As usual, I’m stumped. It’s another rainy day and I long to be among the trees as huge drips fall to burst on my head. My daughter, however is much more comfortable on the couch, wrapped in a blanket and watching another episode. Is it a futile effort to try and get her to come with me and learn to embrace the many trails we have on our doorstep or should we just settle in for a life in front of the TV?

Tyler Ingram @aDadsAdventures said: “Dress for the weather! We have to sort of fight the kids to get them out but once they are… they never want to go back in 😆”

Gareth Lockhart-Kuthe @lockhart63 shared: “Definitely make her feel comfortable first. But her a muddy buddy and let her pick out some awesome rainboots or her own gear. My wife is a teacher and has tons of resources that I would never think of. She has made a bingo sheet scavenger hunt (things like, a puppy, a cat, yellow flowers, a coffee cup, etc.) and you could put a prize for when they find it all that happens to be at a cafe/restaurant in your neighbourhood which would extend your time outside the home.”

I asked about trails in North Vancouver and Robin Shore of Shore Grazing Company (a new snack company) said – “There are some fairy houses placed along the Varley trail. Hard to find but fun to make an adventure.”

Daniel Grimer @dangrimarealestate shared plenty for us to try:
1: Bring the right gear, when it is wet make it about waterfalls, the biggest puddle you can find and bring along a boat/bath toy! 2: Bring snacks, when it’s cold/wet a hot chocolate is a great idea. I sometimes even bring a tarp and a little stove and we roast marshmallows! 3: The Trail Marker Challenge… so many trails have trail markers on the North Shore, make it a challenge to find them and tag them. How many will you find? 

Marjan @deepcoveooof Deep Cove said “I think have something set up outside like a small clipboard and coloured felt pens. Snacks are also a big motivation for my little kiddos. Obviously having a buddy would help. Advice from a mom with 3 kids under 5 and an afterschool teacher.”

Laura @laurajv16 shared “start researching and following some different accounts: @littleadventurescompany @1000hoursoutside @take.me.outside are a few that spring to mind and have resources available. Also, read #nosuchthingasbadweather by @rainorshinemamma.”

Here are a couple of printable Scavenger Hunt worksheets that we’re going to take on our next trips outside: