When I think of my fondest childhood memories, they are all centered around who I was with and what we were doing while we were outside. 

My dad modeled for me and my siblings how to go outside and find an adventure: throwing a ball, climbing a tree, tasting honeysuckle, squishing clay between our toes, observing an anthill, camping, or stargazing while listening to the song of crickets. We used all five of our senses and took our time. We had so much time, or at least it felt like it.

And then there was the most unique activity: “smelling for spiders.” Intriguing right? My dad taught me, my siblings, my cousins, and anyone else he could find this magical and scientific way to locate spiders in the dark.

How to “Smell” for Spiders

1. Go outside when it is dark.
2. Place a flashlight on the bridge of your nose, pointing away from you. The light beam should be parallel with your line of sight. 
3. Breathe deeply.
4. Open your eyes and scan your surroundings, looking for a sparkle that looks like a drop of water or a twinkling diamond. 
5. Walk toward the sparkle to discover what it is.

Looking back, I realize that “smelling” for spiders and other outdoor activities were the moments of my childhood that I remember vividly and derive the most meaning from. I did have some screen time, but I don’t really remember it, because that time was not as memorable. Spending hours in nature and learning new things from a trusted adult made me less afraid of exploring the outdoors as I grew up. I also felt more confident when entering the wider world as an adult. Through long hours spent outdoors, I learned how to be bored and fill my time creatively, using my original thoughts and ideas. I learned how to balance indoor and outdoor time in order to feel better.

It is well-documented that time in nature has therapeutic effects on people of all ages. Spending time in nature can improve focus, reduce stress hormones, foster creativity, encourage curiosity, and reduce attention deficit according to Richard Louv’s book “Last Child in the Woods.”

Furthermore, an extensive analysis of over 950 studies on nature-based programs found that 98% of participants reported significant health benefits. These included boosts in mood and self-worth, alongside noticeable drops in emotional distress, agitation, and behavioral issues.

Luckily, wherever we go, nature can be found, from a large forest to a tiny patch of grass, or even a small bug on a window sill.

Add your own ideas. Find the balance between screen time and time outdoors, and have a wonderful summer making memories together!