Woman and child enjoying outdoors

Unplugged: How to Reduce Screen Time and Get Kids Interested in Nature

In a world of tablets, game consoles, and streaming apps, it can feel like a real challenge to get kids to look up from their screens—let alone get excited about going outside. But nature has a powerful way of pulling us all in (yes, even teenagers), especially when it’s approached with a little creativity and a spirit of fun.

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, here are 10 tried-and-tested tips to get kids off screens and into the great outdoors—without battles, bribes, or boredom.

🌿 1. Make It an Adventure, Not a “Walk”

Telling kids you’re going on a “walk” might trigger groans. But call it an expedition, treasure hunt, or mission to find a secret tree, and suddenly you’re on to something.

🎒 Try this: Pack a backpack with binoculars, a compass, or even snacks and let them lead the way.

🧭 2. Use a Nature Scavenger Hunt

Turn your outing into a game. Give kids a checklist of things to spot—like a red leaf, a bird feather, a funny-shaped stick, or animal tracks.

📝 You can find free printable scavenger hunts online or create your own based on the season.

🏞️ 3. Start Small and Local

You don’t have to drive for hours or hike a mountain. A local park, forest path, or nature reserve can be just as magical—especially if they can climb trees, skim stones, or splash in puddles.

✅ Tip: Keep early outings short and sweet to avoid burnout.

🔍 4. Give Them Something to Do

Sometimes it’s not about the destination—it’s about the activity. Try:

  • Building a den from sticks

  • Finding the best climbing tree

  • Skimming stones

  • Looking for bugs with a magnifying glass

The more “jobs” they have, the less they miss their screens.

📸 5. Let Them Be the Photographer

Hand over your phone or a kid-friendly camera and challenge them to capture:

  • The weirdest leaf

  • The biggest tree

  • A wildlife selfie

This keeps tech involved in a purposeful way—and gets them looking around.

🏕️ 6. Plan a Picnic or Outdoor Meal

Food always wins. Pack a picnic or even hot chocolate in a flask and find a spot with a view. Add a blanket and some treats, and you’ve created a mini outdoor event.

🥪 Bonus points for letting kids help pack or choose the snacks.

🧗 7. Involve Friends or Siblings

Nature is always more fun with company. Invite another family or encourage them to bring a friend. Games like hide and seek, races, or building dens become a lot more exciting with a group.

🌦️ 8. Don’t Fear a Bit of Weather

The UK isn’t always dry and sunny, but a little rain or mud can be part of the fun—especially if you call it a “puddle mission” or “mud monster hunt.”

🧤 Just be prepared: waterproofs, wellies, and warm socks can save the day.

🧭 9. Create Outdoor Traditions

Kids love routines. Try:

  • “Wilderness Wednesdays”

  • “Sunday Forest Brunch”

  • “Campfire Friday Nights” (even if it’s in the garden)

Making nature a regular part of your week normalises it—and gives them something to look forward to.

🌳 10. Lead by Example

If you’re glued to your phone or grumbling about the cold, they will be too. But if you’re excited about being outside, curious about nature, and open to getting a bit muddy, your kids will likely follow.

💚 Remember: the best moments often happen when you’re not rushing, judging, or forcing it—just being together.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need fancy gear or hours of free time to help your kids fall in love with the outdoors. Just a few simple tools, some curiosity, and the willingness to get outside—even if only for half an hour—can plant the seeds for a lifelong appreciation of nature.

And who knows? You might find yourself enjoying the great outdoors even more than they do.

Transport you car into a rolling reminder of family outdoor adventure with a wiffee freshie - Take the stress out of the school run and spark enthusiasm in your children for your next expedition!  

Back to blog