Step Outside: Simple Wellbeing Activities for families

Spending time outdoors is one of the best things we can do for our health and wellbeing. For children, it’s especially important. Nature gives space to move freely, be curious, and play creatively — all of which support their development and mental health.

At Sunny Jar, we love finding low-waste, low-cost ways to make the most of the outdoors. These simple activities help children slow down, connect with nature, and grow a deeper appreciation for the planet — and they’re just as enjoyable for grown-ups too!

🌼 Nature-Inspired Activities to Try

🧪 Nature Potions
Grab a bowl and some water, then head outside to collect petals, herbs, leaves and bark. Mix them together to create a magic potion — the more imagination, the better! What does your potion do?

This image is from a fantastic family workshop from play-worker and friend of sunny jar @zedgram.

🏡 Build a Bug Hotel
Stack twigs, leaves, pinecones and cardboard to create a cosy shelter for insects. Place inside a used carton in a quiet corner and see who moves in. A fun way to learn about the important role bugs play in nature.

🔍 Nature Colours Scavenger Hunt
Upcycle an old egg carton — colour each section with a different shade using crayons or paint, then send kids off to find natural treasures that match each colour. It’s a creative way to explore and notice the small things. Try to take things that are already on the floor and leave plenty for the wildlife. 🐝

🎨 Nature Mandalas
Use leaves, seeds, petals, stones or shells to make beautiful patterns on the ground. No glue needed — just create, enjoy, and take a photo before nature takes it back.

🌸 Upcycled Flowers
Use scrap paper, old envelopes, magazines or packaging to make beautiful paper flowers. Children can design their own shapes, colours and petals — a brilliant way to reuse materials and celebrate nature.

🌱 Seed Bombs
Make your own wildflower seed bombs using clay, compost and seeds. Once they’re dry, children can throw them into bare patches of soil and watch flowers grow. It’s a playful way to support pollinators and brighten up grey spaces.

🎨 Hapa Zome (Leaf Printing)
This fun activity involves hammering leaves and flowers onto fabric or paper to transfer their natural colour. A great hands-on way to notice the shapes, patterns and colours in nature.

🪄 Nature Wands
Collect sticks and decorate them with yarn, feathers, leaves or scraps of fabric. Nature wands are perfect for imaginative play and outdoor adventures.

🍂 Playdough Imprints
Take a ball of playdough outside and press in leaves, bark or flowers to create beautiful imprints. This is a great sensory activity for younger children that encourages attention to detail.

🌍 Why It Matters

These activities aren’t just fun — they help children build a deeper relationship with the natural world. And when children care about something, they’re more likely to protect it.

Spending time outside, creating with natural materials, and learning through play all support wellbeing, creativity, and environmental awareness from a young age.

So next time the sun is out, grab a stick, a few leaves, and a little imagination — and step outside. 🌿✨

Let’s grow a generation who love and care for the planet, one playful moment at a time.

Tried one of these ideas? We’d love to see! Tag @SunnyJarEcoHub or pop by to a workshop to share what you’ve been making!

The Sunny Jar Team