The world needs kids who treasure science, can conquer the latest technologies, and engineer brave solutions to solve the challenging problems of a new world. Outdoor STEM activities create the next generation of inventors, innovators, and leaders by opening up their minds to the complexities hidden in the beauty of nature. The basic concepts of STEM learning surround us … [Read more...]
40+ Things To Do In Camden Maine – A Family Vacation Guide
By Jean Grant - From the southern beaches to West Quody Head Light, and pristine Baxter State Park to iconic Acadia National Park, a Maine family vacation can be breathtaking and exhilarating. As a Mid-Atlantic native, I had my preconceived notions about the land north and “down east” — frigid winters, lobster everything, lighthouses, blueberries, sailing, but when considering … [Read more...]
What I’ve Learned from Designing Family Safaris for 20 Years-John Spence, Aardvark Safaris
By John Spence with Heather Mundt Editor's note: Both Erin and I met Aardvark Safaris President John Spence last fall when we attended the Family Travel Association's Summit at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch in Emigrant, Mont. (just 30 minutes from Yellowstone National Park). I was on crutches at the time, and he called me peg leg, which I found hilarious and endearing coming from … [Read more...]
Sled-Dogging For the Suburbanite: Mushing Mt. Bachelor
by Natalie VanCleave Mt. Bachelor near Bend, Ore., soars more than 9,000 feet above sea level, a stunning display, white with snow over lush forests of evergreens. Skiers from all over the world flock to its slopes, but today my family and I are here for a different sort of adventure--the canine variety. The idea of dog sledding is enticingly, thrillingly exotic to our … [Read more...]
America’s National Park Service: Gifting the future
by Erin Kirkland - Most national park memories are vivid collections as diverse as the locations themselves. Waking to the sound of a crackling fire and the smell of frying bacon at a campground. Watching a waterfall tumble down a steep canyon trough far, far below. Observing an intricate science of fossils and painted hills. Feeling the solemnity of a ceremony for those lost … [Read more...]
Beneficial Backcountry Edibles – Heather’s Choice
by Heather Mundt As a collegiate rower at Western Washington University, Heather Kelly struggled to find a healthy diet that fulfilled her demanding athletic needs. And after lots of research, she had an epiphany. ?I came across the paleo diet for athletes, and it all made sense,? says Kelly, evolutionary sports nutritionist, certified psychology of eating coach and owner … [Read more...]
The Case for Napping Outdoors
by Linda McGurk Winter. The season to enjoy snow sports, drink hot chocolate, light candles, and let your baby nap in a stroller on the back porch. Wait, what? If the idea of letting your baby or toddler sleep outdoors in freezing temperatures seems counterintuitive, irresponsible, or downright dangerous, consider that parents in the Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, … [Read more...]
Celebrate the National Park Service Centennial
The National Park Service celebrates 100 years of protecting, promoting, and preserving the natural spaces set aside for generations to come. But who uses them? How many are there, and how can we get there? In 2016, Outdoor Families Magazine will be exploring national parks, popular and not-so-much. During this centennial year, we'll delve into the history of the National Park … [Read more...]
