30. How We Use Technology Outside

Welcome to Happy Outdoor Families, the podcast that is designed to motivate and equip families to spend more time outside. In today's episode, I talk a little bit about my approach to technology, specifically phone use, when we are outside. Tech doesn't have to be all or nothing, and I hope this episode helps you to navigate what ways tech might add value to your time outside, and also what ways it is not. I also share five apps that I love, that I believe have added value to our outdoor adventures! They are all free, and can be found in your phone's app store.

1. AllTrails - great for finding new hiking trails that are a good fit for your family!

2. Seek by iNaturalist - this app allows you to identify all different types of plants and other wildlife while you are out exploring, simply by snapping a picture! We LOVE this app!

3. Merlin BirdID - The Cornell Lab of Ornithology developed this app to help people identify birds in their area. The Bird ID works really well and is simple to use, and they recently added sound ID, which is SO fun!

4. Twigs Outdoors - I have talked about this app in detail on the show before, check out episode 22 for an interview with the creator! We enjoy having this available on days that we need some play inspiration.

5. Plum's Photo Hunt - this would be a great one to hold onto for a day that you have a child who needs a little pick me up. They are able to complete "photo missions" outside, with basic picture prompts.

I also mention the kids camera that we purchased for our daughter and LOVE! Linked here: https://amzn.to/2U0AQar

I would love to hear how you have used technology to enhance your time outdoors, or how you have eliminated it or created limits for yourself! Leave a review with your thoughts or come and find me over on instagram @happyoutdoorfamilies