Are brain stimulating outdoor activities for kids going out of style? Playing outdoors seems to be less popular among today’s students compared to previous generations. Students may be saying inside more because they spend more time watching television or playing games on computers and tablets. Here are some outdoor activities for kids that will get students to spend some time outside.
Outdoor activities for kids using a map of the neighbourhood
Today’s society relies heavily on GPS devices and smart phones to direct us to where we are going. Some students may never have used a paper map before. There are a lot of activities that can be done using maps. So first and foremost students can create a map of their neighbourhood. They can go on a walk around their area and stop along the way to fill in the different streets and landmarks such as parks or stores.
Kids can learn how to use a compass
After the students have created a map of their neighbourhood they can learn to use a compass. If the student doesn’t have a compass they can follow these instructions to make their own compass by using a magnet, a needle, a piece of cork and a container filled with water. Once the compass is oriented, students can mark the proper directions on their neighbourhood map. The compass can be used for the following fun outdoor activities for kids as well.
Kids will love doing scavenger hunts around the neighbourhood
A parent or older sibling can help prepare the clues for a scavenger hunt. The students can then follow the clues and use their compass and neighbourhood map to complete the scavenger hunt. This activity could include more kids from the neighbourhood as well. If the students are up for an even bigger challenge they can make up their own scavenger hunt for someone else to complete.
Geocaching: the ultimate treasure hunt
Geocaching is a fantastic outdoor activity for students who are really interested in real live treasure hunts. Geocaching actually combines technology and the outdoors. A GPS device must be used to locate a specific set of coordinates where some sort of treasure is hidden. There are people who participate in hiding and searching for geocaches all over the world. Younger students should be accompanied by an adult when geocaching in unfamiliar or heavily wooded areas to ensure the student’s safety. You can search for geocaches near you on this website.
Encouraging students to do more outdoor activities is good for their bodies and their brains. Research shows that people who do physical activities learn better. Doing these outdoor activities for kids can be fun and they will get students out of the house. Perhaps they will even develop an interest in Geography!
