Building a Stronger Family with 6 Outside Activities

Introduction

Even though we live in HOT Florida, my kids and I love to be outside in the summer. Outside activities provide a fun way to spend time together and give us opportunities to strengthen our family bonds.

As Christian wives and mothers, we can use these moments to teach valuable lessons and create lasting memories. Here are six easy ways to build stronger family bonds through outdoor activities, with Scripture to keep us grounded.

Nature Walks and Hikes

My kids love walking in nature. My oldest is in school for conservation law enforcement. He recently had to take a class about plants. Now every time he comes home our favorite outside activity is taking a “plant walk.” On our plant walk he points out every plant and tree he’s learned with fun facts. This walk is great because it helps him study while we make happy memories of our time together. He loves to show what he knows!

When we explore nature with our kids, it can be a peaceful and enriching experience for the whole family. Choose trails or walks that are suitable for all ages and take time to appreciate God’s creation. Discuss the different plants, animals, and landscapes you encounter, and use these moments to reflect on God’s handiwork.

*Scripture –

Psalm 19:1 (NIV) says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Use this verse to remind your children of the beauty and majesty of God’s creation as you walk. Some scholars say that everything God created reflects some aspect of his nature. Talk about how the plants, animals, and landscape reflect who God is during our outside activities.

Backyard Camping

An outside activity that is always fun is backyard camping. My kids used to take their sleeping bags to the trampoline and sleep there so they could see the stars but not need a tent. They loved those days!

Set up a tent in your backyard (or use a trampoline) and enjoy a night of camping under the stars. This activity is perfect for kids of all ages and provides a great opportunity for storytelling, singing songs, and sharing about life. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce younger children to camping without leaving home. Camping serves lots of great benefits so don’t overlook this one!

*Scripture –  

Psalm 4:8 (NIV) says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Share this verse during your camping adventure to emphasize God’s protection and peace. This verse is particularly helpful for young campers who may get scared from the strange sounds at night.

Family Sports Day

Even though we aren’t a huge sports family (both my kids chose different martial arts for their sport), we still love to play frisbee and “football.” I put it in quotes because it’s probably not like any football game you’ve seen! But we do our best and most importantly, we have fun.

One great outside activity is to organize a family sports day with activities like soccer, frisbee, or relay races. This is a great way to encourage teamwork and healthy competition. Make sure to include games that cater to different ages and abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and have fun.

*Scripture –  

1 Corinthians 9:24 (NIV) says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” Use this verse to teach about perseverance and doing our best in all we do.

Gardening Together for Outside Activities

Gardening is a great outside activity. Both my kids have enjoyed this at various ages. Sometimes we plant in a big garden and other times we simply plant in pots on the porch. Either way, they love seeing things grow and being able to eat the veggies we grow.

Start a family garden where everyone can contribute to planting, watering, and tending to the plants. Gardening is a wonderful way to teach children about patience, hard work, and the beauty of growth. Plus, it’s rewarding to see (and eat!) the fruits of your labor together.

*Scripture –  

Galatians 6:9 (NIV) says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” While this verse mostly applies to sharing our faith, it also fits here. Reflect on this verse while working in the garden to instill the value of perseverance and reward.

Picnics and Outdoor Meals

There’s just something about eating outside that makes it special. Yes, I know, there are bugs. And it’s hot. But being outside is refreshing and a change of scenery does us all a world of good.

Plan regular picnics or outdoor meals where you can enjoy each other’s company and delicious food in a natural setting. This relaxed environment is perfect for meaningful conversations and sharing stories. Bring along a favorite devotional or Bible story to read together as you eat. Plan to eat in the backyard if you want, so you don’t have to go anywhere. Eating outside doesn’t have to be a big production.

Outside eating is also a good idea for date night. Here’s a list of some ways to connect with your spouse while you are having a picnic.

*Scripture –

Acts 2:46 (NIV) describes the early believers: “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Use this example to highlight the joy of sharing meals and fellowship.

Outdoor Activities with Service Projects

There’s a big river that runs through our town. Once a year they hold a river clean up. This is a great opportunity for me and the kids to get outside and help our town.

Outdoor service projects don’t have to be complicated. Join as a family in something fun like cleaning up a local park, helping a neighbor with yard work, or planting trees. Ask around for who needs help, check at church, or simply look online for outdoor service projects near you. These activities teach the importance of serving others and caring for God’s creation. It’s also a great way to spend quality time together while making a positive impact.

*Scripture –

Galatians 5:13 (NIV) says, “Serve one another humbly in love.” Emphasize the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving others as a family.

Conclusion

I love outside activities with my kids. The fresh air just makes time fly and I love building great memories with them.

Whether you’re hiking, camping, playing sports, gardening, enjoying picnics, or serving others, these activities provide wonderful opportunities to connect with each other and grow in faith.

Embrace the beauty of summer and God’s creation and make the most of these moments to nurture your family’s relationships. Here’s to a summer filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories!

🌸 Andrea

PS Want more ideas? Here’s a list of some great summer fun ideas.