Take a nature break

So far our community efforts have covered how to have a killer block party and how to build local community. Today I think we should start at home. Starting to build community at home is just as important as reaching out to your neighbors. Kids who grow up with a positive togetherness based experience are more likely to give back positive to their community and world at large. Today, why not take a nature walk? If your kids don't see the community, they sure won't care about building a better and stronger community. You can start taking your kids on nature walks when they're tiny little babies. You might think a baby won't enjoy a nature walk but I've seen a complete change in babies when you get them outside in the fresh air. They open their eyes a little wider, look around, and move their faces to feel the wind on their cheeks. You and your baby and older children can try the following:

• Walk in the rain, the sun, the clouds.
• Jump in puddles and even (gasp) roll mud through your kids fingers.
• Look for birds; get a bird book and try to name some.
• Feel the various textures of plants and flowers.
• Look for little ants on tree bark.
• Lay in the grass and watch the clouds change shape.

Run, sing, and connect with nature. You and your baby both are cooped up a lot. There are nap times and feeding. Get outside for a nature break at least once a day. It will do you both good and grow a nature interest in your little from day one.