Kids Who Explore Parent Edition
Kids Who Explore
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The mamas behind the scenes at Kids Who Explore, share weekly episodes covering all things exploring (with kids), from simple walks outside to camping in the backcountry. Expect interviews with explorers from all over the world and lots of takeaways for your own future adventures!
Instagram: @kidswhoexplore
Facebook: Kids Who Explore
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
May 2, 2023
Ep. 118 Changes to the Podcast
After 118 episodes and more kids, we’ve decided to make a slight change for a little bit - expect new podcast episodes monthly. See you again on June 6th!!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Apr 25, 2023
Ep. 117 Gardening with Kids with Elissa Story
Do you have picture-perfect images of what it could look like to garden with your kids? It doesn’t need to be fancy. Elissa likes to tell people it can be as easy as you want it to be, and your own trail and error will take you far!
Elissa is wife to Tobin. She is a wetland biologist, and mama to two boys, aged 5.5 years and 3 months. Before having kids, she worked as a wildlife biologist specializing in birds, and then an environmental educator. She grew up competitively horseback riding and now works part-time as a riding instructor and farm/nature teacher for children. Elissa and her family live on a small suburban farm with chickens, horses, a large garden, berry patch, and fruit orchard. They love to travel, mountain bike, ski, rock climb, hike, bikepack, and camp as a family.
Benefits of Gardening with Kids:
* Easy way for kids to learn how to fail
* Trail and error can teach them a lot!
* They learn how to properly weed and identify plants
* Then have to care for something by watering it regularly
* Promotes healthy eating
* Encourages motor skills
* Reduces stress
* Teaches patience, resilience and responsibility
* Improves mood
* Educates about the natural world and biological process
* Strengthens family connections
* Nurtures self-confidence
* Gets you outside, and gets you grounding!
Types of Gardens:
* Container gardens
* In-ground gardens
* Community gardens
Some Good Foods to Start With:
* Snap peas
* Carrots
* Kale
* Tomatoes - from a start instead of seed
* Strawberries - from a start instead of seed (and/or in a hanging pot)
* Green onions (can grow in water in a glass by the window)
Fun Kid-Friendly Tips:
* Tomatoes go out after Mother’s Day
* Check your growing zone to determine frost dates and when to seed
* Give kids spray bottle instead of hose (or small watering can)
* Plant large seed size (easy to grab for kids)
* Through trial and error learn which plants need sunnier spots, when to leave a sprinkle of seeds, how deep you should seed, etc.
* Raised beds are perfect height for little gardeners
* When seeding, can use a measuring tape for a visual marker (plus math skills!); Younger kids, you can draw a visual line with your finger
* Kids can use popsicle sticks to label veggies/fruit
* Kids can use scissors for harvesting
* Give them a “yes spot” to dig
Other Gardening Tips:
* Planting native plants to your region requires less water and less artificial fertilizer
* Good irrigation system (or neighbours watering) can help if you’re away
* Raised beds and/or hardware mesh can help to keep wildlife from eating your food!
* You can line beds with metal, depending on the wood
Book Recommendation: Nature Play at Home
Follow Elissa on IG: @seattlestorys
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities: https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Apr 18, 2023
Ep. 116 Tighten Your Tinkler to Get Back Outside with Christina Walsh
Tighten Your Tinkler meets Kids Who Explore, because we all want to support postpartum women, so they can get back to doing all the things they love to do outside.
Christina Walsh is a physical therapist and co-founder of Tighten Your Tinkler. She’s a New Orleans mama of two who lived with pelvic floor issues herself. She supports postpartum women holistically through prolapse, diastasis recti, and more. The program helps women solve pelvic floor issues without kegels or internal vaginal devices.
Tighten Your Tinkler:
* Functional training from a need they experienced themselves
* You can do it at home with your children!
* Helps with incontinence, sleeping through the night without needing to pee, and painful sex
When You Resume Activity Postpartum:
* Make sure you’re cleared by your providers
* If you’re having extra drainage, your body is asking you to slow down
* Pelvic floor pressure or heaviness, back pain, or leakage – tune back into your body, slow down, and work your way back into it more gently
Why Kegels Aren’t Always the Answer:
* You’re only getting stronger in ONE position
* Can cause over tightening
* You don’t need the pelvic floor to be a conscious muscle
Uneven terrain adds extra weight. When you ask more from your body, be gentle. You don’t have to live with discomfort, AND also, go slow!
So much of pelvic floor function is linked to the nervous system. Fight or Flight response links to bladder – so, take yourself out of that stressed state.
Immediately Postpartum:
* Listen to body
* Visit a Webster-certified chiro (adjust pubic joint)
* Avoid high impact activity while breastfeeding
* 90/90 decompression technique!! Check link below
* Don’t push pee out
* Use Squatty Potty
* Get enough fibre and stay hydrated
* Go easy on your body!
* Build strength
It’s never too late. Menopause can cause a shift of hormones as well, but they’ve seen success after people living with incontinence for over 28 years.
Links:
Decompression Position (to relax back, hips, and pelvic floor): https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com/backandhiprelief
5-minute Root Cause Quiz: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6C9SJ36
Book Suggestion:
Hunt Gather Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff
https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-42-why-to-avoid-kid-centered-activities-with-michaeleen-doucleff/
Follow Tighten Your Tinkler:
Website: www.tightenyourtinkler.com
IG: @tighten.your.tinkler
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tightenyourtinkler
Discount Code LAUREN gets you $50 off
https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Apr 11, 2023
Ep. 115 Spring Bucket List
We’ve done all the other season’s bucket lists, so we needed a Spring edition, because Spring is in the air!!
Depends what climate you’re in…when/if the snow is melted, but…here’s some ideas:
* Go on a bike or scooter ride…or ski
* Watch ducks!! (don’t feed them…Bird Episode: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-64-birding-bird-watching-with-launne-kolla/)
* Pick berries
* Make homemade lemonade or ice cream - find a warm day!
* Go on a nature walk (or hike)
* Jump in puddles
* Garden!!
* Eat outside
* Go fishing
* Watch the sunset!!
* Farmer’s Market
* Look for wild flowers
* Fly a kite
* Sidewalk Chalk or other outdoor crafts
* Outdoor Easter egg (or other kind of) hunt
Other Bucket List Episodes:
Winter Bucket List: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-44-winter-bucket-list/
Fall Bucket List: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-32-fall-bucket-list-with-kids/
Summer Bucket List: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-23-summer-bucket-list-with-kids/
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Apr 4, 2023
Ep.114 Childhood is Created Outside with Linda Åkeson McGurk
What’s the Scandinavian perspective on outdoor play? That you can’t have too much of it, and there’s no such thing as bad weather! Linda Åkeson McGurk, from Sweden, teaches us the essential nature of the outdoors in childhood.
Linda Åkeson McGurk is a Swedish American writer and author of the parenting memoir There’s No Such Thing As Bad Weather and The Open-Air Life. McGurk is a passionate advocate for raising kids in the outdoors and thinks that the best childhood memories are created outside, while jumping in puddles, digging in dirt, catching bugs and climbing trees. She is the founder of the blog Rain or Shine Mamma, a resource where parents and other caregivers find tips and inspiration for outdoor play every day, regardless of the weather.
Some Key Takeaways:
* Kids need unstructured play for their emotional, social and cognitive skills. Play is different than activities outside. Play is chosen by the child and directed by the child and is intrinsically motivated
* Outdoor life can be as simple as daily walks, green spaces, and utilizing what you have (even in a city)
* Getting outside gets you in the rhythm of getting outside
* We don’t know all the consequences of indoor time and screen time yet, but we do know all the benefits of outdoor time!!
* Experiencing nature = gentle with it, versus consuming nature = using motor vehicles in nature
Other Episode Referenced:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-112-open-air-classrooms-with-amy-cornet/
Linda’s Books:
There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather
Open Air Life
https://rainorshinemamma.com/shop-2/
Other Book Suggestion:
Book: Slow Birding by Joan E. Strassmann
Follow Linda:
Blog: rainorshinemamma.com – sign up for newsletter
IG and Facebook: @rainorshinemamma
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music.
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Mar 28, 2023
Ep. 113 A Baby Shower Gift Registry List for a Hiking Mom
Give the Gift of Adventure to an Adventurous Parent to be: Everything they'll need to hike with their baby is shared on today’s episode!
Wish List:
* Soft-Structured Carrier(for newborn to 3 years old, with rain and winter cover)
* AChild Carrier(for 6+ months with rain cover and hydraulics pack)
* SOS Device/Satellite Phone with Subscription
* Family First-Aid Kit
* Merino Wool Base Layers and Socks
* Bear Belt(to hold bear spray)
* Summit Seat
* Fleeceand Down Bunting
* Hiking Poles
* Ice Cleats
* Adventure Blankie
* 4x4 Stroller(if not able to carry)
Bonus Item: Baby Explorer Toque from KWE!
Refer to this blog post for all links:
https://www.adriannaadventures.ca/post/babyshowergiftregistrylistforahikingmom
Lauren’s Soft-Structured Carrier Suggestion:
Tula Free to Grow (and Toddler Carrier)
Discount Code: LAURENEB5 gets you 5% off
Babywearing Episode:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-10-babywearing-101-with-vanessa-shynkaruk/
Hiking with your baby creates a strong bond. You'll look back and love the memories you created on the trail together.
Thank you to Morrison Outdoors for sponsoring today’s podcast! Find more at: www.morrisonoutdoors.com
Use code FREECANADA within Canada from March 1-March 31, 2023 for free shipping on orders over $50!
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Mar 21, 2023
Ep. 112 Open Air Classrooms with Amy Cornet
When we asked Amy, who teaches at an outdoor school if there were any cons to learning in the outdoors, she couldn’t think of even one! However, she could name endless pros. Tune in to hear all of them!
Amy started her teaching career in Japan for a year and then came back home to Canada and has been working for Sturgeon Public Schools since. She has been teaching kindergarten for the past 14 years. A few years back, she read "There's No Such Thing As Bad Weather" by Linda Åkeson McGurkand together with another kindergarten teacher and principal, they made a proposal to their school board to run an outdoor kindergarten program. This is now officially their second year of the program. She has two daughters and three stepdaughters, and you can find them skating, sledding, going for walks, exploring new places, playing games in the backyard, and having fires. On top of that, her family is trying to get 1000 hours outside this year.
Benefits of Outdoor Learning:
* Allows for play-based learning
* Children can direct play
* Allows for greater regulation and more joy!
* Getting outside [especially before noon] helps regulate the circadian rhythm and helps sleep patterns
* Suits many diverse learning needs and is inclusive to everyone
* Lends well to boosting moods
* Lessens the time needed for classroom management – kids don’t need to sit still or “stop running”
* Kids learn to problem-solve together
* Offers opportunities for risk-taking and adds to resilience
Sturgeon Heights School:
* Their school is not a forest school [forest schools have very specific regulations and go through a certification process]
* Their school follows the Alberta curriculum, and does it all while including lots of outdoor time (minimum 2 hours per day)
* They are now adding outdoor schooling for up to Grade 3!
* Provincial regulations allow them to take the kids outside until -25 degrees Celsius (with wind chill)
* They have people come to them for “field trip” experiences
* They have not found a negative to being outside more!
Kids are naturally curious learners. We don’t need to be worried about if they are learning outside…they are!
If we as adults lead, they will follow [us outside]!
Item Recommendations:
Heated Vest & Travel Hammock
Book Recommendation:
There's No Such Thing As Bad Weather by Linda Åkeson McGurk
Follow Sturgeon Public Schools at:
IG: @openairkindergarten or @sturgeonheightsschool
Thank you to Morrison Outdoors for sponsoring today’s podcast! Find more at: www.morrisonoutdoors.com
Use code FREECANADA within Canada from March 1-March 31, 2023 for free shipping on orders over $50!
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Mar 14, 2023
Ep. 111 Basecamp Resorts with Sky McLean
Looking for a home away from home with hotel features, where nature and family are priority? So was Sky McLean, so she created it!! Basecamp Resorts will have you itching for adventure!
Sky McLean is the founder and CEO of Basecamp Resorts, properties that are renowned for offering guests epic mountain views, with modern amenities and top notch service. The company prides itself on providing a home away from home for guests. There are currently 10 properties under the Basecamp Resorts brand. Sky grew the brand from 1 to 10 properties in just 5 years. Sky is based in Canmore, Alberta – she is a huge outdoor enthusiast, and is an avid downhill skier, nordic skier, snowmobiler and mountain biker and has two young kids.
Basecamp Resorts:
* Inspired by AirBnB or VRBO, but with more regulations, so people could know what they were going to get
* Stack townhomes with different amounts of rooms
* Home away from home, but with hotel-like features, such as hot tubs, and more
* Nature is priority there – easy access. Locations prime for this!! Trails, skiing, biking, and more
* Perfect spot for all types of vacations!! Priority is the experience.
Locations of currently open Basecamp Resorts properties include:
* 5 properties in Canmore, AB – Basecamp Resorts Canmore, Basecamp Suites Canmore, Basecamp Lodge Canmore, Northwinds by Basecamp, Lamphouse by Basecamp
* 1 property in Banff, AB – Basecamp Suites Banff
* 1 property in Lake Louise, AB – Baker Creek by Basecamp
* 1 property in Golden, BC – Basecamp Lodge Golden
* 1 property Revelstoke, BC – Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke
* 1 premium campground in Kananaskis, AB - Sundance by Basecamp
It’s not about pushing kids. It’s about exposing them to it and allowing them to call the shots! Share your passions with your kids, and bring snacks!
Follow:
Website: www.basecampresorts.com
Instagram: @skymclean @basecampresorts
Facebook: @basecamp.properties
Thank you to Morrison Outdoors for sponsoring today’s podcast! Find more at: www.morrisonoutdoors.com
Use code FREECANADA within Canada from March 1-March 31, 2023 for free shipping on orders over $50!
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Mar 7, 2023
Ep. 110 KWE Explorer Families with Michelle Klatt
Our Explorer Families have grown to over 400 families across the globe. Tune in to learn the beautiful connections, relationships, and inspiration that have come out of them, and how you can join in the magic!!
Michelle was born and raised in the heart of Alberta, and was never the “outdoors type”, but as she got older she found herself gravitating towards the mountains. After quitting her 9-5 carpentry job in 2022 to pursue social media and content creation, she now spends her days hiking, snowboarding, and encouraging people of all skill levels to embrace nature, while doing so safely and consciously. Although she doesn’t have kids of her own, the Kids Who Explore community is where she calls ‘home’.
Explorer families embrace nature and want to encourage others. They provide tips and content for inspiration. They host events and meet-ups all over the place. Late spring and fall we will open up onboarding to more explorer families.
Join the Wait List for Onboarding - https://kidswhoexplore.com/about-us/explorer-families/
#patch4apurpose – https://kidswhoexplore.com/patch4apurpose/
Have a podcast request or want to be on it? Reach out to @laurenrodycheberle on IG or email lauren.rodych@hotmail.com
Mentioned:
Thermarest Z Seat: https://www.thermarest.com/products/seats/z-seat/z-seat.html
Podcast – Ologies with Alie Ward: https://www.alieward.com/ologies
Follow Michelle:
IG: @michelle.outdoors
Website: https://michelleoutdoors.com
Thank you to Morrison Outdoors for sponsoring today’s podcast! Find more at: www.morrisonoutdoors.com
Use code FREECANADA within Canada from March 1-March 31, 2023 for free shipping on orders over $50!
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Feb 28, 2023
Ep. 109 Safety While Adventuring in Bear Country
Would you know what to do if you encountered a bear in the outdoors? Would you know the difference between a defensive or predatory encounter? We are here to help keep you educated, so you can explore safely!
Disclaimer that the information we’re provided you today, as well as the information from Bear Safety & More Inc and RecSafe with Wildlife (as we partnered with Kim Titchener), cannot guarantee that animal encounters can be prevented. This information is intended as a guide to help reduce the likelihood of an encounter and provide education in the occurrence of an encounter.
What to Know:
* Animals are around us
* Best way to reduce encounters is to be prepared
* Attacks are extremely rare
* Don’t let your kids explore farther than an arm’s length from you
* Keep your dog on a leash at all times
* Be loud!
* Travel in groups of 4 or more
* Pay attention to your surroundings (droppings, tracks, dens, torn up tress and logs, digging, berry bushes)
* If you spot an animal, leave the area
* Carry bear spray in a holster on your body and be ready to use it (Scat Belt brand mentioned) – read the instructions and practice pulling it out
* Take a bear safety course
* Practice with your kids ahead of time (in a non-scary way)
If Camping:
* Know where to store your food – bear-safe garbage bins, bear locker, or in your vehicle (front country camping) and know if your site has it available
* Pay attention to your surroundings – garbage, trees/berry bushes/salmon in water, animals that have been feeding, birds of prey
If You Experience an Encounter:
*There are two types of bear encounters: Defensive and Non-Defensive (Predatory) encounters.*
Defensive Bear Encounters - caused by surprising a bear at close range, if cubs are present, or if the bear is feeding
* Bears are clearly stressed, aggressive, huffing/jaw popping, salivating/foaming, hunched up, showing signs of discomfort
* They can bluff charge or run in a zig-zag pattern
* It may be your instinct to yell, act big, and become aggressive too. Please don’t! React by telling the bear you are NOT a threat. De-escalate the situation, back away slowly, talk softly, and prepare your bear spray. If in a group, group up and stay calm. Make your intention to leave the area and not to fight
* If the bear attacks, the number one reaction from you is to deploy bear spray. If that’s not possible, lie face down and protect your neck, spread your legs (to brace yourself into the ground), and play dead. Wait until the bear is gone before getting up! Make sure once you begin to move again you know which direction the bear has travelled to avoid another encounter
* Most defensive attacks are short. If it continues to attack and the bear has become predatory, you need to change tactics and begin to fight for your life
Non-Defensive (Predatory) Bear Encounters
* This encounter is rare and more common with black bears and solo hikers (95% of grizzly bear encounters are defensive and not predatory!)
* Bear follows a person, and has a slow, hesitant approach. They can approach confidently, or try to sneak up on you before running towards you and attacking. They appear curious, but this is the situation where they are dangerous!
* If you’re in a predatory encounter, show aggression right away! Stand your ground and make sure you let the bear know that you are not vulnerable
* Prepare bear spray and deploy if the bear gets close enough
Please Keep Exploring! All of us at Kids Who Explore have had bear encounters, and thankfully they have all ended well. Talking about it definitely adds to nerves about exploring in bear country, but we know being informed is the best way to be! Remember these encounters are rare, equip yourself with the knowledge and gear you need to stay safe!
Thank you to Mounts Store for supporting today’s podcast! www.mountsstore.com to check them out.
Today’s Host: @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Feb 21, 2023
Ep. 108 Nature is Your Child’s Best Teacher with @schoollessinseattle
We are our children’s first teachers, but we believe nature is one of their greatest teachers. When groups of kids get out in nature together, magic happens. That’s why Madison runs weekly meetups in her area for homeschool families.
Madison is a homeschooling mom and wild + free group leader living in the Seattle area. Her passion for wildschooling and child-led learning comes from her background in elementary education and love for the outdoors. She loves exploring the forests, beaches and mountains of the PNW with her family and leads and hosts weekly outdoor meetups for her wild + free homeschooling group.
Unschooling is a step away from super-structured school curriculum; it is more child-led for each child’s interests.
Books Mentioned:
The Call of the Wild and Free by Ainsley Arment
The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart
Kid Books Mentioned:
Elephant and Piggie Series
The Little House on the Prairie Series
Homeschoolin…
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Feb 14, 2023
Ep. 107 What Even Is Work-Life Balance?
“Be where your feet are.” That’s our ultimate goal in ‘balancing’ time with our kids and time at work. What does that look like? Well, we are a work in progress figuring it out!
What We Do Know:
* Listen to yourself – notice stress and exhaustion
* Be open to the help
* Notice when to say no
* Connect with child(ren) before work
* Live your tech life out loud, so your kids know what you’re doing
* Block schedule – then it’s not scattered and you can get more done (still room for spontaneity)
Episodes Mentioned:
Ep. 42 Why to Avoid Kid-Centered Activities with Michaeleen Doucleff: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-42-why-to-avoid-kid-centered-activities-with-michaeleen-doucleff/
Ep. 78 Outdoor Time Over Screen Time with Andrea Davis: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-78-outdoor-time-over-screen-time-with-andrea-davis/
The things you want to do: Can you change your expectations of them and do them…
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Feb 7, 2023
Ep. 106 Embracing Winter with a Baby
We’ve sure talked about embracing winter a lot over here, but how is it possible while adding a new baby into the mix, and keeping them warm? Today’s episode is full of tips!!
Ep. 36 Thre Three Layer Winter Rule: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-36-the-three-layer-winter-rule/
Three Layer Rule:
* Base Layer: merino wool (or wool). If the merino wool price point is not accessible, synthetic layers work too!
* Mid Layer: fleece
* Top Layer: water-resistant when they are younger, but waterproof once they are older and playing in the snow or rain
* Extra: Mitts, Toques/Beanies, Socks, Boots, Neck Warmer (fleece or merino wool – size differs between the two; merino wool is more snug)
Merino wool base layers are good for all seasons, because they keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer [also acts as an SPF].
Below 0 degrees Celsius, 3 layers. Above 0 degrees Celsius, 2 layers.
Other Things to Keep In Mind:…
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Jan 31, 2023
Ep. 105 Combatting the Negativity on Social Media
Kids Who Explore really enjoys social media. It’s a place where we’ve formed a beautiful community, share stories, help others, and become inspired. Unfortunately, it’s not always that way…
Reminders When You’re Viewing Social Media:
* You aren’t seeing the whole picture, or always getting the whole context
* Triggers are INSIDE people – look inside if you’re triggered
* It’s never okay to be rude; you can “move along” without commenting
* They aren’t just accounts - they are humans
* Ask questions if you don’t understand
* Follow those who make you happy
Reminders If You’ve Received Hurtful Comments:
* Give empathy to those who are triggered, even though it’s never okay to be rude
* You can block those if needed
We appreciate your positivity at KWE!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apu…
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Jan 24, 2023
Ep. 104 Snowshoeing with a Toddler
Have you wondered if you should attempt snowshoeing with a toddler? We will let you know on today’s episode (plus, lots of other outdoor winter sport tips!).
Check back on other winter sport podcasts:
Learning to Enjoy Winter: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-92-learning-to-enjoy-winter-with-erin-gallimore/
Teaching Toddlers to Snowboard: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-94-teaching-toddlers-to-snowboard-with-dr-ashley-top/
Learning to Ski: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-95-learning-to-ski-with-coach-nelly/
Choosing the Best Ski Gear: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-97-choosing-the-best-ski-gear-on-a-budget-with-coach-nelly/
Taking Your Kids Skating for the First Time: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-91-taking-your-kids-skating-for-the-first-time/
Snowshoeing Tips (for toddlers, and beyond):
* Rent snowshoes for toddlers – go in and make sure they fit with winter boots
* Use the washroom before layering…
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Jan 17, 2023
Ep. 103 Solo Parenting during Plane Travel
Plane travel with kids can carry a lot of mental weight, and when you’re doing it solo, a lot of physical weight too! Here are some tips to make it a little more manageable, even with car seats involved!
Getting to the Airport
* Practice getting car seats in a car ahead of time
* Think about which kid to get in first at home, and out first at the airport, etc.
At the Airport
* Choose if you are going to check or carry-on
* Car seats and strollers – recommend gate checking (the warranty of these items is void if it is checked at the airport) – to gate check, ask upon check in and/or at the boarding counter for gate check passes, then drop them off at designated drop off before boarding plane
* Backpacks for travel car seats make it easier to transport around airport (and you can fit gear in them, if needed!)
* Give yourself lots of extra time, so you can be calm for whatever pace the kids are going
* Book Spot Saver (in Seattl…
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Jan 10, 2023
Ep. 102 Seeing Every US National Park by the Age of 3 with The Castillos
How long do you think it would take to see all 63 US National Parks? Well, for Journey Castillo, only the first 3 years of her life! Learn why her family made this their goal and how beautiful the journey with Journey has been!
Eric and Valerie Castillo, are the founders of a mission called Journey Go Explore and parents of Journey, a 2-year-old who has already had many adventures. At the time of recording this in October of 2022, she has visited 45/63 US National Parks and is inspiring people all over the country to get outdoors, bond with family and visit parks. The Castillos are passionate about traveling, being outdoors, mental health, wellness, spirituality, healing, training, conditioning, education and more by harnessing the power of nature. Their recent travels have brought on a wisdom that they want to share, especially regarding mental health.
Some Great Messages:
* Let kids get dirty
* Go at their pace
* Don’t wait to see these parks! Th…
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Jan 3, 2023
Ep. 101 Adventuring with Two Under Two - What We’ve Learned
Our adventure crew has grown over the last few months – Adrianna and Lauren both welcomed new little boys into the world, and are now each adventuring with 2 kids, 2-years-old and under. They wanted to share what they’ve learned!
Going in the backyard is great! Stepping out your door is an adventure in itself. That’s our definition of “success.”
Loading Up the Car:
* Give yourself WAY more time (get ready the night before even) – allowing time for your kids to also go at their own pace keeps the peace!
* Wear the baby to the car, so you can be hands-free and hold other things if needed
* Get your kids to help get ready, where their capabilities allow
* Get all the kids IN the car, and then strap in kids as you need to (Safety reminders: babies should not stay in bucket seats if it’s not attached to the base in the car or stroller; kids should not be wearing their puffy winter gear/jackets while in their car seats)
At the Adventure:
* Pick realistic adventur…
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Dec 27, 2022
Ep. 100 Creating an Adventure Club with Echo Shehadeh
Wanna know a way to make adventuring even more fun? With an outdoor adventure club! Echo Shehadeh created her own. Her tips will help so many get outside more, and it may even be a great “New Year’s Goal.”
Echo is a wife and a mom of two beautiful children, soon to be 3! She lives in Central Oregon where the outdoor adventures never end. Before starting her family, she lived, worked, and breathed childhood development and education. That strong foundation helped her know that outside-learning and play serves as a key developmental role in children’s lives. Her soul focus is for her kids to become stewards of the outdoors, educate them about the beautiful world around them, and build resilience, all of this while promoting fun and creating strong bonds!
Book that Inspired Her:
Adventuring Together by Greta Eskridge
Her Club and the Benefits:
* Started with three families ages newborn to 7-year-old
* Met up once a week. Itinerary was usually a…
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Dec 20, 2022
Ep. 99 ”Be Careful” Alternatives
There’s no guilt if you’ve used the phrase “be careful” more than a few times, or are still trying to navigate around it, we just want to help put it in another light. Here are some alternatives to “be careful” and WHY!
Risky Play and Nature Education Episode: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-37-risky-play-nature-education-with-brittany-williams/
Be Careful – Why is it Not Good:
* Kids don’t understand what it means
* They can’t gauge what we are seeing that they aren’t
* It can instill fear – they will match your energy
* Doesn’t get across what we actually want
What To Do Instead – Be Specific:
* “Watch your feet.” “Look out for that branch.”
* Being specific takes practise. Even if you say be careful, say, “Be careful, there’s a branch.”
* You’ll see/hear them mimic you eventually – “Watch your head”
What To Do Instead – Ask Questions:
* What’s your plan…
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Dec 13, 2022
Ep. 98 Happiness Doesn’t Require Sunshine
Every season and every weather condition has it’s joy and beauty, and we don’t ever want adventures, fun, and happiness to be limited to sunshine. So, how do we embrace all seasons and all weather conditions?
Live by the quote, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing.” Easier said than done sometimes financial-wise, but having a few quality things can get you far.
Quality Items We Love:
* A good pair of base layers can benefit you in all seasons! We love merino wool base layers – gets use in summer and winter!!
* Rain gear discussed: FaireChild (Canadian company, expensive, but wonderful for kids…cost per wear is incredible – will get you so far! Adult: Arcteryx…secondhand options [“outlet”] right on their website. Also check Facebook Marketplace)
* Patagonia – secondhand options on their website too
Lauren’s Song Edit: “Rain Rain, You Can Stay. We will go outside to play!”
Talk Positively…
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Dec 6, 2022
Ep. 97 Choosing the Best Ski Gear [on a Budget] with Coach Nelly
Last episode with Coach Nelly, we just scraped the surface on easier access to ski gear, so we wanted to dive even deeper into that topic. Learn where to save, and where quality is key, plus all things skiing!
Coach Nelly has more than 20 years of experience coaching under her belt. In 2018, she started Raising Little Rippers, where she has created an educational resource for adventurous mamas, raising the next generation of big mountain skiers.
Learning to Ski with Coach Nelly Ep. 95: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-95-learning-to-ski-with-coach-nelly/
How to Ski On a Budget:
https://www.raisinglittlerippers.com/blog/how-to-family-skiing-on-a-budget
Don’t Skimp on These Items:
* Helmet (head shape…try on brands at the store first. And bring goggles with you, because some goggles don’t work with all helmets)
* Ski boots (take out boot liner portion to test size; only wear one pair of wool socks (or synthetic layer), cotton is no good, because it will get wet and…
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Nov 29, 2022
Ep. 96 Roading Tripping with Young Kids
Car trips and plane trips - they are both full! The perks of road trips are they give you flexibility to go at your own pace, stop as much as you need, and of course, pack more!! Let’s talk about some things we’ve found to make road trips with toddlers and babies a little bit easier.
Plane Travel with Kids: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-81-travelling-with-kids-with-margaret-bradford/
What to “Play” With:
* Like plane, start with nothing…look out windows, talk about what you see, play music
* Then, pull out one thing at a time – no mess colouring, books, Pop-It. Some people say dollar store items. Maybe something new that’s exciting
* Let them choose music (or podcast)
What Stops Look Like:
* It’s recommended young kids aren’t in their car seat for more than 2 hours at a time
* Stop to stretch legs and eat
* Find a park
* Find a mini view point hike/nature walk
* Stop at a beach
* Embrace any…
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Nov 22, 2022
Ep. 95 Learning to Ski with Coach Nelly
Janelle Thomas, better known as Coach Nelly, has more than 20 years of experience coaching under her belt. In 2018, she birthed Raising Little Rippers, where she has created an educational resource for adventurous mamas, raising the next generation of big mountain skiiers. She’s a treat to learn from!
Janelle Thomas started working as a Ski Instructor her senior year in college. She knew teaching littles to ski was right up her alley. Armed with a Degree in Psychology with a strong focus on Adventure Therapy, she had no idea that she would spend the next several years working in the ski industry. From Certified Ski Instructor, to Children’s Program Supervisor, to Ski School Clinician, her specialty has always been working with children. As she started a family of her own, her biggest joy became raising her own three (not so little anymore) rippers, and she continued working as a part-time ski instructor season after season.
Skiing can be challenging financially and physically.
R…
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Nov 15, 2022
Ep. 94 Teaching Toddlers to Snowboard with Dr. Ashley Top
Teaching toddlers to snowboard can start at home…literally. Dr. Ashley talks us through all the steps and gear needed to help her daughter fall in love with snowboarding, all before the age of 2-years-old!
Dr. Ashley Toporowski is a dentist in Saskatchewan, Canada, and a mom to two kiddos! She shares all her dental wisdom on her IG page, so she can help many more caregivers and children. Her family loves to get outside through snowboarding, hiking, biking, and fishing.
She started teaching her daughter around 15-months-old. Dove deeper around 17-months-old.
Snowboarding Gear [can buy, rent, or look into secondhand]:
* Burton Snowboard (size 80, “after school special” – comes with bindings)
* Burton Snowboard Boots (smallest size is 7) – can also use regular boots, but it feels very different. Added thick wool socks!
* Burton Riglet Reel (so helpful for learning!...attaches to board as a rope to assist)
* Helmet (Anon) and Goggles Outerwear (Check out our 3 Layer R…
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Nov 8, 2022
Ep. 93 Living an Iceland Adventure with Ulfar Andresson
Does making hot chocolate while bathing in a hot spring sound fantastic to you? How about playing ice hockey on a crater? This is just a regular day in the life of Ulfar Andresson, who runs Iceland Activities.
Ulfar was born and raised in a hot spring! Iceland Activities has been a family company since 2010. He loves involving his two kids in all the outdoors has to offer. Many of the locations they take their guests to are hidden gems that they have all to themselves.
Icelandic Tradition:
They don’t name their children until they are 3 months old. This was previously because they had to wait for a priest. Now, the naming also includes a party/big event. Plus, parents don’t want added germs/sickness around the babies until they are older, stronger, and have vaccinations.
The sooner you do things with kids, the more they love it, and the sooner they can do it on their own! “Creating play partners for life!” That being said, don’t push anything they aren’t i…
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Nov 1, 2022
Ep. 92 Learning to Enjoy Winter with Erin Gallimore
For some, winter may be their favourite season, and for others, they may need to learn to embrace it, and maybe even enjoy it! Erin Gallimore believes that teaching her son to love all seasons and all weather, starts with her. You’ll be making a winter bucket list after this episode!!
Erin was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and she currently lives in Tacoma, Washington. A foster mom for 6 years, she is now mom to her one and only biological son, Graham. Erin and her husband both work full-time in healthcare, so they plan outdoor adventures on the weekends and holidays. Last year they checked off 12 Washington State Bucket List adventures and plan on more this year. An enneagram 2 and extreme extrovert, you will find Erin running the KWE Washington FB page and planning group hikes to make new friends!
To Embrace Winter:
* Determined what DIDN’T need to be on her list – skiing and snowboarding
* Chose activities they could enjoy – sledding,…
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Oct 25, 2022
Ep. 91 Taking Your Kids Skating for the First Time
Embracing winter. Enjoying winter. That is our theme this winter. One way we embrace winter is taking our kids out skating. Today we discuss what we did to take our toddlers skating for the first time last year.
Our Skating Comfort Level:
* Adrianna was a competitive speed skater, and taught that!
* Adrianna’s husband coached hockey growing up
* Lauren’s husband is a professional hockey player
* Lauren can’t stop on skates…
What We Did:
* We chose outdoor locations - the mountains, frozen lake, outdoor rink…free!!
* Chose not too cold and not too windy days
* Indoor rinks would be good too
* Kept it short and sweet (small exposures are key)
* Pause for warm drink, and go again!
* “Practise” in gear with skate guards at home
Gear:
* Bundled up in our 3 layer rule – https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-36-the-three-layer-winter-rule/
* Many equipment rental options!
* Hockey hel…
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Oct 18, 2022
Ep. 90 When The Going Gets Tough, Get Outside
Adrianna Skori had quite the postpartum this time around. What was an “easier birth” and postpartum initially, turned into illness upon illness upon illness. Yet she always found peace in the outdoors, even if it was walking around the hospital.
Some Ways She Let Nature Reset Her:
* Walking around the hospital
* Allowing visitation between Turner and Nash (brothers) via the playground
* Sitting by window in hospital and taking in sunrise and sunset
* Playing in the backyard
* Nature walks – taking her time, listening to her body, asking for other adult help!
She recommends to reach out to your community and your family and ask for help! Invite in all the love to fill your space. Embrace the beautiful chaos!
Thank you to Keen Footwear for sponsoring today’s podcast! Check out www.keenfootwear.com
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Oct 11, 2022
Ep. 89 Living on Wheels as a Family of 7 with Anna Roberts
The Roberts are a family of 7 who lives in a 40-foot school bus that they converted themselves, travelling all over the USA! Learn the pros and cons of living in such close quarters where adventure is a daily endeavour, with Anna Roberts! Now, the question is, will they travel by boat next?!
Fun Facts About the Roberts:
* At the time of recording, they had visited 32 of the 50 states, and 36 of the 63 national parks
* Kids range from age 18-months to 12-years-old
* They keep track of their locations on sticker maps and notes in phone
* For homeschooling, they follow a particular curriculum. Usually work from 9am-12pm, then get outside! They do more school in the summer, so they can take travel days and various times off
* Their mail gets sent to family and they send pictures. Or they do general delivery to nearest post office, or use Amazon Lockers
Some Noteworthy Destinations So Far:
* Joshua Tree
* Everglades
* Yosemite
* All C…
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Oct 4, 2022
Ep. 88 Rattlesnake Safety with Brighton Peachy
We hope you can all avoid rattlesnake bites, and Brighton Peachy has tips for that, but in case you or anyone you know ever gets bit by a rattlesnake, we want you to know all the steps to take. Today’s episode is very important! The more you know, the better prepared you can be.
Brighton Peachy, is a Wilderness EMT & a mom of 3 little boys (ages 5,4, and 1). Her family loves getting outdoors through climbing, backpacking, & mountain biking. They recently converted a van that they lived in for the summer as they travel across the country. Before kids, Brighton got her Bachelor's degree in Wilderness Rescue. She has worked as an EMT for the last 8 years in the ER and has also worked on Salt Lake County Search and Rescue Team. She teaches Wilderness First Aid courses to help people feel more prepared going into the backcountry.
Brighton is naturally very afraid of snakes. But learning more has made her feel more confident when coming across them. Summer is “peak” sn…
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Sep 27, 2022
Ep. 87 Less Waste & More Earth Love with Launne Kolla
Raise your hand if you care about our planet! Launne Kolla says she is not perfect, and none of us should expect to be, but trying our best with the knowledge we have can make our earth a little bit greener. Launne graciously does all the hard research for us, to make our gentle footprint a little bit easier to navigate.
Back on episode 64, we met Launne, when we talked all things birding and bird watching. Not only is Launne a Wildlife Biologist for EDI Environmental Dynamics, where she gets to love up on wildlife, she is also on a mission to take care of the earth and teach others how to do the same, with her account Do More Good. Raising two daughters, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, she is also teaching them to love, respect, and nurture the earth!
Episode 64 on Birding: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-64-birding-bird-watching-with-launne-kolla/
Garbage Takeaways:
* Buy/consume less and use what you have
* Vote with your dollar – t…
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Sep 20, 2022
Ep. 86 Getting Babies Outside (in the Womb) with Supriya Rajaraman
Getting babies outside starts in the womb! Supriya Rajaraman grew up in India, and has now been living in Canada for the last 10 years. She feels like she is breaking barriers in her family and culture by exploring the outdoors, especially while pregnant, and now with her little explorer.
Supriya, along with spouse Karthik, and baby explorer, Tanish, who is 9-months old, love exploring the outdoors together. Keeping it simple, and starting with neighbourhood walks at just 5-days old with Tanish, they now love taking their baby explorer hiking, and plan this year to explore all that Kananaskis Country has to offer.
Some Interesting Discussions:
* The different feelings about activity in pregnancy in different cultures
* Listening to your body and your intuition with activity in pregnancy, as well as your care providers' recommendations
* Mothering the mother – caring for the mother postpartum
Book Recommendations:
* Ina May’s Guide to…
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Sep 13, 2022
Ep. 85 Neurological Benefits of the Outdoors with Itzel Fernández Camacho, M.D.
We know the outdoors feels good, but did you know it's actually wiring and re-wiring our brains too? Itzel Fernandez Camacho, M.D. is here to tell us all about it!
Itzel Fernandez Camacho is a mom of two, a lifelong learner, and M.D. She previously worked in pediatric rehabilitation, and she considers the outdoors to be the perfect environment to stimulate gross and fine motor skills, coordination, and sees nature as a sensory playground where children have endless opportunities to improve their neurodevelopment. Now, if that’s not a reason to get outside…!
She grew up in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. She is currently travelling 3 continents with her family. She enjoys hiking, camping, paddle boarding, walking barefoot, climbing trees, swimming in the ocean, and exploring new cultures.
In Med school, Itzel noticed that they didn’t teach anything about the outdoors. After kids, she thought that rehabilitation should include the outdoors!!
Our Brains in the…
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Sep 6, 2022
Ep. 84 Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding on the Trail
One thing that can be overwhelming for adventure families is how to feed their babies on the adventure. We hope that by sending some ideas out there, we will inspire you to get out and try it - because actively doing it will help you find what works best for your family!
Tips for all:
* Feed in the car before/after adventure
* Have more than you think you need when it comes to snacks, always! Life-long lesson
* Have something for older kids/toddlers to keep them close: Nature journal, books, scavenger hunt, snacks, their own baby and carrier
* Have something to sit on – EZ Seat or Rumpl Blanket, for example
Breastfeeding Tips:
Listen back to episode Ep. 30 Nursing On-The-Trail with Petra Sporinova
about breastfeeding on-the-go - https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-30-nursing-on-the-trail-with-petra-sporinova/
* Wear nursing clothing (or what makes you feel comfortable) in all weather…[We partnered with Kojo to make our own -…
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Aug 30, 2022
Ep. 83 Solo Parenting on Adventures with Kirsty Pardede
Kirsty Pardede calls herself a “can’t stay at home” stay at home mum to two wild kids, Arlo & Eia. 2 weeks after they moved to their new home, Bali, her husband started working away during the week. Learning a whole new way of life with kids was the hardest thing she’s ever done. What kept her happy was getting outside, and exploring their new island home. Get ready to hear many tips on how to solo parent on adventures with kids!
Kirsty was born and raised in the West of Scotland, but currently calls Indonesia home. After years of backpacking around the world, hiking, climbing and living in various countries, her husband Hardin and her returned to Scotland. But even after having kids, settling down there didn't make them happy, so they jumped on the opportunity to move to Bali, Indonesia in 2019, when Arlo was 1 and Eia was just 10 weeks old. Nowadays you’ll find them hiking, surfing and exploring Indonesia and beyond!
Solo Adventure Tips:
* Just go!…
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Aug 23, 2022
Ep. 82 Comparison is the Thief of Joy with Erika Bertin
Comparison is the thief of joy. Erika Bertin has felt this comparison and wants to send the message out to all adventure parents that it doesn’t have to be. When you see other people adventuring, try not to compare. Getting outside in the backyard, or the park, can be just as amazing as summiting a mountain for us and our kiddos!
Erika is mama to two little explorers, plus 2 doggos. She is a wife, and lover of the outdoors. Her family loves hiking, cross country skiing, enjoying picnics in nature, camping and basically anything that gets them outside. They are working on their 1000 hours outside this year (with her 5-year-old being very passionate about tracking their outdoor time).
Reminders When Comparison Creeps Up:
* Try to take inspiration and tips
* Know that it’s a highlight reel
* You don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes (you’re only seeing a snippet)
* Don’t let comparing keep you from doing your own thing – know it’s…
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Aug 16, 2022
Ep. 81 Travelling with Kids with Margaret Bradford
“It’s not a hike, it’s a mission. It’s not a walk, it’s a quest. It’s not grocery shopping, it’s a scavenger hunt.” Margaret Bradford and her family have made life an adventure. Known as Our Family Flies, they share airport, plane, and destination tips, as they’ve seen their fair share of planes, trains, and automobiles!!
Margaret Bradford is mama to two daughters, 4-year-old Farrah, and 18-month-old Eleanor. Based out of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, along with her spouse Dustin, and their dog Jagr, they love everything from camping, to road tripping, to international travel. Like many moms, Margaret was concerned before having kids that she would lose a part of her identity, one being travel, but today, she’s travelled to Thailand, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, and even took a 9-week road trip in a 20-foot trailer through western Canada, all with kids in tow.
In Airport Tips:
* Use gate check options for strollers (and car seats, if you w…
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Aug 9, 2022
Ep. 80 7 Tips for Getting Kids Outside with Jen Parkes
This one speaks for itself. How to get kids of all ages outside. Jen Parkes, a New Zealand Travel Writer and Photographer, has 7 tips for getting kids outside. Take a listen, because she may even surprise you with 3 bonus tips!
Jen Parkes, along with husband, Ashley, and three children, Nathan 8, Kipton 6, and Emilia 4, loves to get outside and explore their beautiful home, in hopes to inspire others to travel and do the same! While Jen works full-time as a content creator, Ashley is a dairy farmer. They love multi-day adventures that allow them to hike, camp, ski, paddleboard, and boat.
Tips:
* Show them pictures ahead of time and ask them questions to get them involved in the hike.
* Have them help prepare some yummy food for the adventure.
* Start the hike with games, good stories, or “what if” questions.
* Talk to them like an adult - express this is something you’d like to do together and let them choose something else they'd like to do.…
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Aug 2, 2022
Ep. 79 Finding Family-Friendly Trails with Jess Sproat
How do you choose a trail that is truly family-friendly? Jessica Sproat, co-founder of Trail Collectiv, is helping make that a whole lot easier! Learn how they are redefining trails and what it means to be outdoorsy!
Jessica Sproat is an outdoor enthusiast, traveller, and explorer. She believes in the power of the outdoors, and is an advocate for access to nature for all. Jessica has a master's degree in Child Development, and works as a photographer, writer, and content creator. She is the co-founder of a new app, TrailCollectiv, that seeks to break down barriers to accessing nature and the outdoors for people of all ages and abilities. Jess was raised close to the Canadian Rockies and now lives in Vancouver with her husband and son.
Trail Collectiv has trail information geared for families - anything from a little trail in a playground area and is 500m, to some “bigger” hikes.
Trail Collectiv App Includes:
* Adventures for all age ranges and abili…
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Jul 26, 2022
Ep. 78 Outdoor Time Over Screen Time with Andrea Davis
“Being screen free isn’t about counting minutes on a screen, it’s about choosing moments in real life.” We couldn’t agree more with Andrea Davis, the founder of Better Screen Time. She addresses the benefits of limiting tech, gives ideas for family tech-plans, and shares how we can show healthy screen use as parents!
Andrea Davis is a former Secondary Ed Teacher turned Screen-Time-Navigator. She is the founder of Better Screen Time, where she shares family-tested ideas from the (tech) trenches as a mom of five. She is on a mission to help parents worry less about tech, and connect more with their kids. Andrea and her husband, Tyler, live in beautiful Hood River, Oregon where they love spending time outdoors as a family.
Benefits from Limiting Tech:
* More face-to-face time with family and friends
* Better sleep
* Better grades and behaviour in school
* Less access to content that is not age-appropriate
Adult/Family Tech-Plan Ideas:
* Use TV like an appliance an…
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Jul 19, 2022
Ep. 77 Sharing Your Passions with Your Kids
Not only is it a beautiful thing to share our passions with our children, but it’s such a treat to see that mutual love shine through in them. If you’re not comfortable in the outdoors, what are some ways you can share an outdoor passion while learning and gaining confidence yourself? That’s what we are here to talk about today!
Tips to Gain Confidence in Sharing Your Passions (or New Passions):
* Start Small (practice indoors)
* Join in with someone who is more of an expert (or communities)
* Take classes (parent and tot classes help YOU learn)
* Think about where you are confident, and start there
* Use resources: We have podcasts, blogs, #kwetips on IG, and more. Plus, kids books are a wonderful resource! www.kidswhoexplore.com
* Know that it all counts!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventure…
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Jul 12, 2022
Ep. 76 Losing it All in a House Fire, but Gaining More with Christina Sizemore
Christina Sizemore from Houston Texas, along with her husband and daughter, watched their house burn down in 2017. They lost it all! But, what they didn’t lose was each other and their instinct to be close to the earth! She says this tragic experience has reframed how they do and see life. Learn how losing it all can help you gain so much more.
About Their Experience:
* The fire started from a candle that lit window shades on fire and spread
* Husband climbed out bedroom window. Was sleeping because he had worked the night shift. Chris had gone out to get their daughter from school
* They’ve learned PTSD never goes away…you just learn how to manage it. Now the smell of fire can set her off. She has to say her mantra that they are all safe
How They’ve Found Healing:
* Therapy! Take care of your mind, like you take care of your body
* Working on releasing guilt
* Discovered what they didn’t want to bring back into their lives and where to l…
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Jul 5, 2022
Ep. 75 How People Without Kids Can Support Families in the Outdoors
This has been a topic we’ve been asked about in our community more than a few times - How can people without kids support families in the outdoors? What a beautiful question to ask! We can’t wait to share some ideas.
How to Support Families in the Outdoors:
* Be patient in witnessing (tantrums, slow pace; offer words of encouragement and kindness) & avoid comments that sting
* Find a friend that could use a helping hand; let them know you’re willing to come along
* Join a community with support/volunteer outreach in mind
* Offer assistance to a friend you already have and let them choose the difficulty-level and timing of adventure to match their kids’ routine
* Be flexible
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music:…
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Jun 28, 2022
Ep. 74 Minimalism, Because Nature is All We Need with Jase & Kate Kelly
When you live on an ultra-remote island, you can’t simply click “buy now” and have something arrive at your doorstep within 24 hours. The Kellys know this from their life on Uepi, in the Soloman Islands. Not only is their lifestyle very minimalist because of necessity, but also because of intention for a life with meaning in the outdoors, and a love for the planet. They have some amazing takeaways on how to live a life with less stuff and more nature!
The Kellys run an ethical tourist resort and a grass-roots based charity centred around protecting the incredible natural environment and traditional islander way of life.
The Kelly’s last episode: Episode 51, Exploring the Ocean - https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-51-exploring-the-ocean-with-jase-kate-kelly/
They have to be intentional with what they bring to the island. If they don’t want something any longer, the disposal of that item is up to them too. How things are made, what they’re made of, and how long they la…
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Jun 21, 2022
Ep. 73 Taking Your Kids’ Lead [Indoors & Outdoors] with Brittany Williams
Let them lead! Children often get told where to be, what to do (and not do), and sometimes even how to feel for a good chunk of their days. Watching, listening, and understanding your children or the children you care for, and allowing them to lead, will create wonderful memories and fun adventures. So, where should we start?
In episode 37, you got to meet Brittany Williams, who is from Knoxville, Tennessee. She has worked in Early Childhood Education for nearly 12 years. She could talk risky play and bodily autonomy all day long! And on top of that, she’s a wonderful stepmama who is all about getting her daughter outside on adventures, to explore the world around her!
Brittany’s Last Episode: Episode 37, Risky Play and Nature Education - https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-37-risky-play-nature-education-with-brittany-williams/
Book Referenced: How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
How to Follow Their Lead:…
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Jun 14, 2022
Ep. 72 Keeping Kids Moving on the Trail
“Keep on going.” “Come on.” “Pick up those feet.” “Look forward.” How many of these lines are repeated over and over again on the trail, or anywhere really? We don’t want every step to feel like drudgery; we want each step to be a “we can do hard things” moment! Today we discuss some things you can do with toddlers and all-aged kids to make hiking fun, while still getting them moving forward!
Toddlers:
* Choose a do-able adventure
* End on a high note (if you can)
* Start or finish in the carrier (soft-structured or hiking carrier)
* Give them choice
* Use different positions – flying, holding hands, follow the leader, piggy back
* Pretend to be different animals
* Find a safe point for them to reach
* Get them to “catch you”
* Monkey see, monkey do with kids
All Kids:
* Give them trekking poles
* Let them choose what’s in their packs
* Pick “points of interest” (remember to not le…
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Jun 7, 2022
Ep. 71 Sweet Sleep While Family Camping with Tara Sliwkanich
Is figuring out sleep arrangements for a whole family keeping you from diving into camping? Have you camped with kids, but sleeping was a disaster? Or, do you simply need to upgrade your sleep plan for tent time? Today, Tara Sliwkanich, who calls her family casual campers, gives so many helpful tips to let go of sleep expectations, but still be prepared for it all!
Her last episode – Episode 47, How To Enjoy a Road Trip: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-47-how-to-enjoy-a-road-trip-with-tara-sliwkanich/
Disclaimer: Tara Sliwkanich is not a baby sleep expert. Please always do your own further research and talk to your care providers if you have any questions/concerns.
Baby Sleep While Camping:
* Refer to the Safe Sleep Seven: https://www.llli.org/the-safe-sleep-seven/
* NOT safe for babies to sleep on air mattress or air-filled sleeping pad (baby needs to be on a closed cell, hard pad only)
* For baby’s under 1-year-old, no loose blanket…
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May 31, 2022
Ep. 70 Hiking While Pregnant
Everyone’s pregnancy looks different, and hiking while pregnant will too. Make sure to listen to your own body and your care providers’ recommendations. In today’s episodes we share a little bit about what our hiking has looked like while pregnant, especially now, while hiking pregnant with toddlers in tow!
Hiking While Pregnant Tips:
* Set the expectation that adventures may slow down for a period of time (or be shorter)
* Allow yourself to go at toddler-pace, and let them lead the way
* If carrying a toddler while pregnant, you may find the soft-structured carriers more comfortable than the bigger hiking carriers
* Trekking poles are fantastic for balance! [And ice cleats/crampons in winter]
* Put a boundary around first trimester, and “fourth trimester” (3 months postpartum) and be very cautious to listen to your body and what it needs
* There is no pressure to do anything grand…just step outside!
* Remember that in the grand scheme…
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May 24, 2022
Ep. 69 Mushroom Hunting with Rukmini Halliwell
Rukmini Halliwell is a lover of mushrooms…the kind you would try to spot in nature. And that’s what we are going to discuss today…mushrooms!! You may just be picking up a new hobby after this episode.
You recently met Rukmini Halliwell on our podcast about Choosing a Life Jacket {PFD}. If you don’t remember, she is Kids Who Explore’s Inclusion Lead, she is a voice for breaking cultural barriers that prevent BIPOC from entering outdoor spaces, she is a wife and a mama who enjoys hiking with her family, and she’s a mushroom-lover.
Previous Episode: https://laurenrodycheberle.podbean.com/e/ep-67-choosing-a-life-jacket-with-rukmini-halliwell/
Ruk’s first ever hiking trip was in the Himalayas. After that, she set a goal for 30 hikes that year. Her husband broke his foot when she was already at 27, so she had to finish it on her own. She found a new hiking friend, and because they didn’t have anything in common, they started looking for mushrooms together. Th…
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May 17, 2022
Ep. 68 Adventuring with Twins with Jenny Carter
Adventuring with twins (or multiple kids very close in age) is a whole different ball game! Why not learn from a mama who has been doing it for 6 years? Jenny Carter has a ton of fun tips that not only makes adventuring with multiples seem more than do-able, but fun too! Hint: Find an adventure buddy, so you have another set of hands!
Jenny and her husband, John, love adventuring with their daughters, Salley and Lily. They moved to Wisconsin in the fall of 2021 from Arizona. On top of that, she is homeschooling her kids who are currently in kindergarten. The Carter’s got to try new winter activities this year, including snow shoeing and ice fishing. They also adore kayaking, hiking, camping, and road tripping. Plus, they can’t wait to one day introduce the girls to backpacking.
The biggest challenge for adventuring with twins was when they were learning to walk. Going out by herself wasn’t really a good idea, because everything in Arizona was sharp, pointy, or poi…
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May 9, 2022
Ep. 67 Choosing a Life Jacket with Rukmini Halliwell
A life jacket is a life saving device! We will say it again…a life jacket is a life saving device! But, do you know what to look for when purchasing a life jacket? Do you know how to check if it fits your child correctly? Rukmini Halliwell is here to teach you everything you need to know!
You’ll find Rukmini Halliwell on any given weekend hiking along the Bruce Trail with her toddler, dog and husband in tow, hunting for mushrooms and sharing her biodiversity knowledge on the ‘gram. With a deep connection to her heritage and a passion to be on trail, she is also advocating for diversity and inclusion in the outdoors. After having her first child, Ruk began focusing on how to break cultural barriers that prevent BIPOC from entering outdoor spaces. Ruk is our Inclusion Manager at Kids Who Explore and we love having her on our team.
Ruk was a competitive swimmer for the majority of her life. She trained as a lifeguard, and practiced as a lifeguard, which got her passi…
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May 3, 2022
Ep. 66 Food is Part of the Adventure
We’ve said it a million and one times. And we’ve heard it even more than that. Snacks! The number one thing you never want to forget on any adventure, near or far…the snacks!
We aren’t dieticians, although you can refer back to episode 21 with Dr. Ashley to learn about which snacks are good for your teeth.
Episode 21: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-21-snacks-on-the-trail-with-dr-ashley-toporowski/
What You Can Find in our Snack Packs:
* Dates
* Bars – make your own, or grab-and-go
* Baked Goods – homemade muffins or egg bites
* Fruit or Fruit Bowl
* Veggies and Dip – especially hummus
* Wraps and Sandwiches
* Salad – usually without kids, or picnic-style
* Smoothie – often for in the car
* Crackers – have water for after to protect those teeth!
* Water!
* Electrolyte Gummies – sometimes
* Pouches – can also make your own in reusable pouches (to be kind to the environment)…
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Apr 26, 2022
Ep. 65 Ticks Revisited with 3 Moms Organics
Back on Episode 20, we had the pleasure of chatting with Jennifer and LJ, the founds and owners of 3 Moms Organics, which carries a natural, organic, DEET-free tick and insect repellent, that is EPA compliant, and is registered in all 50 States. We had so many more questions following that episode that we just had to have them back!!
Episode 20, Tick Safety: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-20-tick-safety-with-3-moms-organics/id1548759798?i=1000525534832
Jenn’s daughter was recently bit by a tick. She came home and felt an itch, Jenn looked and saw the tick. She stayed calm. Got the needle-nose tweezers. Removed the tick straight out (do not twist). Washed the area. Put the tick in a plastic bag, wrote the date on it, and taped it to the cabinet. Then they waited for symptoms/signs, because you don’t want to test every tick. She found her daughter had symptoms 2 weeks later, so they sent the tick in for testing, and got an antibiotic from the doctor in the me…
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Apr 18, 2022
Ep. 64 Birding & Bird Watching with Launne Kolla
Whether you can already name countless birds, or you simply enjoy hearing the birds singing around you, there are so many ways to appreciate birds even more and make them a bigger part of your outdoor adventures! Your kids may surpass you in their birding-skills, but today’s guest, Launne Kolla, who is a Wildlife and Marine Biologist, has so many ways to making birding fun for the whole family!
Launne Kolla grew up on a cattle and grain farm near Melfort, SK, Canada. She attended the University of Saskatchewan and Dalhousie University to further her education. She works as a wildlife biologist for EDI Environmental Dynamics, a consulting company with offices across Western Canada. Most of Launne's work deals with bird species at risk, identifying where they are, where they nest and how to protect those species. Launne lives with her husband Dillon and two daughters, Ruby (4) and Polly (1) in Saskatoon.
Birding Resources Mentioned:
* App: Sibley
* App: Song Sle…
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Apr 11, 2022
Ep. 63 The KWE Family is Growing
Adrianna birthed Kids Who Explore along with the birth of her first son, Turner. Adrianna’s adventure friend, Lauren came right along with her, and birthed a little buddy for Turner, just 5 months earlier. Now, we have more exciting news!
Follow along as we adventure with 4 kids, 2-years and under!! Coming July and October 2022! In this episode we talk about parental leave, moving houses, and how life will look a little bit different! Don’t worry – still lots of KWE!!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music
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Apr 4, 2022
Ep. 62 A Year of Playgrounds with Natasha Dillinger
Getting outside doesn’t always need to be a big hike or a far away destination; It can be to your local park. Natasha Dillinger takes park adventures to a whole new level, with exploring more than 35 parks in 2021 with her two kids. That sounds like a fun goal to us!!
Raised in California, Natasha, known on Instagram as Suitcases in Seattle, now calls Seattle home. She not-so-secretly loves the gray skies, green landscapes, rocky beaches and mountain views. An accountant by trade, she's adapted her love of spreadsheets to plan outings with her two young children. You'll usually find them at a park or trailhead, or enjoying some of the amazing road-trippable destinations the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
Why Parks Are a Great Outing:
* They are accessible
* They are free!
* They are closer proximity than big hikes
* They get you at least an hour outside even on rainy days
Why Park Days Make for a “Lucky Mama:”
* You need less toys at h…
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Mar 29, 2022
Ep. 61 Understanding Autism with Gary Martinez Jr.
Gary Martinez raises his voice for all to hear, as he teaches others about autism. His daughter is on the autism spectrum, and she is his inspiration! His message is one of patience, perspective, and creativity and it is a great lesson for all of us!
Gary Martinez is a father of two, an inspirational speaker, the author of Living Life Through Their Eyes, Our Journey Together On the Autism Spectrum, a personal trainer, and he runs the S.T.A.R. Program, which is a digital Autism Course.
Signs of Autism He Noticed in his Daughter:
* She didn’t respond to people
* She was non-verbal
* Her play was very lined up and organized
* She was very repetitive
How He Helps His Daughter Thrive:
* Allows her to have to her own space
* Knows she may not be able to make eye contact
* Learns about what she is fascinated with
* Allows lots of play breaks
* Offers physical space for moving her body
* Uses the outdoors and music heavily…
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Mar 21, 2022
Ep. 60 Prioritizing Nature While City-Living with Kathryn Farrell
Kathryn Farrell says that in the outdoors her family’s spirit is better! Isn’t that the truth for all of us? So, even working in a dark, operating room all day, and living right in the city, she has found a way to prioritize the outdoors. Not only are her words hang-on-your-wall quote worthy, but she has many great takeaways for all of us surrounded by concrete!
Kathryn Farrell has a Masters in Health Science, a Degree in Nutrition, and as she says, she loves to get nerdy with her two kids and sneak in science lessons. For the past decade she has worked as a Physician’s Assistant. She designed the CO Carrier after struggling to find a baby carrier that fit all her needs - comfortable enough to wear outside in her hot summers, quick and simple to put on, and compact enough to bring on her daily outings. Nearly her entire life has been spent in the Southeast, in Atlanta and Florida. She grew up camping, swimming, and rarely playing indoors. By high school, she fell in love with…
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Mar 15, 2022
Ep. 59 Maintaining an Adventure Relationship After Kids
How do you transition a friendship from wild (possibly reckless) adventures to family-friendly, safe adventures with kids literally ALWAYS in tow? Adrianna & Lauren did that exact thing, and they have found some key takeaways that help them maintain their friendship, and have even watched it flourish with the addition of their mini adventurers!
Some Key Lessons/Tips:
* Plan next adventure after each adventure, so you always have the next one pencilled in
* Give 30-minute arrival windows!
* Agree on difficulty level of adventures, type of adventures, temperature, etc.
* Have Plan A, B, and C – alter activity if you need, but honour that time you have scheduled together
Remember: Your summit doesn’t have to be the top of the mountain. It can be whatever you want it to be - a rock pile, a lake, a spot in the city, a coffee shop!! Choose your summit. The language and perspective of that will take you far!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:…
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Mar 7, 2022
Ep. 58 Renting Their Way Through the USA with Melissa Bald
Melissa Bald had a burning desire to explore, but the Van-Life simply wasn’t going to work for her family. So, what did she do? She found a way! The Balds sold their home and rented their way through the USA for a year, allowing her husband to work virtually, and her to homeschool her kiddos! Learn how a year as nomads taught a family how to find adventure in their own backyard!
Their Favourite Outdoor Adventures:
* Nature scavenger hunts
* Hiking
* Swimming
* Enjoying the mountains!
A Memorable Location:
Keystone, Colorado
Pros from a Year of Travel:
* So much family bonding time
* They felt safe during the pandemic, because they were their own little bubble
Challenge from a Year of Travel:
* Learning what/how to pack for different climates and homeschool, which all needed to fit into their SUV
* Packing monthly to “move” again
* Finding rentals for the duration they wanted (4-6 weeks each time)
Advice for Those Wanting to Take On Something Similar:…
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Mar 1, 2022
Ep. 57 Water Safety with Kaylee Kennedy
We all want to be present with our children, right? That’s what is so beautiful about swimming – there’s no place that you could be more present. You need to be exactly where you are! Talking to Kaylee Kennedy, the founder of many swim schools, not only inspired us to get in the water with our children, but also taught us the best safety measures to take, and methods to teach to foster a love for the water.
Kaylee Kennedy, taught her oldest son to swim as a baby, and it bonded them in such a strong way. It inspired Kaylee to open up Saskatoon Swim School in the Fall of 2014 when her son was just a year old. Her overall philosophy of teaching beginners to swim is to do so as effectively and safely as possible. But it did not end there. In came K&K Swim School throughout Canada. Then, with the pandemic, came a whole new vision - teaching babies and toddlers to swim in their own bathtubs at home - watermellow (previously, KKOnlineSwim)l was born.
Start Swimming with Kids:
* Can…
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Feb 21, 2022
Ep. 56 How to Get Kids Biking with Mike Chan
We can all picture that moment where the adult lets go and the kid keeps pedalling…they are doing it, they are biking on their own!! Mike Chan calls that the PedalHead moment. We want every kid to have that moment, not only for their own self-confidence and the opportunity to learn a life-long sport, but also for the quality family time that comes along with it. Today’s podcast shares all the bike tips and tricks, from how to get started, to how to fit a helmet correctly!
Mike Chan is a dad to a 2-year-old, and 6-year-old, plus they often have their dog in tow in the outdoors! They love to find new playgrounds, go on hikes, and play in the snow when it visits them in Vancouver, BC. Mike is also the Marketing Manager for PedalHeads.
PedalHeads has kids programming across North America. They are most known for their biking, but they also offer swim lessons and trail riding programs. They are all about bringing families together by adding a confidence to riding!…
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Feb 14, 2022
Ep. 55 When Your Family Likes Different Activities
Let’s face it – not everyone in a family is always going to like the same activities. So, how do you create a balance? How do you compromise? How do you allow space for each other? We may not have the perfect answers for everyone, but we have the perfect answers for us! Come along and hear more!
What We’ve Learned:
* Our spouses don’t have to be everything to us
* Talk it out and find the compromise that works best for your family
* When you go along on an activity that you don’t enjoy, bring your positivity!
Our Rule of Thumb:
* Find an outdoor and indoor activity that you both truly enjoy together (can be more than one!)
* Activities that the other doesn’t enjoy, the role can be filled by other family members and friends
* Dedicate a few times a year for each person to come along on the other’s activities
* See if you can find a compromise in the activities (ie. hike to a fishing location)
* Alternate who plans the adv…
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Feb 7, 2022
Ep. 54 Adventuring Diaper-Free with Andrea Olson
Can you imagine never having to change a poopy diaper? Can you imagine adventuring with your young babies without wondering where you will set up a diaper changing station? Andrea Olson can, because she did Elimination Communication with all 5 of her kids…basically potty training from birth. We are going to learn the tricks of her trade, and the why behind it!
Andrea Olson never intended on teaching people about baby potty training, and like many, she didn't even realize Elimination Communication (EC) existed until her mid-20's. Since then, she says it has become her passion, her career, and her motivation. She started Elimination Communication with her first son at birth. Soon after, she started helping other moms practice EC. That turned into a pamphlet, which turned into a book, and more books, and videos, and courses, and...the list goes on! For over 10 years now, Andrea has helped thousands of parents worldwide learn about and practice Elimination Communication.…
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Feb 1, 2022
Ep. 53 Remeet the Mamas
It’s been a year of the Kids Who Explore podcast! Let us reintroduce ourselves. We can’t thank you enough for getting to know us – Adrianna Skori & Lauren Rodych-Eberle…the voices behind the microphones, and learning along with us on this journey.
Find Adrianna on IG at @adriannaadventures
CEO and Founder of KWE
Also a Financial Analyst: Accountant
Mama to son, Turner
www.kidswhoexplore.com
Find Lauren on IG at @laurenrodycheberle
Communications & Media Manager for KWE
Also a Music Teacher, Cookbook Author, Blogger
Mama to daughter, Collins
www.laurenrodycheberle.com
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music.
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Jan 25, 2022
Ep. 52 Natural Playgrounds with Ron King
Do you ever wonder why kids can see a playground full of shiny equipment, yet they are drawn to the sticks, rocks, branches, trees, logs, fallen leaves, and the list goes on, instead? Ron King wondered this too, but it didn’t take long before he saw all the benefits of natural play and started a family business called Natural Playgrounds, who are the leading experts in building natural playgrounds for kids!!
For 26 years, the King family has owned Natural Playgrounds, and they have been the leading experts in designing beautiful, intriguing, cost-effective, safe, and philosophically appropriate Natural Playgrounds for K-12 schools, Montessori schools, Head Start programs, childcare centers, and communities.
Benefits of Natural Play:
* Contributes to overall physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children
* Helps kids score higher on tests for concentration and self-discipline
* Helps kids experience more diverse play
* Kids exhibit less aggres…
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Jan 18, 2022
Ep. 51 Exploring the Ocean with Jase & Kate Kelly
Isolation. The Kelly’s know isolation all too well, but unlike Covid-Isolation, they know it in the most beautiful way! The Australian family of four live on an ultra-remote island called Uepi, located in the Solomon Islands. Not only is their unique lifestyle one that’s of keen interest, they also have taught their children from only weeks of age how to enjoy and respect the ocean. Learn it all here!
Jase & Katie run an ethical tourist resort (attracting mostly SCUBA divers) and a grass-roots based charity, centred around protecting the incredible natural environment and traditional islander way of life. Jase, with a background in international business, and Katie, a clinical pharmacist, are a pair well-equipped to manage their alternative lifestyle and give back to the local community. Arlo (3.5 yrs) and Ophelia (2 yrs) have been the perfect addition to their island life, encouraging them to explore the ocean through new eyes. Jase and Katie are both keen free divers and…
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Jan 11, 2022
Ep. 50 Learning to Live in the Moment [& Animal Tracking] with Kady Lieber
Kady Lieber’s life was turned upside down when she found out her little Ava, then 17-months-old, had stage 4 brain cancer. After a year of helping Ava fight for her life, Kady and her family made a goal to live every moment to its fullest! Today’s podcast shines light on how to live in the moment and how animal tracking and nature can bond an entire family!
Kady Lieber is a traveler, designer, and adventure seeker splitting her time between the USA and Switzerland (when she can travel). She is mama to 2 girls, Taylor 11, and Ava 7.
Animal Tracking/Animal Viewing/Animal Watching Starter Tips:
* You can choose specific animals to track, or a wide range
* This is a great activity for keeping distance from people, and for those with mobility issues
* Starting with a guide can be super helpful (https://yellowstonewildlifeguidecompany.com)
* You’re supposed to stay 25-100 yards away, depending on animal type
* You can sometimes use spotting scop…
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Jan 4, 2022
Ep. 49 A New Year with KWE!
Hello, 2022! Not only are we welcoming a new year, but we are celebrating a year of Kids Who Explore in the books!! It’s been so beautiful to watch Adrianna Skori’s (the Founder & CEO of KWE) vision on the trail turn into this community that inspires, supports, gives back, and genuinely cares for the humans behind the adventure photos.
KWE’s Why:
* Get kids outside
* Connect kids to nature and their family
* Watch children benefit from being immersed in nature
* See nature heal trauma and challenges
We want nature to help raise our children!
KWE’s What:
* Offer tips, tricks, and education to help families
* Provide evergreen content that people can refer back to
* Offer meet ups for families to adventure together
In the next year, keep your eye out for:
* Website (www.kidswhoexplore.com) – affiliations, discounts, blog, our shop, and events
* Events – events are usually virtual to reach a global community, and the sign up is FREE!
* Explorer Famil…
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Dec 28, 2021
Ep. 48 Get Outside & Create That Yes Zone
We end 2021 with a simple message…get outside! We know, it can be hard…there will be lots of things standing in your way. But, it will be oh-so-worth-it! The outdoors are calling your childrens' names, and yours!
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/
Today’s Host: @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music.
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Dec 21, 2021
Ep. 47 How to Enjoy a Road Trip with Tara Sliwkanich
How does taking a 16-day road trip with a baby sound to you? Tara Sliwkanich makes it sound like a whole lot of fun, mixed with hiking, biking, tenting, and of course, nursery rhymes on repeat!! Learn from one of KWE’s Explorer Families about how to make road tripping very do-able, and fun for the whole family!
Tara Sliwkanich, along with her spouse, Dustin, and their baby explorer, J, who will be 15-months soon, love to explore the trails, slopes, and the water around Alberta, especially around Edmonton, where they live. They love to hike, bike, stand-up paddle board, kayak, camp, downhill ski and cross-country ski as a family. Living in Edmonton means that they are 4 hours away from the mountains, so they have always loved road tripping, notably road tripping down the Oregon and California coasts in a rooftop tent for their honeymoon! Now, they are making their road trips more exciting with little J in tow!
Small adventures are big adventures for babies; Tara loves taking baby J…
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Dec 14, 2021
Ep. 46 Potty Training in the Outdoors with Jamie Glowacki
When your kiddos say goodbye to diapers, adventures look a whole lot different. Easier or harder? You decide! But there may be a period of time where you’re adventuring with a toilet in tow, until they master the outdoor squat. Don’t worry – you can still get outside, even in the learning-phase. We have expert Jamie Glowacki on today’s podcast, to talk all things toddlers and poop!
Jamie Glowacki is an internationally recognized potty training and parenting expert. She is the author of both Oh Crap Potty Training and Oh Crap I Have a Toddler.
When to Start Potty Training:
* “Wait until they are ready” is the biggest myth (tune in to learn why)
* 20 to 30 months is prime age, if not earlier
* After 30 months, children get individuation, making the process much harder
* Remember that using a toilet is socialized behaviour
How Much Time Is Needed to Stay Home to Focus on Learning the Toilet (and how can you also get outside):…
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Dec 7, 2021
Ep. 45 Avalanche Safety with Russell Bruder
If you take nothing else away from this episode when it comes to avalanche safety, please remember this: avoid, avoid, avoid! The best thing you can do to protect yourself from an avalanche is to avoid it! That being said, there is so much more to know. That’s why Russell Bruder is on the podcast today – let’s learn about avalanche safety!
Russell Bruder was born and raised in Pincher Creek, Alberta. His bio is quite extensive, but today we are focusing on his role as a snowmobile, ATV, and UTV Safety Instructor. He is an expert in everything from winter survival, to ATV & Snowmobile Operations, to first aid, CPR, GPS/map/and compass navigation, and Avalanche safety. He has 23 years experience with Pincher Creek search and rescue, and 30+ years of snowmobile and ATV experience.
Know Where Avalanches Are:
For Canadians, check Avalanche Canada, and look at the forecast zones. Always submit information if you know it, to help protect others. Ie. if you see natural s…
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Nov 30, 2021
Ep. 44 Winter Bucket List
At Kids Who Explore, we are list people! There’s no pressure to check every item off, but we love the ability to create traditions, simplify or go big (depending what suits your family), and share a love for the winter season!
Snow Activities
* Play in the snow
* Build a snowman
* Make snow angels
* “Paint” the snow
* Sled
* Skate
* Ski/Snowboard
* Strap on “skis” for toddlers in the backyard
* Snowshoe
* Cross-country ski (with chariot option, too)
Seasonal Activities
* Ice sculptures
* Winter festivals
* See Christmas lights
* Eat seasonal foods
Seasonal Crafts
* Finger paint
* Handprint ornaments
Create a Tradition
* Annual trip
* Getting a real tree
* Christmas in July (serving as sibling gifts!)
Tip: Pack a sled for everything…skating, skiing, hiking…you won’t regret it!
Toddler Skis mentioned in episode: https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5044-087/Ski-Set?org_text=komperdell%20ski%20set%20
Thank you to Sawyer for sponsor…
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Nov 23, 2021
Ep. 43 Bathroom Breaks in the Outdoors [and While Camping]
“But, what if you need to go to the bathroom?” Where and how to go #1 and #2 in the outdoors, whether adventuring, or camping, can be a huge sense of anxiety for people. So, whether it’s simply squatting in the bush, or bringing a portable potty, we are here to share all the ways we’ve created toilets in the outdoors!
Portable Toilet Suggestions:
Go Girl: https://go-girl.com
Shewee: https://www.shewee.com
Luggable Loo: https://www.rei.com/product/876179/reliance-luggable-loo-portable-toilet
Lauren’s Awoken Unisex Urinal for Car: https://tinyurl.com/nj2swhke
Portable Toilets are great solutions for when you’re in busy areas, or you don’t want to be away from your child - you can use some in a car, in a tent, or hugged up against a tree.
If you choose to squat and leave nature in nature, remember to leave no trace – and carry out any toilet paper you may use. (www.leavenotrace.ca)
When Camping:
* use head lamp, and have bea…
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Nov 16, 2021
Ep. 42 Why to Avoid Kid-Centered Activities with Michaeleen Doucleff
What if the secrets to parenting aren’t secrets at all? What if everything you need to know to raise intrinsically-motivated, helpful, kind, and generous humans can all be learned from the Maya in Yucatan, the Inuit in the Arctic circle, and the Hadzabe in Tanzania? We dive into this topic with Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD, but after this episode, we think you’ll want to dive even deeper!
Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD is author of New York Times Bestseller, Hunt Gather Parent. This is the parenting book of all parenting books, where Doucleff shares what she learned about parenting after visiting three continents with her 3-year-old daughter. You can also find her over at NPR, where she uses her expertise to cover a wide range of topics, all with science and health in mind. She currently lives in Alpine, Texas with her family.
Doucleff says her book isn’t just about parenting, it is also about how we treat other people, and how to relate to children in a different way than…
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Nov 9, 2021
Ep. 41 Holistic First Aid Kits with Katie Braswell
What’s in your first aid kit? Most importantly, do you have a first aid kit? Katie Braswell is here to get us thinking not only about all the things that should be in a first aid kit, but also all the ingredients we DON’T want in a first aid kit. Get ready to revamp your adventure pack!
Katie Braswell, of Wild + Well, is a Holistic Nutritionist, based in Boulder, Colorado. Katie’s specific areas of interest are preconception health, fertility, prenatal nutrition and supplementation, gestational diabetes, breastfeeding and postpartum care (focusing on nurturing mama and baby). She specializes in functional nutrition for families – especially the mama or mama-to-be who is looking to maximize their time adventuring with their little ones! She and her family love to adventure and are passionate about spending as much time as possible outdoors and in nature – so she has worked to master the perfect holistic, non-toxic first aid & adventure kit.
Don’t feel guilty about what you…
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Nov 2, 2021
Ep. 40 Grounding in All Seasons with Dr. Laura Koniver
“When I talk about grounding, I’m talking about physically touching the earth. Head to toe, you are conductive, [and] the earth has an actual heartbeat.” Those are the words of Dr. Laura Koniver, who is a true expert on grounding/earthing. If you haven’t heard of this before, don’t miss out! It will quite literally, change your life!
Laura Koniver, M.D. is also known as the Intuition Physician. She says that she loves approaching health and well-being from every angle and offering the most helpful solution to her patients. She started studying and practicing medicine, and then, when her first daughter was born, she listened to her mama heart and paved her own unique path. Since then, she has grown her family, but you can also find her speaking as an expert on grounding, running online health classes, making art, writing books, designing grounding tools, and of course, grounding herself!
Some of the MANY Benefits of Grounding:
* Your brain waves go into a…
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Oct 25, 2021
Ep. 39 Packing for Skiing and Snowboarding
Whether you’ve been skiing or snowboarding your whole life, or you’re new to the sport, there’s a lot more gear to pack with extra bodies. Today’s podcast will help you learn not only what to pack for winter adventures with kids, but also, some helpful tips for on the hill!
What to Pack:
* Layers (listen to episode 36, for our three layer rule: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-36-the-three-layer-winter-rule/)
* Mittens
* Gear: skis/board, boots, bindings, helmet, goggles, poles
* Sled: to carry toddlers and gear
* Baby carrier: for younger siblings, if you’re watching older kids
* Snacks!
* And of course, a positive attitude!
Tips:
* When kids are younger, use wool socks underneath their mittens for extra warmth (they stay on easily)
* It’s helpful to do the same activity when you’re teaching someone who is learning, partly so you’re facing the same way, and so you can demonstrate
* Check out d…
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Oct 19, 2021
Ep. 38 Bear & Wildlife Safety [in Winter] with Kim Titchener
Did you know bears can, and do, come out of their dens in the winter? If you’re shocked, we got you covered! Wildlife Specialist, Kim Titchener, who is the Owner of Bear Safety and More, is back on the podcast for the third time to help us navigate wildlife safety in winter!
Learn about Bear Safety, Episode 5: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-5-bear-safety-with-kim-titchene%E2%80%AAr%E2%80%AC/
Learn about Wildlife Safety While Camping, Episode 15: https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-15-wildlife-safety-while-camping-with-kim-titchener/
If you really want to see wildlife in winter, look more into the community of Churchill, Manitoba, where the community truly lives with the polar bears!
Top Safety Reminders:
* Always have bear spray accessible (not tucked away), and know how to use it
* Make lots of noise, regularly (listen to today's episode, to hear Kim’s “Zombie Voice”)
* Be alert
* Keep kids and pets close
* Teach…
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Oct 12, 2021
Ep. 37 Risky Play & Nature Education with Brittany Williams
How often do you catch yourself saying, “be careful”? Do our kids even know what “be careful” means? Or, do we need to be specific? Do we need to let our children take on some ‘risky play’ to explore the world and see what they are capable of? Brittany Williams is here today to give us insight on all of those questions, and so much more!
Brittany Williams is from Knoxville, Tennessee. She has worked in Early Childhood Education for around 11 years. Children are a true passion of hers – watching them grow, develop and learn to process the world around them brings her pure joy!
How to Safely Allow Risky Play (Does That Sound Like an Oxymoron?):
* Talk through and help them assess the risk
* Stay calm FOR them
* Try using constructive words, versus general words, like “be careful”
* Follow the child’s lead in their interests
“It’s about them exploring for themselves and you being on the sidelines, helping to guide if needed…
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Oct 5, 2021
EP. 36 The Three Layer Winter Rule
While some people have winter layers down to a science, others are new to winter, or they are new to dressing KIDS for winter. So, let’s sum up our three layer winter rule, for all ages, adults included!
Previous Winter Layer Episodes:
Episode 2: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-2-how-to-dress-kids-for-winter-adventures/id1548759798?i=1000508292336
Episode 4: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-4-getting-outside-in-winter/id1548759798?i=1000510277939
Three Layers:
* Base Layer: We like merino wool (or wool). If the merino wool price point is not accessible, synthetic layers work too!
* Mid Layer: We like fleece
* Top Layer: We like water-resistant when they are younger, but waterproof once they are older and playing in the snow or rain
* Extra: Mitts, Toques/Beanies, Socks, Boots, Neck Warmer (fleece or merino wool - size differs between the two; merino wool is more snug)
Merino wool base layers are good for all seasons, because they keep you warm in the wi…
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Sep 27, 2021
Ep. 35 How to Ditch the Carrier with Rachel Sanchez
In the words of the 2-year-old Sanchez daughter, “The mountains are my home.” That is how the Sanchez family is living their lives. Today we chat with Rachel Sanchez about part-time life in a van-home, to ditching the carriers, to hiking while pregnant. KWE is proud to see a family that is allowing nature to help raise their kids!
The Sanchez Family, is a multicultural family based in Utah, USA. They have three little girls and a little boy on the way. They love being outdoors as a family and feel it is the best way to experience life and all that the earth has to offer. They use the outdoors as their favorite parenting tool to teach many of life's important lessons from strength and courage, to kindness and gentleness. Inclusion and diversity in the outdoors is important for Rachel, and her husband, to show her daughters!
How They Make Their Van-Home Feel Like Home:
* Allow each girl to have a drawer in the van that is their own
* Let them bring their favo…
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Sep 20, 2021
Ep. 34 What If Your Kid Doesn‘t Like the Outdoors with Kika Vila-Nova
What if your kid doesn’t like getting outdoors? There’s still hope, at any age…and Kika Vila-Nova is here to share that with us! Her 12-year-old daughter has finally embraced her mama’s love for the outdoors. Tune in to hear tips on helping your child embrace nature, plus hear some great Utah recommendations!
Kika Vila-Nova moved to the USA from Brazil in 2001 to pursue a Master's Degree in Chlidren's Theatre. She fell in love with Utah and all the diverse landscape and that is where she has chosen to raise her 12-year-old daughter. Kika loves to shares their adventures, life as an immigrant and a single mom exploring Utah.
Some Utah Recommendations:
* Salt Lake City
* Zion National Park
* Canyon Meadows Park
* Moab
* Lake Powell
* Bear Lake State Park
* Goblin Valley State Park
How to Help Your Kid LIKE Going Outside:
* Be persistent
* Take your time…take as many breaks as kids want!
* Put the kid in…
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Sep 13, 2021
Ep. 33 Leave No Trace with the Musser Family
The Musser family is the definition of chosen family! From being foster parents to 34 children, to now travelling the United States on a bus with their family of four (plus a dog), to homeschooling in nature, they are here to teach us about respecting the earth, enjoying nature, and leaving no trace!
The Musser family calls themselves a misfit family of four that squeezes themselves (plus a slightly feral pup) into an 18 foot mini skoolie, to live the full time nomad life. Their eldest - Buckets - was adopted from foster care. Their son - Monkey - they are legal guardians of. And their puppy - Dingo - is a rescue mutt found running with a wild pack of dogs. The Tall One works remotely as an electrical engineer designing power and lighting for new construction to pay the bills, while Minnie plays paparazzi and writes for a couple outlets about their wild adventures. They love skiing, rock climbing, trail running, hiking, backpacking and all things that include getting dirty. Minn…
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Sep 6, 2021
Ep. 32 Fall Bucket List with Kids
We love adventure wish lists and the fall season brings so much to wish for! Tune in to hear what’s on our bucket lists for the fall, and snag some ideas for your families! Our Fall Bucket List:
* Larch Hike
* Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
* Pumpkin Decorating or Carving
* Eat Pumpkin Anything
* Eat Apple Anything!!
* Halloween Celebrations (Tip: Take costume pics a day(s) ahead of trick-or-treating)
* Fall Crafts (Leaf or Rock Art)
* Thanksgiving Celebration
* Create a Fall Tradition (ie. Annual Bike Trip)
Tripod Recommendation - Small Portable Tripod for your hiking pack (Logics) Meditation Suggestion: https://m.youtube.com/user/TheHonestGuys
Thank you to Sawyer for sponsoring today’s episode! https://besawyer.com
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music.
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Aug 31, 2021
Ep. 31 Reduce, Reuse, Recycle for the Planet with Michelle Dias
It’s no surprise that we love our planet. We love nature, and we want to protect it! Today’s episode teaches us how to lessen our impact on the environment through recycling and compost. Michelle Dias, an expert in the two, teaches us what the three R’s should REALLY be, (with a C mixed in there)!
The Three R’s:
* REDUCE (as much as possible, first)
* Then REUSE,
* And if you can’t do either of those, RECYCLE (recycling does require a lot of energy, so put YOUR energy into the first two!).
Michelle Dias, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, studied Biology at the University of Calgary. She now works for the Waste & Recycling Services at the City of Calgary. She has been a naturalist and environmental educator for over 20 years, and has always felt curious and inspired by nature.
Fun Fact: Michelle did a blended program with her two children for school, which included home school, as well as outdoor school. It’s called Windsor Park.…
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Aug 23, 2021
Ep. 30 Nursing On-The-Trail with Petra Sporinova
Kids do better outdoors! As do parents, for that matter!! Being a breastfeeding mom shouldn’t keep you indoors, so, what is the best way to nurse while adventuring? Between KOJO breastfeeding activewear and Petra Sporinova’s tips, you should be set!
Petra Sporinova is an active mom of 2 little boys. She moved from Slovakia to Calgary, Alberta, Canada, which was quite the adventure in itself, and now is happy to daily put on her KOJO breastfeeding activewear and adventure with her sons! KOJO is a brand that is made in Europe, and run by two moms, one being Petra. It is focused on sustainability and child-parent bonding, and we can’t forget, getting outside!
Advice for adventuring with a new baby:
* Start slow
* Choose small adventures
* Do something you’re already comfortable with
* Don’t forget that a walk around the neighbourhood is an adventure!
Nursing-specific clothing is great for adventures, especially when it’s colder on the…
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Aug 17, 2021
Ep. 29 Limiting Screen Time
How much screen time should we have? How much screen time should our children have? How do we set limits? And should we all try a screen time detox?! Today, the mamas talk about their relationship with TV and screens, and how they are trying to raise their kids in the digital age!
Lauren’s Relationship with TV –
She gave up TV for Lent in Grade 4, and never went back to it. She never turns on the TV by herself and only watches it with true intention, like picking a documentary with her husband or watching a music show with her parents. Currently, her daughter doesn’t get any screen time.
Adrianna’s Relationship with TV –
She is very casual about TV. At times it gets thrown on or used as background noise. Sometimes she’s into a true crime series or a romantic movie. Usually her attention isn’t ON the TV. Her son is fascinated by the TV, especially when it comes to watching sports with Dad!
Cindy’s Relationship with TV –
She grew up not watching a lot of TV, but d…
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Aug 10, 2021
Ep. 28 Getting Kids Out The Door with Tara Matheron
Tips for Car Rides with Kids:
* Scavenger Hunts!
* Songs
Tips to Make it Easier to Get Outside:
* “Fake it” and keep that smile on – you’ll start to feel it
* Create “Bug Out Bags” – days packs with all the essentials for particular activities (kids can help with them too)
Businesses:
* Rad Mums (follow on IG: @radmums_): An outdoor community in Calgary, Alberta, Canada for Mums who want to explore without their kids
* CYa Outdoors (follow on IG: @cya.outdoors): Custom hand-painted hats with beautiful mountain landscapes. Currently on wait list
* Relish Apparel (follow on IG: @madebyrelish): Top Quality, Eco-Conscious, Transparent company that makes clothing in Canada. Printing free of chemicals. Scraps donated to make dog beds. There is so much to love here!
Follow Tara on IG: @rockymountainminis
Thank you to Elements Inc. for supporting today’s episode! Check them out to shop, or find in-store locations at www.patagoniaelements.ca
Production: @kp…
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Aug 3, 2021
Ep. 27 Get In The Water with Tanya Vanthuyne
Tanya Vanthuyne lives in Edson, Alberta, a very small town located about an hour east of the Rockies. She has two sons. Her oldest, who is on the spectrum, loves water and low impact activities. Her youngest is always pushing the boundaries on new adventures. Her family loves camping, hiking, paddle boarding, snowboarding, and pretty much anything active outdoors.She believes life doesn't have to change completely when you have kids - it just requires a little adjusting, extra patience, and always a Plan A, B, C and D. Tanya always says "YOU create your kids’ normal" She suggests pushing out the noise of what "society says is the norm" and being confident in raising your kids with the life that makes your heart happy.
Tips for paddle boarding with a baby (have them wearing a life jacket):
* Start slow
* Lie or sit on the board with them
* Have their hand exploring the water
* Have snacks available (for after)
Get in the water! Let your kids see you do it!
Keep hikes inter…
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Jul 27, 2021
Ep. 26 How to Inspire Kids to WANT to Get Outside
A question that comes up from our community again and again, in many forms, is how to get your kid(s) outside...how to inspire your kid(s) to WANT to get outside.
Here are some of our tips:
* Start them young
* Share YOUR love and energy about the outdoors
* Let them choose the adventure
* Have the mental attitude that it’s supposed to be fun!
* Play games [bring a hammock!]
* Accept their emotions
* Bring along friends
Some ideas for getting outside after injuries:
* Keep it simple and adventure in the backyard
* Wrap up injury (to avoid getting wet)
* Make use of a wagon!
We end up talking a lot about the benefits of “Grounding” (also known as “Earthing”) in this episode. Stay tuned for a whole future episode on this topic. Sneak peek: It helps with pain and inflammation.
Some ideas for volunteering with kids in the outdoors:
* Big Brothers/Big Sisters
* 4H
Balloons mentioned (remember to recycle):
Zuru BunchO Balloons
Thank you to Rumpl fo…
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Jul 20, 2021
Ep. 25 Raise them to be Ordinary; Let THEM Choose Extraordinary with John O‘Sullivan
John O’Sullivan is an internationally known TEDx Speaker, and the founder of the Changing the Game Project since 2012. He is the author of two #1 bestselling books, Changing the Game and Every Moment Matters. On top of that, he is a leading youth sports blogger, a host of his own podcast Way of Champions, former professional soccer player, and a coach and consultant for over 20 years in sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, swimming, rugby, and more! He is also a huge advocate for positive coaching.
Sport Parents Should:
* Follow their children’s lead in how competitive they want to be
* Listen to if their child wants to talk about the game
* Allow many options for sports, and let them choose which to try
* “Prepare the child for the path, not the path for the child”
How Parents Can Inspire Kids to Get Outside:
* Value free play
* Show them videos of the times they loved adventuring
* Bring a friend
Follow John:
* Twitter & IG: CTGProjectHQ
* changi…
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Jul 13, 2021
Ep. 24 Second Hand Adventure Gear with Rowan Rocskar
Rowan Rocskar is the Public Relations Manager at Kids Who Explore. She is mama to 1-year-old Stevie. The Rocskar family lives in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, which is a short drive to the Rocky Mountains! Rowan and Stevie embarked on many adventures (mostly hikes!) while Rowan was off on her 13-month maternity leave from work. Rowan still tries to get out to the mountains at least once a week, and is now learning to go a bit slower to let Stevie explore too.
Secondhand gear is more responsible for the planet. Rowan suggests trying before buying. Rent items or borrow items to decide if they are worth the purchase.
The Adventure Essentials:
* Comfy footwear
* Food and water
* Safety items
Where to look for Secondhand Gear:
* Facebook Marketplace
* Thrift and consignment stores
* Friends – lend and don’t forget to give back
* Kijiji (in Canada)
*Tip: Try looking at surrounding areas or areas your friends live in*
Items you shouldn’t get secondhand:
* Car seats (…
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Jul 6, 2021
Ep. 23 Summer Bucket List with Kids
Our Summer Bucket List:
* Hike
* Road Trip
* Picnic
* Swim
* Paddle Board
* Backyard Games
* BBQ
* Festival
* Seasonal Café
* Camp
* Canoe/Kayak
* Fish
* Bike
* Rock Climb (hire local guide)
* Grounding/Earthing
* Bird Watch
* Sail/Boat
* Local Outdoor Theatre
*You should not feel the need to fill time when your child is bored. Down time, or quiet time is super important, and needed, by both children and parents. It's also important for your child to have unplanned time so that when they are "bored", they are able to find their own ways to busy themselves that is unstructured. This allows their creativity and imagination to flow.*
Get Kids Involved:
* Allow them to make the list
* Write each adventure idea on popsicle sticks and place in a jar (pull one out at a time for a surprise adventure)
Tip: Pack the car before the kids!
Thank you to Sawyer for sponsoring today’s episode! https://besawyer.com
Production: @ kpmediaproductions. Musi…
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Jun 29, 2021
Ep. 22 Gentle Parenting Outside with M.J. Singletary-Villalobos
MJ Singletary-Villalobos practices Gentle Parenting, but there are many other names for it - Conscious Parenting. Mindful Parenting. Respectful Parenting. He believes that all of them come down to a long-term approach in regards to both discipline and the relationship one has with their children. He believes the parent-child relationship should focus on respect and seeing a child as a whole person (no matter their age). From parenting without the use of fear, to handling meltdowns on the trail respectfully, MJ is here for all of it!
Skills of gentle parenting:
* Love
* Patience
* Positive Affirmations
* Treating yourself AND others with love and respect
* NEVER using fear as a guide
In modern society, we separate nature and life…but, in reality, they are one. MJ says that the root of a loving relationship with our children is the same root of our love for nature. He calls on us to empower our children; to let them lead.
When it comes to child meltdowns on the trail:…
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Jun 22, 2021
Ep. 21 Snacks on the Trail with Dr. Ashley Toporowski
Continual snacking, which Dr. Ashley calls “grazing,” increases the chance of cavities, so she suggests sticking to somewhat of a “scheduled” snack schedule, especially on adventures!
Best Foods for Teeth:
* Cheese
* Raw Vegetables
* Nuts
* Eggs
* Fruits
* Crunchy foods (ie. apples)
Foods that Increase Chances of Cavities:
* Foods high in sugar
* Foods high in carbs
* Sticky foods (ie. crackers, that get stuck in teeth)
* If you’re going to eat chocolate, chocolate over 70% cocoa is best for teeth (still in moderation)
This doesn’t mean not to have any of the “foods that increase chances of cavities”; it just means balancing those foods with foods that are good for your teeth! Also, after eating, drink water to wash away the excess food and sugars.
Another tip: Chewing xylitol gum or sugar-free gum after eating can help, because it promotes the saliva in your mouth, allowing the mouth to repair the enamel.
Drinking:
* On adventures with kid…
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Jun 15, 2021
Ep. 20 Tick Safety with 3 Moms Organics
On today’s episode, we sit down with Jennifer and LJ, the founders and owners of 3 Moms Organics, which carries a product we love, TickWise. TickWise is an organic, DEET-free, family safe, insect repellent, that also repels ticks, among many other bugs! Their product is EPA compliant, and is registered in all 50 states in the US. It is sold in over 300 stores and that number is increasing every day. It is also sold on Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and Lowes.com. Furthermore, 3 Moms Organics was recently certified as a prestigious Women-Owned Small Business. Both Jennifer and LJ have lived in the Hamptons of New York for all their adult life. They have both raised families in East Hampton and learned early on the dangers of ticks, and the diseases they carry. LJ’s children have each been infected with tick-borne diseases multiple times, as have Jennifer’s. The tick problem has gotten so bad in East Hampton that you cannot even step onto your lawn without finding at least one crawling u…
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Jun 8, 2021
Ep. 19 Backcountry Camping 101 with John Dowsett
Cindy Dowsett, from Kids Who Explore, along with her husband, John Dowsett, are sharing their knowledge!
How to Book for Backcountry Camping:
* choose site via Provincial or National Park sites (albertaparks.ca)
* book a reservation and then it’s usually first come first serve for specific spots
How to Get to Backcountry Camping Site:
* hike in
* pack everything in a chariot and bike in
* canoe in!
What to Expect:
* usually zero service
* many locations have bear locks and fire wood, but some have no amenities
* don’t expect a lot of sleep
* sometimes there are communal cooking areas, sometimes not
How to Start with Kids:
* plan for one night (maybe two)
* pick a close location (smaller hike to get into site, for example)
Safety Tips:
* always watch kids
* make a “safety circle” with a stick around the fire for kids not to cross
* pack warm, “winter” gear even in the summer (plan for all weather)
Backcountry Camping Packing List:…
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