10 Easy Learning Activities to Take Outside This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to take learning outdoors.
Fresh air and open space inspire children to explore, create, and discover.

The best part? You don’t need a lot of prep or materials—just a little time and curiosity!

Whether you have a toddler, preschooler, or kindergartener, here are 10 simple learning activities you can try outside:

1. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Make a list of things to find like:
• “Something smooth”
• “A red flower”
• “A bird in the sky”

Let your child search around the yard or park and see what they can discover!

2. Sidewalk Chalk Shapes and Letters

Draw big shapes or letters with chalk.
Ask your child to:
• Trace them
• Hop on them
• Match them

Call out one and let them find it!

3. Water Painting

All you need is a cup of water and a paintbrush.
Let your child “paint” fences, rocks, or sidewalks. Try creating:
• Letters
• Numbers
• Silly pictures

4. Leaf Rubbing Art

Place leaves under a piece of paper and rub crayons across the top.
Talk about the shape, texture, and parts of the leaf.
It’s nature and art in one!

5. Alphabet Nature Walk

Go on a walk and look for items that match each letter:
• “A is for ant”
• “B is for butterfly”
• “C is for cloud”

See how far through the alphabet you can go!

6. Backyard Counting Picnic

Make snack time a learning moment:
• “Can you give me 5 grapes?”
• “How many crackers do we have?”

Count, sort, and eat your way through fun math practice.

7. Outdoor Story Time

Bring a few books outside and read together.
Choose a cozy spot under a tree or on a blanket.
Pause to ask questions or connect the story to what’s around you.

8. Nature Sorting Station

Collect sticks, leaves, rocks, or flowers.
Use bowls, baskets, or muffin tins to sort by:
• Size
• Color
• Type

9. Cloud Watching & Storytelling

Lay on your backs and look up at the clouds.
Ask:
• “What do you see?”
• “Can you tell me a story about that shape?”

It’s relaxing and sparks creativity!

10. Sensory Bin in the Shade

Fill a bin with sand, water, pebbles, or dry pasta.
Add scoops, cups, or small toys for open-ended play.
Set it up in a shady spot and let the sensory fun begin!

Why Outdoor Learning Works

Spending time outside supports:

• Stronger bodies through movement and gross motor play

• Sharper minds by boosting attention and focus

• Better language skills through conversation and storytelling

Most importantly, it makes learning fun and stress-free.

Keep the Summer Fun Going ☀️

Our Learning with Kelsey subscription boxes are filled with hands-on activities that are perfect for outdoor learning.

Whether you're in the backyard, at the park, or on vacation, your child can stay engaged, inspired, and excited about learning all summer long.