Awesome, Beautiful & Child-Friendly Outings
A.K.A.: The ABC's of Outdoor Adventures

Some of the best things in life really are free just like the old Sam Cooke song says. This includes most outings into the great outdoors. An outdoor excursion holds many benefits for kids including exercise (a.k.a. wearing them out!), exploration, understanding the value of nature... and the pure fact that we all can benefit from a little fresh air. To put it simply, it's good for us! And, if you live in the very cool city of Cleveland, there are tremendous resources available in the region to explore.

So, where to start? We've got some ideas:

Check out: Cleveland Botanical Garden: http://www.CBGarden.org.

Cleveland Metroparks: http://www.CleMetparks.com.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: http://www.NPS.gov/CUVA.

Lake Metroparks: http://www.LakeMetroparks.com.

Lake Erie: http://www.TheLakeErieGuide.com.

Now, that you know where to go, as a parent with a munchkin in tow, you will need to be ready for the adventure.

Be prepared. No, you don’t have to pack everything, including the kitchen sink. But, if you have a young child and are venturing out, you will want to pack a few necessities. These will include diapers, wipes, a change or underwear and pants. Don’t forget the hand sanitizer and a few snacks. Additionally, be prepared for the weather (you just never know in Cleveland!). Pack a hat or small blanket. Secure these few things in an easy to carry bag such as a backpack that will leave your hands free to tend to the little things, or, better yet, the little one.

Also, be sure to keep in mind the duration and timing of the trip. A hike in the woods sounds wonderful until you end up carrying your 27 lb. toddler for a mile or two! There are many great carriers on the market as well as all-terrain strollers, which may provide a happy compromise for a young independent child who wants to walk on their own, but may tire quickly. Additionally, a walk after lunch may sound perfect for you, but may be disastrous with a toddler who is growing tired and is ready for a nap.

Be sure to pack your patience. The outdoors is an amazing place and a child may simply be in awe of their surroundings. Enjoy it. When they stop to watch the ants, stop too. Toddlers, preschoolers and even school-agers may enjoy collecting various things from a nature walk. Simply provide them an appropriate, child-size container to collect their treasures.

If you are not sure where to go, start simply. The backyard or a walk around the neighborhood (or one of the great neighborhoods in Cleveland – Tremont, Ohio City, Little Italy, etc.) may be just right. This will make an enjoyable experience for all of you.

Wherever and whenever you choose to roam, enjoy the adventures in Cleveland’s great (and very cool) outdoors.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, M.A. fleminggifford@yahoo.com
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