School is officially out for the summer! As you head into the long, slow days of fun in the sun, you might find you need a few ideas for how to get the kids outside connecting with our forests, meadows, rivers, and canyons. Here are five suggestions to get you started:

1. Launch a butterfly expedition! Early summer is a great time to explore the delicate and wonderful world of butterflies. See our tips for an excellent expedition and check out our butterfly walks for kids!
   
   
2. Go for a hike! There are so many great places to take a hike or stroll with your kids in Central Oregon. Sometimes the options are overwhelming, so check out our easy list of family-friendly hikes at Land Trust Preserves, and be sure to peruse our tips for hiking with kids (hint: chocolate!)!
   
   
3. Try a different kind of hike--a hand lens hike! Get up close and personal with nature and observe details you might not have noticed before. Soak in the small stuff and throw your mileage goals out the window. Learn more about hand lens hikes.
   
   
4. Build fairy houses! For those smaller kiddos who might only last for short distances, find a spot to build fairy houses. Who lives in fairy houses? Fairies of course! Fairy house building is a great way to get comfortable and crafty spending time outside. Learn how to build a fairy house.
   
   
5. Take a picnic! Everyone likes to eat outside and soak in the scenery. Whether you’re in your backyard or out on the trail, sharing with family or friends, here are some tips for the perfect picnic.

Learn more:

• Connecting Children and Nature
• Encouraging a Sense of Wonder in Children