Mothers Day is rapidly approaching, and it’s time to plan your brunch and other activities. With the weather so warm and pleasant lately, why not spend the day outdoors? Kids can always benefit from less screen time and more nature time, and there’s plenty to keep them busy in the yard or elsewhere outside. Check out these five fun ideas.

Go on an adventure. Lace up your shoes and hit a hiking trail together. Most kids enjoy an outdoor adventure, but there are sneaky ways to woo the reluctant ones. Teach them fun songs as you hike, or hunt for rare plants, mushrooms, and animals. Bring along a pair of binoculars for spotting birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.

Set up a scavenger hunt. More appropriately, ask your husband or another adult to arrange this activity; you don’t need another chore on Mothers Day! Going on a scavenger hunt can be a great way to spend time together. Make it creative, such as a list of clues rather than a simple list of items. Or, see if you can make it funny by creating a craft out of your objects after you’ve found them all.

Plant a garden. Mothers Day is the perfect time to start a garden together. Plus, this is a quality time project that will keep on giving for months as you harvest fresh veggies or cut flowers together.

Enjoy a picnic or tea. Be as basic or creative as you like with this idea. A simple picnic at a park, beach, or other outdoor setting can be a great way to spend time together. Or, set up a fancy “tea time” in your backyard or rented garden space. Small children love to invite their favorite dolls or teddy bears. You might also invite a few fellow moms and their kids, and turn the event into a party.

Play outdoor games. Set up your favorite outdoor games, and challenge the whole family to an Olympics-style tournament. Volleyball, corn hole, horseshoes, a homemade putt-putt course, and even outdoor Twister can provide hours of entertainment. Add some bubbles, water toys, and sidewalk chalk to keep the youngest kids busy if they find some of the more advanced games too frustrating.

If any of your outdoor activities lead to planning a new garden area, give us a call. We can help you design a new space that the whole family can enjoy together.