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What if summer could feel like a choose-your-own-adventure book?

You've just found the nature-based, screen-free, low-stress guide to summer in Seattle.

Whether you're a seasoned Seattle parent (or caregiver) or just starting to explore all our region has to offer, this guide is here to help you rediscover your city, connect with nature, and take the pressure off planning a summer with kids.

LET'S GO!

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What's the guide all about?

8 themed weeks

Each theme is rooted in nature-based learning, getting kids outside, and encouraging embodied experiences.

Seattle-based

The guide includes low-cost adventures around the Greater Seattle area that tie into each week’s theme.

Simple, flexible fun

Each week is supported by book and music lists, printable checklists and maps, and customizable options.

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This isn’t another overwhelming schedule, it's

Your summer, your way

I know you have your own rhythm, so this guide won’t mess with that. You can follow the themes week-by-week, or skip around and just pick what looks fun.

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How it Works

Each week includes:

  • Monday: Intro to the theme with books and songs

  • Tuesday & Thursday: Adventure days (hikes, museums, parks, beaches, and more)

  • Wednesday: Optional playdates with other G.R.O.W. Guide families at a set time and place

  • Friday: Choose-your-adventure from a list of 60+ bonus ideas

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You'll also get:

  • Eight nature-based themes: Soil, Native Plants, Pollinators, Wildlife, Habitat, Meadow, Forest, Ocean

  • A printable calendar template to build your month, your way

  • Spotify playlists curated to keep littles engaged on car rides

  • A morning routine chart (I have a toddler, IYKYK)

  • 5 PNW native plant coloring pages with gardening tips

  • Linked book lists (reserve directly from Seattle Public Library)

  • Google Maps and website links for every outing

  • Checklists to get you out the door faster

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The best part?

This isn’t just a summer activity guide. It’s a toolkit for raising curious, climate-conscious, screen-balanced kids – kids who know their banana slugs from their sea stars, and who learn that fun doesn’t have to cost money or come with a power cord.

About

Hi Neighbor 👋

I’m Katelin – founder of Mother Grows Best, mother of two, graphic designer, gardener, and lifelong lover of the outdoors. I started this platform in 2024 to inspire families to get kids outside, strengthen community ties, and support local ecosystems.

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© 2025 Mother Grows Best

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