New Year's Goal: 1000 hours outside
Montessori in Real Life
Happy New Year! Although I’m not a huge fan of New Year’s resolutions, I am a fan of setting family goals. This year’s will be to spend 1000 hours outside, as inspired by the movement set forth by Ginny Yurich. As we’ve shifted into the colder winter months, I’ve found myself finding more excuses to stay inside. While there is a coziness to staying inside, there are also endless benefits to going (and staying!) outside, all year long.
When we’re outside:
My kids discover the most simple and pure of joys
We all feel better physically and emotionally
There is less sibling conflict
Learning happens naturally and spontaneously
Our appreciation for the earth and its creatures grows
We all sleep and eat better
And so much more
I’m venturing into the goal of 1000 hours outside with this mindset: Even if we don’t hit the goal, it will be an excellent way to make a conscious effort to spend more time outdoors. It will be an opportunity to step out of our comfort zone and to connect with like-minded families looking to do the same.
For those curious, 1000 hours works out to about 2.7 hours a day. While we are lucky to live in a more mild climate where being outside is possible all year round, I expect we (and many people in more extreme climates) will shift more of the hours outside to spring, summer, and fall. Though after reading the book, There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather, perhaps not!
Although I’ve never counted our hours outside before (and I doubt they’ve added up to 1000), we have always prioritized being outdoors in our family. It’s not just a family value; it’s also a large part of the Montessori philosophy. Montessori and time in the outdoors go hand in hand. This is one of my favorite quotes:
“There is no description, no image in any book that is capable of replacing the sight of real trees, and all the life to be found around them, in a real forest. Something emanates from those trees which speaks to the soul, something no book, no museum is capable of giving.” - Maria Montessori
With a focus on learning with all the senses, Montessori believed it is essential for young children to experience all the sounds, smells, sights, and textures that nature offers. Through hands-on learning and playing in nature, children develop a deep understanding and appreciation of the Earth.
In most Montessori classrooms, there is a seamless transition from inside to outside learning. Children are permitted to freely move back and forth between the two, with meaningful work in both places. I know that has been a huge benefit to my children as movement and learning go hand in hand.
Beyond the kids’ Montessori school, I will still have a lot of hours to fill outside with them. I know I can’t complete this goal without a plan and a prepared environment. Here are a few things I’m considering as we step into the new year:
Setting up the entryway for easy in/out
Make a list of favorite places that are walkable
Move practical life and art activities outside
Eat more meals outdoors
Prep meals and snacks ahead of time
Recruit friends to do this with us
Research local adventures for weekends
Keep the car packed with extra clothes and gear
As for specific activity ideas, 1000 Hours Outside has a book full of them as well as pages of inspiration on their website. They also offer free trackers as well as a new app to keep count of hours. If you’re feeling inspired too, check it out!
I also recognize it is a privilege for my children and I to spend so much time outdoors. This has led me to two organizations to support: Black Kids Adventures and Wild Diversity. Consider a donation to one of these if you too are looking for a way to help ALL children find joy in the outdoors!
