Taking your child on an outdoor adventure not only creates lifelong memories but can also help shape their future.
My love for adventure began when I was small, when my parents took me outdoors to go fishing, hunting, or hike through the woods.
I’ve had many similar excursions with my own children, some of which were planned, and some that happened spontaneously. Whether we’re exploring the stream behind our house after a rainstorm, spending the day setting up for hunting season, or making hats out of turkey feathers we found, adventure awaits every time we step out the door.
As an author, I love hearing from parents whose child has gotten excited about nature after reading one of my books. Not all of us live near national parks or farmland, but even a city park or a backyard can offer outdoor adventure if you’re willing to look for it.
Being outdoors is also good for parents, who can use the opportunity to unplug, let go, and let their imaginations take them and their children on an unforgettable adventure. More than once, I’ve found myself laughing with my kids while looking for Bigfoot, making yelping calls, and carrying sticks through the woods.
When my kids were younger, many of our favorite picture books to read together were about father-daughter and father-son adventures in nature. Reading stories together helps kids feel more connected to their dad, jump-start ideas for possible adventures, and get the creative juices flowing.
Here are a few books that celebrate exploration, curiosity, and that bond between a dad and his child:
My First Book of Hunting ABC (Paperback)
by Andrew McMurdie
$12.99
This is a shameless plug for my own book, but I think it's pretty awesome. My wife and I created this book because there weren’t many hunting books for kids when my children were growing up, and I have loved passing along that tradition to my own children.
This book is about a boy and his dad who head outside to look for animals, gear, and other hunting-related items. There’s one item or animal for each letter of the alphabet, which means your kids will learn about North American wildlife and hunting practices while also reinforcing their letters.
Just Me and My Dad (Hardcover)
by Mercer Mayer
$6.99
Who doesn’t love the Little Critter series? This book is a fun one to read with your little one. It’s about a father and son who head into the wilderness for a camping adventure. While the boy tries to help his father set up camp, his efforts are mostly disastrous and end up causing more work for his parent. The illustrations are fantastic, and my kids and I loved the funny situations the father-son duo gets into while on their camping adventure.
Why a Daughter Needs a Dad (Hardcover)
by Gregory E. Lang
$10.99
I always loved reading heartwarming books to my kids, and this cute book is perfect for babies and toddlers. They’ll love listening to your voice as you read about unique bond that dads share with their daughters. If you have a son, you might like the companion book, Why a Son Needs a Dad.
Dad and Me Setting Farts Free (Paperback)
by Jane Bexley
$15.99
What kid (or dad) doesn’t think farts are funny? If you are looking for a hilarious story to read with your children, this is the one! Follow along as Little Bear tries to be like his dad in every way, including his loud farts!
Children will not remember every excursion you took or every book you read together, but they will remember how they felt. The sense of wonder, laughter, and knowing that they are loved will be something they can hold onto as they grow. So, go ahead and plan your next adventure with your little one!
