When getting outdoors is hard

A long time ago a very outdoorsy friend with 3 kids said to me, “getting out the door is the hardest part.”

That sentiment  seems to still be true and this week’s post has some great suggestions that may help. If getting out with your toddler is a struggle take comfort, you’re not alone. 

 When Getting Outdoors Is Hard

Lately, life has felt like a little bit heavier than usual. I think most moms can relate to that feeling in one season or another. There are lots of things in motherhood that are hard. In fact, most of it can be challenging on a tough day.

Adding the mission of getting a very busy and wiggly pre-toddler outside for some meaningful outdoor time has found its way to the back burner recently. Yes, of course we walk our dogs daily, but for Jett that usually means a stroller ride. For me, a big part of being outside includes the rich movement that goes along with it, stroller rides don’t offer that. I have noticed that Jett sleeps a little better after a day with significant outdoor time. He still wakes frequently a night, but some outdoor time might equal one less wake up. 

Having the right gear does help! I keep all of Jett’s smittens, toques, booties etc in a bin right near the front door. It helps to have a place for them. Knowing I can just toss him into clothing and gear that is proven to be warm and will stay on takes away one layer of challenge. 

So what’s a mom to do? Here some ideas that are helping me! 

• Message a friend for a nature walk. Check out the pictures from our recent friend nature walk. 
• Spending a few minutes on the front lawn when getting home from running errands. We are already dressed to be out and the grass on the lawn is as good as any grass. 
• Finding a chore and doing it outside. For me that’s brushing the dogs, less clean up too. 
• Opening a window, bring that fresh air in!  
• Making a pit stop during a dog walk for a Jett to have a little romp. 
• Just go! An object in motion will stay in motion. I like to layout all the gear we need and then just get down layering up and then suddenly we are ready! 

Not every day needs to be epic. The yard or the closest park are as great as anywhere! I’m sure there is loads of research about all of the mental, physical and spiritual benefits to getting outside. For me, at the end of the day, it makes me happy, and it makes my kid happy. Done. 

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An additional hope that we will be able to connect with more families and parents by being out front. 

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