8 Gifts That’ll Inspire Your Kids to Head Outside

November 24, 2023

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Need a gift for a young adventurer this holiday season? Here are some suggestions that will pull kids away from the screen and into the outdoors.

While outdoor play promotes healthy growth and fosters creativity and appreciation for the natural world, kids in today’s increasingly digital world may need more of a nudge to spend time outside. Featuring a blend of practical and educational options, these gifts serve as opportunities to inspire outdoor play and exploration, nurturing creativity and imagination in the process.

Cannondale Trail Single-Speed 20″ Bicycle

A splurge-worthy gift that makes getting outside more exciting and adventurous, a bicycle can also help kids foster an appreciation for the environment and encourage them to try eco-friendly modes of transportation. Best suited for children aged five to eight, the Cannondale Trail Single-Speed 20″ Bicycle sports a durable and lightweight frame, ideal for beginners to learn how to balance, steer and maintain control of their bike.^{Mountain Equipment Company}

HAPPRUN Native 1080P Bluetooth Projector with 100” Screen

Gather the family for an outdoor movie night beneath the stars with this portable projector and 100-inch screen. Whether in your backyard or at a campground, this set creates an instant theatre wherever you go. Despite its lightweight and compact design, the 1080P resolution and 9500-lumen projector deliver crisp and vibrant visuals. While the built-in speakers provide clear audio, the projector can also be connected to speakers via Bluetooth for a more immersive experience. Plus, the projector seamlessly connects to smartphones, HDMI and the PlayStation 5 for easy streaming.^Amazon

Trailblaze Slackline Kit

As an engaging and exciting challenge that keeps kids active, a slackline can offer a full-body workout while helping to develop balance, coordination and core strength. Whether it’s used for a ninja warrior obstacle course or as a standalone activity, a slackline offers a combination of fun and fitness, as well as an excellent incentive to spend time between the trees. Equipped with an 18-metre line, tree protectors, a ratchet cover and a convenient carry bag for easy stowing, this kit contains all the essentials for beginners and requires minimal setup.^Amazon

Icebreaker Kids’ Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top

Thanks to its exceptional warmth, a merino wool base layer makes the perfect gift for keeping kids cozy this winter while enabling them to enjoy more time outdoors. With this icebreaker top, you can watch your kids comfortably build a snowman! Whether for everyday layering to combat chilly recesses on the playground or for dedicated snow sports while layering beneath other pieces, this soft and breathable 100 per cent merino wool icebreaker base layer offers a snug and comfortable fit to help regulate their body temperature.^icebreaker

Camping Hammock

Set up between the trees at a park, beach or campsite, this camping hammock provides a cozy and comfortable space for kids to unwind, read or nap. Constructed with ripstop nylon, the hammock withstands regular outdoor use while maintaining a soft feel, and the two sturdy cords and durable steel carabiners make for a safe and easy setup. When not in use, the lightweight 660-gram hammock conveniently packs down into its built-in carry bag for easy transport.^{Explore Magazine}

Wildwood Eyewear Youth Zebra Wood Sunglasses

A practical choice for kids who love spending time near or in the water, these sunglasses are cleverly designed to stay afloat for easy retrieval when they inevitably fall into a pool, lake or ocean. The stylish wood frames provide a snug and comfy fit for youth aged six to 12, and the polarized lenses offer vital protection against harmful UV rays. Plus, this Vancouver-based company is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact by planting trees in developing countries around the world. Every $10 spent on their eco-friendly eyewear, phone cases and drink bottles results in the planting of one tree.^{Wildwood Eyewear}

Carson AdventurePak Educational Exploration Tool Kit

Outfitted with the Carson 30mm Hawk Kids Binoculars, a Lensatic compass, a flashlight and a signal whistle with a built-in thermometer, these robust yet lightweight tools are perfectly sized for small hands. Whether on a backpacking adventure, camping trip, hiking excursion or even during backyard exploration, kids will be inspired to engage in wildlife observation and explore the night sky using the binoculars. Plus, the Lensatic compass and flashlight serve as practical instruments for introducing kids to essential outdoor survival skills and strategies.^Amazon

Hydro Flask 355-millilitre Kids Wide Mouth with Straw Lid

Motivate kids to explore the outdoors by providing them with a refreshing drink on hand. Known for its excellent insulation, this Hydro Flask water bottle keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours. ^{Mountain Equipment Company}

Crafted from high-quality stainless steel and equipped with a silicone perforated bottle boot for enhanced durability, this bottle proves to be rugged, long-lasting and capable of withstanding accidental drops, whether on the playground or along the trail. Plus, its 355-millilitre size fits comfortably in a child’s grasp.