1000 Hours Outside (Even in a Brooklyn Winter!
We all know the countless benefits of getting kids outside—fresh air, physical activity, and the chance to explore. But when you live in a crowded city like Brooklyn, making that a reality can feel daunting.
That’s why we’ve long admired the 1000 Hours Outside challenge and have even taken it on ourselves. Now, we’re here to help you join in too—because every hour counts!
What is the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge?
The **1000 Hours Outside** movement is a global initiative designed to help families reconnect with nature. It encourages you to aim for 1000 hours of outdoor time each year, whether that’s in a sprawling forest or, in our case, the small but mighty parks of New York City. The idea is simple: if we track things like steps, calories, and finances, why not track something as beneficial as time spent outdoors?
With the average American child spending 1,200 hours in front of screens each year, the contrast is stark. What if we could flip those numbers, reduce screen time, and boost outdoor play? While 1000 hours might seem like a big number, breaking it down makes it more manageable: around 20 hours a week, or just a few hours a day, and you’re well on your way.
Why Outdoor Time Matters (Yes, Even in Winter!)
Outdoor play isn’t just about burning off energy—though we all know that’s a bonus! Research has repeatedly shown that time spent in nature supports every area of a child’s development. From academic to social, emotional to physical well-being, kids who regularly play outside are more likely to thrive. And it’s not just for the little ones—adults benefit too!
Being outdoors helps kids develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Whether it’s through structured activities like guided hikes or spontaneous moments like finding a cool stick in the park, nature provides a hands-on, real-world learning experience that screens just can’t match.
How to Get Started in Brooklyn
We get it—finding green space in Brooklyn can feel like a challenge, especially during the colder months. But trust us, it's possible! We’re tagging local events and programs that will help you rack up those outdoor hours, whether it’s through organized activities or simply exploring the small patches of nature that exist in our urban environment.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
Nature Walks: Hit the paths at Prospect Park or take a stroll along the Brooklyn waterfront. You’d be surprised how much nature you can find in these tucked-away corners.
Outdoor Art Activities: Try taking your usual indoor crafts outside. Painting, chalk art, or even building fairy houses can be done in parks or community spaces.
Seasonal Fun: Winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Try ice skating, sledding, or even a simple nature scavenger hunt to make the most of those chilly days.
Why Track Outdoor Time?
In today’s busy world, it’s easy for outdoor time to get back-burnered. We all have screens competing for our attention, and sometimes they seem like an easy reprieve from the demands of parenting. But the benefits of nature far outweigh those of screen time. That's why tracking outdoor hours can be so helpful.
When you can visually see how much time your kids are spending outside, you’re more likely to prioritize it. And once you get into the rhythm of regular outdoor time, you’ll notice the difference—not just in your kids, but in yourself too. A break from screens and a step into nature can be the ultimate reset.
To make things easier, download a **free tracking sheet** from the 1000 Hours Outside project. It’s a simple, effective way to stay on course and make sure you’re getting your family out and about, even when life gets hectic.
A Challenge for Every Family, Everywhere
Whether you live in the middle of a sprawling suburb or in the heart of Brooklyn, the 1000 Hours Outside challenge is for everyone. It’s about more than just hitting a number; it’s about making outdoor time a priority in your life. This is a journey that holds tremendous power for every age and stage, from toddlers to teens (and yes, for parents too!).
Childhood is finite. On average, it lasts just shy of 9.5 million minutes. We only get one shot at it, and one of the most important decisions we make is how to spend that time. By making nature a part of your daily routine, you’re giving your children the chance to explore, grow, and create lasting memories.
Our Commitment to Helping You Get Outside
We’re excited to embark on this journey with you and will be sharing regular tips and event highlights to help you get those hours in. From organized family hikes to local pop-up events, we’ll show you how to take advantage of all the outdoor opportunities Brooklyn has to offer—even in winter!
So bundle up, grab your tracking sheet, and let’s get those hours outside. The magic of nature is waiting, and we’re here to help you make it a part of your family’s life. Ready to join the challenge?
Let’s do this!
