Encourage Outdoor Play for Fresh Air and Vitamin D

Remember when 'go play outside' was code for 'please, for the love of quiet, leave the living room'? Turns out, fresh air and sunlight aren’t just for Instagram picnics—they’re actual science! If your kid has been bouncing off the walls (literally), maybe it’s time to let them bounce off some grass instead. Bonus: sun + tired kid = maybe, just maybe, a nap.

Getting outside boosts your kid’s mood, helps regulate their sleep, and gives their brain a happy dose of vitamin D (sunshine, not the supplement you keep forgetting to buy). Movement, new sights, and a little dirt all support neural connections, creativity, and resilience. For you? Fresh air = less cabin fever and maybe a smidge of sanity restored.

How to do it

Step 1: Lower your expectations. It doesn’t have to be a Pinterest-worthy scavenger hunt—sometimes just opening the door is a win.

Step 2: Slather on sunscreen and grab water bottles (and maybe a hat you’ll inevitably forget to wear).

Step 3: Suggest a simple activity. You could:

  • Kick a ball
  • Draw with sidewalk chalk
  • Go on a "bug safari"

Step 4: Let boredom do its magic.

Step 5: Bask in the glory of tired, happy kids.

Tips:

  • Keep it simple; the goal is to get outside, not to plan the perfect activity.
  • Don’t stress if things don’t go as planned—flexibility is key.
  • Celebrate small victories, like everyone making it out the door.

When you notice your kid starting to climb the furniture or chase the cat.

Open the door and say, 'Let’s go outside for 2 minutes!'
Give yourself a mental high-five and maybe snap a photo of your wild child in action.
Put a basket with outdoor toys (balls, bubbles, chalk) by the door.

When you finish your afternoon coffee or snack.

Step outside with your kid, even if just onto the porch or balcony.
Take a deep breath and tell your kid, 'We did it! We’re solar powered now.'
Set a calendar reminder labeled 'Sunshine Break' for the same time every day.

When you hear the words, 'I’m bored!' or 'What can I do now?'

Slip on shoes and walk outside together, even if just to check the weather.
Do a silly dance or superhero pose in the sun, no matter who’s watching.
Keep a pair of easy-to-slip-on shoes for you and your kid near the door.