Rain or Shine Mamma

But Mommy, I DON’T WANT TO GO OUTSIDE!

Posted on March 6, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 4 Comments

Image courtesy of stockimages/freedigitalphotos.net

If you're reading this blog, you're probably already aware of the many wonderful ways children can benefit from playing and staying active outdoors - physical activity, improved motor skills, vitamin D and increased ability to focus, just to mention … [Click to read the full article]

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7 Fabulous Kid-Friendly Outdoor Urban Adventures by Jennifer Fontaine

Posted on February 25, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 17 Comments

7 Fabulous Kid-Friendly Outdoor Urban Adventures. Rain or Shine Mamma

When it comes to getting kids outdoors in the rural Midwest, I'm rarely short on ideas or know-how. But how do you explore nature with children if you live in a big city? Since I haven't lived in a metropolitan area after having children, I asked Los … [Click to read the full article]

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Creating a Nature Table: Nuts and Seeds

Posted on February 20, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 12 Comments

Our First Nature Table: Nuts and Seeds. Rain or Shine Mamma

Nature tables are staples of many Montessori and Waldorf classrooms, and provide an opportunity for children to connect with nature, the seasons and the world around them. I just recently became familiar with the concept myself, and I'm excited to be … [Click to read the full article]

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Rockin’ Homemade Valentines for Kids

Posted on February 12, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk Leave a Comment

Make a Rockin' Valentine - Rain or Shine Mamma

These homemade valentines are unique and easy to make - plus they bring a little bit of authenticity and nature into an otherwise pretty commercialized holiday. Besides the rocks, which I found at a local shop, I had all the materials on hand. If you … [Click to read the full article]

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5 Olympics-Inspired Backyard Games

Posted on February 6, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 20 Comments

You don't need to be an avid Olympics enthusiast to have a great time with these simple winter backyard games. Aside from being fun, a backyard Olympic Games session will give your kids a good workout and a chance to practice gross motor skills, … [Click to read the full article]

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What Does the Fox Say? Lessons from a Nature Center

Posted on February 4, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 2 Comments

In all honesty, I've never really considered nature centers a place where children can connect with nature. Great places for kids to learn about nature, for sure. But connect? Not so much. Bonding with nature is something I have always associated … [Click to read the full article]

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Valentine’s Day Heart from Natural Materials

Posted on January 28, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 6 Comments

As I think I've stated once or twice here on the blog before, crafts are not my forte, but since I now have two little ones I try to put on my creative hat every once in a while. When I do, I usually try to incorporate natural, existing or recycled … [Click to read the full article]

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Animal Tracking with Children: A Beginner’s Guide

Posted on January 22, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 10 Comments

Animal Tracking with Your Child: A Beginner's Guide. Rain or Shine Mamma blog

I used to think of animal tracking as a skill reserved for hunters and hardcore naturalists. But lately, I've come to appreciate that it's one of the most simple things we as parents can do to connect our children with nature in a way that engages … [Click to read the full article]

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Got Snow? Make Snow Pastries

Posted on January 14, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 10 Comments

I'm a sucker for post-Christmas sales and this year was no different. As I was loading up on wrapping paper, lights and Christmas tree ornaments I came across some red and green cookie sprinkles and gold colored sparkle gel on a shelf that was marked … [Click to read the full article]

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Yes, kids CAN play outside when it’s cold!

Posted on January 7, 2014 Written by Linda McGurk 12 Comments

'Tis the season for snow storms, record-low temperatures and winter weather advisories - so do we all just have to roll up in a ball and pull a blanket over our heads? Not so fast. Spending time outside in extreme temperatures can certainly be … [Click to read the full article]