your local area.