OutGrown Blog

WHAT IS THE SUMMER SOLSTICE Oh, wonderful summer! Just saying the word brings on thoughts of long days, short nights, and rising temperatures to enjoy. For those of us with kids, it also means early sunrises, late sunsets, and a lot of “but the sun is out!” arguments for waking up early or staying up late. But what is the summer solstice, and why does it mark the start of summer? Read on to find out more! On the summer solstice (also called midsummer in some cultures), one of the earth’s poles reaches its maximum tilt (23.44 degrees) toward the sun. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on June 21 this year and marks the longest day and the shortest night of the year. Interestingly, countries and territories north of the Arctic Circle (such as Alaska) witness what is called the “midnight sun” where the sun is visible for a full 24 hours. While we consider this day the start of summer in the United States, other cultures consider it closer to the middle of summer. The summer solstice has been associated with everything from the start of the new year in ancient Greece to the feminine “yin” force in ancient China. Regardless of which way you look at it, this is a day worth celebrating! Here are some activities, crafts, and book recommendations to help your family celebrate the longest day (and shortest night) of the year.   Photo Credit: Jessica Human   ACTIVITIES Welcome the early sunrise with yoga —  Greet the sunrise or sunset with a few rounds of sun salutations to give thanks for the blessings the sun brings us. You can follow it up with a few poses depicting some of those blessings, such as tree pose and flower pose, or some fun animal poses to keep the kiddos interested. Discover more family-friendly yoga poses in this article. Sunrise or sunset hike — Usher the family out the door for an early-morning hike to welcome the sun on the longest day of the year. Don’t want to wake up that early? Aim for a sunset hike instead and stay to marvel at the starlit sky as it comes to life on the shortest night of the year. Create a summer-themed nature table — Creating an area where kids can place items that remind them of summer is a wonderful way to kick off the season! The area can be as small as a bowl with a few special items or as large as a table with numerous summer projects on display. A few examples to include are seashells collected at the beach, postcards from a vacation, summer crafts, or potted flowers. Any items that remind your family of the endless fun of summer will work! Spend time with the local flora — What better way to show your gratitude for the sunlight than by spending time in the garden or visiting a farm to give thanks for the bounty that is made possible by the sun? After all, without the sun, plants couldn’t exist, which in turn means that animals (like us) couldn’t exist.   Photo Credit: Ali Chandra   CRAFT IDEAS Construct a sun suncatcher — Capture the radiance of sunlight with a sun-shaped suncatcher to hang in your window! This craft is sure to brighten your day even when the weather turns gloomy. Make a flower crown — Celebrate the season with a bright and sunny flower crown. If dandelions are plentiful in your yard this time of year, here is an easy tutorial for a dandelion crown using no extra materials. Then you can harvest the dandelion greens to make a yummy salad! Looking to save the flowers and leave no trace, or you don’t have dandelions in your yard? Here is a tutorial that uses fake flowers to create a gorgeous summer crown. Create a sundial — Get in some stealth learning by teaching the kiddos how ancient humans determined the time of day by using the shadow cast by the position of the sun. This easy craft can make a great addition to your garden, patio, or outdoor play area. More sun crafts — Looking for more crafts to help your family celebrate the sun and the start of summer? Here are a plethora of easy options to try with your kids. Photo Credit: Ali Chandra   SUMMER BOOKS TO READ As the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” These beautifully illustrated books help children of all ages understand what happens as spring turns to summer. BIRTH– 3 YEARS I See Summer by Charles Ghigna — Pea pods, cucumbers, and strawberries provide plenty of opportunities for counting in the garden! This brilliantly illustrated, summer-themed book gives readers an opportunity to search and learn with hidden numbers on every page. Summer Days and Nights by Wong Herbert Ye — Follow a spunky little girl as she finds ways to entertain herself and stay cool on a hot summer day. From catching butterflies to searching for frogs, the author focuses on appreciating the small but special details that define the summer season. Summer Is Here by Heidi Pross Gray — Read along as the author covers some of the best highlights of summer, from picking blueberries to diving into the water on a hot day. Amazing watercolor illustrations and rhythmic, whimsical text lead the reader on a summer adventure in this book. The Wonders of Summer by Kealy Connor Lonning – Follow an adventurous little girl and her father as they experience the wonders of summer, from wading in a river and catching fireflies to enjoying ice cream. This heartfelt book will inspire families to get outdoors and appreciate the wonders and beauty of nature in summer. 4 YEARS AND UP The Longest Day – Celebrating the Summer Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer — This book takes readers on a journey through the history and science behind the summer solstice, with a focus on summer celebrations from various cultures around the world. The author also uses kid-friendly language to describe the science behind summer phenomena, such as the growth of a butterfly and the longer day length. Summer Sun Risin' by W. Nikola-Lisa – Join a little boy as he spends an activity-filled summer day helping his family on their farm. Feeding animals, mowing hay, picking vegetables, and eating freshly caught fish fill the hours on a summer farm in the 1950s. And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner — Lyrical text is used to describe the sights, smells, sounds, and favorite outdoor activities of summer. The book is accompanied by cheerful illustrations depicting the joys of summer and is enough to get anyone excited for the warmest season of the year! Under Alaska’s Midnight Sun by Deb Vanasse — See summer through the eyes of an Alaskan girl as she enjoys the “midnight sun” of her region. With beautiful illustrations, follow along as she dances, watches wildlife, and stays up late with the sun that doesn’t set. How does your family celebrate the start of summer?  Let us know 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.

This Father's Day, we would love to take a minute to share the story of one of our Board Members and Hike it Baby Dad Julio Soria.  Read below to learn about Julio, how he found Hike it Baby and his thoughts on being a dad. (en español abajito!) How has nature been a part of your life? Where do you find your family exploring nature the most? I was very fortunate to grow up with parents who took me camping at a young age. My grandfather would also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables on his property, a tradition that he brought with him from growing up on a ranch in Mexico. That planted a seed within, a love for connection to soil and the food that grows from it. Now I practice urban farming at home, complete with backyard chickens and incorporating native plants and wildlife ponds for the benefit of the wildlife. Our backyard became an oasis and provided escape from the pandemic lockdowns, a privilege that unfortunately many didn’t have in Los Angeles. People think of Los Angeles as a city devoid of nature, but the opposite is actually the truth. LA is NOT A DESERT! We live in a Mediterranean climate and our region is within a biological hot spot known as the California floristic province. LA is bisected by two transverse mountain ranges, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. We have miles of coastline dotted by tide pools and kelp forests. We also have urban rivers to recreate in. All these places have not only set the backdrop for my career but provided many sites to recreate in. I also can't not acknowledge that all this “public land” sits on the unceded territories of the Tongva, Kizh, Tataviam, and Chumash peoples. These days my family and I find ourselves exploring the tide pools most often. My son loves looking for critters, especially sea hares!   How did you learn about and get involved with Hike it Baby?   I first learned about HiB in 2014, when my son was born. I was an experienced naturalist and   outdoorsman. I was not so much looking for tips on how to hike with a child, but for a community of parents who liked to hike. Since HiB had just been founded, there were no groups in Los Angeles (originally Tovaangar, home of the Tongva people) where we live. Fast forward seven years and a career working for intersectional environmental organizations that guide young adults from historically excluded communities on a pathway to careers in parks and conservation. I joined the HiB Board of Directors this year and I am very happy to bring my experience as an outdoor professional and as an outdoor parent!     Why is it important to you as a dad to raise your child to love nature and being outdoors? That’s a layered answer for sure! I am the proud father of a beautiful child who happens to be on the autism spectrum. We have found that nature provides a therapy that he can’t get anywhere else. Being outdoors calms him down. He seems to get grounded. The stress of city stimuli melts away. So first and foremost nature provides socio-emotional, mental health, and physical exercise benefits. My son is 7 years old. He faces a changing planet challenged by extreme weather events driven by climate change. Have you studied the 2022 IPCC report?! The only way we humans can turn around this course is by all of us pitching in. By raising our children to love and appreciate nature and the outdoors, we raise the next generation of stewards to care for the planet.       What has surprised you most about being a dad?  Every day presents a new surprise, a revelation! This question is probably best answered by a book. I think for me it would be my ability to be more sensitive around him and to sense what he needs. It’s true, we dads get a sixth sense at child birth. I think mine has evolved more  to meet his emotional needs above all. We know that Dads are sometimes perceived in society as ‘babysitting’ when taking care of their kiddos.  However, we know that Dads aren’t babysitters, they are involved parents! Can you share your perspective?  I’m definitely more than a “weekend dad” who only takes him on outings. For me, being a dad mostly means advocating for him at school, therapy, and at doctor’s visits. Being involved in IEP meetings. Not giving in to endless requests for screen time all the time. Desperately trying to encourage him to eat healthy. Teaching my son to have body positive values, especially to respect women of all shapes. Teaching him to respect his elders. And teaching him the values of tending the land. But I don’t do it alone. I have an amazing support system in my parents and partner.   Welcome to the Hike it Baby Board of Directors, Julio!         Este Día del Padre, nos encantaría tomarnos un minuto para presentar a uno de nuestros nuevos miembros de nuestra Junta Directiva de Hike it Baby y padre, Julio Soria.  Lea a continuación para aprender sobre Julio, cómo encontró Hike it Baby y sus pensamientos sobre ser padre.   ¿Cómo ha sido la naturaleza parte de tu vida? ¿Dónde encuentras a tu familia explorando más la naturaleza? ¿En qué partes de la naturaleza se encuentra explorando más tu familia? Fui muy afortunado de crecer con padres que me llevaron a acampar a una edad temprana. Mi abuelo también cultivaba una variedad de frutas y verduras en su propiedad, una tradición que trajo consigo al crecer en un rancho en México. Eso plantó una semilla en mi, un amor por la conexión con la tierra y la comida que crece de ella. Ahora practico la agricultura urbana en casa, mi jardín está completo con gallinas e incorporando plantas nativas y estanques de vida silvestre para el beneficio de la vida silvestre. Nuestro jardín se convirtió en un oasis y proporcionó un escape de los bloqueos por la pandemia, un privilegio que desafortunadamente muchos no tenían en Los Ángeles. La gente piensa en Los Ángeles como una ciudad desprovista de naturaleza, pero lo contrario es en realidad la verdad. ¡LA NO ES UN DESIERTO! Vivimos en un clima mediterráneo y nuestra región se encuentra dentro de un punto caliente biológico conocido como la provincia florística de California. LA está dividida por dos cadenas montañosas transversales, el Área Recreativa Nacional de las Montañas de Santa Mónica y el Monumento Nacional de las Montañas de San Gabriel. Tenemos kilómetros de costa salpicados por pozas de marea y bosques de algas marinas. También tenemos ríos urbanos para recrearse. Todos estos lugares no solo han establecido el telón de fondo para mi carrera, sino que también han proporcionado muchos sitios para recrearse. Tampoco puedo no reconocer que toda esta "tierra pública" se encuentra en los territorios no cedidos de los pueblos Tongva, Kizh, Tataviam y Chumash. En estos días, mi familia y yo nos encontramos explorando las pozas de marea. A mi hijo le encanta buscar criaturas, ¡especialmente liebres marinos! ¿Cómo aprendiste y te involucraste con Hike it Baby? Aprendí por primera vez sobre HiB en 2014, cuando nació mi hijo. Era un naturalista con mucha experiencia. No estaba buscando tanto consejos sobre cómo caminar con un niño, sino una comunidad de padres a los que les gustaba caminar en la naturaleza. Desde que HiB acababa de ser fundada, no había grupos en Los Ángeles (originalmente Tovaangar, hogar del pueblo Tongva) donde vivimos. Avance rápido siete años y una carrera trabajando para organizaciones ambientales interseccionales que guían a adultos jóvenes de comunidades históricamente excluidas en un camino hacia carreras en parques y conservación. ¡Me uní a la Junta Directiva de HiB este año y estoy muy feliz de aportar mi experiencia como profesional y como padre! ¿Por qué es importante para usted como padre criar a su hijo para que ame la naturaleza y estar al aire libre? ¡Esa es una respuesta con capas! Soy el orgulloso padre de un hermoso niño que está en el espectro del autismo. Hemos descubierto que la naturaleza proporciona una terapia que no puede obtener en ningún otro lugar. Estar al aire libre lo calma. Parece estar conectado a tierra. El estrés de los estímulos de la ciudad se desvanece. Entonces, ante todo, la naturaleza proporciona beneficios socioemocionales, de salud mental y de ejercicio físico. Mi hijo tiene 7 años. Se enfrenta a un planeta cambiante desafiado por eventos climáticos extremos impulsados por el cambio climático. ¿Has estudiado el reporte del IPCC de 2022?  La única forma en que los humanos podemos cambiar este curso es mediante todos nosotros colaborando. Al criar a nuestros hijos para que amen y aprecien la naturaleza y el aire libre, criamos a la próxima generación de administradores para que cuiden el planeta.   ¿Qué es lo que más te ha sorprendido de ser padre? ¡Cada día presenta una nueva sorpresa, una revelación! Esta pregunta es probablemente mejor respondida por un libro. Creo que para mí sería mi capacidad de ser más sensible a su alrededor y sentir lo que necesita. Es cierto, los papás tenemos un sexto sentido. Creo que mi sentido ha evolucionado más para satisfacer sus necesidades emocionales por encima de todo.   Sabemos que los papás a veces son percibidos en la sociedad como "niñeras" cuando cuidan a sus hijos.  Sin embargo, sabemos que los papás no son niñeras, ¡son padres involucrados! ¿Puedes compartir tu perspectiva? Definitivamente soy más que un "padre de fin de semana" que solo lo lleva de excursión. Para mí, ser padre significa principalmente abogar por él en la escuela, la terapia y en las visitas al médico. Participar en las reuniones del IEP. No ceder a las interminables solicitudes de tiempo de pantalla todo el tiempo. Tratando desesperadamente de animarlo a comer sano. Enseñarle a mi hijo a tener valores positivos para el cuerpo, especialmente para respetar a las mujeres de todas las formas. Enseñarle a respetar a sus mayores. Y enseñándole los valores de cuidar la tierra. Pero no lo hago solo. Tengo un sistema de apoyo increíble en mis padres y mi pareja.   ¡Bienvenido a la Junta Directiva de Hike it Baby, Julio!   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.

In May, Hike it Baby attended the Children & Nature Network Inside Out Conference in Atlanta, Georgia which is "is the largest gathering of children and nature advocates in the world. Leaders from a broad range of sectors—all committed to the health and well-being of children and communities—come together to explore best practices for turning our indoor society back out to the benefits of nature."   Although we had a booth at the event and were able to meet many other organizations, one of the highlights was our Board of Directors Member & Treasurer Dineo Dowd presenting her story  and how she found her place in nature. At the end of the conference, Hike it Baby hosted a Bring it Outside Family Festival at Rodney Cook Park in Atlanta.  The event included nature crafts, family friendly hiking, games, activities, plus free outdoor gear and giveaways. We even had a pop up camp site for the kids, courtesy of Teton Sports, plus a smores kit for little ones to have some fun pretend camping play! Thanks to several generous prize sponsors, we were able to provide families with not only an awesome outdoor experience, but plenty of resources and free gear!  This included a Burley Honey Bee, Sunday Afternoons hats, Turtle Fur Beanies, Solly Baby Wraps, Onya Baby carriers, fiftyfifty water bottles, and rain suits from Oaki. Several Atlanta based organizations also showed up and shared great activities like nature bracelets (WAWA), sidewalk chalk (Children & Nature Network), and a nature wagon (Trees Atlanta). Hike it Baby’s Executive Director, Jessica Carrillo Alatorre, and Dini Dowd were interviewed by the local news, and had the opportunity to share about Hike it Baby, and our mission to connect kids and families to nature.  Check it out here to learn more about the conference, our family festival and Hike it Baby’s mission to help families bring it outside!     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.

“I want to go home!” whined my almost 3-year-old as he sat down in a huff on the trail. My usually adventurous little dude had lost his desire to explore, and I couldn’t blame him. It was a hot, humid summer morning in upstate New York, and we were only about a half-mile into our hike. I realized then that I had made a number of mistakes when planning this adventure: 1) I chose a trail that had little shade and no water, 2) We started the hike later than expected and it got hot FAST, and 3) There wasn't enough water. I decided to forgo the rest of the hike, strapped my kiddo on my back in a carrier, and quickly made my way back to the air-conditioned car. I needed to re-think and better prepare for hiking in summer and the weather it brings! Whether you are hiking, camping, playing at the beach or taking in a gorgeous sunset, summer is a wonderful time of year for families to enjoy outdoor fun in the sun. However, as temperatures increase, it can be hard to enjoy the outdoors with the constant “it’s too hot!” complaints coming from our tiniest explorers. Whether you have a baby in a carrier or an older child, here are some tips and tricks from our Hike it Baby community for keeping your kiddos cool on the trail in summer. Location and timing are everything We started doing shorter toddler walking/carrier hikes to alpine lakes where we can take a nice break to cool down! – Shari, Reno-Tahoe, NV I have a 1.5-year-old who is mostly in the carrier. We go early in the morning to beat the bugs and heat, and typically go for a trail with a water source. This time of year, we stay away from the beaches because of tourists, so we cool off in streams and freshwater ponds. – Lauren, Rhode Island We go in the morning and try for shaded trails or trails near a splash pad for the kids to get wet after. I also want to add that kids who wake up at the crack of dawn helps. LOL – Tracy, Louisville, KY Water parks and shorter hikes that begin or end somewhere with A/C, such as a coffee shop. – Jeannie, Kansas City, MO We include water of some sort in most of our hot-weather hikes. Hikes that don't include a water element start earlier. I like to be done or onto the water portion by 10:30 a.m. We wear loose-fitting natural fibers and hats. And of course, we pack plenty of water. We usually fill our water bladder with ice on hot days. – Courtney, Charleston/Lowcountry, SC Peppermint oil on the back of the neck! Hikes near creeks or shaded places. We also tend to hike earlier in the morning, but we are from the land of the midnight sun. So it’s hot all day! – Juliana, Fairbanks, AK Carrier tricks When putting the kids in soft carriers, I tend to strip them down to just shorts (and sunscreen). That way they have fewer layers. Mine get super hot easily and this seems to help. In strollers (if they let me), a muslin blanket helps shade them and keep bugs out. – Tracey, Anchorage, AK A towel wrapped in an ice pack between baby and me while I wear her. – Martha, Annapolis, MD For my son, I 86 the pants and shoes and utilize the sunshade on our pack. I carry a water bladder that we share to keep us hydrated and him entertained. – Lauren, Rhode Island My second child was born in May and she went hiking a lot her first 6 months. I could not have lived without our Luv Bug UPF towel. It is thin and light, has a hood, and is UPF 50+. I'd have baby in a onesie, put her in our wrap, put the towel hood over her head, tie the side corners around my waist, and then tuck the bottom corner under the carrier. Her entire body was protected from the sun and we were both comfy! – Vanessa, San Diego, CA I’d use the Osprey sun shade so she didn’t have to wear a hat.– Sandy, South King County, WA The mesh Lillebaby toddler carrier has helped keep us cool on long hikes. – Cherise, Eugene, OR For carriers, I stick to single layer carries in a cotton or linen woven wrap and ring slings, and my husband uses a Kinderpack with koolknit. While babywearing in the heat, especially with younger babies, dressing them in one less layer of clothing than yourself (often just a diaper) and frequent breaks are the best way to prevent over heating. – Courtney, Charleston/Lowcountry, SC Clothing and accessories to keep you cool Two favorites: misters and umbrellas. I bought this professional hair mister on Amazon. It provides continuous fine mist for 3 seconds each spray. I've found some pretty cool pump misters on lanyards at the county fair; there’s so many misters you can’t just have one. Evapotranspiration baby. Also a rain umbrella shades you and baby WAY better than the hat they will pull off. – Christine, Reno-Tahoe, NV We have been using a Luv Bug towel with a hood. SPF 50 makes me feel like he's protected on the beach and in the sun. When we hike in full sun, we toss it over him. If you get it wet first, it adds a layer of cooling moisture. It's a swimsuit-like material so it's very lightweight. – Kyla, Vancouver, WA Frogg Togg neck coolers, a portable fan that can clip on either stroller, frame carrier and even SSCs. If I can find breathable sunshirts, I try to use those. I keep myself as cool as possible so I’m not sweating on them. I sometimes wear a sun shirt that is very breathable meant for horseback riding. – Keira, Lexington, KY Hats, popsicles, Frogg Toggs! – Mindy, Myrtle Beach/Conway, SC I've been known to soak the hat before putting it on to keep my 3-year-old cool. Also, use bandanas you can get wet and wear around your neck. It's not heat-related exactly but I also prefer using a zinc stick sunscreen on my kids' faces (mine too). I've found it runs less with sweat than other options even if they do look like Casper when I put it on. – Jeannie, Kansas City, MO Cold snacks End with getting ice cream! – Juliana, Fairbanks, AK Cold, juicy fruits to snack on. – Martha, Annapolis, MD Frozen yogurt tubes are our go-to summer snack. While on the trail they melt a bit but still end up being a cool snack. – Jennifer, Houston, TX Frozen grapes! – Lacey, Kanai Peninsula, AK Be prepared I’d carry 3+ liters of water for a day hike, 2 liters in a bladder and the other in a water bottle. Leave a couple hydroflasks in the car full of ice water for a refreshing drink when you get back to the trailhead! Hike to lakes so you can all cool off when you have lunch and bring extra socks for yourself, putting sweaty wool socks back on is terrible. – Sandy, South King County, WA We like to freeze small Gatorade bottles and take them with us to enjoy in the middle of the hike or at the top of a peak. They are super refreshing! We also try to keep a small cooler with colder drinks and snacks in the car to enjoy a picnic after the hike. Be sure to know the signs of heat exhaustion and how to treat it just in case. – Becca, Kistsap Peninsula, WA How do you keep your little explorers cool on the trail in summer? Let us know in the comments below! Read more: Benefits and Tips for Enjoying Water Play this Summer 10 Fun Ways to Keep Cool this Summer How to pack trail snacks for hiking in summer Photos by Kyla Phillips and Arika Bauer. 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

This post (Activities for Toddlers) is a continuation of our Outdoor Activities series. Our goal with this series is to provide you with a resource of simple activities to do with your little ones. Check out the other post in our series: Infants. Next month we'll bring you ideas for Preschoolers. Here are some fun ideas to get outside with your 1-3 year old and enjoy the beautiful summer days to the fullest. Hike/Explore/Immerse The easiest and arguably best option for an outdoors activity with your toddler is to take them somewhere in nature and let them find their own activities. Find a safe hike and let them take the lead on their wobbly little legs and see what interests them most along the way.  Take note of some of their favorites. (Do they always carry around rocks or would they rather watch birds?) When you get home, make a nature play area in your own backyard out of whatever is most exciting to them. Bonus: by letting them choose the activity you can avoid the infamous toddler meltdown Sensory Bins Toddlers still learn a lot through experiential learning with their senses, but it is fun to provide a little bit of extra imagination aspect to sensory bins for them. Create a beach at home with a small tub, sand, and seashells. Next, add a bucket of water and shovels.  Fill a bin with rocks and give them small trucks and excavation tools.  Add pretend animals to a bin of mud to stimulate imaginary play. Water/Ice Play Most kids seem to love water and adding ice to water play is a fun twist. There are tons of ideas that range from as simple as giving them a bucket of ice and some cups and spoons or those that require more preparation.  You can freeze toys or fruit into ice, make colored ice for painting, or create ice boats. Here are some examples and tutorials from Happy Toddler Playtime. These are perfect for a hot day! Nature Rubbings All you need is paper and crayons and random items in nature and you can discover what patterns they make. Leaves, bark, flowers, grass, or even hard-packed dirt make simple and interesting rub patterns. This is a great way to practice Leave No Trace, since the item can stay in nature, and the rubbing can come home with you! Animal Tracks You can get an online guide or pamphlet (often found at your local nature center) and go searching for animal tracks. Since toddlers are low to the ground they are actually some of the best spotters of animal tracks around!  If you don’t have access to an area where you can see the real thing, you can make your own with stamps or drawings. Hannah Pruitt from HiB Birmingham came up with stamping animal prints in clay or modeling dough. A great homemade dough recipe can be found here. For those avoiding gluten, try this one.  Hannah recommends the Terra Animals for footprints. Story Time Outside Bring reading outside. Whether the story is nature related or just any favorite book, bringing books outside allows you and your little one to enjoy nature and stories together. You could even bring a smaller book along on hikes for a fun break when those little legs need to sit down. Need ideas for a book? Check out our book reviews! Movement Games Get a group of friends together. This can be at a local park, trail, or someone’s backyard and have everyone come prepared with a simple and active game or dance. It doesn’t have to be fancy at all – Simon Says, Hokey Pokey, or “racing” from one spot to another are all a blast for little toddlers.  An added bonus is that everyone has some of their favorites and then you get to learn more ideas to get the wiggles out when your child tires of just running around in circles.  Guaranteed that this activity can be just as entertaining for the adults as well! Bubbles There are so many ways to play with them – make your own, bubble machines, wands, sock contraptions, and giant ones. There's no denying the fact that toddlers just love bubbles.  Bring some to a local playground and you are sure to make friends fast! Arts and Crafts We tend to think that arts and crafts can be messy, require lots of materials, and lots of preparation. Try adding a nature aspect to your crafts. It makes them more fun and manageable. Buy some contact paper and collect small leaves and flowers and then stick them together to create cool window hangings. Bring out the washable paint and paint rocks, sticks, or pinecones to keep the mess outside and limit what supplies you need. You can use these items as stamps on a large sheet of paper to make a nature mural. Give your kiddo a paintbrush, water, and some stones and let them discover how they change when they get wet. Family Outside Time Finally, taking your toddler outdoors doesn’t have to be all about them all the time. Sometimes just bringing them along for the ride for whatever you want to do or older kids happen to be doing can be the most fun and open them up to new experiences.  Don't underestimate your toddler's ability to participate in family activities! Do you have an activity your toddler loves to do outside? Share with us below! And check back next month for Preschool ideas.  Photos Courtesy of Kirby Crawford, Hannah Pruitt, and Ali Chandra 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

Our friends over at Sierra Designs and WildKind recently released an informative video highlighting some super helpful tips on how to backpack with kids! Eager to hit the backcountry with little ones? If you’ve been exploring the idea of elevating your kid camping experience to a backcountry trek, this is for you! Sierra Designs teamed up with Heather Balogh Rochfort, co-founder of Wildkind, to help families gain confidence in hitting the trails this summer with the whole family. Heather explains helpful tips like: Starting Small - recommendations on types of trails and their terrain & milage, how far to travel & how for many nights Stay Organized - recommendations on ways to pack using stuff sacks, how to pack & organize them, etc. Focus on Kid-Friendly Dining - recommendations on types of meals to pack for your kids that you know they’ll like Don’t Forget the Fun - recommendations on how to keep the experience enjoyable and fun!   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.

Hike it Baby recently had the pleasure of hosting a Bring it Outside event in Elizabeth New Jersey, in partnership with the Elizabeth Urban Wildlife Partnership, Groundwork Elizabeth, Union County Parks, Trinitas Regional Medical Center, and Friends of Great Swamp.   Our “Mother’s Day at the Park” event gave families the opportunity to spend a morning outdoors and enjoy free food, drinks, outdoor gear, bilingual resources and prizes. Thanks to the help of all of these local partners, we were thrilled to welcome special guests from Josephine’s Place by providing transportation to and from the park for these women and their families. Josephine’s Place is a safe, welcoming space based in Elizabeth, where underserved women have access to programs that enable them to grow in confidence, develop competencies and life skills, realize their potential, and uplift their families, communities, and future generations. Although Mother Nature gave us us some challenging weather conditions with a very rainy day, families still had the opportunity to get out into nature, and walk away with some awesome gear to help them get outdoors!  Guest speakers included Anna Harris, Deputy Refuge Manager at the Lenape National Wildlife Refuge; Lucy Crespo, the Youth Leader from Groundwork Elizabeth as well their Executive Director Johnathan Phillips; Jessica Carrillo Alatorre, Hike it Baby’s Executive Director and special guest New Jersey Senator Joe Cryan.  These speakers shared stories, the importance of getting outside and spoke to the shared goal of supporting the community. We also had plenty of activities for families to enjoy! Groundwork grew plants on their micro farm so kids could decorate flower pots, plant flowers and give these to their moms for Mother's Day.  There was a pop up campsite furnished by Teton Sports, complete with pretend smores, for kids to play in.  We also set up an infant carrier station, so parents could try on wraps, frame carriers, and soft structured carriers for their little ones.  There was a Wander Walk set up for families to walk through and try out the activities on the signs when the rain let up as well. To celebrate these special moms, everyone who attended the event received backpacks from Teton Sports, water bottles from FiftyFifty, bug repellent from Sawyer, as well as Hike it Baby resources, activities and stickers. We know how overwhelming it can seem to get outdoors with the whole family, and we understand that outdoor gear and resources can go a long way in making the first few steps outdoors attainable.  Lucky giveaway winners received Sunday Afternoons hats, Turtle Fur beanies, Oaki rain suits, a Burley Honey Bee, Joovy stroller, Onya baby carriers, and Solly baby wraps. We also want to extend a very special thank you to Athletic Brewing Co, Hike it Baby’s title sponsor for the event, who generously donated non-alcoholic beverages for families to enjoy.   We are so grateful for all of our amazing partners and sponsors who helped make this event a reality! It was a Mother’s Day to remember, and we were so honored to spend it with the families in Elizabeth New Jersey this year! 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.

From school to activities, the workweek to weekend adventures, life as a family is always in motion. We believe in the importance of being active, of spending time together, and being outside. And we know that it's super important that we keep our kiddos (and ourselves!) fueled for our adventures. In fact, snacks are often our favorite trail motivator when our kiddos hit the wall and we are a mile from the car. But did we mention, life is busy (understatement alert!).  This is where our Life in Motion Initiative comes in. Life in Motion is our favorite parent-sourced adventure-snacking tips rolled into fun activities, complete with new printable activity pages and our Biking Workbook. It's all you need to kick off your summer fun, so get out and get moving! Fruit Snack Power-Ups "My kids LOVE fruit snacks because they are a treat they only get when they are hiking.  When they were littler, I used to hand them a fruit snack to "power them up" and then they would run like crazy on the trail, and stop when they were out of power. Then I'd give them another one to power them up and keep moving.  This saved us on many hikes!" -Jen, HiB PA Cheers to Nature "We do toasts on the trail when the kids are “not thirsty.”Clinking water bottles to the trees, animals we've seen or talked about, and the adventures yet to come." It's a fun way to keep kids hydrated on adventures. -Elicia, HiB WA " Set a Snack-Spot "When we go on hikes, I always tell my kids where the snack time stopping spot is.  The faster they get there, the sooner they snack. This works because they know most of our local trails by now and are SUPER food motivated." This is also a great way to get your kids an extra boost of energy part-way through your outing, and will keep them going until the end! Find Your Favorite Trail Snack "Pouch/packet snacks like apple sauce and fruit slurry's are our favorite. These are good because they are malleable and can really fit anywhere and not get crushed like crackers or goldfish. Also, I've had a baby food pouch save a mama from passing out on a really long hike- she was getting light-headed we stopped several times to help her get her bearings, finally I was like hey I have this baby food pouch want to see if it helps- sure enough it did the trick!" "Trail mix is a favorite of the 3-year-old. It's only a stop snack, but makes everyone happy, especially when there are chocolate treats." Snack Break! Download our newest activity pages for some extra fun on your next adventure! English: Español:   My Biking Workbook Summer have you in the mood for a family bike ride? Download our My Biking Workbook 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.

Created in partnership with Morrison Outdoors. Bringing your baby camping and enjoying the great outdoors together is a dream for a lot of parents. There is just something special about introducing your children to an activity you enjoyed before they were born or that you enjoyed as a child. And while camping with young children is not always easy, planning ahead always helps the experience run a bit smoother. Favorite Baby Camping Foods Being prepared when it comes to food is one of the easiest ways to help your camping experience turn out as you’ve dreamed of. Happy and well-fed babies, mean happy parents, right? These favorite baby camping foods and tips are perfect for newbie campers and seasoned damping pros. Note: If your baby takes a bottle or eats formula, make sure to bring clean drinking water to prep and cleaning. Fruit/veggie squeeze pouches Whether you make your own or buy them from the store, these pouches are an incredibly convenient food source to have on hand while camping. Not only are they easy to store and require no prep at the campsite, but they are also easy for babies to eat anywhere. Sharing whatever you’re eating Babies love trying the food mom and dad are enjoying, so make camping life easier by planning to feed them a bit of whatever you are planning to eat yourselves. Are you grilling corn over the fire, cooking up some eggs, or making a foil pocket meal? Depending on the age of your baby, you can mash up a bit of the food your baby has already had or just feed them small pieces of everything. Pro tip: Plan ahead to ensure you have one item per meal your baby will eat (or has already tried) is an easy way to make this option a success. This baby camping food is geared more toward the slightly older babies, since introducing new foods is not ideal while camping. Fresh fruits and veggies Most parents start feeding their babies fruits and veggies first, so most babies are accustomed to eating mashed or pureed fruits and veggies at home. Keeping mealtimes similar to at home can help ensure babies feel comfortable while they experience the sensations of camping. Easy to mash foods, such as bananas, avocados, berries, or cooked peas make prepping meals easy while camping. But many of these easily mashable foods are also a bit harder to store, so having a space to store them without accidentally squashing them is something you consider before you head out on your trip. Finger foods Babies love to feed themselves and if your baby is already accustomed to eating crackers, cheese sticks/pieces, bananas, and other finger foods, then bringing them along is the perfect option for camping too. Many of these can be prepped at home or are easy to prep right at the campsite, so they help make camping easier for everyone. Camping foods for older kids While you are enjoying your camping experience with baby, some of these other food ideas may be helpful for both you and older children if you have them. Not only are these camping food ideas easy, but they've been tested by other camping families and passed the child-friendly test. Cooking by the Fire: Fun and Kid-Friendly Camping Recipes Easy Camping Meals for Kids   What are your favorite foods to bring along for baby while camping? OTHER ARTICLES IN THIS SERIES: How to Dress Baby for Cold-Weather Camping How to Choose a Baby-Friendly Campsite Essential Baby Camping Gear Tips for Sleeping in a Tent with Baby Photos by Deanna Curry.   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.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR FRIENDS AT MORRISON OUTDOORS The term “camping” may bring to mind warm summer nights and hot days splashing in the lake. However, there are benefits to camping in colder weather. There are fewer crowds, it’s easier to find prime campsites, there are not as many mosquitoes and biting bugs, and bedtime is less of a struggle since there are fewer hours of sunlight (just to name a few). So why don’t more families camp in colder weather? The biggest question we get from caregivers is “How do we keep our family warm when camping in colder weather?” followed by “there is no way I could camp with my baby in this weather!”.  We promise you, it is possible, even with a young baby in tow. It’s all about the right layers and sleeping environment. Read on for more information on how to layer your baby for a cold-weather camping adventure and start reaping the benefits today! The Basics of Layering Baby for Cold-Weather Camping Choosing the right material and number of layers is crucial for keeping your baby (and everyone) warm during cold-weather adventures. Here are some basics to keep in mind when picking cold-weather camping clothing: Base Layers for Baby First and foremost, AVOID COTTON! There is a reason you hear the term “cotton is rotten” when it comes to winter clothing. It collects and holds on to moisture which can then chill the skin when it’s cold. This is especially dangerous for babies since it can lead to a drop in body temperature. For the layers closest to the skin, we highly recommend wool for its soft feel, durability, and superior wicking ability. Synthetic materials (such as polyester) are also effective and generally a more budget-friendly option. Various companies make baby-specific base layers that include a onesie and leggings. Insider tip: if you choose a onesie option, snapping the onesie over the leggings can help prevent the leggings from sliding down while baby is moving around or being carried. Middle Layers This layer goes right on top of the base layer and functions as an insulator to help retain body heat. Polyester fleece is a great, affordable option here, especially fleece footie pajamas that completely cover the baby’s feet. One thing to note: if you plan to babywear your child during your camping adventure, make sure the footie pajamas are not so tight that they could risk reducing circulation (I usually went a size up if I was wearing my kiddos). Other options include thick-knit wool or insulated down, which are very durable but also come with a higher price tag. Outer Layers The type of top layer you choose will rely heavily on two factors: temperature and moisture. For the really cold, wet adventures, you may opt for a waterproof, down, one-piece snowsuit. This provides full protection from the elements, but also limits mobility and can make your baby too warm if the temperatures rise (in this case, you can shed the mid-layer). For cool or cold (but not frigid) camping trips, a down or synthetic jacket on top will likely suffice. I highly recommend purchasing a waterproof one-piece shell (such as a rain suit) for baby in case the weather turns wet. Look for ones that cinch on the waist, ankles, and wrists so you can size up and let your baby grow into it. Accessories Wool is an excellent material for hats and socks to keep moisture away from the skin. Synthetic material is an affordable option as well, just stay away from cotton! My kiddos wear these at night as well since they tend to wiggle in their sleep (my oldest used to wiggle completely out of his sleeping bag!). If you don’t want to purchase wool baby socks that they will grow out of quickly, you can use big-kid or even adult wool socks on your baby’s feet and hands to keep little extremities warm. Fleece is a great option for gloves if the conditions are not wet and your baby prefers a bit more dexterity. They also layer well under waterproof gloves for some added warmth and protection. Wool or fleece scarves or neck warmers are a wonderful option for added insulation, just be sure to make sure they are loose and not constricting the baby’s airway. Proper footwear for your baby will depend greatly on outdoor temperatures and the mobility of your little one. Warm fleece or wool booties may suffice if your little one isn’t walking yet. Winter boots may be a better option for little walkers so they keep their feet dry and clean while traipsing around the campsite or trail. Keeping Warm Through the Night Once the sun sets, the temperatures can drop significantly. A baby-specific sleeping bag is a must for keeping your baby warm through the night. We love the Morrison Little Mo for babies 6 months and older. There are two temperature ratings to choose from: A synthetic 40-degree option and a down 20-degree option. You can find out more about these sleeping bags in this article. In addition, make sure your baby is not sleeping directly on the floor of the tent. A camping crib/pack and play or sleeping pad can provide insulation from the cold ground and help baby sleep more soundly. Does your family enjoy cold-weather camping adventures? Do you have tips to make it enjoyable and successful for the whole family? Let us know in the comments below! Looking for more information on how to camp with a baby in tow? Stay tuned for more articles in this blog series! We will cover various topics and provide tips and advice to make camping with a baby a huge success! Other Articles in this Series: How to Choose a Baby-Friendly Campsite Essential Baby Camping Gear Tips for Sleeping in a Tent with Baby Favorite Baby Camping Foods Photos by Deanna Curry and Kim Ives   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.

Created in partnership with Morrison Outdoors. One of the biggest stress-inducing aspects of parenting a baby is getting them to sleep soundly so you can sleep soundly. This is also one of the main reasons that most parents hesitate to take their baby camping. If they don’t sleep that well at home, how can they sleep in a tent in the wilderness? While it’s true that you may be up a few extra times in the night, there are ways to make sleeping in a tent easier for both you and your baby. In fact, we found that sleeping in a tent with a baby wasn’t that different from sleeping at home. Here are some tips to help you all get some sleep and stay comfortable while camping as a family. Wear Your Baby Out This is especially true for older babies. There is so much to see and do while camping and keeping your baby active by exploring the campsite, hiking, swimming, etc. can help wear them out. Even young babies can delight in their new surroundings, with tummy time in a portable crib or on a blanket taking in the new sights, sounds, and smells. Stick with Bedtime Routine, But be Flexible If you have a set routine at home, keeping the main elements of the routine in place can help get your baby to sleep in the tent. For example, you can get your baby into pajamas/warm layers, feed them, read a book, and sing a few songs before settling them into their sleeping area. However, you may need to be flexible with the time they go to bed due to daylight streaming through the tent. You can cut down on the light by leaving the rainfly on the tent and draping a blanket over the windows. Also, I found that my little guy woke up needing comfort more often on camping trips, so I allowed him to nurse a bit more than usual. Maximize Space If possible, use a larger tent than you would normally need for your family. This allows you to spread out and fit a little extra gear to maximize comfort (such as a portable crib). It also allows you to move around the tent and grab baby for nighttime feedings without jostling everyone else in the tent. If a large tent isn’t possible, try placing baby in the middle of two adults in a small bassinet or makeshift “nest” of rolled-up blankets to maximize space. Just be sure your baby is safe with no extra bedding that could cause a hazard. A Portable Crib/ Pack-and-Play is Your Best Friend This little piece of equipment was a lifesaver for us! It provided a safe space for our baby to sleep in and kept him warmer since it was raised off the ground. It is also useful during camp set-up and break-down along with meal prep to keep baby contained and safely out of the way. If your little one is accustomed to using a Pack-and-Play at home, having one at your campsite can provide a sense of normalcy in their new surroundings. Dress Baby Warm Enough, But Not Too Warm It’s tempting to layer kids up to the point where there is no way they can get cold. However, a hot baby is usually a miserable, fussy baby. When my older son was a baby, we dressed him in wool base layers followed by a fleece sleeper and a sleep sack on top. This worked well when he was an infant, but as he got older, he wasn’t a fan of having so many layers on. We now use a Morrison Outdoors sleeping bag for my younger son. With two temperature ratings to choose from, it can take the guesswork (and stress) out of keeping your baby warm and comfortable at night. My toddler likes them because his arms are not confined so he can still move around throughout the night. Check out this article for more information on these sleeping bags for kids from 6 months to 4 years old. Bring a Few Comfort Items for Baby Keeping the sleeping environment in the tent relatively close to the home environment can help your baby accept their unfamiliar surroundings. This could include a favorite stuffed animal or blanket, a few pacifiers, a favorite book, or even some soothing music. Both of our kiddos have a really hard time falling asleep in the quiet. The sound of nature (crickets, wind, water, etc.) usually does the trick, but on particularly quiet nights, we sometimes had to resort to using a white noise app on our phone to help them get to sleep. It did the trick and made for a more restful night. Don’t be afraid to use what works at home, just be wary of bringing too much (tents only have so much room!). Do you have any tips or tricks that make sleeping in a tent with a baby easier? Let us know in the comments below!   OTHER ARTICLES IN THIS SERIES: How to Dress Baby for Cold-Weather Camping How to Choose a Baby-Friendly Campsite Essential Baby Camping Gear Favorite Baby Camping Foods   Photos by Deanna Curry     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.

Turn the Blues Green I was exhausted after the long labor that gave birth to my first child. My body and mind both were adjusting to the new reality of motherhood. I had a tiny, impossibly fragile life that weighed all of 7 pounds in my arms. She now actively depended on me for her survival. I was totally in love and utterly overwhelmed all at once.  That’s about when the nurse came in and told me to turn on the TV and watch a video about newborns. They called it the Purple Crying video, and in it I was told that there would be moments where my baby would be completely inconsolable, crying nonstop, maybe for hours at a time. The goal of the video was to prepare me for these impossible moments and tell me not to harm my child, but to ask for help, take a break, or otherwise give myself space. The result was more overwhelming than they probably intended.  I finished watching the video and looked over at my mom, who had come to help coach me through the birth process and to spend the first days of my daughter’s life at my side. She could read my thoughts without me even saying a word. “Don’t worry. You can just take the baby outside. It always works and it will make you both feel better,” she told me. I must have given her a bit of a skeptical glance because she went on to tell me how she used to rely on the leaves on the bushes in front of my childhood home to distract me, or how my dad would carry me outside before bed on summer nights and hold me over his shoulder while he watered the plants, letting the rushing water and evening breeze lull me to sleep. I didn’t know it yet, but my mom had just given me the single most useful piece of advice about having a baby that I would ever get and it was SO simple - just go outside! Just Go Outside That advice has stuck with me. I now have two daughters. Both have been walked outside whenever they were too fussy to calm down, too wired to sleep, or just cranky and in need of a change of scenery. As a mother, I also came to crave the peace of the outdoors. That deep breath of fresh air is like no other when it comes to soothing nerves, calming my postpartum baby blues, or lowering my blood pressure after a particularly challenging parenting moment.  It is the advice that has been my beacon as I think about what I want Hike it Baby to be and to accomplish in the years to come. The simple fact is I want more moms, dads, parents, and caregivers to know that a single step outside can be the solution to so many of the challenges of early parenthood and life with a new baby. Once you know the trick, it’s amazing how quickly you and your children will want to seek more time outside. And it’s a trick EVERY parent should know about, right?  Turn the Blues Green Last year, with the help of a really dedicated team of staff and volunteers, we were able to pull together a new program - Turn the Blues Green. This program introduces new mamas to the benefits of getting outside with their newborn and the positive affect it can have on both mother and baby’s mental and physical health. With generous support from SCL Health’s St Joseph Hospital in Denver, CO, we were able to create our first-ever new mama welcome booklet. It’s full of great advice, tips, and tricks from Hike it Baby mamas to help share the meaningful gift a step outside can be to a new family. It also includes some journaling prompts to help moms prepare and process during their shift into motherhood. Personally, I think it’s a pretty amazing resource and I am so glad we will be able to share it with more families so they can have my favorite piece of baby advice at their fingertips.  This year, we are excited to continue to grow our program. We know the importance of maternal mental health, and were thrilled with the success of the program at St Joseph Hospital in Denver! We have also partnered with three Intermountain Health locations in Montana to bring Turn the Blues Green programming including booklets, hospital staff led hikes and Wander Walks to all three hospitals.  We held family workshops in Oregon where we were able to use our Turn the Blues Green programming with several new mamas and their babies.  After these successes, we are ready to continue to Turn the Blues Green in new communities, and we need your help to provide these mamas with resources, gear, facilitated support and community by donating to our Everyday Giving campaign. This Mother’s Day we have one wish - that every new parent has a chance to know about the healing benefits of time outside with their newborn. We thank you in advance for your generosity! Coming full circle, we’re proud to share about our Turn the Blue Green program for Mother’s Day. So Mam, this one's for you. Your amazing advice and support is the spark that’s helping moms everywhere as they take the leap into motherhood. Thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do to make my life as a mom healthier, easier, and more enjoyable! Thank you for showing me how to bring it outside! Jessica Carrillo Alatorre, Executive Director, Hike it Baby   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.