Family Fun
Nature Play
Spending time outdoors is good for our minds and bodies.
Sadly, children today spend less time outside than any other generation before them. We're here to change that.
Now sanctuaries across the state have ways for people to connect with nature by encouraging self-directed, informal play.
Why Nature Play Matters
There are endless benefits to playing in the outdoors. Specifically, nature play:
- Promotes a healthy, active lifestyle
- Develops imagination, creativity, & invention
- Allows a space for children to navigate risk & problem solving
- Supports inquiry-based learning through curiosity & exploration
- Provides opportunities to practice adaptability, flexibility, & resilience
And of course, when children are in nature, they find connections to the natural world. These connections are critical to creating the next generation of nature heroes!
Find a Nature Play Area
Unlike static, traditional playgrounds, Nature Play Areas give children the chance to solve problems and construct their surroundings through natural elements and unstructured exploration.
Find a sanctuary
Find by name or location
See all SanctuariesThe Makes the Best Playground?
Upcoming Family & Children Programs
See MorePreschool Nature Detectives
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Magazine Beach Park Nature Center, Cambridge
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Thursday, November 13
10:00-11:00am
Families - children 3 - 6 years
Early Explorers: Bird Watching
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Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattapan
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Thursday, November 13
10:30am-12:00pm
Families - children 0 - 17
Nature Time: Little Sprouts
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Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton
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Thursday, November 13
11:00am-12:00pm
Families - children 2 - 3 years
Stay Connected
Don't miss a beat on all the ways you can get outdoors, celebrate nature, and get involved.







