Outdoor Activities for 7 Year Olds
As parents, it can be challenging to keep our kids active and engaged with outdoor activities, especially in the age of smartphones and tablets. But getting children outdoors and connecting them with nature can have a multitude of benefits for their physical health and emotional well-being. To help you plan some fun and safe outdoor activities for your 7-year-olds, we have curated a list of exciting ideas that they will love.
1. Gardening
Introducing your child to the art of gardening can provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about plants and their growth cycle. It can also instill a sense of responsibility as they take care of and nurture their garden. Get them involved in preparing the soil, planting seeds, and watering the plants. Watching their plants grow can be an incredibly rewarding experience for children.
2. Camping
Camping can be a fantastic way to bond with your child and introduce them to the wonders of nature. Plan a weekend trip to a local campsite and let your child set up a tent, gather firewood, and roast marshmallows. Encourage them to explore the natural surroundings by going on a hike or a nature walk. Camping can also provide an opportunity for your child to disconnect from technology and fully immerse themselves in the outdoors.
3. Geocaching
Geocaching is a modern treasure hunt that involves using a GPS to locate hidden treasure boxes or caches. It can be an excellent way to teach your child navigational skills and introduce them to the concept of maps. You can search for geocaches in your area using various online resources, and it’s free to participate in this fun outdoor activity.
4. Obstacle Courses
Setting up an obstacle course in your backyard can be an entertaining way to help your child develop their gross motor skills. You can use everyday household items such as cones, hula hoops, and jumping ropes to create a series of challenges that your child must overcome. You can also make it more exciting by adding water-based obstacles such as a sprinkler or a slip-n-slide.
5. Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be an incredibly peaceful and relaxing activity that can help your child develop an appreciation for nature. You can start by setting up a bird feeder in your backyard and observing the different types of birds that come to visit. You can also take a pair of binoculars and go on a nature walk to spot birds in their natural habitat. Many local parks and nature reserves also offer guided bird watching tours.
6. Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt can be a thrilling way to get your child outdoors and exploring their environment. You can create a list of items that your child needs to find in your backyard or a nearby park. It can be simple items like a leaf, a rock, or a feather, or more challenging items like a specific type of flower or a certain species of bird. The thrill of the hunt can keep your child engaged and excited to explore.
7. Biking
Biking can be a fantastic way to get your child’s heart pumping and build their stamina. You can take them on a scenic bike ride through a local park or nearby nature trail. Make sure to wear helmets and follow all safety rules. Biking can also be an excellent opportunity for you to bond with your child while enjoying some fresh air and exercise.
8. Nature Art
Encourage your child’s creativity by using the natural environment as inspiration. You can collect leaves, rocks, and sticks to create art pieces such as leaf rubbings or rock paintings. You can also use materials such as mud or sand to create sculptures or pottery. Creating art in nature can be a great way to build an appreciation for the environment and spark your child’s imagination.
9. Outdoor Photography
If your child loves taking pictures, consider taking them on an outdoor photography adventure. You can give them a disposable camera or a smartphone and encourage them to capture the beauty of nature. You can also go on a nature walk and point out interesting objects or scenes that they can photograph. Outdoor photography can be an excellent way to help your child connect with the environment and explore their creativity.
10. Rock Climbing
Rock climbing can be an exciting and challenging activity that can help build your child’s physical strength and coordination. You can take them to a local indoor climbing gym or find a natural rock climbing wall in a nearby park. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and use protective equipment such as helmets and climbing shoes. Rock climbing can be a great way to introduce your child to a new adventure sport and build their confidence.
Conclusion
There are plenty of fun and safe outdoor activities for 7-year-olds that can help them develop their physical, emotional, and cognitive skills. From gardening and camping to geocaching and rock climbing, these activities can provide a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. So, get outdoors and start exploring with your child today!
