1000 Hours Outside

1000 Hours Outside is a global movement dedicated to encouraging families to balance screen time with outdoor play by aiming for 1,000 hours of time spent outside each year. Founded by Ginny Yurich, this initiative emphasizes the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of nature engagement for children and families. Participants are encouraged to explore natural settings, engage in physical activity, and experience the beauty of the outdoors to boost creativity, reduce stress, and build lasting memories. The movement provides resources such as printable time trackers, a podcast on outdoor play, and a supportive community to motivate families throughout their journey.

Visit the Website Go to the 1000 Hours Outside website to learn more about the movement and access free resources. Download Time Trackers Choose from various time tracker templates available on the website. These printable sheets allow you to log the hours spent outside, motivating you and your family to reach the 1,000-hour goal. Set Personal Goals Determine the time commitment that works best for your family. While 1,000 hours is the ultimate goal, you can set smaller, achievable milestones based on your schedule and lifestyle. Track Outdoor Activities Each time you spend an hour outside, record it on the time tracker. Track hours spent in nature activities like hiking, gardening, picnics, or just playing in the park. Incorporate Nature Daily Make outdoor time a regular part of your routine, aiming to spend time outside each day. Small outings add up, helping you reach the 1,000-hour target gradually. Join the Community Connect with other families in the 1000 Hours Outside community on social media for inspiration, tips, and encouragement. Sharing experiences can keep you motivated. Listen to the Podcast Tune in to the 1000 Hours Outside podcast, which features experts discussing the benefits of outdoor play, nature education, and healthy family lifestyles. This can offer new insights and ideas for activities. Celebrate Progress Regularly review your tracker to celebrate progress and achievements. Reward milestones along the way to keep motivation high for both kids and adults. Adapt to Your Family's Needs Remember, flexibility is key. Adjust the challenge to fit your family's unique circumstances, making outdoor time a positive experience that everyone enjoys.