OutGrown Blog

After researching how practicing yoga can benefit hikers, I was curious about how families can benefit from practicing yoga together in our favorite setting: nature! I enlisted the help of my mama friend and yoga-instructor, Jolene McGuire, to discuss some of the benefits of family yoga. Jolene is the woman responsible for pulling me out of a recent yoga hiatus after some bad experiences with a few instructors, and she helped me fall back in love with the practice. She is 200-hour RYT certified and practices in southern Georgia. Together, we compiled a list of tips and strategies for encouraging kids to participate in yoga, along with some fun nature-inspired poses you can try on your next hike or outdoor adventure. Practicing yoga together benefits families Practicing yoga is a healthy way for families to bond, spend quality time together, unplug from everyday distractions and stay active together. It can bring a sense of stillness, joy, awareness and compassion that may be overlooked as we sometimes monotonously move throughout our daily lives. It’s also a very fun and creative way to allow our children to see us in a different light and perspective! It allows us to be silly, calm, engaging and it can also allow for the kids to be able to show the family some cool yoga moves that we as adults may be limited to do! There are various poses you can incorporate into a practice that can also be done as a couple or even together as an entire family (such as tree pose), which can increase the bond that much more. Finding a connection between yoga and nature One of the major components of yoga is developing self-awareness and exploring how we are linked to the environment around us and the earth beneath us. That is why many of the poses are focused on nature (tree pose, mountain pose, animal poses, etc.). When you practice yoga outside, it provides a greater union between your practice and nature, and intensifies the yoga experience. This is especially true if you use the elements in your practice (such as matching your breath to the breeze or letting the warmth of the sun help your muscles become more pliable). Or in the case of family nature yoga, using what you see around you to inspire your poses, even if they are not “true” yoga poses. Encouraging kids to participate in yoga Focus on fun over form. It’s more important that they are making fun family memories rather than how perfect their form is for the down-dog pose. Grab a “stick” almost like a communication stick so the child can take a moment to be the leader. Have them pick a yoga pose from something they’ve learned prior, like a list of relatable animal/nature pictures or make up their own, and they can “teach” everyone how to do it. Each child can take a turn at each designated yoga break. Have them use the wind as their guide to practice breathing techniques (“breathe in the breeze”). If you are ready for a break in your hike, ask the kiddos what they see (tree, bird, flowers, etc.) and ask if they can pretend to be what they see. You can do the pose yourself first to show what you mean or let them come up with one on their own! Use the letters of the alphabet to encourage a certain pose from yoga using kid-friendly names, such as alligator pose (any pose with chomping arm movements), butterfly, cat/cow, down dog, etc. Don't hesitate to make stuff up as long as they are learning and having fun!!! Looking to Nature for Yoga Poses Below are examples of some yoga poses inspired by nature and includes kid-friendly descriptions you can use. You can do these in any way you prefer, and they help break up the hike or refocus the kiddos. Mountain – Stand up tall with your feet planted on the ground and your palms facing forward. You are strong and steady like a mountain! Tree – Stand up tall and bring one foot to rest on your other leg, above or below the knee. With your leg rooted like a tree trunk, bring your arms up like tree branches. Grab hands with your friends to make a forest! Repeat on the other side. Bird (Warrior 3) – Starting in Mountain pose, extend your wings (arms) out to either side. Lean forward, lifting one leg straight behind you. "Fly” on both sides so your bird is balanced (bird noises are encouraged!). Rainbow – Stand up tall and reach your arms up, touching your hands together at the top. Then lean to one side to create half a rainbow. Repeat on the other side. You can also find a partner and create a whole rainbow together! Flower – Sitting up tall, bend your legs and place the bottoms of your feet together. Place your hands under your ankles and grab on to them. While sitting up tall, see if you can lift your feet off the ground and balance on your bottom. You are a blossoming flower! Butterfly – Sitting up tall on the ground, bend your legs and bring the bottoms of your feet together. Gently bounce your knees up and down as you flap your butterfly wings! Turtle – Sit on the ground with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Slide your feet closer to your body and let your knees fall open to the sides. Slide your hands underneath your legs so they look like turtle flippers under your legs. Snake – Lie on your stomach with your hands on the ground under your shoulders. Pushing through your hands, lift your head and shoulders up off the ground and give a great big hissssss. Downward Dog – Start on all fours with your hands shoulder-width apart. Spread your fingers and press your palms flat into the ground. Lift your tail into the sky, making an upside-down V shape. You can “walk” your dog by bending one leg at a time while straightening the opposite leg. (Barking and tail wagging is optional.) Frog – Start in a standing position and lower into a deep squat on your toes. Put your hands on the ground in front of you for balance. Once you are comfortable, jump into the air like a frog, being sure to “ribbit” as you hop. Lion – Start by kneeling on the ground, sitting on your heels with your hands in your lap. Clap your hands in your lap three times and then come up onto your knees. Open your claws, stick your tongue out, and make your eyes wide as you let out a great big ROAR! Butterfly Pose Does your family practice yoga together outside? Do you have other nature-inspired yoga poses you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below! Photos courtesy of Rebecca Hosley. Read more: Hiking and yoga – How practicing yoga can benefit hikers  

If you have kids, you’ve probably got some great outdoor habits with them. It’s different for every family, but maybe it’s going for a walk several days a week. Maybe it’s getting quality time in the yard or sandbox. Or maybe it’s outings that require some planning. The bottom line is that you’ve got some great routines for getting out the door and for exploring as a family. But when you have kids of varying ages, you have the additional challenge of finding activities that allow for multi-age play. While those routines you've perfected running out the door with a new baby might still work, it gets much harder as that baby grows and wants to join in their older siblings' fun. With an older child, your routines probably came together over time based on his or her growing interests and activity level. But once it’s time to shift your focus to entertaining multiple age groups, it’s a whole new world. And it's especially true when it comes to engaging a variety of age groups on trail. With summer break in full swing (or nearly there depending on where you live), it’s more important now than ever to get your kids outdoors! The Benefit of Multi-Age Play It's surprisingly easy to find activities that will speak to a variety of age groups. Don't overthink it. Really. Moreover, there are some great benefits to multi-age play. In fact, according to Peter Gray, Ph.D., it’s good for kids of all ages. And Gray, a research professor in the department of psychology at Boston College, has written extensively on the ideas that: Younger children can learn from activities that they can’t master without assistance (think games like Catch). Older children can learn how to be more creative, and by working with younger kids, they gain a better understanding of whatever they’re doing. It’s a principle that you’ll find in a variety of education theories. How to Put It Into Action on Trail So now we’ve established how great it is for child development, it's also critical for families who want to explore together. But how do we put it into action? What are some activities that can involve kids of all ages? Some basic ideas might be: Park and plays – Park and plays never get old, even if there’s no equipment. Infants can sit on blankets and play while older kids run around. Adventures at the zoo – While not a traditional “trail,” it’s one that kids of all ages can definitely enjoy. Do a “get there” walk – Bring strollers, bikes and running shoes and let the kids drive the activity. Let older kids bike or jog, and haul the younger kids in the stroller. Puddle jumping – It's no secret kids enjoy mud, especially right after the rain, so why not let them jump and play in mud ... just remember to bring some clothes, socks and shoes. Specific Multi-Age Play Activities But what do you do when you're actually on trail? Some ideas to keep everyone interested: Scavenger hunts are great! Younger kids who can identify things can find more basic items, while older kids can get more detailed things on the list. For example, instead of leaves, they could find leaves of different shapes and colors. Better yet, you can group into teams and pair up older kids with younger kids (adult supervision may be a good idea!) Play on-trail games with alternating leaders. Let each child who is old enough to speak have a turn as the “leader.” Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says come to mind. A staged "run." Encourage older kids to run ahead to a specific landmark – be it a sign post, a tree, a bridge, etc. – and then run back to you. Or add additional physical activities for older kids with 10 jumping jacks before returning. By letting them run in stages like this, they won't get totally bored when their sibling stops to explore every leaf. Then again, they might start drawing with sticks in the dirt alongside the littles. Focus on interests and simplicity. Design activities your older children are interested in, but simplified for younger kids to follow along with. Older child adores dinosaurs? Do a dinosaur-themed walk – whether with costumes or using T-Rex voices – and ask them what they think a dinosaur would do at various stages along the trail. There are, of course, endless possibilities for activities here. And a lot of it depends on your kids or your group. The bottom line is that there is fun to be had outside, and there’s something in it for everyone – even kids who are most interested in eating dirt instead of playing in it. What are some of your favorite experiences with multiple-age groups outside? Let us know in the comments below. READ MORE: The Age Gap: How Siblings Help Each Other on Trail Limited Freedom: Why the Park and Play Is My Favorite “Hike” for Toddlers Nature-Based Scavenger Hunts, Your New Hiking Friend More on Winter Hiking With Infants, Toddlers and Children Hiking With Older Kids: How to Continue the Adventure Photos by Ali Chandra and Jessica Human.

Summer is here, which means travel and vacation season is upon us! While beaches and resorts may scream summer vacation, there are plenty of ways to get in a good adventure that will bring your family memories for years to come! Let the following books inspire you for an adventure-filled summer. Backpacker ABCs by Heather Legler Backpacker ABCs is a great way to introduce your young ones to adventures in backpacking, and it encourages them to, "Hike your own hike." Whether or not you want to backpack with young children, this book is a great way to introduce this adventure to your child. From packing up the car to a quote from John Muir, this book will show your young hikers all the beauty that a backpacking trip can offer. Filled with beautiful illustrations and rhyme, Backpacker ABCs makes an excellent read aloud for children from birth through preschool and beyond. For free printables, coloring book, read-along video, and parent and teacher resources, visit backpackerABCs.com. Author Heather Legler is also the host of The First 40 Miles, a podcast especially for those new to backpacking. National Parks Guide U.S.A. by National Geographic Kids Is your summer traveling taking your to a national park this year? If so, grab a copy of National Parks Guide U.S.A., the kids' companion to National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the U.S. In this guide, you'll be able to read about the different regions of the country and the national parks that find their homes in each region. Within each region, there is a guide for the specific national parks where readers will find pictures, history, and websites. The individual sections also provide ranger tips, where to find the best views, checklists for what to do, and maps showing some of the sites you don't want to miss! Readers will also be able to discover what plant and animal life to expect in each of the parks. This guidebook would be especially helpful in getting older children excited for a trip to a national park, and it will have them planning trips for the future too! Kids' Guide to Camping by Cherie Winner If you're taking a camping trip this summer, this book will be great for your older kids. Focusing on answering questions including Where Can I Go?, What Will I Eat?, and How Do I Make Camp? allows readers to be prepared for their wilderness adventure. Pictures and lists accompany each section of the book as well as tips (including not offering food to raccoons and what gear to include in your first aid kit). Recipes are also provided so you can bring the comforts of home to your campsite. The book also includes a real working compass to help guide you on the trails! Oregon and Washington 50 Hikes with Kids by Wendy Gorton If you're a Pacific Northwest family, or traveling out West this summer, this helpful and beautifully designed trail guide will inspire you to explore all that Oregon and Washington has to offer. This colorful and engaging trail book covers 50 hikes in Washington and Oregon for families with kids. All hikes are easy to moderate hikes under 4 miles, and it includes fun scavenger ideas for each hike! The author provides an estimated time to hike and explore, an elevation gain map, fee and bathroom information, and fun things to look for on each hike. However, the times to complete the hike seem to be more geared toward older kids, so be sure to add more time on to the hike if hiking with young walkers. Hike It Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures with Babies and Toddlers by Shanti Hodges No matter where your travels take you this summer, or any time of year, keep this resource handy to help you find toddler-friendly trails anywhere in the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska. With vivid photos and recommendations provided by locals from each state's Hike it Baby community, you're sure to add these trails to your family's bucket list. In addition to trail reviews, 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures also provides tips for families, such as how to use the restroom on trail, nursing during a hike, making homemade granola bars and more, and inspirational stories from families who also share the love of the outdoors. "Oregon and Washington 50 Hikes with Kids" review by Christina Merhar, and "Hike it Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures" review by Vong Hamilton. Hike it Baby now has a Goodreads Group! Join today and add books to our bookshelf! Looking for more member reviews? Search our blog for other Book Review posts!  Submit your review here for a chance to be included in an upcoming blog post! 

Looking for that perfect hike in Hawaii for young children? Whether you’re new to hiking with your baby or toddler, or you’re looking for a new trail to explore, the Hike it Baby community is a valuable resource for finding family hiking trails around the country. In this article, we share three beautiful hikes in Hawaii to explore with babies and young children. Hiking with young children (under 5 years old) is different from hiking with school-age children. These three hikes in Hawaii offer families of young children beautiful trails to explore while considering the unique ways young children hike, wander, doddle and explore.  While there are thousands of trails to explore in Hawaii, our local Hike it Baby branches recommend these three hikes that are close to metro areas, accessible by all-terrain strollers and beautiful to explore with young children. Lulumahu Falls, Honolulu, Oahu, HI Lulumahu Falls, located not too far from Waikiki Beach, is a 2-mile out-and-back trail that is off the beaten path. The trail is tucked away off the Pali Highway and takes you through a bamboo forest, the Honolulu Water Board Supply, and the Nu’uanu Reservoir. After the reservoir, you'll climb stone stairs and be greeted by a gorgeous view of the Koʻolau mountain range. Following that, there are several streams to cross and rocks to climb, which the kiddos will enjoy, before reaching the waterfall. The waterfall is amazing! Pack a snack , stand under the Falls or just stand back and admire another one of Hawaii’s magical wonders. –Andrea Sauka Please note: Lulumahu Falls is on private government property and a day-use permit is required in advance for entrance. There are no restrooms, water fountains or other amenities. Also, it's advised to avoid the trail when it rains as it gets muddy and can be dangerous. Photo courtesy of Andrea Sauka. La Perouse Bay Trail, La Perouse Bay, Maui, Hawaii La Perouse Bay Trail is a 4.6-mile trail that is part of the Hoapili Trail, which totals 12.5 miles along the southern coast of Maui. The trail begins at a horse corral and goes through lava beds that were formed two centuries ago when Haleakala last erupted in 1790. There are two routes you can choose on this trail. One travels through the lava field among lava rocks and is more toddler-friendly, though hot. The other hugs the shore and carrying a baby is advised. If you need to cut the hike short, the first sandy beach is .5 mile into the hike. There, you’ll see reef fish and sea turtles frolicking in the water. Morning is a good time for a hike as you'll most likely spot dolphins snacking on small schools of fish for breakfast. And if you visit between November and February, you'll see whales spouting off the coastline. Our family loves this hike because it has everything, including several beaches to stop at, forest, shrubland and lava rock. The rock scrambling and tide pools are great and, of course, there are epic vistas of the South Shore. –Tommy Barton Please note: Lava rock is sharp, so be careful of little walkers stumbling off the trail or venturing out onto the rocks. And try to stay on the main trail so as not to disrupt any growth in the lava rocks. Photo courtesy of Tommy Barton. Likeke Falls Trail, Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii Likeke Falls Trail is a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail that is easy for younger kids. The hike starts out on a little road where you'll pass a chain link fence and pass a graffiti-covered water tank. There is a large tree carved with more graffiti half a mile up the trail with an arrow pointing in the direction of the waterfall. Then you'll pass through a tunnel that was formed through a messy bush of trees. When the trail starts to get a little wet with water flowing on it, you’ll know you’re close to the falls, where you can splash at the end of a hot hike. With this trail, I liked that there aren’t too many steep drop-offs to get to the waterfall, so I was more comfortable letting my son wander around on the trail. Also, it is a shorter hike but with a great reward! –Maureen Cooper Please note: Expect some uneven footing as you get closer to the waterfall. Also, the lushness of this hike means mosquitoes are plentiful, so juice up with bug spray. You can park at the Ko'olau Golf Club near the First Presbyterian Church; however, the church asks that on Sundays hikers park after 11:30 a.m. Photo courtesy of Maureen Cooper. More Resources for Families with Young Children Hawaii offers an abundance of trails for families with young children. For more family hike ideas, see: Hike it Baby calendar (or connect with the local branch) Hike it Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures with Babies and Toddlers – A Book by Hike it Baby Founder Shanti Hodges Read more: 3 Beautiful Hikes in Washington State for Young Children 3 Amazing Hikes for Young Children in Oregon First time hiking with kids? Helpful tips to get out on trail What are your favorite hikes in Hawaii for families with babies, toddlers and young children? Leave a comment below! Trail reviews contributed by Andrea Sauka, Tommy Barton, Maureen Cooper and Shanti Hodges.

Summertime is here, which means one thing (at least to a former teacher): summer vacation! While we tend to plan all the things we want to do or see at our vacation destination, what about the journey to get to that destination? I grew up in a military family, so our vacations usually consisted of long road trips across the country to visit family. I remember watching my parents pore over maps and guidebooks to find places to stop along the way to stretch our legs or experience new things. Technology has skyrocketed since my childhood, and one phrase comes to mind now: “There’s an app for that!” Or in this case, dozens of them. But which ones do you choose? With the help of suggestions from members in two of our Facebook support pages, HiB Military and HiB Travel, I downloaded and tested various apps on a recent family road trip. Below is a list of my top 6 FREE travel apps and how they can enhance your next road trip experience. 1. Roadtrippers Aptly named, this app has a lot to offer anyone taking an extended trip on the road. Looking to take a break from driving or have restless toddlers asking, “How much longer?” This app is perfect for that! When you open the app and click on the “Search and Explore” box at the top, there are various options like hotels, things to do, food and drink, outdoors, etc., to select. You can map out a route and find attractions along the way or even browse pre-made trip guides from other users to discover some pretty cool trips near you. This app is best known for helping you find those quirky, off-the-beaten-path attractions that create some awesome memories. You can even choose options to narrow your search further. For example, Christine from the Hike it Baby Omaha Branch discovered Foamhenge (a full-scale Styrofoam replica of Stonehenge) while on a road trip with her family in Virginia thanks to this app. Photo by Christine Stewart 2.  iExit Will you be traveling on an exit-based highway during your trip? This app uses your phone's GPS to find your location on a highway and displays a list of amenities at each upcoming exit, including gas stations, hotels, restaurants, hospitals and many more. As a bonus, it also displays gas prices for upcoming gas stations along with Yelp review ratings for nearby restaurants. Clicking on the Yelp review icon next to a restaurant will open the Yelp app to give you more information about the restaurant. 3. Yelp You may already be familiar with this app, but it has come in handy numerous times for us while road tripping. We have a list of restaurant chains that we love, but can’t find in upstate New York, so those are the first we search for when traveling. Also, we try to visit the highly rated mom-and-pop shops when we are on the road to support local, small businesses. We have discovered some pretty tasty, oddball food this way, not to mention amazing coffee! It certainly adds to the family road trip memories! To use the app, either enter a restaurant name or type of food you are looking for, and it will give you a list along with their distance, location on a map, and ratings from other customers. Clicking on a restaurant will bring up further information about hours of operation, menu choices, if it’s kid-friendly and much more. You can also search for drugstores, shopping, etc., using this app. 4. All Trails This may sound like an odd app to include in a travel list, but we tend to take “hike breaks” to stretch our legs after hours of sitting, and this app is perfect for finding information on nearby trails! We used it when trying to decide which route to take when we stopped by Green Lakes State Park (which we found using the Roadtrippers app) halfway to our destination on a recent road trip. It will give you a map of the trail, a difficulty rating, and approximate distance and elevation gain for a trail. You can also read reviews from other hikers. A bonus is while you are hiking, you can click on the map for that trail within the app and it will show you your location on the trail by using your phone's GPS. That means no more confusion on if you are following the right trail or wondering how much farther the next trail junction is. Photo by Rebecca Hosley 5. Trip Advisor While this app is a great resource when planning what you want to see at your destination, it also works well to show you the top attractions, hotels, places to eat, etc., along the way. On our most recent trip, we arrived at our destination well before we could check in at our Airbnb house, so we loaded up this app and saw that one of the top-rated attractions, Presque Isle State Park, was nearby. We made a quick visit to the park and liked it so much that we ended up rearranging our plans to revisit it during our stay! Photo by Rebecca Hosley 6. Track My Tour This app is different from the others listed because rather than finding things to do, places to eat, or hotels for the night, it lets you track your journey and share it with friends and family. Think of it as a mini travel journal that helps you keep track of things you did, experiences you had, and memories you made. Throughout your journey, you can make waypoints along the way that include a location, a description, and even a photo of what you did. These points create a map and a link that you can share with family and friends so they can follow along on your journey. Here is an example of my recent short family road trip to Erie, Pa. For a more epic and extensive example, check out this Costa Rican trip by Jordan of the Hike it Baby Ann Arbor Branch. You can save up to two trips for free, or pay $11.99 for the premium version for unlimited maps. What apps do you use or tips do you have for making the journey to your destination memorable and fun for the whole family? Let us know in the comments below. Read More: Need a Kid-friendly Podcast for the Car? 'You're Welcome.' 6 Helpful Websites to Make Outdoor Adventure Planning Easy

One of the biggest challenges of hiking with a soft-structured carrier (SSC) is the lack of storage space for all the hiking supplies you think you may need. And when you have a kiddo not yet potty-trained, along with the usual supplies like water, snacks, cell phone, First Aid kit and that favorite toy that just couldn’t be left behind, you need to carry extra supplies like diapers, wipes and trash bags for dirty diapers. Without the extra storage that frame carriers offer, hiking with an SSC calls for a bit of creativity. And humor. You can never feel that you’ve packed “enough” supplies, but you can feel assured knowing that there are some options for you to pack the essentials without hiring a pack mule. Here are some tips from our Hike it Baby community to make your preparation a bit easier. Backpacks Alexandra, Salt Lake City Branch – On short-ish hikes, I wear a fanny pack from Matador that always stays in my car. Then I clip a water bottle onto my waistband with a carabiner. On longer hikes I have a fanny pack from Ultimate Direction that can hold two 1-liter bottles of water and a ton of snacks and supplies. On even longer hikes when I can hope my son does at least some hiking, I'll wear a Camelbak backpack (hoping to upgrade to a Deuter soon). If I have to wear my son, I'll put the backpack in front of me. If my 8yo is with us, he carries some water and most of our snacks in his Deuter Junior backpack. Alexandra Lyndsey, Monadnock Branch– I have an ErgoBaby backpack that I used until I switched to framed carriers. It attaches to the straps of a SSC so no extra straps on your shoulders/waist. Only downside is keeping an eye on weights since the backpack counts toward the carrier limit. It also has "normal" straps for using it without a carrier. Vanessa, Vancouver Branch– I wear a backpack with bladder on my front. It's heavy but it balances out the weight. At least that's what I tell myself to feel better. Melanie, Ringwood & Bergen County Branch – This is me carrying my 2-year-old daughter in a Tula with a backpack diaper bag over it. As long as the straps are long enough, it works! On this day, we did a 5-mile hike and I was carrying all of the essentials, plus lunch for the two of us and my other two kids (4 & 5 years old). I would have used a frame carrier, but I was also 7 months pregnant at the time and the frame carrier didn't agree with the bump!   Jordan, Ann Arbor Branch– We’ve done long, hot hikes with this [backpack] setup and it works best for us.  Fanny Packs Ashley – Fanny pack! Even when I tandem wear, the fanny pack prevails. Sarah – With a kiddo on my back, I use a MountainSmith lumbar pack worn as a crossbody bag. Nicole, Orange County Branch – Recently I started using my Toddler Tula and a really big fanny pack/runner's belt with 2 "cup holders" and a big compartment for snacks, an occasional 3rd water bottle, wallet, cell phone, keys, an extra pull-up or two, an extra shirt for my daughter (since her front gets sweaty from riding in the carrier and she usually likes to get out and walk/play in the middle of our hikes). This method has worked great for multiple hikes now, with mileage up to 6 miles. I'm planning to add some carabiners to the top of the fanny pack so I can attach a small bag or two for more supplies, including use as a stuff sack. I always carry my toddler on my back and fanny pack in front. Nicole Running/Biking Belts Kendra, Harrisburg Branch – I use a biker’s fanny pack. It has holders for my water, cell phone, snacks, etc. this is the one I got and I use it whenever I’m using my SSC. I use an Onya and I strap this around the bottom (waist) strap. I have a toddler so I carry him on my back and then have the fanny positioned on the front. Jessica, Harpers Ferry Branch – I got a nice waist pack that I can wear under the carrier. It carries snacks/treats, two water bottles, small first aid kit/emergency supplies, diaper/small amounts of wipes, phone, and keys. Plus, I generally have another water bottle I clip on for me and the little fanny pack thing that attaches to my carrier that ends up holding a couple little toys and miscellaneous things. I will say I'm always glad for lunchtime when we hike so my pack can get lighter! Jessica Crossbody bags Katie, Ann Arbor Branch–  I wear a crossbody bag under the carrier. I manage to squeeze a diaper, wipes, small first aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray and snacks in it. I clip our water bottle to the outside. I can't find a pic but I have this one Dakine Jo Jo Women's Crossbody Bag - Perfect Size - Fits Tablet - Adjustable Cross Body Shoulder Strap - Interior Zippered Pocket - 10" x 11" (Stella) Becca, Southern Adirondacks Branch – It’s hard to see in the photo, but I also use a crossbody bag. My husband calls it my clown bag because I can fit so much in there (diaper and wipes, Small first aid kit, snacks, sunscreen and bug spray, etc.). I usually clip a water bottle to the chest strap of the carrier so my bag doesn’t get weighed down awkwardly. I just throw it on over the carrier, and it has never bothered my rambunctious toddler. Becca Hosley We would also love to hear your creative tips for hiking with a soft-structured carrier in the comments below. Read More: Tandem babywearing tips - How to carry two small hikers Hard-framed carrier: Improve the quality of your hike Babywearing dad's review from wrap to soft-structured 5 Comfy and cozy winter carriers for babywearing Photos courtesy of Maricar Korff, Alexandra Wong, Melanie Lekaj, Jordan Else, Nicole Dominick, Jessica Sekula and Becca Hosley.   ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.  

Last year, Mark and Mason went on a father/son trip in search of epic hot springs. Over the course of a week, they visited four hot springs in Oregon. It was nice to have a break from parenting, but the jealousy I had from their amazing pictures made me realize how I never would have thought to go on a hot springs tour with Mason. (His dad is the creative one when it comes to thinking of big adventures.) While some people are nervous about babies in hot springs, we have found over the years there are varying degrees of springs – from very rustic to well established. But all of these, in our opinion, are kiddo-friendly. Here’s a handful of springs west of the Rockies to consider if you find yourself nearby.   7 Kid-friendly hot springs west of the Rockies 1. Saratoga Hot Springs, Utah County GPS: N40° 21' 11", W111°, SD-53, SD Saratoga Springs is a very family-friendly hot spring that you can get to with maybe half a mile hike. Located on the border of Utah County and Salt Lake County on the northwest side of Utah Lake, it’s close to Inlet Park. “The water wasn’t stinky and was relatively clear. My son loved the copious amounts of roly polys along the way,” said Katie Rains. Make sure to bring a plastic bag to put your clothes on, especially during shoulder seasons, as it can get pretty muddy around the edge of the springs. This springs stays relatively untrafficked, so other than maybe weekend evenings, you should be able to soak easily. 2. Miracle Hot Springs Address: 19073A U.S. 30, Buhl, ID 83316 While natural hot springs always make for a fun adventure, it’s also nice to visit established springs as well, especially if you are nervous about how your kiddo will do in the hot springs. Miracle Hot Springs is a very kid-friendly establishment in between Twin Falls and Boise that you can visit for the day or stay over. They have fun dome tent-like structures and camping options available. One of the reasons we like this springs is because it definitely feels clean and well taken care of. The design of the pools is adobe-style and feels more like New Mexico than Idaho. There are hot, medium and super kid-friendly temps. There are also private rooms you can rent to get away from the crowds and tub alone. Random side note: Don’t miss out on visiting the massive caged alligator located on the hot springs grounds. Fifth Water Hot Springs 3. Fifth Water Hot Springs Address: Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663 Located at the three forks trailhead in Diamond Fork Canyon, this popular natural soaking area is a bit of a hike (2.5 miles one way) so plan on carrying kiddos or only consider if they are good walkers. The road in is closed during snowy months, so this is not an all-season stop unless you have a 4-wheel drive and then it’s still questionable. This hot springs has a number of pools varying in temperature. It can get pretty crowded on the weekends, so if you are able to visit midweek, consider this. Nudity is frowned upon in this area, so please respect this. 4. Crystal Crane Hot Springs Address: 59315 OR-78, Burns, OR 97720 Southern Oregon has a handful of amazing hot springs to visit, with Crystal Crane being one of them. This tub is a big pond with affordable cabins and rooms scattered around it. There’s a community cook area and lounge, as well as a campground if you want to go super budget. The nice thing about this spot is it’s one place that would be hard pressed to fill up because the pond is truly a pond in size. It’s also right off the side of the highway and an easy-to-get-to springs, which makes it great for family adventures with little ones. 5. Alvord Hot Springs Address: 36095 E Steens Rd, Princeton, OR 97721 Located in the middle of a flat cracked desert that has a moon-like appearance, you drive out across the open land to the hot springs and rustic campground. This is a small hot springs that could potentially fill up quickly on a busy weekend; but during the week it’s quieter. This one is pretty remote, but you won’t be alone out here. Plan on bringing everything with you as civilization is not nearby. Do not visit this area if it has recently rained or might rain. You are guaranteed to get stuck as the desert turns to mud quickly.   Hart Mountain Hot Springs 6. Hart Mountain Hot Springs 42°30'05.9"N 119°41'22.3"W This is a remote hot springs that you have to travel down a dirt road for a while, but it can be done in a 2-wheel drive. There’s free camping and an outhouse, so plan on making this an overnighter. It’s in the middle of a wildlife refuge so you might catch a glimpse of an antelope or see coyotes playing in the fields surrounding the springs. Wild Willy's AKA Crowley Hot Springs 7. Wild Willy’s / Crowley Hot Springs Located near Bishop, CA, a popular rock climbing mecca and just down the road from Mammoth Ski Area, this hot springs is an Instagram regular for “vanlifers,” but it’s also super accessible, making it a family-friendly hangout. To get to this one, follow Benton Crossing Road about 2.5 miles until you get to a parking area. There’s a short boardwalk that will take you to the springs. The pool is big enough to hold about 30 people. You can also camp here if you so desire. Tips for Springing with Baby 1. If you visit a "wild" hot springs, check for updated info on any known bacterial issues in the area. BLM and U.S. Forest Service offices are a good resource for this info. 2. Bring a large plastic bag (or two) to put stuff in and on and to change baby. Also be awesome and hike any trash you see out at the end with that huge bag you brought! 3. Start with hot springs that are easier to get to versus going for one that is a hike out. This way you can gauge how your child will do in the hot springs. 4. Please use a very secure swim diaper and be conscious of the fact that warm water often makes kids poop! If your little one hasn't had a bowel movement for the day, consider this and keep a close eye on them. 5. Be aware of the "energy" in the hot springs and if you have a crying baby, maybe go for a walk and come back in a bit. People are often at hot springs for the quiet, meditative experience. Read More: How to navigate desert hiking 3 Amazing hikes for young children in Oregon What are some of your favorite hot springs to visit? We'd love to add hear in the comments below. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.  

Last November, my family decided to spend the winter in the desert. Being born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, this seemed like a strange move to all of our friends because who doesn’t love the lush green deep forests and forever falling waterfalls of Oregon and Washington. But I was feeling soggy and tired of the grey. And I wasn’t hiking as much as I wanted. So we went south for the winter and landed just outside of St. George, Utah, near Zion National Park in the little desert town of La Verkin. Desert living is dramatically different in that the wind blows hard, the rains pound even harder when they do come and there are lots of spiky things. At the same time, the trails can also be silky soft with sand and the rocks are incredible for little kids to climb on. After just a few months in the desert, we decided to make it a more permanent home and so we’ve had to really learn about this new landscape.  Here are my newbie-to-the-desert tips for those Hike it Baby families venturing into this kind of landscape: Prepare ahead for safety on the trails Bring more water than you normally would hike with because water is hard to come by. Be aware of your surroundings and any landmarks. It can be easy to get turned around in a vast open desert that goes on forever. Consider carrying a compass that does not rely on cell service just in case. Don’t push it and go further just to reach an end goal, especially with kids. The desert is a harsh environment and there’s little room for error between the heat and open landscape, with little shade from the elements. Keep in mind that if you are hot, your baby is too, especially if you are carrying a child close to your body. Plan to keep hikes short to prevent any possibility of sunstroke. Hike early and late to beat the heat. We often head out for a hike around 4 p.m. so we don’t get baked in the heat of the sun. Bring along a headlamp or flashlight if you hike later in the day. I carry a headlamp much more often now because I feel like it is easy with late starts and really warm weather to find yourself out after sunset. There are plenty of super light, powerful options out there. I actually have one that is so bright, it can light the way for a whole group, just in case I am the only person carrying. Ensure you wear sturdy shoes with durable soles for secure gripping. Sandals are a great option for breathability while protecting little feet. Respect the landscape while desert hiking Don’t build new rock cairns on established trails or knock down existing ones. A misplaced rock cairn can be dangerous and lead someone off trail quickly. With wide open landscape, this can be fatal. Stay on established trails because footprints on fragile desert landscapes can hurt the growth in the area. As the rangers like to teach: “Don’t bust the crust.” You can see crust when you look on the sides of the trail and see a sort of black tinge to the red sands. That is actually live matter that is growing called Cryptobiotic soil and it’s what keeps desert plants and animals thriving and growing. So protect it! Get to know the cactus plants and other pricklies like tumbleweed and point them out to your kids so they know to steer clear. Picking pricklers out of a kid’s body in the middle of a hike is never fun. Beware of dangerous moving things Flash flood hazards are something to be aware of in desert regions. If one occurs, don’t cross floodwaters. Climb high to safety and respect road closures during flood events. Learn about the various snakes in the area. Not all snakes are poisonous, and some of the surprisingly bright-colored ones are actually nothing to fear and a great opportunity to point snakes out to your little one. Not all scorpions and spiders are poisonous, but many do bite, so be aware of them. When we moved here, we showed Mason pictures of black widows, rattlesnakes and scorpions so he would be aware of them and know to steer clear. As much as I love the lushness of the Northwest, the desert is also becoming home for me now, and the love is continuing on here. I hope these few tips help you as you head out into the desert with your little ones. Photos courtesy of Arika Bauer of Zion Adventure Photog and OAKI. Read More: Do’s and Don’ts of Hiking in Rattlesnake Territory Ask the Expert: Rattlesnakes on the Trail! Find Your Park in May – Zion National Park, Utah This post is sponsored by OAKI which is located in Salt Lake City, UT. OAKI offers rain gear, outerwear, fishing and hunting gear as well as sandals for children and rain boots for women. What are some of your tips for hiking in the desert? Share with us in the comments below.

Recently, I've started to notice that my body doesn’t quite recover as quickly as it used to after a long hike. At first I figured it had to do with the fact that I usually had my growing son in tow in my back carrier, but then I realized I felt the soreness and tight muscles on my adult-only hikes as well. I concluded that I had to face the fact that I am getting older and my body needs some extra TLC to recover. I started stretching more and realized that the most relieving and effective stretches were all yoga poses I had learned along the way. That got me thinking: I wondered how yoga can help hikers relieve soreness, recover faster and even strengthen the major hiking muscles. So I enlisted the help of my yoga instructor friend, Caitlin Parwana, to see if I was on to something. Caitlin faced a turning point in her life, as many of us do, and turned to something that had always brought her clarity and calm: yoga. She trained in India to deepen her practice and now owns a yoga studio, Saha Yoga, in Ballston Spa, NY. I sought her expert opinion to see how the practice of yoga can help hikers. What exactly is yoga? “In the western world, yoga is considered a physical practice of poses/postures. But in its origin, yoga is more of a lifestyle, and the physical practice is just a small part of it. What I love about yoga is that different people find their way to it for different reasons, and they often find in it more than they were looking for. Some people want to exercise. Others want to eliminate back pain. Still others want more of a spiritual experience. But, if practiced regularly, all of these things and more can be found. Finding the physical practice helps people become more open to other healthy choices and promotes strength, flexibility, balance and a deepened awareness of one’s own body and breath.” How do you think practicing yoga can benefit both new and experienced hikers? “Yoga, as far as I am concerned, can benefit all people. We have always been told, since gym class, that stretching before any physical activity is important, so the same can be assumed for hiking. That said, having a regular practice of stretching and strengthening the body would have to be beneficial.” Yoga helps reduce both the risk of being sore after your hike and the risk of injury on your hike. It helps build strength and stamina so you can hike longer, more intense trails with ease. Also, that strength and stamina will help greatly if you are carrying a heavy pack or a child on your hike! Yoga helps with your balance, and balance is great for hikers! You'll really find a deep connection to your breath, your life force. Through yoga, you can learn breathing techniques to calm down the nervous system, helping to pace yourself and preserve energy longer. Learning breathing tricks can also help eliminate cramps. Yoga helps you become more aware of your body and lets you to know when you might need to take a break so you don’t push yourself too hard. Pre-hike and post-hike poses to reduce and relieve muscle tension/soreness The following poses work well for both a pre-hike warm-up to help reduce the risk of muscle soreness and cramping, as well as post-hike cool-down and soreness relief. For more detailed descriptions and instructions for each pose, check out this website. A simple downward-facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) can help stretch out the entire back half of the body, working into those hamstrings. A wide-legged forward bend (Prasarita Padottanasana) opens the hamstrings and the hips. Pigeon (Kapotasana) or a figure four helps open up the hips. Bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana) is great for externally opening up the hips. Hero pose (Virasana) helps with internal hip rotation. Cat/cow breaths (Marjaryasana/Bitilasana) stretch out the core. Eagle arms (Garudasana) and cow-faced arms (Gomukhasana) stretch out the shoulders (especially if you are carrying a heavy pack or a child). You can also do a full eagle pose or cow-faced pose to stretch and work the hips and legs as well. A gentle “rag-doll” forward fold (Uttanasana variation) helps stretch and cool down the whole body after a hike. This can be followed by any/all of the above poses to help the muscles recover more quickly! Gain strength/flexibility needed for hiking The following poses can help with strength and flexibility: General sun salutations help build core and leg strength. A good strong lunge (High: Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana or Low: Anjaneyasana) helps one find stability while also feeling strong and stretching things out. Warrior poses (Virabhadrasana I, II, and III) strengthen shoulders, arms, legs and core. Balancing poses, such as tree (Vrksasana), Lord of the dance (Natarajasana) and half moon (Ardha Chandrasana) poses can work the full body and improve coordination and balance. Chair pose (Utkatasana) strengthens ankles, calves, thighs and spine. Four-limbed staff (Chaturanga Dandasana), plank and forearm plank poses work the core, arms and shoulders. Sun bird is a gentler alternative that is also great for the core. Photos courtesy of Arika Bauer of Zion Adventure Photog, Christina Merhar and Rebecca Hosley. Read More: How to start hiking regardless of fitness level Has yoga helped you strengthen your “hiking muscles” or relieve soreness after a hike? What is your favorite pose? Let us know in the comments below! Disclaimer: Consult your health care provider and obtain full medical clearance before practicing yoga. Not all yoga poses are suitable for everyone. Practicing under the direct supervision and guidance of a qualified instructor, in addition to the direction of your healthcare provider, can help determine what poses are suitable for you and reduce the risk of injuries. The author, editors, and publishers assume no responsibility or liability for any injuries or losses that may result from practicing yoga.

Spring brings new life all around, and there are plenty of books you can read to help get some ideas about your own backyard garden! Now the next time your kids ask questions about how gardens grow, there will be a list of books you can share together - six gardening books for kids. Backyard Heroes by Rufus Bellamy Have you ever wondered what the squirrels or spiders hanging out in your backyard garden do all day? Or how insects help our flowers? Find out the answers to those questions and more in Backyard Heroes! Featuring detailed images, an index and a glossary, this book stresses that more than just sun and water are involved in keeping our backyard gardens thriving. The book also features a page with websites and books for further information. Best suited for preschoolers and grade schoolers. Alphabet Garden by Laura Jane Coats Take a journey through a garden with a boy and his cat while learning the alphabet! Readers will use their senses as they learn about animals and flowers that fill the garden as they "listen to the buzzing bees" and "look down at the water lilies." Each page features an upper- and lowercase letter with an accompanying picture, and the image is again featured as the story is being told. The final page of the book combines all the letters with pictures so the alphabet can be seen together. Best suited for infants to preschoolers, Alphabet Garden is an enjoyable book that will help children learn more about the gardens right in their backyards. Touch a Butterfly: Wildlife Gardening with Kids by April Pulley Sayre Written for adults, Touch a Butterfly: Wildlife Gardening with Kids gives practical projects that families can do together in the garden. The book offers advice for starting your wildlife adventures, including making observations, creating a family nature notebook and paying attention to the environments around you. Learn how to attract butterflies, birds and toads to your garden through the tips offered in the five parts of this book through practical advice and colorful photography. Farmer's Garden: Rhymes for Two Voices by David L. Harrison Travel with a dog throughout the garden on the farm! Meet the animals and plants that call the farm home. Written for two readers, the rhyme makes this book of interest for children of all ages! Older readers would enjoy reading one of the parts, while younger children would enjoy hearing two adults alternating reading the parts. The colorful illustrations help the readers visualize what life is like in the farm's garden. Your Backyard (Discovering Nature) by Sally Hewitt Another project-based book, Your Backyard provides pictures and step-by-step directions on projects that can be done in the backyard. They range from making a chart tracking insects and tracking ant nests to creating a winter bird cake. Younger children will need assistance from parents to complete projects, but middle school students and older will be able to follow the directions and complete projects on their own. Yuck! Icky, Sticky, Gross Stuff in Your Garden by Pam Rosenberg While gardens can be beautiful sites with colorful flowers and lush greens, there are mysteries hiding in them that can only be seen with microscopes. In Yuck! Icky, Sticky, Gross Stuff in Your Garden, learn about the organisms and bacteria in the dirt, the goo left behind by slugs, pollinators and, fitting to the title, poop. Featuring a mixture of photos and illustrations with colorful text, children will be entertained while learning scientific facts and acquiring new vocabulary like "amoeba," "proboscis" and "regurgitates." Hike it Baby now has a Goodreads Group! Join today and add books to our bookshelf! Looking for more member reviews? Search our blog for other Book Review posts!  Submit your review here for a chance to be included in an upcoming blog post!  What are your favorite gardening books for kids? Comment below!  

Looking for that perfect hike in Wisconsin for young children? Whether you’re new to hiking with your baby or toddler, or you’re looking for a new trail to explore, the Hike it Baby community is a valuable resource for finding family hiking trails around the country. In this article, our community shares three beautiful hikes in Wisconsin to explore with babies and young children. Pheasant Branch Conservancy (Middleton, WI) Pheasant Branch Conservancy offers a beautiful respite to those visiting Madison. This beautiful 3-mile gravel and boardwalk trail loops around and through marshy wetland, prairie and forest area and is just minutes from Madison, WI. Here you can see a natural bubbling spring and abundance of wildlife, and if you decide to hike up Frederick's Hill, which is also home to Native American burial grounds, you will also get to see a great view of our state capitol building. Additionally there are hiking (non-gravel) trails available that take you deeper into the landscape. This conservancy offers a broad range of land and habitat types and wildlife. It includes prairie, natural springs, marshes, meadows and woodland hills. There is a playground for the littles near the parking lot. There are some signs throughout that detail the rich history of this area. Read more about the trail in the Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide. Tips: You can rent an all-terrain wheelchair stored at the entrance to the conservancy in order to make this special place accessible to everyone. A map is available that indicates bench locations, habitat types and bike racks so that you can plan your next snack break and help your kids identify what they're seeing. If you have kids that want a bit more of a challenge, Frederick's Hill is worth the climb. Photo courtesy of Dineo Dowd Brady's Bluff Prairie (Trempealeau, WI) This 1.2-mile trail offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River from the top of the bluff. It’s a wonderful place to see fall colors, wildflowers in the spring, and wildlife. It’s great for families because it’s shorter in mileage and offers a low-grade climb to the top. At the steepest part of the trail, there are stairs and safety rails. While it’s not a stroller accessible trail, this is a great trail for older kids, or children that can be in a carrier. It’s a close drive to La Crosse and a favorite among many in our branch! Tips:  The bathrooms are not readily available, so plan ahead. This trail is nestled inside the Perrot State Park. Have your kids guess how far it is to Minnesota! Photo courtesy of Christina Marie Owen Conservation Park (Madison, WI) Owen Conservation Park is a gem nestled in on the west side of Madison, WI. It features a gently hilly terrain with woods surrounding a prairie. The 96-acre park has a total of 3 miles of interconnecting trails throughout the property that provides hiking options for all levels. This park is a former farm and retreat for a Madison university professor. Today the landscape is mostly prairie and oak. There are places for kids to explore on rocks, ample benches along the trails, and even cross-country skiing in the winter! Don’t be fooled due to its city location – there are plenty of chances to see wildlife within the park. The park also has a monthly free guided nature walk. Get more details on the trail in the Family Trail Guide.  Tips: The three ponds are a bit of a walk from the parking and restrooms, but offer great wildlife views. There are numerous trails that interconnect to allow you to customize the distance and allow you to turn around quickly if you need to. Photo courtesy of Abby Czachur. More Resources for Families with Young Children Wisconsin has amazing trail options for families with young children. For more family hike ideas, see: Hike it Baby calendar (or connect with the local branch) Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide Wisconsin State Park System Hike it Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures with Babies and Toddlers – New Book by Hike it Baby Founder Shanti Hodges Read More: 3 Kid-friendly trails in Kansas for young children 3 Kid-friendly trails in Iowa to explore with young children 3 Beautiful hikes in Ohio for young children What are your favorite hikes in Wisconsin for families with babies, toddlers and young children? Leave a comment below! Trail reviews contributed by Amanda Cleary Pickart, Christina Marie and Abby Czachur.

Whether it’s a window box or a large backyard plot, planting a garden with your kids is a wonderful way to bring nature into your daily lives. It’s also a great way to mix in fun and meaningful educational experiences while spending time outdoors together. In this guest post, Imagine Childhood shares simple garden activities for kids -- along with a list of their favorite sturdy tools and garden kits -- that will have your family out in the dirt all season long! Spring in the Garden: Free  Crafts + Activities 1. Cloth Garden Calendar A great way to get the garden ball rolling is with a calendar. This sweet cloth garden calendar includes tiny cloth veggies that can be put into pockets.  It's so much fun for little ones learning about plants and the growing season. 2. Eggshell Seedlings Looking for an eco-friendly way to start those seeds after you finish planning? Try your hand at these eggshell seedlings, or give our paper pot maker a try! It’s a great way to use leftover newspaper or scrap packing paper. 3. Spring Theater Once plants start to grow outdoors, make a Spring Theater to observe the magic of the season up close. 4. DIY Garden Chess Game Like playing games? Try your hand at this DIY Garden Chess Game!  5. Garden Markers Once you plant those seeds of yours, you’ll need a few garden markers to help you remember where you put everything. These city planning garden markers are some of our favorites! Favorite Garden Tools and Kits Sturdy Garden Tools + Supplies Lovely Garden Kits and Books Garden Cookies Seed Ball Kit Watering Can Seedling Trays And so much more About Imagine Childhood Imagine Childhood is a family-owned and operated company specializing in earth-friendly goods, craft and activity tutorials, and educational supplies that support and nurture the magic of childhood. Our carefully curated collection focuses on products that inspire children to create, imagine and explore. With an emphasis on quality materials, our toys and tools are made for real kids and real adventures.   In addition to our shop, we also share free crafts, activities and recipes on our blog here and our recent book, IMAGINE CHILDHOOD: Exploring the World Through Nature, Imagination, and Play, can be found here. Photos and article courtesy of Imagine Childhood. This post is sponsored by Imagine Childhood. Hike it Baby received compensation in exchange for this guest post.