Life With Four Kids

Study after study shows kids are spending less time outside–resulting in serious consequences on their developing minds and bodies. I never had to look further than my living room to witness Nature Deficit Disorder (the official name for kids’ reduced time outdoors). While my kids soak up organized sports and weekly trips to the park or basketball courts, these aren’t really the “outdoors.”

I’ve often wanted my kids to “get lost”–ahem, I mean that in the kindest sense! But in order for them to disappear in nature, I often had to drive 30 to 40 minutes away to a lake or wooded area. The marshes near our former home were fun the first 10 times. After a decade, they lost their intrigue (but not their stench!). So I was psyched to participate in Kids in Nature Day in Matthews, NC, about 12 minutes from our new locale.

The challenge was to get the boys to rise and shine early on Saturday. But with the promise of chocolate milk and NY-Style bagels (not quite–it’s the water. See previous pizza post!) they agreed. We headed to Squirrel Lake Park, a wildlife habitat a few miles out of the bustling city center. And every member of our family had a unique and truly outdoor experience.

Two boys and the best.dad.ever. (see photo) honed their fishing skills, catching more than a dozen catfish between them.

Baiting, catching, reeling, posing and releasing. Serious bonding time–with nature and with Dad.

The two little ones watched in awe as baby opossums were released into the forest.

Zac got a lesson in NC snakes and what it takes to live your passion, even when it involves deadly venom. 

Chris spent 45 minutes building a bird box, including the tedious and repetitive task of screwing and hammering. Did I mention, a neurologist, teachers and a principal advised he could not focus for extended periods of time and should go on medication, STAT!

Sustained focus and a helpful item for wild birds helped him hammer home plenty of pride!

Does 45 minutes on the same task count as focusing for an extended period? Just wondering…

And I hit the pavement/hiking trails for a short jog among lichen, ferns, oaks, and some hidden foxes. Along my path, I came across one of my favorite sayings. And nothing is more fitting with our current circumstances.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
–Robert Frost

Because, truly, these wild outdoors, in this state, at this time, for my family–has made all the difference.