We have a three-year-old little boy. Since the day he was born, I have made it a mission to ensure he grows up hiking, camping, and being outdoors instead of attached to a phone, television, or tablet. I feel like our modern society survives off of technology, and unfortunately our children are being brought up during this huge outburst. I want to make a difference in the lives of others by teaching them tips for getting outside with their little ones weekly. I want to show them that it really isn't difficult to run around with a baby or toddler, and help other parents realize what a difference it can make in their child's life to enforce outdoor play time instead of television time.

I have watched my son grow and thrive over the past three years, and I have instilled within him the necessity of being outdoors and hiking. I have taught him about nature and ecosystems throughout our journeys, and this has molded his personality as a true little adventure boy. My boyfriend and I knew that when our son was born, regardless of how busy our lives became with work and school and raising him, we would make sure to hike with him three to four times a week. Even when we don't have the time, we make it a priority to get outside in our backyard and find bugs, play in the mud or go on a bike ride for 30 minutes. Our son's behavior changes when he is outdoors. When he feels like we have been "cooped up" in the house too long, he gets grumpy and asks to hike. I love that about him.

We made the decision to move from Missouri to Colorado five months ago because we knew the lifestyle here would help us raise our little boy to appreciate the wilderness lifestyle and outdoor culture. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to move here, but even those who don't have access to mountains or hiking trails still have the ability to instill a love for the outdoors in their children. Put down the phone, turn off the TV and get outdoors with your kids!