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As a parent, one of the most important things I want for my boys is that they grow up strong, healthy, and connected to the world around them. In a time when screens and devices are often the default for entertainment, I’ve made a conscious decision to raise my children as “outside boys.” I want them to spend more time outdoors, soaking up fresh air, playing sports, and exploring nature, rather than being glued to their TV or tablets. It’s a simple but powerful shift that’s already paying off in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.

There’s something special about the outdoors that can’t be replicated inside. Nature offers an endless variety of experiences — from the feel of grass underfoot to the wind in their hair, and the endless possibilities for imaginative play. When my boys are outside, they’re not just playing; they’re learning, exploring, and growing in ways that are difficult to achieve indoors.

I want my children to be strong, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Outdoor play helps them build resilience and confidence. Whether they’re climbing trees, kicking a soccer ball, or building forts out of sticks, they’re learning how to navigate challenges, take risks, and problem-solve in a way that no video game or TV show could teach them.

Another reason why I’m committed to making the outdoors a bigger part of their lives is the undeniable health benefits. Exercise and fresh air are essential for growing bodies. As a family, we’ve noticed that when my boys get regular physical activity outside, they sleep better, eat better, and are overall healthier. I believe it’s because they’re using their energy in a positive, productive way. They’re running, jumping, and laughing. They’re not sedentary, and it shows in their increased stamina and better moods.

Since we made the decision to get them outside more, I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in their overall well-being. After spending time outside, they come in with rosy cheeks, exhausted but happy, ready for a good meal and a full night’s sleep. Their appetite is better, and they seem more relaxed — and that’s something I’m definitely thankful for as a parent.

To make the outdoors even more inviting, we decided to introduce some new gear this holiday season. For Christmas, we got them a basketball hoop, hockey nets, and hockey sticks. These additions have opened up a whole new world of play. Now, they have even more ways to stay active and engage with each other, and they love it. Whether it’s shooting hoops or playing a pickup game of street hockey, they’re excited to get outside and play before even thinking about electronics.

The best part? They don’t even need to be reminded to go outside anymore. They’ve come to look forward to that time, excited about the games they’ll create and the fun they’ll have. It’s not a chore or a restriction; it’s an opportunity for them to enjoy the simple pleasures of physical activity and bonding with each other.

One of the best decisions we made was to set clear boundaries around screen time. We now have a rule: Before they can spend any time on their tablets or watch TV, they have to spend time outside. This means after school and on weekends, they head straight to the backyard for some fresh air and active play.

At first, I’ll admit, there were a few complaints. It wasn’t always easy to pry them away from their screens, especially when they were in the middle of a game. But now, the routine is ingrained, and they know the drill. They have come to realize that outdoor play is where the fun really happens, and that screen time comes after they’ve earned it through physical activity. I love seeing their excitement as they race outside, leaving their devices behind.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of encouraging outdoor play is seeing the joy on my boys’ faces when they’re immersed in a game. They’re not worried about following complex rules. It’s simple, pure play — something that’s becoming increasingly rare in a world that often feels like it’s dominated by screens and structured schedules.

Whether it’s playing a competitive game of soccer, challenging each other to a friendly basketball shootout, or simply running around chasing each other, they’re learning how to be active, creative, and social. They’re learning how to work together, solve problems on the fly, and enjoy their time without the pressure of technology.

Ultimately, the goal is to raise kids who are connected to their bodies, their environment, and each other. I want my boys to have a healthy relationship with technology, but I also want them to know that the world outside offers the best opportunities for growth, play, and exploration.

As parents, it’s easy to let convenience dictate our choices, but I believe the effort to encourage outdoor play is one worth making. The benefits are clear: they’re stronger, healthier, happier, and more connected to the world around them. And that’s the kind of childhood I want for my boys — one where the outdoors is their playground, and the possibilities are endless.

So if you’re a parent reading this, I challenge you to take a step back and consider how much time your kids are spending outside. What activities can you introduce to get them moving and exploring? Because at the end of the day, the best memories are made in the fresh air, not on a screen. And I’m excited to see my boys grow up as outside boys, full of energy, laughter, and a love for the natural world.