So you don't like camping.....try these

So you are not a camping kind of person. Bugs bother you. You prefer a hotel. Guess what? In the words of Dr. Phil (who I don't really like but hey) It's not all about YOU. What about your children?

Children today sit in front of T.V.s and computers. We all know it is not healthy. When I was a child we went outside to play ALL day in the summer. Outside is a place children don't go anymore. Some times as parents we have to suck it up and do things we don't necessarily care for, like go outside, go camping, and look at bugs, so our children will start to do those things too.

Here are some simple ways to ease into the outdoors for you and your children. Try to push yourself AND your children past your comfort zone. You might just find out you do enjoy the outdoors more then you thought! And if you still don't like camping, it's okay! At least your child will have experienced life beyond the walls of your house. And who knows, you might spark a love of nature in them in the process.

Take a hike/walk. A nice walk can be a chance to connect with your child.

Throw rocks. In land or on water. It’s almost therapeutic.

Read books. But not necessarily on your couch. Pack a backpack full of books and find a nice natural area to hang out for awhile.

Play in a river. Kids love splash around and you might too.

Go for a picnic. Grab some food or pack a lunch and find a shady spot.

Ride bikes.

Spend time in the backyard just playing.

Take pictures. Take pictures of things you see and find, it will get your child really looking at nature.

Catch frogs. Or other other critters. I know I am pushing some of you bug haters on this one

Go on a expedition You can collect rock, flowers, leaves, sticks, etc.

So now that you have some simple ideas, get out there!