Unstructured, uninterrupted playtime in nature is important for happy, healthy kids. HGTV offers tips for creating a free play-friendly outdoor space and for encouraging children to get outside and explore.

Trying to find easy nature activities for kids? Look no further; here's how to make a DIY nature crown for kids using treasures found outside in nature!

It was the kid with the rocks that finally did it for Matthew Browning.

Young children learn naturally when allowed to explore and discover, manipulate and practice newly acquired skills through play. Play is not trivial, it's children's tool for growth. Read this short piece by Dr Stella Louis and Dr Sacha Powell for some insights from the founder of the first kindergarten, Friedrich Froebel.

John Olson, Four children from a hippie commune walking through the woods with their sticks, Sunny Valley, Oregon, USA, 1969.

Backpacking is already a challenge...so throwing kids in the mix might seem impossible. Here's some tips from a real backpacking mom about how to make an overnight outing with your kiddos easier, more rewarding, and more successful!

Aberle

OK. So, this isn't exactly a picture book. I am stretching the lines here...BUT...this has got to be my favorite little sewing project book from this year. Liesl Gibson ...genius behind Oliver & S ... has become a dear friend and she has

Splash by Jessica Drossin...do YOU love splashing in puddles???.....:)