I grew up on a lake in Maine and spent as much time outside as possible. I loved being outside, but I also had parents who did not believe in video game systems. They too, loved the outdoors and together we explored tide pools and forests, went camping and canoeing and really enjoyed nature as a family. We went to Florida for my dadâs work almost every year and because we didnât have much money Disney was not on the itinerary, not that I was really fussed about it. We went paddling and snorkeling on different rivers and at 8 years old I snorkeled with manatees and saw my first little shark. Most likely these are the moments, which catalyzed a life long love affair with the ocean and an obsession with sharks. We did make it to Disney one year and to be honest, I hardly remember and never asked to go back.
I donât have kids, well just one rescued fur kid, but I do know how critically important spending time in nature with my parents was and how much it has affected my whole life. Here are a few ideas for getting you kids detached from the video game consol and out in the mud!
1. Nature Staycations: You do not have to travel to some exotic locale to experience the beauty and wonder of nature. Some locations might prove easier to find a cool adventure (i.e. rural areas), but even if you live in a city like Miami, there are lots of options in close proximity. Biscayne Bay, The Everglades, and even the Florida Keys are all fairly close and easily accessible. They provide endless adventures from kayaking and paddleboarding to snorkeling and hiking.
When planning a vacation we look for activities to do, but most of us do not really explore what is in our own backyard. Chances are you will find some really interesting activities to do and places to visits within a twenty-mile radius of your house. Why not plan a weekend âStaycationâ and book a tour, find a hiking trail or hit the water.
2. Explore Eco -Tourism: If you are planning a vacation why not check out eco-tourism options. Eco-Tourism has become trendy and a hot word around the world. Travelers want more of a natural experience and usually these tours benefit the environment in some way. Do your research and ask around; find out what your options are. Is there a rare animal you can see either by trekking into the jungle or by snorkeling a beautiful reef? Is there a marine preserve or wildlife preserve worth visiting? Is there a bike route where you can spot birds and other wildlife? Is there a research station or animal refuge center? A lot of places like these offers tours to the general public or even private behind the scenes tours. Here in Bimini you can take a tour at the Sharklab (Bimini Biological Field Station) or book a research experience with them. Through the Bimini Sands Activity Center, you can also snorkel, kayak or paddleboard in the mangroves. Take the extra time to find these little treasures and I guarantee you will get a lot more out of your vacation.
3. Get Excited about Squirrels: Most of do not have the Serengeti in our backyard, but there are still animals everywhere. Growing up I thought frogs, snakes and loons were pretty amazing. My parents and grandparents pointed them out, helped me catch them and even taught me how to do a loon call. I sounded more like a cat with someone standing on its tail, but it was fun. If you can find excitement in all animals, even bugs, your kids will get excited too. When my little cousin visited me in Florida we went out at night to count toads. It was a really fun game and he loved it. I found myself laughing and really enjoying it, even though counting toads wasnât on my to do list.
4. Go Out on a Limb: Literally and figuratively, as in climb a tree or just try something new. Maybe snorkeling is the last thing you want to spend a Saturday afternoon doing, but you might surprise yourself and your kids will probably love it. Grab a local guide and learn about the fish and animals you might see and become a complete hero when you can identify the fish your child points out. I use to hike in the woods with my dad and he taught me how to identify about ten different trees and I thought it was the coolest thing. I was in awe that he knew so much about the trees and thought I was pretty awesome when I could point out various trees to other people, especially adults.
The whole point of this is to get outside. Fresh air and a little sunshine are good for the mind, body and soul. Even just a bike ride around the neighborhood is a great way to enjoy nature. No matter where you live, you can always get up, go outside and find an adventure.
For Bimini Eco-Tourism Adventures:
⢠ www.biminisharklab.com
⢠www.biminisands.com/bahamas/things-to-do/activities-center.htm