Ideas for Easy And Frequent Outdoor Play

Chasing fireflies, building snowmen, collecting flowers and leaves–kids find endless adventure in the great outdoors. Founder of My Outdoorsy Mom, Julianne Nienberg focuses on outdoor play, building toddler independence, and nature-based family connection, so families can spend less time in front of screens and more time exploring outside. 

Here, she shares her tips on how to make outdoor play easy and even more fun. 

Can you tell us who you are and who you help?

I’m a mom of three, outdoor play advocate, and the voice behind My Outdoorsy Mom, where I help busy parents raise confident, curious kids through simple, screen-free nature play. Whether you live on a few acres or in a second-floor apartment (like I once did!), I show families how to get outside more—without overthinking it.

What’s one common challenge you see parents facing around exploring the outdoors with toddlers and young kids?

A lot of parents feel pressure to structure their kids' time outdoors. Toddlers and young kids don't need a scheduled activity to explore the outdoors; they just need space and time. The real challenge is slowing down our busy lives enough to give children the freedom to explore. When we allow them to wander, touch, climb—or pick up 37 rocks!—their curiosity blossoms and their confidence grows.

 

 

What are your top three tips for getting kids outdoors:

Start small and stay close. You don’t need to drive to a trailhead or pack for a full-blown hike. The greatest adventures in the eyes of a child can be made in your own backyard, driveway, or apartment courtyard. 

Embrace microadventures. What child doesn't love to jump in a puddle? With kids, embrace the micro, often simple, adventures. It might look like a walk to find the biggest stick. It could be listening for different birds in your backyard. It could be walking to your local library. The outdoors provides such a rich sensory experience—young kids thrive on wonder, not distance.

Use a visual timer. If your little one resists being outside, try setting a visual timer for 10–15 minutes and make it a goal to get outside every day for 15 minutes. It can take kids up to 45 minutes before they settle into deep play, so aim for 15 minutes for a whole week. The next week, aim for 30 minutes. Most kids will naturally extend their own play once they settle in.

What’s one piece of advice you wish more parents heard?

I wish more parents realized you don’t have to entertain your child the entire time you’re outside. And that young kids, as early as toddlers, can learn how to play independently outside, with parents nearby. It’s okay to step back and let boredom lead to creativity. Independence grows when you give them the space to try.

 

 

Where can our community find you online?

You can find me online at www.myoutdoorsymom.com

 on Instagram @myoutdoorsymom

or on my podcast, The My Outdoorsy Mom Podcast (available wherever you listen!).