Tip—A simple change of scenery can do wonders for cooped-up toddlers and their overwrought parents: go outside.

It’s March and winter has been going on officially for, well, months now. My mother had a catchy phrase for the “cooped-up in the house doldrums” that seem to plague us in the winter months: she called them the March Uglies. I think this phrase came to her while she was at home with three children under the age of five. You may relate.

Take heart—it’s March now and with it comes milder weather (at least some of the time). But no matter where you live, it’s good advice to bundle up the children and get out of the house. Preschool teacher Sandi Dexter, author of Joyful Play with Toddlers, describes the outdoors as “a huge and wonderful natural playground for young children.”

Tools—A playground with swings and slides is terrific, but you don’t need one to interest and engage a young child. Dexter describes many different ideas to pique a child’s curiosity and exercise both mind and body outdoors. A few of her suggestions for enjoying walks with your child are below.

Bird Watching

Beginning in March, the birds start to get busy. This is a great time for a bird-watching walk. Tell your child, “Today, we are going to look for birds. Let’s see how many we can spot. Do you think we will see any flying? Do you think we will see any getting a worm?” As you walk, point out the birds to her. Stop and listen to the sounds the birds make. Your child gains an appreciation for the birds’ movements and songs. She is practicing listening skills, too.

Consider putting in a homemade bird bath or bird feeder for many hours of entertainment. If the weather is bad, your child can watch the birds from indoor windows—even closer than if she were outdoors.

While on your walk you can also watch for squirrels, chipmunks, worms, insects, lizards, cats—whatever creatures live in your neighborhood.

Listen to the Sounds

On your next walk around the neighborhood, comment on the things you hear. For example, say, “Oh, I think I hear an airplane. Does that sound like an airplane to you?” Point out the sounds the wind makes, the cars rushing by on the street, dogs barking, children playing, etc. Soon your child will let you know what sounds he hears.

Walking in the Rain

As we all know, March can be a rainy month. Put on your boots and slickers and go outside. Give your child the experience of a walk in the rain. Let her feel the raindrops on her cheeks. Stop to watch the water swirl around the curb. Point out the rings the raindrops make as they land in a puddle. Ask her, “Do you think the birds will take a bath in the puddle when the rain stops? See how shiny the leaves look when they are wet? Do you think we’ll see a rainbow today?” (Safety note: do not go out in thunderstorms.)

You’ll find more practical tips you can use right now in Joyful Play with Toddlers: Recipes for Fun with Odds and Ends by Sandi Dexter.

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