Spending quality outdoor time with your family is one of the most important things we can do in life. It brings us closer together by allowing us to devote our full attention to each other. It helps reduce stress and detangles us from the noise of the world around us. And it reconnects us to the restorative power of nature.

Here are some fun ideas for bringing your family closer together while remaining close to home.

The Family that Walks Together

Never underestimate what a good walk will do for your psyche and the overall health of your family. Taking a short walk outside can reenergize your spirits, get the circulation moving and invites some great conversation. And don’t forget the dog! Grab a leash and bring your faithful furry family member along for the fun.

DOG SUPPLIES

Build a Family-Sized Fort

Grab the pillows, blankets and anything else your family comes up with and build an epic fort together. Building like this inspires creativity, teamwork and is an absolute blast. Plus, once you’re done, you have a special spot where the whole family can hang out, play board games and tell stories.

BEDDING

PILLOWS

Let the (Backyard) Games Begin

There is nothing more gratifying than a good backyard game. Whether you create a home bocce court, toss a ball around or stick to a classic game of tag, the fun and joy your family will experience is something they (and you) won’t soon forget.

GAMES & RECREATION

The Hunt is On

Looking for something different to do? Found it! Send everyone on a backyard/indoor scavenger hunt to engage their minds and tickle their funny bone with a series of clues that lead them to fun discoveries. Be sure to let everyone create their own scavenger hunt for hours of family entertainment.

Check out these NATURE-BASED SCAVENGER HUNT IDEAS from our friends at Hike It Baby.

Go Indoor Camping

Missing those family camping trips? Set up camp in the backyard or bring the outdoor experience indoors with an in-house camping event. Clear some space for a tent (or two), unroll your sleeping bags and turn off the lights for some flashlight-illuminated ghost stories. Don’t forget the s’mores. Make them safely over the stove or pop them in the microwave for some instant gratification.

TENTS

SLEEPING BAGS

Enjoy the Moment, Together

One way we can all remain positive and connected to the outdoors is through the many benefits of meditation and yoga. Set up daily sessions in the backyard or inside the home for the whole family to press pause on everything and just be in the moment.

5 HEALTHY BREAKS FOR DAYS AT HOME

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