Looking for a fun way to get the kids out of the house for a couple hours? Last weekend, the fam and I decided to ditch the usual routine and head to the nearby Elfin Forest in Los Osos. You know, just a short hike to shake off some of that kid energy. It ended up being a really good time for all of us.
Nature’s Classroom: As we strolled into Elfin Forest we were immediately greeted by ancient 200-year-old Pygmy Oaks. It’s pretty cool to think that they were seedlings two centuries ago. We explained to the boys that we these trees predated cars and airplanes. As we continued into the forest, Morro Rock started coming into view across the bay setting the scene for a really beautiful walk. The plants in this coastal ecosystem offered us a glimpse into California’s diverse native flora. Nature’s classroom at its finest.
Kids Being Wild: As soon as we got there the boys went nuts. Running, jumping – it was great to see them having so much fun. Adding to their excitement, my wife told them stories of little elves living in the trees which turned the entire hike into an elf hunt. Every opening became a possible elf hideout. They never found any, but we did come across a brush rabbit, and that was almost as exciting.
Elevated Boardwalk: I should mention the boardwalk since we visited shortly after a heavy rain. (Side note: looking for things to do in the rain – 5 Rainy Day Activities for Kids might peak your interest.) Before leaving the house, we considered other trails, but we ultimately decided on the Elfin Forest because of the boardwalk. Our goal was to avoid trudging through the mud, making this hike perfect for us and the kiddos. No splashing through puddles, just a smooth walkway. Nature, minus the muddy car ride on the way home. A win for the fam!
Energy Out, Screens Off: Since we had minimal outdoor time due to the rain, our mission was simple: get the kids outside and away from screens. Elfin Forest took it up a notch, just being outdoors in the forest kept them thoroughly entertained. It’s like nature’s magic trick.
Scientific Stuff and Family Time: Here’s the kicker: we dove into some cool studies when we got back home from our adventure in the Elfin Forest. Turns out, our good times had some science behind them. Scientific studies echo the positive outcomes of family engagement and nature exposure.
Research has taught us, accessible natural areas play a vital role in mental health, as suggested by studies such as the one featured in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, where nature experiences reduce rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation.
The Children’s Bureau emphasizes the impact of actively involved fathers, highlighting that children with engaged dads are 43% more likely to earn A’s in school and 33% less likely to repeat a grade. Father engagement also reduces behavioral problems in boys and decreases delinquency and economic disadvantage in low-income families.
Patty Born of Hamline University reinforces these findings in the International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education, stating that frequent exposure to natural settings enhances children’s academic growth, behavior, and stress levels, underlining the crucial role of contact with nature in childhood well-being.
Making Memories, One Jump at a Time: Long story short, our short hike became this epic day of laughs, exploration, and memories. Who knew a bunch of trees could be the backdrop to such a great family outing?
For those curious minds, check out the science stuff that got us talking:
- Kids’ Time with Parents Matters (IFS)
- Effects of Physical Activity on Children’s Executive Function (NCBI)
- Nature Experience Reduces Rumination (PNAS)
- A Father’s Impact on Child Development (Children’s Bureau)
- Importance of Nature in Childhood Well-being (Hamline University)
Thanks for reading. If you made it this far please follow me on Youtube, Facebook, or Instagram.
If you would like to support this blog, This Daddy Does is on Patreon!
Here are some other topics that may interest you.
- Reasons to take your kids to the skatepark
- 5 Rainy day activities for kids
- Experiences are better than gifts for kids
- 10 Free things to do with your kids
- 5 Reasons to take your kids to the climbing gym
🌍 Discover the Joy of Daily Travel Journaling! 📖
Elevate your travel experience with our Daily Travel Journal – the perfect companion for wanderlust souls! Capture each day’s magic in a few sentences, creating a priceless keepsake of your adventures.
✈️ Why Choose Our Journal?
- Effortless Memories: Record memorable moments with ease.
- Lasting Impressions: Create a timeless memory bank for years to come.
- Reflect & Revisit: Relive your journeys with a flip of the pages.
- Travel-Ready Design: 100 sheets for significant journeys, compact for convenience.
🎁 Perfect Gift for Travel Enthusiasts! 👉 Order Now on Amazon
Turn your travels into lasting memories. Get your Daily Travel Journal today! 🌟 #TravelJournal #CaptureTheJourney ✨
If you click on my affiliates/advertisers links, I may receive a small commission. I only highlight products I think are cool. AND… In turn, you have the opportunity to support this blog, Win/win.