10 Simple Ways to Get Your Kids Outside More in 2025

If you’re like me, getting your kids outside more is always somewhere on the list of goals. Fresh air and breaking out from the walls of our home (especially in the winter!) almost always acts as an instant reset of everyone’s mood. Life gets busy, the weather feels blah, and sometimes staying inside feels a lot easier than bundling up to go outside for 15 minutes.

But I’ve learned something over the years—the little moments - even the 15 minute ones - add up!

If your goal is to spend more time outside with your kids in 2025, here are 10 simple ways to get started—no prep, no stress.

1. Eat meals outside
As far as I’m concerned, it’s a win:win - you get outside and your kitchen stays clean!

2. Walk to the mailbox
A quick walk to grab the mail or just to the end of your street adds up over time, and it’s often enough to reset a cranky mood!

3. Collect sticks in the backyard
Kids + sticks = endless fun. Give them a basket and let them gather as many as they can find. It’s simple but oddly satisfying for them.

4. Listen to music outside
Play your favorite tunes and have a dance party out there.

5. Walk to errands
Need to pick something up from the store? Turn it into a walk. Or maybe you drive to the store, but walk a loop around the block before returning to your car.

6. Read books outside
Grab your family’s favorite books and enjoy a readaloud.

7. Park farther away
Instead of parking near the entrance, park a little further away and get those extra steps in.

8. Jump in puddles
No explanation necessary with this kid favorite!

9. Visit a playground for 30 minutes
It doesn’t have to be an all-day adventure. A quick trip to the playground lets kids run around and put all that energy to use.

10. Spend 5 minutes outside before school
What a great way to start the day by getting some fresh air. Depending on the time of year, you might even catch a pretty sunrise!

The goal isn’t perfection or endless hours of outdoor time—it’s just about creating small moments outside that feel manageable, getting outside, and enjoying the benefits that nature has to offer for the whole family!