We’re already four months into 2025, and as a working family living in KC, we’re just now starting to feel like the outdoors is calling. Between full-time jobs, daycare drop-offs, and our oldest being in school during the day, spending time outside doesn’t always come easily—especially during the cold, windy Midwest winter. But with warmer weather settling in, we’re setting an intention to embrace outdoor time more intentionally, and we’re using the 1000 Hours Outside initiative to help keep us motivated.
If you haven’t heard of it, 1000 Hours Outside is a global movement encouraging families to spend 1000 hours outside over the course of a year. That might sound overwhelming at first (especially if you work full-time like we do), but the goal isn’t about perfection—it’s about being mindful, making small changes, and prioritizing outdoor time when you can.
Why 1000 Hours?
The concept behind the movement is simple: if kids can spend thousands of hours per year in front of screens, why not try to match that time outside in nature instead? Research shows that time outdoors improves mental and physical health for both children and adults, fosters creativity, and encourages connection. Even short bursts of time outside—15 minutes here, 30 minutes there—can add up.
Real-Life Adjustments for Working Families
Here are some suggestions on how you might be able to make it work:
- Evening Walks or Sidewalk Chalk Sessions: After dinner, aim for even 20–30 minutes outside before bedtime. The kids burn off some energy, and you get a moment to breathe and reconnect as a family.
- Weekend Park Trips: Build in visits to local favorites like Celebration Park in Gardner or Big Bull Creek Park in Edgerton for trail walks and playground time.
- Outdoor Mornings on the Weekends: Whether it’s breakfast on the patio for the whole family, or letting the kids play while you sip coffee, try to start the day outside when possible.
- Track It Together: Using the free printables and trackers from the 1000 Hours Outside website, you can turn it into a family project. The kids will love coloring in the time you’ve logged!
Give Yourself Grace
Will we hit 1000 hours this year? Honestly, maybe not—and that’s okay. The point isn’t to check a box but to be more aware of how we spend our time and to give our family more moments in nature, together. If we end up with 500 hours? That’s still a win.
If your family is feeling cooped up, overwhelmed with screens, or just needing a reset—consider joining the challenge. Whether you hit 1000 hours or not, the moments outside will be worth it.
Need Help Getting Started?
Check out our guide for Top Parks and Playgrounds in Gardner, Spring Hill, Paola and nearby!
