OutGrown Blog

Updated for 2025: Spring Sensory Celebration Spring is here, and with it comes OutGrown’s Spring Sensory Celebration! This season, we’re exploring the outdoors using all five senses—starting with smell. While wandering through nature, we take in our surroundings using our senses. We smell flowers, touch tree bark, listen to bird calls, see details like an ant trail on a tree, and even taste some of the natural objects we come across (think berries or edible flowers). This kind of sensory exploration comes naturally to children, yet we often forget to slow down and give them space to experience it fully. From the scent of fresh rain to the crispness of pine needles, nature is filled with smells that help us connect more deeply to the world around us. Let’s slow down, take a deep breath, and experience the outdoors through smell. Photo credit: Kyla Phillips @mirroredmomentsphotography Exploring Nature Through Smell Our sense of smell plays a significant role in our world experience. It helps us identify places, triggers strong memories, and influences our emotions. By encouraging kids to engage with their sense of smell outdoors, we help them develop a deeper appreciation for the environment. Here are five simple ways to slow down and explore nature using smell. 1. Stop and Smell the Roses—Literally! Nature is full of scents, from sweet flowers to earthy tree bark. Encourage your child to take their time and notice different smells as they walk outside. 🌿 Try This: Ask them questions like: Does this smell sweet, earthy, or spicy? Is it strong or faint? Do different flowers have different scents? This activity helps kids develop vocabulary around scents and builds sensory awareness. 2. Smell the Air The air carries a variety of scents depending on the time of day and the weather. Take a moment to stop and breathe deeply—what do you notice? 🌦️ Try This: Step outside in different conditions and compare how the air smells. After a rainstorm: Fresh and earthy In the morning: Crisp and cool On a warm day: Dry and grassy Near water: Fresh and breezy Noticing these subtle differences helps children recognize how nature changes over time. 3. Find a Scent Trail Turn scent exploration into a game! Pick a smell—like pine, lavender, or mint—and challenge your child to follow their nose to find another source of that same scent nearby. 🔍 Try This: In a forest, kids can track the scent of pine needles from trees to the ground. In a garden, they can find different herbs with similar scents. This helps develop observational skills and makes exploring nature more interactive. 4. Create a Smell Collection Collect natural items with strong scents and create a scent jar collection for your child to explore. 🌸 Try This: Gather pine needles, fresh herbs, flower petals, and tree bark. Place them in small jars or bags and have your child identify each scent with their eyes closed! This is a great hands-on way to reinforce learning and encourage sensory exploration. 5. The Scent Memory Game Smells can trigger strong memories—sometimes even more than sight or sound! 🧠 Try This: Ask your child if a particular smell reminds them of something special: The ocean? A beach trip Fresh-cut grass? A Backyard Summer Day Campfire smoke? A family camping trip Encouraging kids to connect smells with memories helps deepen their personal experiences with nature. Keep Exploring! Want to engage all five senses? Join our Spring Sensory Celebration and experience nature in a whole new way! 📢 Share your outdoor smell adventures using #SpringSensory and tag @WeAreOutGrown! Then check out our other sensory guides on taste, hearing, touch, and sight to continue the adventure! About OutGrown OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families. Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions. We are glad you are here. We are growing something meaningful together

Updated for 2025: Spring Sensory Celebration Spring is here, and with it comes OutGrown’s Spring Sensory Celebration! This season, we’re inviting families to explore the outdoors through all five senses—starting with taste! While we often focus on what we see or hear outside, taste is another way to deepen our connection to nature—when done safely. Whether sampling fresh food at a farmers market, foraging for wild berries, or cooking with edible flowers, there are many ways to experience nature through taste. While wandering through nature, we take in our surroundings using our senses. We smell flowers, touch tree bark, listen to bird calls, see details (like an ant trail on a tree), and even taste some of the natural objects we come across (think berries or edible flowers). While investigating nature in this way comes naturally to most children, sometimes we forget to allow children the time and space they need to do it. We share five ways to explore each of the five senses with children. So get outside as a family, slow down, and explore nature with your senses together!     Photo Credit: Ashley Schneider Exploring Nature Through Taste Taste may not be the first sense that comes to mind when exploring the outdoors, and as parents, we often work hard to keep little ones from putting everything in their mouths. But when done intentionally and safely, tasting nature can be a fun and educational experience. Children as young as 2-3 years old can begin to understand the difference between edible and non-edible plants (though supervision is always essential). Teaching kids about where their food comes from helps them build confidence, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Five ways to slow down and experience the sense of taste in nature: 1. Taste the Farmers Market Farmers markets are a great place to introduce kids to fresh, local foods. Let them pick a new fruit or veggie to try at each visit—it’s a fun way to connect food with nature and the people who grow it. Encourage kids to compare flavors: Is this apple sweeter or more tart than the one we had last time? How does a fresh tomato taste different from one at the grocery store? Small moments like these build lifelong curiosity about food and nature. 2. Go Foraging (Safely!) Foraging is a fun and educational way to connect children with nature. It teaches them about edible plants, seasonal changes, and responsible harvesting. Wilderchild’s Foraging for Wild Edibles with Kids guide offers practical tips on getting started, safety essentials, and ways to engage young explorers in hands-on learning. From identifying beginner-friendly plants to fostering a sense of stewardship, this resource helps families build confidence in the outdoors while creating meaningful nature experiences. 🌿 Read the full guide here: Foraging for Wild Edibles with Kids – Wilderchild. 3. Cook with Edible Flowers Dandelions, violets, and nasturtiums are edible flowers that can be used in fun recipes, such as cookies, syrups, and salads. Cooking with flowers is a great way to make tasting nature a safe and delicious experience! 4. Visit a U-Pick Farm Foraging isn’t for everyone, but U-pick farms provide a similar experience with less guesswork. Children can pick their berries, apples, or vegetables—tasting them at their absolute freshest. Many kids are likelier to try new foods when they pick them themselves. To explore local options, check out [Find a U-Pick Farm Near You](Here). 5. Play "What’s That Taste?" Turn taste into a fun game! Gather fresh food items—herbs, fruits, veggies, or nuts—and blindfold your child. Give them small bites of each item and let them guess what they’re eating. Mix in familiar flavors with new ones for a fun challenge! Need hints? Try: It grows in the ground! (Carrot) It’s red and juicy! (Strawberry) It smells like pizza! (Basil) This is a great way to encourage kids to try new foods while making taste exploration fun and interactive! Keep Exploring! Want to engage all five senses? Join our Spring Sensory Celebration! 📢 Share your outdoor taste adventures using #SpringSensory and tag @WeAreOutGrown! Then check out our other sensory guides on smelling, hearing, touching, and seeing to keep the exploration going! About OutGrown OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a world where every family can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We work to remove barriers and provide families with babies and young children opportunities to take their first steps into nature. Since our grassroots start in 2013, OutGrown has grown into a thriving community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Community Hub Leaders. Learn more about our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note: Help Us Keep This Content Free We hope you enjoyed this post from OutGrown. We work hard to provide families with valuable content, resources, and inspiration to make outdoor exploration easier and more accessible. If you believe in our mission, please consider contributing. Your support helps us create free resources, develop engaging programming, and expand our reach to families everywhere.  

Updated for 2025: Spring Sensory Celebration Spring is here, and with it comes OutGrown’s Spring Sensory Celebration! This season, we’re inviting families to explore the outdoors using all five senses, starting with sight. From the vibrant colors of blooming flowers to the tiny details of an insect’s wings, nature is full of beauty waiting to be discovered. But how often do we slow down and truly see it? Whether watching the clouds drift, spotting hidden patterns in tree bark, or noticing how sunlight filters through the leaves, every outdoor adventure offers something new to observe. Let’s take a closer look and experience the world through fresh eyes! Photo by: Kyla Phillips @mirroredmomentsphotography Five Ways to Slow Down and Experience the Sense of Sight in Nature 1. Find the Colors of Nature  Take a color walk and search for all the rainbow colors in nature! Younger kids can simply point out colors they see, while older kids can try to find the colors in order—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet. Want to make it hands-on? With permission, collect small nature items of different colors and create your own rainbow collage at home! 2. Nature Scavenger Hunt Adventure  Turn your next walk into a nature scavenger hunt! Make a list of things to find—like a heart-shaped leaf, an insect crawling, a bird flying, or a tree with rough bark—and see how many your family can spot. For extra fun, take photos or draw pictures of your discoveries! 3. Slow Down & See Like an Owl  Owls have incredible vision, allowing them to spot the tiniest movements in nature. Can you see like an owl? Find a quiet spot in your yard, on a trail, or in a park. Sit for 1–5 minutes and observe the world around you. What small details can you notice? A bee hovering over a flower? The way the wind moves the leaves? The patterns in a butterfly’s wings? Take turns describing what you see, then continue your adventure with fresh eyes! 4. Take a Closer Look  We pass by the same trees, flowers, and rocks every day without really noticing them. What if you took a closer look? Choose one object—a tree, a flower, a rock, or even a patch of grass—and observe it for 1-5 minutes. What small details do you notice? Are there tiny bugs crawling on it? Patterns in the bark? A hidden bird’s nest? Looking deeper helps us appreciate the small wonders in nature that we often miss! 5. Nature I-Spy: A Game for Sharp Eyes  Put your observation skills to the test with a Nature I-Spy challenge! 🔎 How to Play: One person picks something in nature and says, ‘I spy something round and green’ or ‘I spy something that flies.’ The others take turns guessing what it is! Try playing this game on a hike, in your backyard, or even on a rainy day by the window. Want an extra challenge? Make your own Nature I-Spy checklist! Keep Exploring! Want to engage all five senses? Join our Spring Sensory Celebration and experience nature in a whole new way! Share your outdoor sight adventures using #SpringSensory and tag @WeAreOutGrown! Then check out our other sensory guides on taste, hearing, touch, and smell to continue the adventure! About OutGrown OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families. Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions. We are glad you are here. We are growing something meaningful together

Este espacio ofrece ideas simples, consejos prácticos y ánimo para salir con niños pequeños cuando llueve. Desde saltar en charcos hasta paseos con paraguas, aquí encontrarás inspiración para disfrutar del aire libre en cualquier clima.

Share some love with these cute, printable cards!

At OutGrown, we know that getting outside doesn’t always mean a long hike or a big adventure. Sometimes, it’s about stepping into your backyard, finding inspiration in the season, and making time for outdoor creativity. These winter activities are designed to bring fun, connection, and a happy mess! Ice Block Building While some may dream of building a full-size igloo, pint-size ice building is a creative and accessible way for you to engage with nature using materials they already have at home. Begin by freezing water into various shapes and sizes—think ice cubes, small cake tins, cookie cutters, or any molds you have on hand. Once frozen, head outside and pop all the ice shapes out. Let the kids loose! They can build and decorate an ice cake (bonus points for nature decorations collected from the yard), use toy hammers for some construction fun, or try to build a mini igloo. Frozen Ornaments To make these frozen ornaments, have your child grab a basket and collect biodegradable treasures nature has left behind—like evergreen needles, berries, and dried leaves. This is a great way to create seasonal decor while respecting the environment. Grab an old muffin tin and have your little one fill each cup with the collected treasures. Drop in pre-cut loops of string or yarn for future hanging. Fill each muffin cup with water, ensuring the treasures are submerged halfway. Freeze outside if the weather permits, or place the tray in your freezer overnight. To remove the ornaments, run some hot water on the back of the tin to loosen them. Then, head outside to decorate your porch or a tree and enjoy the sunlight shining through your beautiful creations. Snow Volcano! Transform your backyard into a winter science lab! Snow volcanos are a fun way to combine outdoor play with curiosity and learning, giving your child a hands-on experience with nature. Have your little one build a big snow mound outside, pack it tight, and shape it into a mini-mountain. Press a small cup into the top of the mound to create a crater. Parents can help add baking soda, a few drops of lava-colored food coloring, and vinegar. Step back and watch your eruption! Mount Snow-Vesuvius is ready for action Frozen Paint Cubes Frozen paint cubes are a great way to encourage creativity in any season. During winter, bundle up and let your kids create their own frosty masterpieces outdoors! Fill an ice cube tray with different colors of washable paint. Add water to each compartment and gently mix. For variety, you can combine two colors in a single cube. Insert popsicle sticks into the trays and freeze overnight. Once frozen, bring the cubes outside and let your kids paint their favorite winter scenes—a snowy landscape, a snowman, or their favorite outdoor activity. Call to Action Happy crafting and happy time outdoors—it’s a win-win! Don’t forget to share your winter creations using #OutGrownWinterFun on social media—we’d love to see what you and your family create! About OutGrown OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families. Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions. We are glad you are here. We are growing something meaningful together

Learn how you can support and join in on our annual winter virtual event: Winter Walks with Wox!

Esta hoja visual ayuda a las familias a prepararse para salir en invierno con niños pequeños. Presenta elementos clave para vestirse por capas, mantenerse cómodo y hacer del tiempo al aire libre una experiencia agradable incluso en climas fríos. This visual guide helps families prepare to go outside in winter with young children. It highlights key elements for dressing in layers, staying comfortable, and making time outdoors enjoyable, even in cold weather. About OutGrown OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families. Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions. We are glad you are here. We are growing something meaningful together

    Winter Layering Basics Stay warm and make the most of winter with our Winter Layering Basics guide! This essential resource walks you through everything you need to know about layering for cold-weather adventures, whether heading out for a hike, building a snowman, or simply enjoying 10 minutes outdoors. Tailored for families, it includes practical advice on choosing the best base, mid, and outer layers and pro tips for keeping hands, feet, and little ones cozy. Learn how to adjust layers on the go, why materials like wool and synthetics work best, and how to prepare for quick changes with extra clothes. Plus, discover fun ways to stay warm, like sipping hot cocoa or using instant hand warmers. With these simple but effective tips, you and your family can enjoy winter to the fullest, no matter the weather! About OutGrown OutGrown is a national nonprofit working to ensure that every family, especially those with babies and young children, can experience the benefits of time outside. Since our grassroots beginning in 2013, we have supported more than 300,000 families with the help of thousands of volunteers across the country. We believe nature belongs to all of us from the very beginning. That means creating opportunities, removing barriers, and supporting families in finding their way outdoors, whether that starts with a stroller walk, a community outing, or a quiet moment under the sky. You can learn more and explore our programs at WeAreOutGrown.org. Editor’s Note Thank you for reading. At OutGrown, we believe content should offer more than information. It should create a connection, support real-life caregiving, and reflect how families grow together through nature. Everything we share is made with care by our team and volunteer community. If this piece inspired you or helped you feel more confident in your outdoor journey, we invite you to support our work by donating today. Your contributions help us keep resources free and accessible to all families. Please remember that the experiences and tips shared in this article are for general information only. They are not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or safety advice. Always consult with a qualified provider if you have specific concerns or questions. We are glad you are here. We are growing something meaningful together.             0

Need gift ideas for the outdoorsy people in your life? We've got some inspiration to get you started!