9 Easy Ways to Get Outside With More Than One Kid
Getting outside and absorbing some vitamin D with more than one kid is easier said than done. When they’re multiple ages and the same activities no longer fit, you have a choice to make:
- Stay inside, where things are safe and easy, OR
- Go outside and do something, and make one kid feel mad/left out
- Figure something out
It’s not always easy, but it can be done — here are nine ways to get outside with BOTH kids (without making one of them miserable).
#1 — Pick Multi-Age Friendly Spaces
The toughest part about doing outdoor activities with multiple kids is that they’re often not suited for the same spaces. Babies put everything in their mouths, and big kids want to run and play.
Most outdoor spaces are going to have things that babies shouldn’t eat laying on the ground, and that’s okay. Opt for the cleanest parks, the best splash pads, and the most open-concept playgrounds you can find.
#2 — Choose Areas That Are Confined
Fences are your friend when you have more than one kid. If you have a crawler and a runner, or just generally get pulled in every direction, ALWAYS look for playgrounds with fences.
Kids are escape artists, and anything can happen, but another boundary between them and the rest of the world at least makes it a little harder for them to give you a panic attack.
#3 — Go for the Stroller-Friendly
Zoos, parks, carnivals — whatever you can do that has room for a stroller and gets everyone some fresh air, go for it. If it’s a long, winding path sort of place, bring a sit and stand stroller that gives babies AND big kids a place to ride.
Shop Joovy Sit and Stand Strollers
#4 — Combine Babywearing and a Stroller (or a Trike!)
If you have a baby and a big kid, babywearing is a great way to keep up with them both. Use the stroller for weary littles (and to give your shoulders a break), and use the baby carrier to chase down your toddler when it’s time to leave. Or if your older kiddo is over the stroller, try out a trike! You can keep them motivated to stay moving while having a free hand should you need it!
#5 — Take a Hike
Hikes are a great way to get outdoors with multiple kids, without having to chase them all over a play structure. Keep them short (because tiny legs get tired faster) — no more than a mile at first. If you have a baby, use a sturdy baby carrier to make sure everyone gets to come along.
#6 — Avoid Bodies of Water Without Help
If there’s one thing that’s probably not worth trying to do alone, it’s taking more than one kid to a pool or lake without some backup. To the parents who brave this daunting task, we salute you (but we’re too chicken).
#7 — Plan (and Pack) Ahead
Nothing ruins a day on the trail like someone peeing their pants (it happens). Give yourself plenty of time to plan and pack, from coordinating around nap times to stashing a couple extra changes of clothes in the car.
#8 — Make Your Yard the Destination
You don’t have to go Lewis and Clark and start backpacking with your kids. If leaving your property is too daunting, make your yard the coolest place ever for your kids this summer.
Create outdoor play spaces, set up a tent, build a campfire — whatever your neighborhood is cool with.
#9 — Tag Team It
Lean on your people when you’re getting cabin fever and just need some sunshine. Get together with some other parents, and work collectively to keep an eye on all of the kids. You don’t have to do this alone (and historically, most families didn’t anyway).
