Exciting new research is also revealing that children with ADHD are greatly helped by spending some time in nature, and that even being in a classroom where they can view nature outside can aid concentration. Numerous studies show that just being exposed to nature can improve memory and concentration, as well as raise test scores and grades. Volunteers do any number of things, including removing ivy, rebuilding trails, planting seeds, or painting picnic tables. If your little ones are too small for more active Outdoors Dates, organize a stroller group instead. Take a photo of your tree every week or every month, and put the pictures in a series to see how it changes over the course of a year~or longer.

As a group or family, choose a favorite tree you can visit often. Or try snowshoeing~no lift tickets are required. Build igloos or snow caves, or go sledding or snow tubing. Ask your children what shapes they can see, and encourage them to share. If the stars by night are tricky to make out, look for shapes in the clouds instead. Kids will be more engaged if you include several weird or gross items on your list: a dead bug, a bird feather, a worm. Walk around your yard, neighborhood, or school and find an area that needs attention. Watch the squirrels in your yard or at a park for a while and see if you can identify the squirrels~ favorite routes~or ~squirrel highways.~ All you need is a few people and an area with good hiding places, such as a playground, park, or wooded area. Bring a magnifying glass to really zoom in. Take a closer look at birds, bugs, shrubs, and trees when you pass.

Get Out! by Judy Molland