Planning Outdoor Activities with Purpose
As the days grow longer and the air fills with the promise of spring, it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors with your youth programs. Whether you’re leading a summer camp, an after-school program, or a weekend retreat, outdoor activities offer an incredible opportunity to foster growth, build connections, and instill confidence in the young people you serve. But planning these activities with intention grounded in empathy and engagement can make all the difference.
You know the magic that happens when kids step outside. They explore, they move, they breathe fresh air often breaking away from screens and structured indoor routines. Outdoor activities don’t just promote physical health; they help youth build resilience, problem-solving skills, and deeper relationships with their peers. When designed thoughtfully, these experiences can create moments of belonging and self-discovery.
The key? Leading with empathy. Every young person approaches outdoor experiences differently—some with excitement, others with hesitation. Your role is to create an inclusive environment where every child feels safe, encouraged, and empowered to participate.
1. Meet Them Where They Are: Not every child is a natural adventurer. Some may be eager to climb trees and run wild, while others may feel nervous about new environments. Take time to understand their comfort levels. Instead of pushing participation, offer choices. For example, instead of a mandatory group hike, consider having both a walking exploration and a mindfulness-focused sit spot activity.
Action Item: Include a mix of high-energy and low-energy outdoor activities to engage all participants.
2. Focus on Connection Over Competition: While some youth thrive in competitive settings, others may feel pressure or discouragement. Shift the focus toward teamwork, shared experiences, and self-improvement. Activities like cooperative games, nature scavenger hunts, or group storytelling hikes allow everyone to contribute in their own way.
Action Item: Incorporate activities that encourage collaboration rather than just competition.
3. Make Space for Reflection: Outdoor activities are not just about movement; they’re also about mindfulness. Give youth moments to slow down and reflect on their experiences. After an activity, ask open-ended questions:
What was your favorite part?
Did anything surprise you?
How did you feel working with others?