This blog of mine is all about helping children and parents have fun in the Rocky Mountains.  I have been explaining all kinds of interesting things about the natural world in the Rocky Mountains because I think it is important for people and especially children to have a better appreciation and wonder of the world around them.

Remember though that all this information you can read about should not serve as a replacement for actually spending time outdoors.  Parents can read or talk to your children about mammals, about the difference between a bird nest and bird roost, or common fish of the Rockies.  But, nothing, yes absolutely nothing, can replace spending time outdoors exploring with your child.

The number one thing that you can do as a parent to help your child enjoy the outdoors is to make sure you get him or her outside as often as possible.

I know that sounds like a pretty simple thing to do, but it is easy to get caught up in different things and let days go by where you don’t get out.  As a parent we need to show our children that we are still curious about the natural world.  Your children will see your interest and will begin to emulate you and develop an interest and wonder in the natural world for themselves.

Getting your child outside does not necessarily mean that you have to go for a hike or camping in Rocky Mountain National Park every other day.  Try going to the local park with your child and just exploring the area.  I bet if you keep your eyes and ears open you will find all kinds of amazing wonders – such as insects, seeds from different trees (you can talk about how trees reproduce and spread seeds), or birds.

Wintertime makes it more difficult to simply go outside and play at the local park, but you can still do it.  Take the extra time to layer up your kids and yourself with warm clothes and just walk into the backyard or to the local park.  And remember, you do not need to be teaching the entire time.  Just go outside and play with your kids.