As a homeschool family, we are afforded so much freedom - freedom in how our kids learn and what they learn. Oftentimes, an essential freedom that is overlooked – WHERE they learn. While textbooks and structured lessons and field trips play a critical role, there is something that is equally, if not more, important: time spent outside.
For all of us – kids and parents alike – connecting with nature is more than just a break from routine; it’s vital for emotional, physical, and mental health. I recently saw an Insta reel suggesting you should spend an hour outside every day, and if you feel you don’t have time for that, you need two hours.
Here are our thoughts on why prioritizing outside time should be a cornerstone in the rhythm of your school day.
As a homeschool family, we are afforded so much freedom. Oftentimes, an essential freedom that is overlooked – WHERE they learn.
Why Outside is Best
Grounding and Emotional Wellness: Nature has an incredible way of grounding us (figuratively AND literally!). Feeling the earth beneath your feet, touching leaves, or watching the clouds drift by can reduce stress and anxiety for both children and adults. Our modern lives are filled with hustle and busyness, taking this intentional time of mindfulness can help restore balance and calm the mind.
Fresh Air for Clearer Thinking: Spending time outside provides a much-needed break from indoor air and artificial lighting. Fresh air makes you feel better and helps you think better! Taking a break to go outside can help children return to their work with renewed focus; time away from the lesson and out in nature makes them more efficient and can actually save you time (and frustration).
Physical Movement for Stronger Bodies: Climbing trees, running through fields, hopping over stones, chasing lizards – nature is a playground waiting to be explored. The movement that naturally comes when children go outside benefit their physical development in so many ways – it strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and helps children develop a love for movement (if they didn’t already have the natural inclination for such). Physical activity is also linked to better sleep, improved behavior, and increased academic performance. Hands up if you love the idea of better sleep!!
Practical Ideas for Getting Outside
Take a Walk: A simple walk around your neighborhood or a local park can spark curiosity and provide countless learning opportunities. Observe plants, animals, weather. Go on a rainbow hunt & see how many colors you can find in nature.
Start a Nature Journal: Encourage your child to draw or write about what they see, hear, and feel during their time outside. This can lead to lessons in art, science, and creative writing. Try taking up the habit yourself, too. Teach by example and experience the benefits yourself!
Grounding Activities: Go barefoot in your backyard or a safe outdoor area. Grounding connects your body to the earth’s natural energy and promotes relaxation.
Do School Outside: You can get creative and incorporate the outdoor space into your lessons. Or just grab your family read aloud book and sit under the shade of a tree while reading. It doesn’t have to be over the top, it just has to be outside!
Practice Stillness: Try a "sit spot" practice, where your child spends 5-10 minutes quietly observing nature around them (you know your child and how long is realistic for them – even starting with 30 seconds of intentional stillness and observation is a good first step in developing the skill of stillness and mindfulness).
Recommended Resources
1000 Hours Outside by Ginnie Yurich: A movement encouraging families to spend 1000 hours a year outdoors. Their blog and planners offer practical tips for incorporating nature time into your daily routine.
Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv: This transformative book discusses the growing disconnect between children and nature, coining the term “nature deficit disorder.” It’s an inspiring read for parents and it is filled with practical applications and ideas on how to get your kids moving and get your family outside.
Forest School Foundation: Look into forest schools or outdoor learning groups in your area. These programs are designed to foster curiosity, independence, and a deep love of the natural world.
Raising a Wild Child by Scott D. Sampson: This book explores the important role of outdoor play and nature exploration in children's development. Filled with practical tips and scientific research, it encourages parents to make outdoor adventures a natural part of their lives.
How to Incorporate Outside Time into Homeschooling
Homeschooling allows for incredible flexibility, which makes it easier to weave outside time into your day. Here are a few suggestions:
Start the Day Outside: Begin with a walk, a round of stretching, or quiet observation in nature to set a positive tone for the day.
Make It Part of Learning: Use nature for hands-on science experiments, sketching in art class, or storytelling inspiration in writing.
Set Goals: Challenge your family to spend a certain amount of time outside each day or week. Use tools like the 1000 Hours Outside tracker to stay motivated.
The Lasting Impact of Outside Time
By prioritizing time outside, you’re doing more than just taking a break from screens and schedules – you’re creating space for curiosity and connection. You’re giving your children the chance to explore and grow in ways they never could by sitting indoors. And in the process, you’ll find that fresh air and open spaces do just as much for you as they do for them. So, lace up your shoes (or not!), grab your kids, and head outside. The best classroom is waiting just beyond your door.
So, lace up your shoes (or not!), grab your kids, and head outside. The best classroom is waiting just beyond your door.
Comments