Outdoor Adventures and Playtime

Backyard camping is a low-risk way to try a night outdoors. If it rains or someone gets scared, the house is right there. Set up the tent together, cook something simple on a grill, tell stories with flashlights and look at the stars.

Let your kids do as much of the setup as they can. Pounding stakes and unrolling sleeping bags is part of the fun. If they want to go inside at midnight, that's fine. You can try again next month.

Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, bug spray, a basic first aid kit, a phone and an extra layer for each kid. For longer outings, bring a map and tell someone where you're going.

Teach kids simple safety rules: stay where they can see you, stop and stay put if they get lost, and don't touch unknown plants or animals. Life jackets are a must near open water. The outdoor safety guide covers sun, heat, water and wildlife.

Kids don't mind weather the way adults do. With rain boots and a jacket, a drizzly walk becomes a puddle-jumping expedition. Snow means building forts and following animal tracks. On hot days, go early in the morning or near water, and take breaks in the shade.

Dress kids in layers and bring a change of clothes for the car. Watch for signs of heat or cold stress and head home before anyone gets miserable. The right gear matters more than perfect weather.