Why Getting Kids Outdoors is One of the Best Things You Can Do

In a world dominated by screens and schedules, getting kids outside—into the woods, on the water, or down a trail—isn’t just a good idea, it’s critical. For those of us who hunt, fish, or live for the outdoors, we already know the value of time spent outside. The real question is: are we passing that on to the next generation in this digital age?

Here’s why getting kids out in the field (or the forest) matters more than ever:

1. Builds Stronger, Healthier Bodies
Climbing over logs, hiking through the woods, casting a line, or tracking game—this kind of movement builds strength, coordination, and endurance. Time outside beats a gym or a video game any day when it comes to building physical health.

2. Improves Focus and Mental Health
The outdoors has a calming effect most of us have felt after a long sit in the woods or a sunrise on the lake. That same effect works on kids. Nature helps reduce anxiety, improves mood, and boosts attention spans. It’s especially powerful for kids who struggle to focus in traditional settings, and can even reduce symptoms of conditions like ADHD.

3. Sparks Curiosity and Creativity
Whether it’s asking about animal tracks in the mud or building a fort out of branches, nature feeds a child’s imagination in a way no screen ever could. It teaches them to observe, to wonder, and to think. Additionally, getting outside on a regular basis instills a greater foundational love for outdoor activity and can create budding hunters, fishers, and explorers that will carry that love of nature on for decades to come.

4. Builds Confidence and Teaches Responsibility
There’s nothing like seeing a kid light up after making their first successful cast or bringing down their first deer. Being outdoors teaches patience, responsibility, and how to make decisions—valuable skills that stick with them long after the trip is over.

5. Passes on a Conservation Ethic
If we want to protect wild places, we need to raise kids who care about them. Taking them hunting, fishing, or hiking gives them a real connection to the land—and a reason to preserve it. They won’t protect what they don’t understand.

You don’t need a week-long trip or a fancy setup. Start simple. Take them scouting, let them help with gear, bring them on a short hike, or just spend time by a campfire. The goal is to make the outdoors part of their life—not just something they see in photos. At Freedom Outfitters, we are here to help outfit you and your family for your way of life, and get you ready for your next adventure together!