Act like you are 50-year-old walking in a park
Act like a 50-year-old walking in a park: practice slower steps, observe nature, note sounds and feelings, and record observations in a short journal.
Step-by-step guide to act like a 50-year-old walking in a park
Step 1
Put on your comfortable shoes.
Step 2
Pick up your small notebook and pencil.
Step 3
Ask an adult to go with you to the park.
Step 4
Walk to the park entrance.
Step 5
Stand still at the park entrance.
Step 6
Close your eyes.
Step 7
Imagine you are 50 years old.
Step 8
Take five slow deep breaths.
Step 9
Start walking at a slow steady pace and count each step out loud to 20.
Step 10
Look around and name three things you can see out loud.
Step 11
Stop and listen quietly for one full minute.
Step 12
Open your notebook and write down up to three sounds you heard.
Step 13
Sit on a bench and write one word about how your body feels after walking slowly.
Step 14
Draw a quick sketch or write one short sentence about your favorite moment from the walk.
Step 15
Share your finished journal entry and sketch on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use instead of a small notebook and pencil if those are not available?
Use a folded sheet of paper and a crayon, a sticky note, or the phone's Notes app to record the sounds in the step 'Open your notebook and write down up to three sounds you heard' and to sketch your favorite moment.
What if the child has trouble staying still and quiet for the 'Stop and listen quietly for one full minute' step?
Try a shorter 30-second timer, practice by counting breaths together before the walk, or sit on the bench with your adult to reduce distractions so the child can complete the listening step.
How can we adapt the counting and journaling parts for different ages?
For toddlers, count aloud to 10 during 'Start walking...count each step out loud to 20' and let them scribble a drawing instead of writing, while older children can count to 30 and write a short paragraph about their favorite moment.
What are simple ways to extend or personalize the activity before sharing on DIY.org?
Bring colored pencils to add color to the 'Draw a quick sketch,' take a photo of your favorite moment to upload with your entry, and add one extra sentence about how being 50 changed how you walked.
Watch videos on how to act like a 50-year-old walking in a park
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Tips for Older Hikers and Backpackers
Facts about mindfulness and role-play for kids
👂 Quiet listening in a park can reveal many layers of sound: bird calls, rustling leaves, insects, and distant traffic.
🧓 Roleplaying as a 50-year-old helps kids practice empathy and notice changes in pace, posture, and patience.
🚶 Slower walking lets your brain take in more sights and sounds—great for spotting small details.
🌳 Spending 20–30 minutes in green spaces can boost mood and lower stress.
📝 Writing a short journal after a walk helps you remember feelings and tiny observations later.
How do I guide my child to act like a 50-year-old walking in a park?
What materials do I need for the 50-year-old park walk activity?
What ages is acting like a 50-year-old on a park walk suitable for?
What are the benefits of practicing a slow, observant park walk and journaling?
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