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Tips for Families

​Exploring nature is one of the best ways for children and families to learn, connect, and grow together. Below you’ll find simple tips to help you feel prepared, stay safe, and enjoy your time outdoors, no matter the season.

Outdoor Safety Tips for Happy, Healthy Adventures

EXPLORE SAFELY, PLAY FREELY!

A little preparation helps our Wild Sprouts explore, discover and grow in nature!

  • Use insect repellent when needed (kid-safe options with DEET or picardidin)

  • Avoid peak bug times (dawn & duck, especially near water)

  • Dress smart: long sleeves & pants, light colors help reduce bites

  • Check for ticks after outdoor play (behind ears, under arms, along hairline, behind knees)

  • Shower of change clothes after time in grassy or wooded areas

  • Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) 15-20 minutes before going outside

  • Reapply every 2 hours or after water play or sweating

  • Wear sun-protective gear: wide-brim hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves

  • Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am-4pm) when possible

  • Bring more water than you think you need!

  • Encourage frequent water breaks- don't wait until kids are thirsty

  • Watch for signs of heat exhaustion:

    • Fatigue​

    • Dizziness

    • Headache

    • Nausea

  • Take breaks in the shade and cool down often

  • Watch for early signs of hypothermia:

    • Shivering​

    • Slurred speech

    • Clumsiness

  • Keep extra dry clothes on hand

  • Make sure kids stay dry. Wet = cold quickly!

BUG BITE PROTECTION

SUN SAFETY

HYDRATION & HEAT SAFETY

COLD WEATHER SAFETY

Pack A Little, Prepare A Lot!

Water

Snacks

Sunscreen

Bug Repellent

Extra Clothes

First Aid Kit

Hat & Sunglasses

  • Teach kids: "Look, don't touch, unless we know it's safe"

  • Learn to spot common irritants like poison ivy ("leaves of three, let it be")

  • Avoid touching unknown berries, mushrooms or plants

  • Set boundaries: kids should know how far they can go

  • Teach kids to stay where they can see you (or vice versa)

  • Have a meeting spot plan in case you get seperated

  • Carry a basic first aid kit

  • Wash hands after outdoor play

  • Check for:

    • Cuts or scrapes​

    • Ticks

    • Rashes or bites

  • Change out of dirty or wet clothes

Empower kids to:

  • Recognize when they're too hot, cold or tired

  • Ask for water or a break

  • Notice discomfort (itchy bites, sunburn starting, etc.)

  • Speak up & listen to their bodies, they're a great guide!

PLANT & NATURE AWARENESS

GENERAL OUTDOOR SAFETY

AFTER-PLAY ROUTINE

CONFIDENCE & INDEPENDENCE

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LEAVE NO TRACE

Be kind to nature so everyone can enjoy it for years to come

DRESS IN LAYERS

For Any Weather Adventure!

Layering helps keep you comfortable, dry, and safe so your family can enjoy the outdoors, no matter the forecast

WARM

60°F and above

(16°C+)

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Focus on staying cool and protected from the sun

BASE LAYER

Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt

​

MID-LAYER (optional)

Light layer for shade or breeze

​

OUTER LAYER (optional)

Lightweight wind breaker

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DON'T FORGET

Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water!

MILD/COOL

40-60°F

(4-6°C)

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Layers help you adjust as temps change throughout the day

BASE LAYER

Moisture-wicking long sleeves

​​

MID-LAYER 

Fleece or light sweater

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OUTER LAYER 

Lightweight jacket or windbreaker

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EXTRAS

Hat or cap as needed

COLD

20-40°F

(-6-4°C)

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Insultation and dry layers keep the cold out and the warmth in

BASE LAYER

Moisture-wicking long sleeve + Leggings or long underwear

​​

MID-LAYER

Fleece or insulated sweater

​​

OUTER LAYER 

Insulated, water-resistant jacket

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EXTRAS

Warm hat, gloves, socks and neck gaiter

​

VERY COLD

Below 20°F

(-6°C)

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Maximize warmth and protect skin from the elements

BASE LAYER

Moisture-wicking long sleeve & thermal leggings

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MID-LAYER

Fleece or insulated layer

​​

OUTER LAYER 

Insulated, waterproof jacket & snow pants

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EXTRAS

Warm hat, insulated gloves, thick socks, neck gaiter, balaclava

WET/RAINY

Any temperature with rain or wet snow

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Stay dry by layering waterproof pieces over other layers

BASE LAYER

Moisture-wicking (helps keep you dry)

​​

MID-LAYER 

Fleece or light insulation

​​

OUTER LAYER 

Waterproof rain jacket & rain pants​

​

EXTRAS

Waterproof boots, hat with brim, extra socks

You can always take a layer off if you get too warm!

Check weather forecast

Appropriate clothing & layers

Sturdy shoes/boots

Water & snacks

Sunscreen & bug spray

Hat, sunglasses, gloves

Map or directions

First Aid Kit

Charged phone or communication device

Trash bag (leave no trace!) 

OUTDOOR EXPLORATION CHECKLIST

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