Ahh, Fall. It is a top season around here for the TR family. We love it because it means winter is coming which is hands down our favorite time of the year! It also means that it is cold enough out that most of the bugs have gone, but warm enough out that we can still explore the outdoors without the risk of hypothermia.
We strongly encourage you and your fam to get out there and see the world, especially during this time of year.
Here are a few quick ideas of simple and easy ways to get a bit of outdoor exercise, smell the fresh air, and enjoy some together time:
Feed the Ducks: We like to loop this into a bike/trike ride to get our heart-rates pumping. But even if finding your local ducks means getting in the car, you’ll enjoy a worthwhile experience. Use it as a chance to talk about the changing seasons, the migratory nature of birds, and the importance of protecting your local environment. You can discuss Halloween costumes as you relax while feeding feathered friends. Or just use it as some simple unplugged bonding time with your best peeps.
Walk the Dog: Take Fido to a local dog-park, or dog-friendly nature area, to let everyone get fresh air and exercise. You are bound to find cool things: rotted logs, sunning snakes, or animal foot prints. Make a game out of counting and identifying all the different breeds of pups you run into while there!
Collect Leaves: Why wait for a school teacher’s assignment to learn about different types of trees? Challenge each person to find ten different leaves and then identify them, either on the spot (with a pocket Field Guide) or at home (with help from the internet). Teach and learn about conifers vs. deciduous trees, the cycle of seasons, and the circle of life. You can then make a nature collage out of your leafy finds.
Bake: Cooler weather means it is easier to run the oven without melting everyone inside. Cookies, pies, and fresh bread all beg to be created during this time of year. Use this time to experiment with recipes you’re considering using during the rapidly approaching Holiday season. As much fun as baking can be for the entire family, it is also a chance to sneak in some learning, too.
And when all of your exploring is complete for the day, wrap up your experiences with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or tea. Fall is just the best!
Remember: Fall means few or no bugs along the water, so you can break out and explore areas that might be off your list in the summer!