I’d like to welcome you to Little Eco Footprints first ever guest post. For something a little different, today the Childhood 101 contributors are planning a game of online tag. Debi of Go Explore Nature is here sharing tips for getting outdoors when it’s cold, while I’m over at Small Potatoes sharing tips for encouraging independent creativity in kids.

For those that haven’t met Debi before, she’s a Los Angeles-based wife, mom and adventure guide for two young boys. Her blog Go Explore Nature is all about getting kids and families outdoors and connected to nature in the backyard and beyond. Check out Debi’s tips below and then follow the link at the bottom of the post to join our game of online tag.

Colder, shorter days can only mean one thing: Winter is coming. And let’s be honest, it’s tough to get motivated to spend time outside when it’s cold.

It might take a little more preparation, creativity and an adventurous spirit, but spending time outdoors when it’s cold can be done.

Here’s how we keep ourselves motivated to get (and stay) outside as temperatures fall:

1. Dress the part.

The most important thing you can do to embrace the cold is to make sure you have the right clothing for both kids and adults. To keep warm and dry, dress in layers (that is, a base, mid and top/outer layer) and look for lightweight, waterproof clothing.

Don’t forget to keep heads, hands and feet warm as well with hats, gloves or mittens, and waterproof boots.

2. Keep it short & active.

In cooler weather, set realistic goals about how much time you think you can spend outside. Don't expect to spend your whole afternoon outdoors; aim for just 15 minutes instead. The fresh air will boost everyone’s moods and once you’re outside, you might wind up staying there awhile. While you’re outside, choose fun activities that keep the kids moving. Think running, dancing, jumping, digging, building, chasing and walking. Not only does active play help get the blood flowing, it’ll keep everyone engaged and forgetting about the fact that it’s cold outside!

3. Have warm food & drinks on hand.

Even if you’re only outside for a little while, bring along something warm to eat or drink. Kids (and adults) do better when they are full and warm from the inside out. Some ideas: A thermos of hot chocolate, soup, chili, stew, or macaroni and cheese.

Happy exploring!

Thank you Debi for sharing these great tips. I’ll be taking a thermos of hot chocolate along on our next cold day adventure. You can connect with Debi on her blog, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. I invite you now to head on over to Arlees’ blog Small Potatoes, where I’m sharing a post about encouraging independent creativity in children. Each post in the game will lead you to another until you find your way back here. I’m certain you’ll discover loads of creative parenting inpiration. Enjoy :-)