If you are planning a weekend getaway, consider heading to Westchester County. It's a few miles from New York City and offers endless fun. The county surrounds the Hudson River and Long Island Sound. It is home of bustling towns and small villages. You can explore everything from historic sites to haunted house, and there are many other places to see.
The county also has many parks and nature preserves. With your children, you can share information about the natural world. For example, the Cranberry Lake Preserve offers a variety of family-oriented nature programs and interactive displays.
Bronx River Parkway Reservation, another wonderful destination, is also available. This park is the oldest linear park in Westchester County. Designed to be accessible by bicycle or foot, it is 13.1 miles of traffic-free travel. There are numerous scenic overlooks along the way and free audio tours available.
You can walk the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail in the spring, summer and fall. This trail runs through small communities and is a popular tourist destination. The trail is accessible for walkers, cyclists, and in-line skaters.
A unique place worth visiting is the Mario Cuomo Bridge Walkway. This is a 3.6-mile path over water that has six overlooks. On weekends, you can walk, bike, or jog along the path.
This is a great opportunity for you to see the scenic views from the bridge. The road is closed to cars Sundays. Metro-North Train to Tarrytown, then take National Road to get to the park entrance.
The Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival, one of the region's most popular festivals, is a must-see. This 43-year old event features live bluegrass music. The event features activities for both children and adults, such as the headless horseman.
Barton Orchards BBQ Weekend is a great place to go outdoors on Labor Day Weekend. Kids under 12 years of age and their parents can enjoy the festival for free. Barton Orchards' Farm Markets are open to visitors. They can purchase local fruits and veggies, and enjoy the festival's sights.
Sleepy Hollow Craft & Street Fair are other great events. This Halloween extravaganza will return on October 12. Over 7,000 pumpkins can be carved and visitors can enjoy haunted carousels and live music.
There are numerous farmers markets located throughout Westchester County. They are usually held in the spring or fall and feature local farmers and artists. Some markets will also have special events for kids.
Blue Door Art Center is worth a visit while you're here. This local non-profit accepts donations, and hosts free art exhibitions and shows. Summer on the Sound concert series is also available throughout the summer. You will find opportunities to catch the top up-and–coming artists at several art centers.
FAQ
How do you engage children in outdoor activities?
Outdoor play is something that kids love. Many parents are unaware of the fun that kids can have out in nature. There are so many ways to have fun outdoors. Children can have fun exploring the natural world, whether they are playing in the dirt or climbing trees.
However, it can be hard to ensure safety for children when they go far from home. It is important to provide the proper gear to ensure that children are safe and have fun outside. Children who are properly dressed and equipped can be more confident when exploring the great outdoors.
While the weather may be cold, wet, windy, or rainy, kids can enjoy themselves without worrying too much about safety. If they have the right gear, children can safely climb hills, jump into the sea, ride bikes, and follow trails.
The ability to recognize and avoid danger should be taught to children. This includes knowing how to look in the rear and forward when running, biking, or hiking.
Parents need to teach their children how to spot danger and avoid them. When a child observes someone walking on a trail alone, he/she should ask the questions to find out if anyone is injured, missing, or lost. Parents need to teach their children how they should respond to strangers.
It is important that parents encourage their children to learn CPR skills and first aid so they can be there for each other if needed. These lifesaving techniques give children the confidence to take on any situation.
We should share our knowledge with future generations. Future generations must learn from us so that they can live long and healthy lives.
We hope that this article inspired you to get outdoors with your kids. We hope you will keep reading our articles to find out more about making the most your time together.
Is it safe for my child or me to let him climb trees?
Trees are very sturdy structures. Climbing trees is a dangerous activity if you aren't sure of your child's ability to do so.
To climb higher on a tree, you will need to use both your legs and hands. Your child must be capable of using both their arms as well as their legs to keep the balance.
Your child must be able easily move between branches. This requires strength, agility, and coordination.
If your child isn’t physically ready to climb up a tree, don’t force it.
Sitting on the lower branches or using a ladder can allow you to still climb a tree together. You can also take a seat on a tree branch and read each other books.
What activities could parents do with their kids?
Parents might be tempted to think that there aren't many things they can do for their kids today. They have plenty of entertainment options.
While having fun, parents can teach their children valuable lessons. For instance, when you play catch with your kid, you could explain how throwing a ball is an important skill that helps him practice coordination.
Or, if he wants to learn how to ride his bike, you could show him how to balance himself without training wheels.
There are many ways that you can help your child learn and create memories. Do not worry if your kids don't know what you should do. You can just start doing things together to see what happens.
Should I let my child run around barefoot?
Yes! Running barefoot strengthens muscles and bones, promotes hygiene, and improves posture. It prevents cuts, bruises, blisters, and scrapes.
However, if your child has sensitive skin, you may want to consider wearing shoes. Wash your feet first if they are dry or sweaty.
It's best always to supervise your children when they're playing outside. You can provide supervision from a distance to ensure your child is safe.
When your child is playing in the grass, be sure she doesn't eat any plants or drink any water. High grass can be avoided by keeping your child clear of it.
What outdoor activity is best for families with children?
There are so many things to do. There are many activities to choose from, including hiking, kayaking and climbing. Bike riding together is a great family activity.
You can either ride along a road or in an open space. You'll have fun and laugh while getting some fresh air. Biking is an excellent exercise choice for children and adults alike.
What makes biking such a favorite choice among families, you ask? This could be due to the fact that it allows parents and children to spend quality time together. This is great for children who have trouble sitting still long enough to play with their friends.
Bike riding is also easy for the wallet. There are many places that offer discounts for families. Bike riding with your family can help you save money, as well as give your kids plenty of ways to burn their energy.
Don't forget safety tips! The safety tips and proper dress for emergencies are essential skills that children need to master. They need to be taught how to avoid being injured.
If you're interested in getting back in shape, biking may be just the thing for you. To motivate yourself to continue, you can use your fitness level.
Additionally, cycling has numerous health benefits. Biking reduces stress levels, improves heart and mood health, boosts moods and increases bone density. It can even help strengthen your muscles.
Bike riding is an excellent way to be active and fit with your family. It is a wonderful way for family to spend quality time together.
Are there five outdoor activities that are great for families?
You can spend your time outdoors in many different ways, whether you are an outdoorsman or city dweller. There are many ways for families to bond and enjoy the outdoors, such as camping, fishing or hiking.
These are our top picks of outdoor activities for children of all ages.
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Hiking - Hike along trails or explore a state park near you. Bring water and snacks for your trip. If you wish to spot wildlife while hiking, make sure to pack binoculars. You can pack sleeping bags and tents to keep you warm if your plan is to stay the night.
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Camping - Another way to get out and enjoy the outdoors without having to leave your home. You can choose to bring light items and find a campsite within walking distance of shops and restaurants. To make nighttime adventures more enjoyable, pack blankets, pillows, as well as flashlights.
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Fishing – This activity is great for both adults and children. Children love to catch fish and learn how to bait the hook. Adults love watching their children catch dinner. Pick a lake, stream, or pond where you can fish for bass, trout or catfish.
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Kayaking gives you a different way to experience nature. You can kayak on rivers or lakes instead of using boats. During your excursion, keep an eye out to see if there are any birds, turtles or whales.
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Bird watching - Bird watching has become a very popular pastime in America. It is easy to see why. It requires very little equipment, but provides hours of entertainment. Find a local bird sanctuary or national park to visit. Enjoy looking for hawks, eagles or other feathered friends.
Statistics
- A 2019 study found that kids who spend less time in green spaces are more likely to develop psychiatric issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders. (verywellfamily.com)
- Ask yourself, 'What do I want to accomplish, and is this likely to produce that result?'" 2. (webmd.com)
- Remember, he's about 90% hormones right now. (medium.com)
- Later in life, they are also more likely to result in delinquency and oppositional behavior, worse parent-child relationships, mental health issues, and domestic violence victims or abusers10. (parentingforbrain.com)
- According to the Outdoor Foundation, about half the U.S. population participated in outdoor recreation at least once in 2018, including hunting, hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing among many more outdoor activities. (activeoutdoors.info)
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How To
Is it safe to take my kids camping?
This is a vital question because it may surprise you how dangerous camping is these days. There are numerous dangers to be aware of, such as poisonous snakes or wild animals, bears, wild dogs, tornadoes. Flash floods. Hurricanes. Avalanches. Wildfires. Blizzards.
Problem is, most parents don't know about these risks. They assume that camping is safe and enjoyable for their children. However, campers now face more risks than in years past.
For example, the number of injuries and deaths among young campers increased by nearly 50% between 1980 and 2001. This means that approximately 1,000 children died camping during these years.
There are also more venomous species in North America today than there were in 1900. Also, poisonous plants, insects and fish are increasing in North America.
Camping can also be dangerous. For instance, according to statistics compiled by the National Park Service, there are roughly 200 fatal accidents involving vehicles yearly near national parks.
Experts estimate that the average family spends $1300 per day on outdoor activities such hiking, boating or fishing. This includes equipment, food, gas, lodging, and transportation costs.
However, camping with your kids will require you to spend far more money than if the family had stayed at home. If you plan to spend $1,300 on a weekend trip, you could easily spend twice that amount.
Perhaps you are wondering why your children should go camping. After all, isn't it safer to stay inside where it's warm and dry?
Well, yes, it is certainly better to avoid extreme weather conditions. These are three reasons your children should be able to experience nature outside:
They will be able to develop their imagination. You might be surprised at what happens outside. The sky is always open and the stars can be seen. And the wind blows through forests. This will help your children to understand how the world works. It gives them the inspiration to imagine themselves flying, exploring outer space, or becoming astronauts.
It will help improve their health. You can exercise and enjoy the outdoors while camping is a great option. This can lead you to a healthier lifestyle later in your life. Sport participation leads to lower obesity, diabetes, or heart disease rates in kids. They also tend to eat less junk food and drink fewer sugary beverages.
It will teach your children responsibility. They will be able to help others and learn how to cook. These lessons will be valuable at every stage of life, regardless of how old your children are. They're valuable skills for teens and adults.