Some parents may be concerned about whether or not their young child is getting enough time outdoors. As children age, parents worry about keeping their teenagers busy with activities to develop their skillsets so they can prepare for the workforce or simply keep them out of trouble.

Keeping a teen entertained is no easy task. In a fast-paced world of electronics and easy access to information, teens seem to be developing into young adults quicker than in past generations. Many social factors are hampering today’s youth from spending time outdoors, like wanting to play video games with friends instead.

Hiking and camping can be a great way to encourage your children to spend more time outdoors. Parents can make the activity even more exciting by spending this time with their teens. Centre de la Nature and Parc de la Rivière des Mille-Îles have many walkways and picturesque trails to enjoy. It is also a great way to engage in conversations with some light exercise.

Summer in Canada is relatively short, as is the amount of time that we spend outdoors. Laval is a city with accessible bike paths and it is a great opportunity to convince your teen to jump on a bike to go from one location to the next. Persuading your teen to participate in an outdoor activity will help your teen experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Scouts can also be an exciting option. Encouraging a teen to get out of their comfort zone and meet new people without using social media is imperative. In some ways, it is also an opportunity to get him or her to learn new skills such as teambuilding, camp fire setting, cooking, time management and leadership skills. Having fun and spending time outdoors will help your teen learn something new without even realizing it.

Jessica Gorgui was just a teen when she joined the scouts and, as an adult, she is still involved. “Very unfortunately for me, I didn't think scouts were cool when I was young. So, I only integrated a group for a year when I was 15 and 16,” Gorgui explains. “In that year, I learned so much and most importantly, I fell in love with scouting, the adventure, community, techniques learned, and the bond created with friends with whom you live incredible experiences!”

Let your teen decide which activity suits him or her best. If you force them into doing something there might be more resistance on their end and they won’t want to engage in the activity. If your teen is not interested in the great outdoors, get them to go for a walk with you in the evening instead. Sit out under the stars in the backyard at night and do something with meaning for you both. Get them involved with the gardening, planting the tomato plants or caring for the flowers in the yard.

Being in touch with nature will help your teen feel more grounded and will also allow your teen to develop respect for the environment. Get creative and enjoy the great outdoors while the summer lasts!