As the adage goes, there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. I used to be the type to stay inside on a rainy day. And while I still love a good excuse/opportunity to snuggle with a book or babe, having my own toddler has led me outside in the most unexpected weather.

It snowed this week and while there was only a short window where it actually stuck and gave us time to play, we got out there and enjoyed it.

And with the spring coming, I couldn’t encourage you more to get out that rain gear and jump in all the puddles. Or better yet, let them go barefoot! Yes, it’s a mess, but what an amazing sensory experience. What better way to connect with nature than to be in it!

No one knows how long we will all be in quarantine, but luckily, we are allowed to be outside. So skip the playground and get outside. Here are some ideas:

• Have a picnic in your yard or local park

• Allow your toddlers to help with every day outdoor chores like raking, planting, shoveling, etc.

• Take walks around your neighborhood

• Hike local trails

• Take a day trip, pack a picnic, and visit a new outdoor location to you

• Set up an outdoor scavenger hunt in your backyard or neighborhood

• Set up a tent outside

• Start a garden

• Set up a flower exchange!

Montessori learning encourages both learning through life skills (like helping raking or shoveling), sensory experiences, and learning through nature. Playing outdoors can accomplish all of these. And I promise, you will feel wonderful, too. There’s nothing like fresh air especially when we’re all a bit coup’d up for this quarantine.

Be well, everyone.

For inspiration from our day to day life, follow us over on instagram @plantbasedbaby.us. Here’s a preview below of what you can expect.