Childhood is the time to build this risk assessment skill set. Kids need ample time to explore and adequately learn both components of risk.

Sunlight regulates human physiology and behavior. In fact, approximately 100 bodily functions have daily rhythms that require exposure to the sun's day and night schedule for optimal function.

If you're feeling a little antsy and you want to try someplace new here are a few suggestions on how to find the hidden gems in your area.

Research has confirmed time and time again that what children are naturally and unabashedly drawn to, unrestricted outside play, contributes extensively to every area of childhood development.

Here is a sobering statistic: Children between the ages of 10 and 17 will experience nearly one-third fewer face-to-face interactions with other people throughout their lifetimes as a result of an increasingly electronic culture, at home and in school.

Their lanterns were easy and fun to make, using many items you may already have on hand. They love this open-ended and customized craft because they were able to choose their own colors and designs.

What I have learned throughout the past decade of outside play is that my kids are developing in untold ways. They are obtaining the skills needed for future success as they jump, run, skip, roll, and tumble.

Children desperately need their childhood hours. Let's give them some back!

As each of us begins to value these unmeasurable components of childhood, we show others that there are many enticing paths toward success and happiness.

Many of the things kids need to learn during childhood happen only during unstructured time. Hours upon hours are needed and these portions of development cannot be hurried.

Just like in nature, the sun and the dirt have provided slow and steady growth for our children, with deep roots formed and breathtaking blossoms of individuality springing up.

Preparedness goes a long way in having successful outdoor experiences with kids. What's your favorite first aid kit? What extra thing do you pack just in case?

When kids play outside it can take up to 45 minutes to determine a play scheme. Since kids activities are often less than 45 minutes we aren't used to giving kids the time they need to figure out what they are going to do with their surroundings. Waiting almost always gives way to something engaging.

Quite incredibly, wool can absorb 30% of its weight in water without feeling wet at all; and what happens next is astounding. In cold weather, during this process of trapping the moisture, wool actually generates heat.

Nature gently reminds me to let things go and embrace the unpredictabilities that are synonymous with parenting. When I surrender something altogether different and magnificent is created.