Attention all Pacific Northwesterners, Spring is coming and it’s the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and make some new memories with your little ones! Check out these ideas to celebrate the beauty of spring and get the kids outside and exploring.
1. Visit the Woodinville Farmers Market
Spring means fresh, local produce, and what better way to kick off the season than by heading to the Woodinville Farmers Market?Not only is it a great way to support local farmers, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to teach your little ones about where food comes from. There is also a kids booth, where your child will get a token each time they visit, which then can be used as cash to purchase their own fruits or veggies! Some Saturdays even have live music!
2. Explore the Trails at Sammamish River Trail
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and explore the great outdoors. The Sammamish River Trail is a fantastic spot for an easy hike or a bike ride with your preschoolers. The trail is relatively flat, making it manageable for little legs, and you’ll get to enjoy the fresh spring air and see flowers in bloom. It’s also an excellent chance to spot birds, ducks, and other wildlife—perfect for teaching kids about nature. Plus, you can often catch glimpses of the river, which makes for a peaceful, scenic outing.
Tip: Pack a stroller for younger kids or a wagon for snacks and toys—it’s a great way to keep everyone comfortable during your stroll.
3. Springtime at Cottage Lake
For a slightly more adventurous outing, head over to Cottage Lake. This lovely park offers beautiful spots for a picnic, docks by the water, and there are easy trails that lead you through lush greenery. It’s a great way to expose your preschooler to the wonders of nature while taking in the spring sunshine. Depending on the weather, you can let them splash around in the shallow areas of the lake or simply let them run around in the open fields. There is also a playground and the YMCA which operates the pool, ropes course and other fun activities.
4. Spring Crafting at Home
Sometimes the best spring activities are the ones you can do right at home! Set up a crafting station with your little ones and get creative with spring-themed crafts. You can make colorful flower garlands, paint picture frames with bright spring colors, or even create a DIY bird feeder with a pine cone, peanut butter, and birdseed. Not only will it help develop your child’s fine motor skills, but they’ll also get a hands-on understanding of nature as they make these crafts.
Tip: Try using recycled materials, like cardboard or plastic bottles, to make your crafts even more eco-friendly!
5. Spring Sensory Play
If the weather’s not quite cooperating, sensory play is a perfect indoor activity to help engage your preschooler’s imagination. Create a spring sensory bin by filling a large container with items like colored rice, silk flowers, small plastic insects, and toy animals. Your child can explore the textures and sounds while developing important sensory skills. If you have some fake grass or little rocks, you can even set up a mini garden to make the play even more realistic!
Tip: Use items like fake petals or little plastic eggs to celebrate Easter if your family celebrates it.
6. Springtime Picnic at Wilmot Gateway Park
For an easy-going afternoon, pack a picnic and head to Wilmot Gateway Park. It’s a wonderful place to let your preschooler run, play, and explore. The park features playgrounds, bathrooms and open fields. During spring, the flowers around the park start to bloom, and the air smells amazing. It’s a perfect spot for a low-stress afternoon where your child can burn off some energy, and you can relax and enjoy the weather.
No matter what kind of spring activity you choose, the important part is that you’re spending time together and soaking in the beauty of the season. Whether you’re exploring local parks, enjoying some arts and crafts at home, or venturing out to a local farm, the possibilities are endless—so get outside, have fun, and make the most of this wonderful spring season! Rain or shine!