This Strange Phenomenon....Anyone Else?

[Rockgirl]

This happens all too often. Kids are super energetic in the playroom....running despite being reminded not to, yelling, just generally hyper. I have them clean up, take them outside, and when we get out, they all go look for a place to sit down. Say what? I spend the majority of our outside time MAKING them get up, telling them that now it's time to run, jump, climb, yell to their hearts' desires! Nope, they dawdle around, sit on the end of the slide, pull leaves off my plants (not allowed)....I don't get it! Sometimes I'll play active games with them, but I refuse to entertain them every minute, or guide every activity. Kids used to PLAY. Of course 10 minutes after we go back inside, they're running, yelling, etc. Ugh!!

[KSDC]

BTDT - Lately they have all wanted to play in my digging area with the shovel and toy dirt movers.

I find that if I get them up and started playing something (obstacle course, hide n seek, etc) they will usually keep moving, even after I stop and watch.

[nothingwithoutjoy]

Yes! But I think there's a good reason. I think nature is calming, and getting out there is what they needed to bring them back down. I wouldn't worry too much about what they're doing outside, I'd just add more time out there.

[Rockgirl]

Yes! But I think there's a good reason. I think nature is calming, and getting out there is what they needed to bring them back down. I wouldn't worry too much about what they're doing outside, I'd just add more time out there.

Well, I wouldn't mind, except they are running/yelling inside! I'd rather they get some of that energy out while we're outside.

[cheerfuldom]

yup. this is my group. Drives me bonkers. I have removed all seating in the backyard except for my seat and the kids are not allowed on the patio. They are directed to the grass, swing set, toys, etc. I dont what the deal is and I have one 3 year old that is especially bad about this. climbing all over the place inside but will stand by the backdoor for an hour if we go out.

[rosieteddy]

I start and end outdoor time with a twenty min walk.Anyone over 2 walks.I have safety straps in the front and back of the stroller .It seems to calm them down and gets them an arms lengh from each other.When we get to the yard I do have to say no laying around this is the time to run and jump.At least with the walk they come in wash up and calmly wait for lunch.

[nothingwithoutjoy]

Well, I wouldn't mind, except they are running/yelling inside! I'd rather they get some of that energy out while we're outside.

Oh, yes, I get it. I mean to say, if they stay out there longer, eventually they might get to moving around more. Or at least it'll shorten the indoor yelling time! :-)

[Kabob]

I make them play mandatory "follow the leader" with me whenever the kiddos have a case of jelly legs outside...works every time...even if I have to deal with a little whining, at least they have no fight left in them come lunch time...