Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time for families to go outside and enjoy the fresh air! As the weather warms up, there are plenty of fun, engaging activities that both children and parents can enjoy together. Here are some outdoor play ideas for families to take advantage of in the longer weekday light and on the weekends!
- Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts
Take a stroll through your local park or nature trail. Turn it into an exciting scavenger hunt by making a list of things to find like different types of flowers, birds, or rocks. It’s a great way for children to explore nature, while getting some exercise!
- Geocaching
Geocaching is like a real-world treasure hunt using a smartphone or GPS! Families and preschoolers can go on exciting adventures together to find small hidden containers, called “geocaches,” in parks, neighborhoods, or trails. It’s a fun way to explore nature, practice teamwork, and build early map-reading and problem-solving skills. Bring a small trinket to trade and enjoy the joy of discovery while spending quality time outdoors! Families could introduce their youngest members to geocaching by creating hunts and maps right in their own backyards! (For more information on where to look for local geocaches or information on how to create your own, read below!)
- Springtime Picnic
Pack a lunch and head to your favorite outdoor spot. A picnic is a wonderful way to relax, enjoy some family time, and savor the beautiful spring weather. Add some fun games like frisbee or soccer to keep everyone active.
- Garden Fun
Why not start a small garden with your little ones? Planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables is a rewarding and educational experience that fosters teamwork and responsibility. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with nature!
- Visit a Local Playground
Head to the playground for some classic outdoor fun. Swinging, sliding, and climbing are all fantastic ways to build strength and coordination. Many local parks also offer outdoor art installations and spaces for creativity.
Outdoor play isn’t just about staying active – it’s about making memories together and enjoying the beauty of the season. So, gather your family and make the most of this spring! 🌷🌞
Local Nature Reserves and Parks:
Here is a list of some of our favorite local parks and nature reserves that your family can visit and enjoy!
- Mass Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary- 1417 Park St, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Nickerson Walking Woods Preserve-221 Richardson Ave, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Attleboro Springs Wildlife Sanctuary-947 Park St., Attleboro, MA 02703
- Harold Burns Memorial Wildlife Arboretum- 1025 Mount Hope Street, North Attleboro, MA 02760
- Capron Park- 201 County St, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Poncin Hewitt Field- 429 Oakhill Ave, Attleboro, MA 02703
- North Attleboro WWI Memorial Park and Zoo-365 Elmwood St, North Attleborough, MA 02760
- Lloyd G. Balfour Riverwalk Park- 74 N Main St, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Finberg Park-52 Bishop St, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Lee’s Pond-65 Adamsdale Ave, Attleboro, MA 02703
More Information on Geocaching
Here’s a simple and fun way to create a geocaching experience in your own backyard for young preschoolers:
- Backyard Geocaching for Preschoolers – Step-by-Step
- Pick a Few Hiding Spots
Choose 3–5 safe and easy-to-reach locations around your yard—behind a flowerpot, under a bush, near a tree, etc.
- Create Mini “Caches”
Use small, weather-safe containers (like plastic snack boxes) and fill them with little treasures—stickers, toy animals, colorful rocks, or even healthy treats.
- Make Picture Clues
Since preschoolers may not read yet, draw simple picture clues showing each hiding spot (a tree, swing, garden gnome, etc.). You can also use printed photos.
- Set the Trail
Hide your treasures and give your child the first clue. Each container can have a new clue leading to the next spot—ending with a fun surprise!
- Go on the Hunt!
Follow the clues together, ask guiding questions, and celebrate each find! Encourage curiosity, teamwork, and outdoor exploration.
It’s a great way to turn outdoor time into a mini adventure right at home! If you are ready to explore outside of your own backyard you can go to https://www.geocaching.com/play to find more local geocaches!