Dad pulling children in a wagon

5 Places To Take Your Kids This Spring

Spring is a magical time of year when nature awakens from its winter slumber, and new life sprouts up everywhere. It's a season of renewal and growth, making it the perfect time to take children on outdoor adventures and explore the wonders of the world around us. Discover new places to take kids and then spread the word!



An Argument For Getting Out!

Taking your children to new places offers unique opportunities for children to learn and engage in hands-on activities that promote curiosity, observation, and exploration. Whether it's learning about different types of plants, observing wildlife in their natural habitats, or experiencing farm life, children will develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its wonders.


While you're there try asking open-ended questions, following the child's interests, encouraging observation, emphasizing hands-on learning, and providing follow-up activities, parents can help their children make the most of these experiences and stimulate their love for learning. Spring is a season of growth and new beginnings, and there's no better time to nurture your child's curiosity and help them discover the wonders of the world.


Even if venturing out with littles seems daunting, over time they and you will begin to appreciate these times in a new setting to break up your days and adventures. 


Here is a list of five places to experience the beauty of spring with your children and ideas to encourage learning, conversation and fun all at the same time.



Parent and Child holding hands walking

5 Places To Take Kids In The Spring

  1. Botanical Gardens: Spring is the perfect time to visit botanical gardens as flowers and trees are in full bloom. It provides an opportunity for children to learn about different types of plants, their growth cycle, and how they contribute to our ecosystem. Botanical gardens often offer interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs that engage children in learning and exploration. Not to mention your little one can run and holler as much as they'd like!
  2. Nature Preserves: Nature reserves provide an excellent opportunity for children to observe and learn about the natural environment. They can go on hikes, explore trails, and discover different types of flora and fauna. It can be a fun and educational experience for the whole family, as children can learn about different habitats, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

  3. Farms: Spring is the time when farms come alive with baby animals, crops, and fresh produce. Visiting a farm can provide children with an understanding of where their food comes from, and how it is grown and harvested. They can interact with farm animals, learn about the different breeds, and even get a chance to help with chores like feeding and grooming.

  4. National Parks: National parks offer a variety of activities for families to enjoy in the spring, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. They can be a great place for children to learn about the environment, history, and culture. National parks also offer educational programs and workshops that cater to children of all ages.

  5. Museums: Museums are a great place to take children in the spring when the weather isn't as great, as many have interactive exhibits and educational programs that cater to children. They can learn about different cultures, history, art, and science. Museums also offer a safe and engaging environment for children to learn and explore.


Family outside with flowers blooming around them

Make The Most Of Your Outings

  1. Ask open-ended questions: While visiting these places, ask open-ended questions that encourage children to think and explore. For example, "What do you notice about the leaves on this plant?" or "What do you think the baby animals need to survive?"
  2. Follow your child's interests: Let your child guide the exploration and follow their interests. If they are fascinated by a particular flower or animal, spend more time learning about it. Move at their pace through the spaces and don’t stress if you don’t see it all. You can come back for another visit soon!
  3. Encourage observation: Encourage your child to observe and (if age appropriate) document what they see. They can take or draw pictures, or make notes in a journal. This will help them retain the information they have learned and develop their observation skills.
  4. Emphasize hands-on learning: Allow your child to touch, smell, and interact with the environment. This hands-on approach to learning is integral to the Montessori philosophy, and it will help your child retain the information they have learned.
  5. Provide follow-up activities: After the visit, provide follow-up activities that reinforce what your child has learned. For example, you could make a collage of the flowers they saw or create a scrapbook of their observations.

Toddler admiring and watering a plant

Tips To Extend The Fun

As a parent of a baby or toddler you know that it can very quickly be time to go home. Watch for these signs that it might be time for a break before moving on in your adventure:

  1. Tiredness: If your baby or toddler is yawning, rubbing their eyes or getting cranky, it may be a sign that they're tired and need to snooze. Be sure to plan your outings around nap times so that you little one is set up for success on your outings. And have a carrier or stroller ready for a rest on the go.

  2. Overstimulation: If your toddler is becoming overwhelmed by the noise and activity around them, they may need a break from the environment. You could try finding a quiet spot to take a break and have a few minutes of connection before heading back into the more stimulating environment. If they still seem uncomfortable it might be time to call it a day!

  3. Hunger or Thirst: If your toddler is hungry or thirsty, they may become fussy and irritable, making it difficult for them to enjoy the event or outing. Pack small, tidy snacks and a water bottle to help stave off any unwanted hunger. You could even pack a picnic lunch if it works with your venue!



Cranky Toddler hugging a parent

When It's Really Time To Go

Once you've recognized the signs that your toddler is ready to leave, it's important to act on it. Start by letting your little one know that it will be time to go soon, so they have time to adjust to the idea. Be matter of fact but gentle, and offer a simple explanation - “We need to leave in 5 minutes. Choose one last thing before we go! What should it be?”


In order to make the transition easier, try to give your child something to focus on while leaving, like saying goodbye to friends or if they’d like to hop or run together to the exit. If it’s really difficult, you can also offer your kiddo two choices, such as walking or being carried to the car or holding your right or left hand. Both options help lead to the end goal but still give your toddler some control.


Remember to be patient and understanding, as toddlers can have a difficult time adjusting to change. By recognizing the signs that your child is ready to leave, and responding in a positive and supportive way, you can help ensure that both you and your toddler have a positive experience at events and outings.

Mom and toddler looking outside the window

Spring is the perfect season for exploring and learning with your children. Whether you visit a botanical garden, nature reserve, farm, national park, or museum, there are endless opportunities for fun and education. Just remember to keep it fun, engaging and short! And when it's time to head home, be sure to prepare your little one for what's coming next and offer connection if that feels hard to them. With a little planning and patience, you and your family can create magical memories that will last a lifetime. Happy spring exploring!


Family walking outside together

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