Park Activities I do with my One-Year-Old.
I go to the park almost every day with my boy, if the weather allows us. He is super calm and quiet when he is outside. I feel like he is the one who makes the maximum use of being in the park. When I am there with him, the park feels like a different, magical wonderland. Every leaf and every sound holds wonder. These park activities awakes him more.
I recently read an article about outdoor embracing concept, “Friluftsliv” which emphasizes the beauty and validity of being with the nature.
As well, this park moments reminded me that “Friluftsliv moments” and it teaches me a beautiful lesson—to slow down and be mindful.
Today, I would love to share the fun and safe activities I do at the park with my boy. Every simple thing I do for him feels incredibly funny and exciting to him.
1. Sitting on the Grass Together
We sit side by side, touching the grass and feeling the earth beneath us. My baby’s tiny hands explore textures I once ignored, reminding me how beautiful simple things are. Yes, he tries to put everything into his mouth—haha—but I keep my sharp eyes on him.
2. Slow Stroller Walks
Sometimes we stand up from the place where we were sitting, get into the stroller, and go for two or three rounds. Our walks are never rushed. We stop often—to watch birds, feel the breeze, and smile at strangers. These moments feel peaceful, almost meditative. I feel like I am learning how to slow down.
3. Watching Other Children Play
We both watch older kids playing on the ground. He looks at them with wide eyes. There’s curiosity, excitement, and sometimes laughter. I see early signs of learning just by observing. I talk to him while watching and say things like, “You’ll be playing in this ground like that very soon.” No replies yet—but I know he is listening.
4. Singing Soft Songs
I sing nursery rhymes quietly, not caring who listens. My baby’s smile tells me everything I need to know—this is connection. His favorite, My Bonnie, is always on my lips. I sing it to him while sitting on the grass.
5. Blanket Time on the Ground
A simple blanket turns into a safe space for rolling, stretching, and giggling. I sit close, watching every little movement with wonder.
6. Playing Peekaboo
I cover my face with my hands and play peekaboo. His laughter echoes across the ground.
7. Pointing at Nature
I name trees, flowers, clouds, and birds. My baby may not understand yet, but I know these words are planting seeds. My words are not going in vain—for sure. Sometimes I pick up a fallen leaf and give it to him or place it in the stroller’s cup holder. He watches how it moves with the wind. Every time my heart melts.
8. Playing Simple Games
Clapping hands and making silly faces—these small games bring big joy and deepen our bond. And there are times we both swing, he is sitting on my lap, he closes his eyes and open up with the little swinging.
9. Letting My Baby Touch Safe Natural Objects
Leaves, bark, smooth stones—each touch is a discovery. I’m reminded that learning doesn’t need toys, just presence. He is learning through nature. Every feeling is so special to him, and the curiosity he gains by touching and exploring is priceless.
10. Taking Photos, Then Putting the Phone Away
I take a few photos or videos of his little mischief, then put my phone away. The real memories live in the laughter, the eye contact, and the shared silence.
Time moves quickly. One day, he will run ahead without holding my hand. These quiet park moments—slow, imperfect, and beautiful—are a gift .
Going to the park with my one-year-old isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being there, fully present, and letting love grow in the open air. This outdoor life is giving him countless memories.
What do you do with your toddler when you’re at the park?
