Welcoming Summer with Curiosity and Nature Play.

Early June is a perfect time to reconnect with nature as a family, and we embrace every opportunity to spend time outdoors. This season is all about insects, flowers, and natural discovery. Since our son, Theo Vilje, was just four months old, we’ve taken him on camping trips. We bring a tent, fishing rods, and cook meals over an open fire.

In those early months, Theo Vilje would lie on the ground, mesmerized by the grass and pine needles. Now, as a curious and energetic toddler, he joins us in setting up camp, helps with outdoor tasks, and collects natural treasures like sticks, rocks, and pinecones—turning them into animals and insects with his imagination.

The Joy of Curiosity in Young Children

When Theo Vilje turned one, we traveled to Malaysia and Indonesia. That year, his curiosity for animals blossomed. He was fascinated by everything that moved—especially creatures he could gently touch or hug.

At two years old, his love for nature has only grown stronger. He explores the outdoors freely, chasing insects, picking flowers, attending to the garden, and finding joy in sharing discoveries with other children. For Theo Vilje, outdoor play and nature exploration are the most exciting parts of every day.

Traveling with a Baby: Embracing Simplicity and Wonder

June also sparks curiosity in us as parents—it’s a time for family travel and cultural exploration. During Theo Vilje’s first year, we explored Norway. The following summer, we spent several months traveling across Southeast Asia with a baby.

Since we were frequently on the move, we didn’t follow a strict routine of toddler activities. Instead, we embraced curiosity as our theme. No matter where you go, insects and flowers are easy to find. These small discoveries kept Theo Vilje engaged and made each place feel familiar. During these early years, collecting and exploring nature has become a meaningful part of our family rhythm—whether gathering treasures or letting them go again.

Camping and Traveling in Norway with a Toddler

We’ve also explored Norway several times—once when Theo Vilje was four months old, and again when he was two. During these adventures, we adapted our days based on the weather and his interests. On rainy days, we added more structured toddler activities, always using what we can find around us.

We travel light: a tent, a knife, a fishing rod, never more then we need. We tell stories, sing songs, and let nature provide the rest. For toddlers, simplicity is often best. While the gear may help us as parents, children is happiest turning stones and cones into characters, using their imagination to bring nature to life.

These moments have taught us how traveling with kids can be both enriching and rewarding. With a sense of curiosity and a love of the outdoors, even the smallest trip becomes an adventure.