What if the weather wasn’t the problem — just our mindset about it?
Join bestselling author and nature advocate Linda McGurk for a down-to-earth conversation about outdoor play, child development, and how to make time in nature part of your family’s everyday rhythm no matter the weather, your schedule, or where you live.
Linda shares her approach to friluftsliv, the Scandinavian tradition of open-air living, and how it can help children thrive emotionally, physically, and even socially. Together, we talk about:
- What friluftsliv really means and why it’s so powerful for modern families
- How to handle cold (or hot!) weather with practical, affordable gear
- Why cold air doesn’t cause sickness and how time outside actually supports immunity
- Simple ways to make nature a priority even in cities or tight schedules
- The cultural shifts that make it harder for families to get outside and how to push back
- Adapting the “there’s no bad weather” mindset in a world of climate change and unpredictability
You’ll also hear honest answers to real parent questions, plus thoughtful tips for making outdoor time work for different ages, energy levels, and seasons of life.
This is for you if you’ve ever felt like outdoor time is important but just out of reach. Linda’s perspective will help you see what’s possible and how to make it work in your real life.
Timestamp
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:26 Meet Linda: Background and Achievements
01:52 Understanding Friluftsliv
03:37 Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children
06:30 Encouraging Daily Outdoor Time
10:13 Essential Outdoor Gear for All Seasons
16:15 Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions
18:40 Incorporating Nature in Urban Settings
21:26 Managing Outdoor Activities for Different Age Groups
25:24 Cultural Differences in Outdoor Play
29:55 Handling Environmental and Safety Concerns
36:37 Forest School Practices at Home
40:03 Personal Reflections and Closing Remarks
