MIXED KNOT

As a mom, I can’t stress enough how important it is to take the time to bond with your kids, and one of the simplest yet most rewarding ways to do that is through something as natural as a walk outdoors. In today’s busy world, it is  easy to get caught up in the daily hustle; work, school, chores, etc, but nature walks offer an amazing opportunity to slow down and really connect as a family.

Walking is such an easy, accessible form of exercise, yet it is so beneficial for everyone, especially growing kids. It gets the heart pumping, strengthens muscles, and improves overall fitness without being overwhelming. In a world where screens often dominate our free time, getting outside for a walk helps remind us and our children that staying active doesn’t always have to be complicated. It can be as simple as putting on shoes and stepping out the door.

Beyond the physical benefits, there is something incredibly special about being in nature together. As our family walks, we talk. It is often during these relaxed moments that our kids open up about their thoughts, worries, and dreams. There is something about the quiet, peacefulness of nature that encourages conversations that might not happen in the busyness of everyday life. On our walks, we are side by side, experiencing the beauty of creation together, and that creates a unique emotional bond. It is a chance to be fully present without distractions, and that presence builds trust and deepens family relationships.

Whether we are strolling through a park, exploring a trail, or just walking around our neighborhood, those shared moments in nature become precious memories. They teach our girls, Yzzabella and Esperanza, the importance of slowing down, appreciating the world around them, and valuing time spent together. For us as parents, it is a reminder that while the daily grind is important, nothing compares to the moments of connection we create with our kids. And what better way to do that than a simple walk, hand in hand, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation?

Nature walks are also an incredible opportunity for us to teach our girls about the world around them in a way that is engaging and hands-on. As parents, we don’t have to be science experts to spark curiosity in our kids. Just walking outside, we can point out the changing seasons, talk about how plants grow, or observe different types of birds and insects. It is amazing how much science is right there in front of us, and kids naturally love to explore and ask questions.

Once, during a nature walk, we stopped to examine a leaf with a caterpillar while we also listened to the sound of the wind blowing, we were teaching little Esperanza to observe the world closely. We taught her about the life cycle of the butterfly and that of plants. Yzzabella was enthusiastically explaining to her sister how the sun helps things grow or why animals behave the way they do in different environments. Nature at that point became a perfect outdoor classroom for our family, and these little lessons learned during nature walks don’t feel like school they feel like discovery and adventure.

These types of family walks can also increase a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment, something that is so important to instill in kids from an early age. They begin to learn how everything in nature is interconnected and how we, as humans, play a role in taking care of the Earth. It is science, but it is also teaching responsibility and respect for God’s creation.

Our walks strengthen our family bonds and keep us stay active, we are also nurturing Yzzabella’s and Esperanza’s minds and encourage a lifelong love of learning. Nature walks give us the chance to combine physical activity, emotional connection, and learning all in one simple yet powerful experience.