The pumpkin patch at Plantation Pines, located 10098 CR 429 in Tyler, opened Saturday.

The long days of summer may be far behind us, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop enjoying being outside! The crisp air and shorter days may influence kids to give up outside play. But establishing regular fall activities for children and adults is still important – and very doable. East Texas has such beautiful fall weather, it is time to get outside and enjoy it.

It’s recommended that kids get an average of 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Introduction of fall-themed activities can help kids to stay active and enjoy the outdoors longer.

1. Pumpkin/Apple Picking: Skip the hayride to the pumpkin patch or apple orchard and choose to walk. Not only will you be getting physical activity, but you’ll be also picking healthy foods.

2. Raking (and Jumping in) Leaves: Encourage children to lend a helping hand with household chores by raking leaves. Working together as a family to rake and move leaves will establish great family bonding time. Plus, kids may be more interested in participating if they can dive into that amazing pile afterwards.

3. Hiking: Lace up your sneakers and go enjoy a fall foliage hike! Utilize your closest state or local park to find safe hiking or trail locations. No matter where you are, there should be a natural area of beauty to explore. The autumn season brings with it some striking hues of red, orange, and yellow which can take your breath away, especially if you hike up to a viewpoint.

4. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt for kids to complete. Add a time element to help increase physical activity. Searching for leaves, acorns, sticks, and other objects will help kids keep a fun goal in mind, without focusing on physical activity.

5. Corn Maze: Get lost in a corn maze! Many pumpkin patches have corn mazes for hours of wandering and exploring. Use the time to help teach kids about navigation and directions. The colder air of fall shouldn’t limit activities for children. So, grab a jacket and hat, plan those fall activities, and head outdoors!