
The Best Affordable Rain Gear for Kids: My Top Picks for Wet Weather Play
Rainy days don’t have to be a wash. I’ve rounded up my favorite affordable rain gear picks for kids—because getting outside in wet weather is way more fun when everyone stays dry (and your wallet does, too). These kid-approved finds are durable, budget-friendly, and made for mud-splattered adventures.

How 15 Minutes Outside Every Day Transformed My Kids’ Independent Play
What started as a desperate mom move to survive the toddler chaos turned into one of the best parenting decisions I’ve ever made. Just 15 minutes outside every day—no fancy activities, no big expectations—transformed how my kids play. Here’s how a tiny habit grew our outdoor routine, built confidence, and gave me my sanity back.

How to Enjoy Nature When You Live in a City
Living in a city doesn’t mean you have to miss out on nature! In this post, I’m sharing simple and creative ways to help your kids experience nature wherever you live.

Marco Island, FL Recap
Looking for a laid-back, family-friendly vacation spot? Marco Island is our go-to for sun-soaked days spent swimming, biking, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Read on for our full trip recap and why Marco Island will always be special to us!

My Family Travel Essentials: Must-Have Gear for Smooth Trips
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful! Whether you’re flying, road-tripping, or just heading out for a weekend getaway, these travel-friendly products will keep your family comfortable and your sanity intact. Check out my top picks and make your next trip a breeze!


10 Outdoor Valentine’s Day Activities for Kids
Forget the sugar overload—this Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate outside? Whether you have snow, rain, or sunshine, these simple nature-inspired activities make it easy to enjoy fresh air, movement, and a little extra love.

10 Simple Ways to Get Your Kids Outside More in 2025
Discover 10 simple and stress-free ways to get your kids outside more in 2025.

5 Outdoor Activities You Can Set Up in Under 5 Minutes
Outdoor play doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest ideas (that take almost no effort) are the ones that keep kids engaged the longest. Here are 5 activities you can set up in under 5 minutes.

10 Outdoor Activities for a Memorable New Year’s Eve & Day
New Year’s Eve and Day are the perfect time to slow down, get outside, and create simple, meaningful memories as a family. You don’t need big plans or elaborate events—just a little fresh air and creativity!

My Outdoorsy Gift Guides
Struggling to find the perfect gift for the outdoorsy kid in your life? With 11 curated gift guides, there’s something here for every young explorer!

3 Signs Your Toddler is Ready for Independent Outdoor Play
Are you wondering if you can let your toddler play independently outside? You CAN and I’m here to spill the beans on what signs to look for and tips to ease into independent outdoor play!

5 Fall Leaf Play Activities
Check out 5 easy leaf activities you can do with your kids that require little more than what’s already outside!

Why Your Kid Needs to Play With Big Kids and Littles Outside
Mixed-age outdoor play isn’t just fun—it’s a chance for kids to learn from each other, grow in confidence, and build real-world skills.

Plants We Eat: Sensory Observation Activity
This fun, easy activity helps children observe and connect with nature while learning about the plants we eat

Exploring Chicago with Kids: 5 Free Outdoor Adventures You Can’t Miss
Explore the best free outdoor activities Chicago has to offer for families!

How to Encourage Independent Outdoor Play in Babies and Toddlers
Did you know that independent outdoor play can start as early as infancy? In this post, I’m sharing how even babies and toddlers can begin exploring the outdoors on their own, with simple, safe activities that encourage confidence and creativity. From sensory play with leaves to digging in the dirt, learn practical ways to nurture your little one’s independence and get them excited about playing outside!

what I’m reading lately
In Raising Emotionally Strong Boys, David Thomas emphasizes the importance of limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor play to support boys' emotional health. Learn how nature can help your boys release energy, process big emotions, and build resilience in a screen-dominated world.


Our End-of-summer outdoor family traditions
How we’re celebrating the end-of-summer with our favorite outdoor family traditions!