5 Ways to Suggest Kids Go Outside to Play

When I can tell my kids need to get outside and get some of their energy out, sometimes I sort of lure them out, without explicitly telling them “go outside.”

Here are 5 easy ways to “suggest” your kids go outside to play…

1. If you have a back door, leave the door open for a few minutes (if it doesn’t work, repeat a few minutes later). Place their shoes by the door, voila.

2. Say something like “I wonder if it’s nice outside– probably not.”

3. Ask them to go out and pick up a toy or ball if there’s a toy to put away. They may go outside to pick up the toy and end up staying out there for awhile.

4. Ask them to check on something for you.  Anything. Maybe you have a rain gauge, bird’s nest, etc. they could check. Again, they may end up staying outside and getting some much-needed fresh air.

5. Ask them to water a plant or bring in something from the garden if you have a garden.

My kids seem to respond better if something is their idea. I try to save the “go outside” for desperate occasions (=.

Of course younger kids will need to be supervised, but these ideas may still work for them, depending how your yard is set up. You can be going in and out as the parent, especially with older kids. You may also have a great view from a window and you can stand at your sink doing dishes and keeping an eye on the kids.

Do you have any other ways to add to the list? I’d love to hear more ideas.

~ Carrie

Linked With: