The opportunities to enjoy some outdoor play can be had now that the final weeks of Winter are upon us and already signs of Spring are popping up all around. At last, warmer weather is on its way and with the half-term break a little over a week away, the chance to get outdoors and enjoy adventures in the fresh air is something that brings many benefits for your little ones. Indeed, outdoor play is something that aids child growth and development at any stage and so long as there isn't a weather-warning in place, should be explored rain or shine. Besides, it could be the very thing to cure that feeling of cabin fever!

Verity - @mummasparks

Ever since Tilly was very small, we've taken her outside to explore the beautiful Somerset countryside. With her curious spirit and love for animals and nature, she really enjoys exploring and playing out of the house. Taking walks together is a big part of our family life and is something we always try to do, no matter the weather.

Obviously, at this time of the year, it's cold and whilst that could be a barrier for getting outside, little ones having fun quickly forget about the chill - provided they're wrapped up warm and dry of course. As the Norwegians say. " There's no bad weather, only bad clothing". For babies, it's recommended that you dress them in one more layer than you are wearing, plus hat and gloves as needed. Toddlers are usually on the move all the time so warm clothing and waterproofs to protect from puddles and the inevitable tumble on wet grass are essential. We love this Duck Puddle Suit and this fleece-lined one will make sure they're extra warm and cosy.

Once you're dressed for the weather, it's time to venture outside and even on a chilly day, there are plenty of fun ways to play and explore. Plus, like most activities with toddlers, there's always an opportunity to make a fun moment a learning moment too!

Treasure Hunt

No planning and no map required! Treasure can be anything you want it to be, whether pebbles or stones, golden leaves or pinecones. Any kind of little things that can be put into pockets counts!

Find a Rainbow!

A great way to learn about colours, why not search for things that make up the colours of the rainbow? A green bush, a red post box a purple flower - find as many as you can. Plus, if it's sunshine and showers there's a good chance you'll find a real one too!

A Game of Pairs

In this game, the grown-up chooses an object, for instance, a green leaf or a pine cone and the little one needs to find another, making a pair. How many pairs can you make?

Scavenger Hunt

Last year we created a scavenger hunt for little ones to do in their own neighbourhood. This fun activity comes with a free printable download that has pictures of lots of things toddlers will recognise as they search to find everything on the list!

There are so many benefits to encouraging your little one to enjoy outdoor play. Time spent playing and running around in the fresh air will help them to sleep better at night time and encourage a healthy lifestyle. There's always somewhere new to explore and new things to learn, both in fine motor skills and knowledge of the world around them. Plus, fostering a love for the great outdoors at an early age means they'll know how important it is to care for the planet as they grow up.

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