Parks are serene havens where we can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. These green spaces offer endless possibilities for creativity and enjoyment. Today, we share some of our favourite activities to do at the park with the kids. Check out our 12 simple yet delightful activities that you can engage in at the park. From scavenger hunts to cloud watching, there is something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Easy Nature Scavenger Hunt
This is so quick and easy and can keep the kids busy for ages.. as well as get them running around and burning off excess energy. Embark on a nature scavenger hunt and explore the park’s hidden treasures. Create a list of items such as leaves of different shapes, acorns, feathers, or specific types of flowers. Armed with your checklist, venture into the park and keep your eyes peeled for these natural wonders. It’s a fun activity that encourages observation and appreciation of the park’s flora and fauna.
Make a classic Daisy Chain (spring and summer) or Leaf Crown (Autumn & Winter)
Capture the whimsical essence of childhood by making daisy chains. Delicately weave together daisies or other wildflowers to create a beautiful, nature-inspired accessory. Enjoy the tranquility of the park as you sit on the grass and craft these charming floral garlands. They make lovely decorations or even wearable tokens of nature’s beauty.
In winter, you can do the same with fallen leaves – only leaves needed to make these clever crowns!
Create a Den OR Fairy HOUSE
A classic activity for more wooded areas! The kids LOVE LOVE LOVE making dens. A great way to work together towards a common goal. Be sure though not to damage the local environment and only use fall branches or things cut down by the rangers. The area you are in, not suitable for den building? Go MINI and make mini fairy houses. Same principle on a smaller scale and just as fun and great for imaginative play.
Create some Nature Art
Be inspired by Andy Goldsworthy and unleash your inner artist and let nature be your muse. Gather fallen leaves, twigs, flowers, and pebbles to create stunning works of art in the park. Arrange them into patterns or create ephemeral masterpieces on the ground. Embrace the impermanence of your creations and revel in the process of blending natural elements with your imagination.
EMbark ON Photography Challenge
We ADORED doing this one! And had a gorgeous walk exploring our local park and neighbourhood. Take your smartphone or camera and embark on a photography challenge in the park. Capture the beauty of the park’s landscapes, intricate details of flowers, or the playful antics of wildlife. Experiment with different angles, lighting, and perspectives to create captivating images. This activity not only allows you to appreciate the park’s beauty but also helps you develop your photography skills. We decided to make a rainbow photo hunt. But it can be anything really – you can choose to photograph butterflies and insects. Go “close up” and look at the details on rocks and trees.. whatever you wish. Pick a theme and explore and photograph!
Fly a Kite
Let your spirits soar as you fly a kite in the park. Find an open space, preferably on a breezy day, and let your colorful kite dance with the wind. Feel the exhilaration as you control its movements and watch it gracefully soar high above. Flying a kite is a timeless activity that brings joy and a sense of freedom.
Cloud Watching
Lie back on a blanket, look up at the sky, and let your imagination run wild as you engage in the art of cloud watching. Observe the different shapes and formations that the clouds create and let your mind wander. Are they fluffy cotton balls or mystical creatures? Let your thoughts flow freely as you relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the park. You can of course make it educational and see if you can identify and name the different cloud formation. We have a cloud spotting tool for you here.
Outdoor Yoga & Forest Bathing
Enhance your well-being and connect with nature by practicing yoga in the park. Find a quiet spot, roll out your mat, and let the fresh air and natural surroundings inspire your practice. The park provides a serene backdrop for stretching, breathing, and finding inner peace. Immerse yourself in the harmonious union of mind, body, and nature. Listen to the surroundings. Feel the light on your closed eyes. How does your skin feel. Have a small meditation.
Picnic Time
Gather your loved ones, pack a delicious picnic, and enjoy a delightful meal surrounded by the beauty of the park. Spread out a cozy blanket, savor tasty snacks, and bask in the serenity of nature. Share laughter, stories, and quality time together in this idyllic setting.
Tree Hugging
We briefly touched on Forest Bathing as part of the Yoga session above. Tree hugging is an integral part of forest bathing. Connect with the park’s majestic trees by embracing the ancient practice of tree hugging. Find a tree that resonates with you, wrap your arms around it, and feel its grounding energy. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, allowing the tree’s wisdom and strength to flow through you. It’s a simple yet powerful activity that fosters a deeper connection with nature and promotes a sense of tranquility and harmony.
Outdoor Reading
Escape into the world of literature and indulge in some peaceful reading in the park. Find a comfortable spot under a shady tree, bring along your favorite book or e-reader, and immerse yourself in captivating stories or enlightening non-fiction. Let the gentle breeze and natural surroundings create the perfect ambiance for your literary adventure.
Outdoor Drawing or Water Color Painting
Bring a mini kit of art supplies and get the kids to draw and sketch what they see. A great way to connect with the environment around you and really “see” it!
Parks provide the perfect setting for simple yet fulfilling activities that allow us to appreciate nature’s beauty and foster our creativity. Whether you’re engaging in a nature scavenger hunt, creating daisy chains, or capturing the park’s essence through photography, these activities offer a wonderful way to connect with the environment and enhance your park experience.
Take time to fly a kite, watch the clouds, or practice yoga outdoors, immersing yourself in the serenity and tranquility of the park. Enjoy a picnic, hug a tree, or simply relax and read a book, finding solace and rejuvenation amidst nature’s embrace.
These ten simple activities will help you unwind, spark your creativity, and deepen your connection with the natural world. So, head to the park, embrace the beauty that surrounds you, and let these activities enrich your day with joy, inspiration, and a sense of wonder.
Remember to respect the park and its rules, leave no trace behind, and be mindful of the delicate balance of nature. Let the park be your sanctuary, a place where you can find solace, creativity, and moments of pure bliss.
Check out our Beach Activities here: