OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS
I know, I know… it’s cold and wet outside. Quite frankly getting outdoors for some fresh air and to educate the kids just doesn’t sound too appealing right now. But, I promise you, it can be fun even during the colder months.
First things first, just like with everything in life, things rarely go to plan. Don’t let this put you off though - go with the flow and there will be learning opportunities at every corner.
Do I need any specialist equipment?!
You don’t need anything particularly specialist but puddlesuits / waterproofs and Wellington boots are fairly essential in my book. As long as everyone is wrapped up for whatever the weather throws at us, the kids will enjoy it. I swear by Regatta puddlesuits as Erin and Rory have practically swam in waist-height puddles and still come out bone dry underneath. Having said that, we’ve previously bought supermarket brand ones which worked just as well. Likewise with wellies, you don’t need to spend a fortune. I bought the Next ones this year as they are partly fleece-lined so a little warmer and more of a snug fit. My top tip - put the puddlesuit legs OVER the boots. It stops the wells from filling up and you having to take half of the estuary home with you.
Aside from suitable outerwear, there is a whole bundle of useful equipment you could take but not essential. Chalk is great (weather dependent) for practising letter formation, art and maths. Measuring tapes are handy too and a camera (your phone is fine!) Is perfect for capturing special moments or taking photos of trees, flowers and birds that your child would like to know more about. I’ll be honest, my bird knowledge is minimal so we often look stuff up once we’re home. A clipboard is also great if you are taking any papers out with you, such as scavenger hunt sheets, for example, or to do leaf/bar rubbings while you’re out.
But what can we actually do in the winter months?
It’s not just about puddle jumping in the winter months, as fun as that is…
Mud painting is brilliant and you can take out some old paintbrushes or make your own with twigs and leaves/grass, depending on how creative you’re feeling.
Find stones or trees to ‘paint’ with the mud or use chalk mixed with water as a white paint too.
How about playing a game of skittles? Build some towers from stones and use smaller stones to knock them down.
You could also try making stars from twigs and twine - these are perfect as festive decorations too.
Or why not do a bit or bird spotting and keep a record somewhere safe? You could go back to the same place in the summer time and compare.
