It only takes a rainy weekend to see it: screens quickly take over. And once they're there, it's not easy to get kids to switch off. We also see it during vacations or long weekends: it's hard to compete with screens when they become the default reflex.
But by letting them scroll or zap, we miss what they really need.
Move, explore, invent. Take a deep breath. Slow down.
You don't need to go far for this. A path, a patch of forest, or a slightly wild garden can be enough. The idea is to get them moving again, away from screens, with simple games that make them want to stay outside.
In this article, we offer you 5 ideas for outdoor games to try out as a family to (re)connect with nature.
Easy-to-set-up activities, with or without equipment, that work for all ages.
Idea #1: Nature Treasure Hunt
We'll start with a classic, but it works every time. The principle is simple: you give them a list of things to find around them. A feather, a pine cone, a heart-shaped pebble, a yellow leaf... It's up to you to adapt according to age and location.
You can also organize the hunt in teams, with each team assigned a color or shape. This avoids arguments and forces them to divide up roles.
What kids love is the “mission” effect. They have a goal, they search, they compare, they observe. You can even add a bonus challenge: find something no one else has seen.
In the forest, by a lake, or even in a park, it encourages them to look differently. And you'll see: they spot things faster than you do.
Tip: You can also have them make a treasure box with what they have found to extend the activity at home.
Idea #2: The animal relay
You'll have to give it your all, but it's a game that lets off steam and makes you laugh. The goal: move forward while imitating animals. You draw a small path (or use the trail) and everyone has to complete their "game" by moving like an animal.
Run like a fox, jump like a frog, crawl like a bear, flutter like a butterfly... the possibilities are endless. And if there are several of you, you can even organize a small team race.
It builds muscle, channels energy, and is fun for everyone. Especially when adults get involved too (even reluctantly).
For younger children, you can print or draw the animals to be drawn, like a wild lottery.
Idea #3: Build a temporary cabin
Nothing like this to keep them busy for a while without hearing “what do we do now?”
No tools are required, just imagination and whatever you find around. Branches, leaves, stones, pieces of string if you have some on hand: anything can be used.
The idea is to create a shelter together, even a small one. A “secret base,” a “forest house,” a “cuddly toy refuge”... It doesn't matter what the name is, as long as they make the place their own.
It's a game that requires a bit of imagination, a fair amount of cooperation, and gives a real sense of pride at the end. And as a bonus, it often makes you want to stay outside a little longer, to play "in the cabin."
Don't forget to take pictures of their cool builds to look at together later.
Idea #4: A hiking “bingo”
Simple, but incredibly effective at avoiding the “when will we arrive?”
Before leaving, prepare a small grid with elements to spot during the walk: a butterfly, a mushroom, a cow, a river, a wooden sign, a purple flower... As soon as they see one, they check the box. Objective: fill in the grid.
It's a game that forces them to look up, observe their surroundings, and stay attentive. And if there are several of them, it can quickly turn into a (peaceful, of course) competition.
And if they tick all the boxes? It's up to you: a family sing-along, a snack break, or the right to choose the evening's dessert.
To be adapted according to the season, the region, and even the weather of the day.
Idea #5: The Wild Photographer
Give them an old phone, a small camera, or even a disposable camera, and give them a mission: capture 5 animals, 3 plants, 1 funny rock, a weird cloud... or whatever seems “cool” to them.
This is a great way to turn the walk into a photo hunt. It encourages them to observe, frame, get closer, and bend down. You can also add a theme: “colors,” “strange shapes,” “anything that stings.”
In the end, we sort through the photos together. We print the best ones. And sometimes, we discover we have an artistic eye at home.
It's your turn (outside)
No need for a complicated program to keep them away from screens: a little nature, a hint of imagination, and off you go. These games require almost nothing, except the desire to get outside and move.
And to make sure everything goes well: it's better to have shoes that keep up.
At Kimberfeel, we offer children's shoes designed for just that: running, jumping, climbing, and repeating. Sturdy, comfortable, and suitable for all their adventures, even those they haven't yet invented.
Your next family adventures start here.
Want to extend the adventure? We have other ideas in our luggage:
➜Ideas for summer mountain activities: our top 5 for the whole family
➜ Children's hiking shoes: how to choose the right ones?
➜ The 5 best getaways for a family weekend
