Blog

World Mental Health Day is 10th October, and it’s a lovely opportunity to pause and think about the wellbeing of ourselves and our little ones.

At Spotty Otter, we believe that childhood should be full of exploring, playing, getting muddy, discovering new things and making memories outdoors. While getting outside isn’t a solution to every mental health challenge, there are lots of little ways that time outdoors can support positive wellbeing.

Get outside and explore

Sometimes, a change of scenery can make all the difference.

A walk through the woods, a trip to the park, a puddle-jumping adventure or simply playing in the garden gives children the chance to move, explore and enjoy some time away from screens and everyday routines.

And it doesn’t have to be a big adventure. Ten minutes outside is still ten minutes outside!

So pull on the wellies, grab a coat and see where the day takes you.

 Make time for movement

Being active is important for both physical and mental wellbeing.

For little ones, this doesn’t have to mean organised sports or structured exercise. Running around, climbing, jumping, riding bikes, exploring the garden or going for a family walk all count.

The best bit? When children are having fun, they often don’t even realise they’re exercising!

Keep conversations open

Looking after children's mental health isn’t just about keeping them busy. It’s also about making space for them to talk about how they feel.

Try asking simple questions such as:

“How are you feeling today?”

“What was your favourite part of your day?”

“Was there anything that made you feel worried or upset?”

And remember, sometimes children might not want to talk straight away. Letting them know that you’re there when they’re ready can be just as important.

Enjoy the little things

Childhood is full of small moments that can bring joy — finding the biggest conker, jumping in a puddle, spotting a robin, building a den or enjoying a picnic outside.

These little moments can create opportunities to slow down, connect and enjoy being together.

This autumn, why not make a Little Adventure List with your family?

• Find five conkers
• Make a pile of leaves
• Spot some wildlife
• Jump in the biggest puddle you can find
• Have an outdoor picnic
• Explore somewhere you've never been before
• Find something that makes you smile
  
  

Looking after ourselves too

As parents and carers, it’s easy to put everyone else first. But looking after our own wellbeing matters too.

Taking a little time for yourself, getting outside, talking to someone you trust or simply having a quiet moment can all be valuable.

You don’t have to have everything figured out. Sometimes, taking things one little step at a time is enough.

This World Mental Health Day...

Let’s celebrate the little things that make us smile, make time for the people we love and remember that big adventures can start with small steps.

So, pull on those wellies, head outside and make some memories together. 

From all of us at Spotty Otter, be happy!