Escaping the Screens
In today’s digital age, it’s easy for family weekends to disappear into a blur of screen time—Netflix marathons, video games, and phones glued to hands. I get it. I’ve been there, too. But over the years, my family and I have made a conscious effort to reclaim our weekends and rediscover something that brings us closer together, refreshes our spirits, and gets us moving: the great outdoors.
Nature doesn’t just offer fresh air and sunshine—it gives us the opportunity to reconnect, laugh, learn, and build memories that will last far longer than any TikTok trend. These weekend adventures have become sacred time in our home, and I’d like to share how we’ve made outdoor activities a cornerstone of our family life.
1. Make it a Priority—Put it on the Calendar
If something’s important, schedule it. That’s been a golden rule in our home. Each month, we sit down as a family and pick a couple of weekends to dedicate to outdoor activities. Whether it’s a hike, a day trip to a lake, or even just an afternoon at a local park, we block the time and stick to it like we would any other commitment.
Having it on the calendar not only builds anticipation, but it also keeps us accountable. No excuses when Saturday rolls around.
2. Start Simple: Nature is Closer Than You Think
You don’t need a national park or an epic camping trip to get started. We began by exploring our local forest preserves, walking trails, and even hidden green spaces around town. One of our favorite weekend activities is packing a lunch and heading to a nearby creek. The kids toss rocks, we skip stones, and my wife and I get a few peaceful moments together.
Start small. Let it grow from there. The important part is being outside and being present.
3. Choose Activities That Match Your Family’s Interests
Not every family is going to enjoy a five-mile hike—and that’s okay. Tailor your adventures to what excites your crew. For us, it’s a mix: hiking, biking, fishing, or playing a spontaneous game of kickball in an open field.
We also keep a “bucket list” of outdoor experiences—some big, like kayaking or camping, and others small, like flying kites at the park or picking apples in the fall. Everyone contributes ideas, and we try to cross off one or two each season.
4. Leave the Devices Behind (Or at Least on Silent)
One of the biggest challenges, especially with teenagers, is creating a tech-free zone. Our family rule is simple: phones stay in the car or in backpacks unless we’re using them for navigation or to take a photo.
It was met with resistance at first, but over time, even our kids have come to appreciate the break from notifications and scrolling. We’ve had some of our best conversations on long walks and around crackling campfires—moments that never would’ve happened with screens in the way.
5. Embrace the Teachable Moments
The outdoors are full of lessons—some planned, some unexpected. We’ve used hikes to teach map reading and compass skills, fishing trips to explain patience and responsibility, and gardening days to talk about sustainability and where our food comes from.
Nature has a way of slowing things down, making space for learning that’s hands-on and memorable. These moments aren’t just about education—they’re about connection.
6. Be Prepared, But Keep It Fun
One of the reasons families shy away from outdoor adventures is the fear of stress or disorganization. I get it. I’ve forgotten water bottles, sunscreen, and even diapers on past outings. But we’ve learned to build a simple go-bag with essentials: snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, water, a basic first-aid kit, and a few extra layers.
Preparation makes the day smoother. But remember—this isn’t supposed to be a military operation. Let the day unfold. Be flexible. Laugh at the muddy shoes and celebrate the small wins.
7. Make It a Tradition
One of our most cherished family traditions is our Sunday morning nature walk. We choose a different trail each week, grab coffees and hot cocoa on the way, and hit the path for an hour or two. It’s become a weekly rhythm that we all look forward to.
Traditions like these anchor your family culture. They don’t have to be elaborate. What matters is consistency and togetherness.
Final Thoughts: The Memories That Matter Most
When I think back on the most meaningful moments I’ve shared with my family, it’s not the shows we binge-watched or the devices we upgraded. It’s roasting marshmallows under a starry sky, skipping stones across a glassy lake, and racing bikes down a winding trail.
Rediscovering the great outdoors has helped our family build stronger bonds, find joy in simplicity, and stay grounded in what truly matters. You don’t need to be an expert hiker or own fancy gear. You just need a willingness to step outside and be present.
So this weekend, I challenge you: put down the screens, lace up your shoes, and head out for an adventure. The trail is calling—and the memories are waiting.