Six ways to get outside when you live in the city

​When you live in the city it can feel hard to get outside with your kids. And if you feel like you aren’t getting enough green time—you are not alone. Surveys show that city kids really do spend less time outdoors than those who live in the country. But regardless of where you live, all children benefit from time outdoors. And you don’t have to miss out on all the benefits of outdoor play just because you live in town. Here are my tips:

​1. Go to the green

​Most cities have green spaces. Australian cities have lots. Find your local park, reserve, botanic gardens or beach and go enjoy them. Pack a picnic, call a friend, anything to get outside together. In the city there are lots of great playgrounds you can visit. But don’t be afraid to leave the playground and explore the green spaces around them. You might just find the perfect tree to climb or grassy hill to roll down.  

​2. Find your garden

​Just because you live in an apartment and don’t have a garden, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun of growing your own. You can get your hands in the dirt at your local community garden. Even if you aren’t ready to sign up, most community gardens are open to the public and members are happy for you to stroll through and have a look. They are great places to spot a bee, beetle, or butterfly. 

​3. Borrow a backyard

You might not have a backyard but I bet you know someone who does. Make a phone call then go and visit them for a play. Tell Grandma and Pa that instead of another toy for your tiny apartment, you’d like them to buy a kid’s wheelbarrow and some shovels—for their place. Who knows, they might even let you turn that back corner into a digging pit or mud kitchen. 

​4. Swap your shop

​One of the best changes we made when we spent a year outdoors was to stop buying groceries at the supermarket and start shopping at our local farmers market. The kids loved playing at the markets and splashing in the puddles when it was raining. And getting out of the house first thing Saturday morning was a great way to start the weekend.

​5. Use your feet

​One of the best things about living in town is that you drive less. So go out and enjoy the beautiful walking tracks your city has to offer. Buy your kids a scooter or balance bike—you can find them second hand, for almost nothing—and hit the path. It will do you and your kids, the world of good.

​6. Get out of town

​Cities are great places to live, full of vibrant communities, bustling markets, and parks with acres of lawn that you never have to mow. But sometimes it’s nice to escape. So book a holiday by the sea or spend a weekend camping in the bush. Even if you only have time for a day trip, getting out of town and playing in nature is good for the whole family. 

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