Screens are everywhere. Tablets at the table, YouTube in the car, and smartwatches that somehow outsmart us. But according to Steve Backshall, the wild outdoors still has the upper hand—and it might be the best parenting tool we’ve got.
On The Dadsnet Podcast, we welcomed one of the most requested guests ever—wildlife presenter, adventurer, and dad-of-three, Steve Backshall. Known for Deadly 60, Steve’s not only helped kids learn about nature, he’s inspired entire families to step outside and see it for themselves.
But as he told us in our chat, nature isn’t just something to learn about—it’s something that fights back against the lure of tech.
“The outdoors is the only thing that offers the same buzz… but in a healthy way”
In a time where AI, algorithms and on-demand everything are shaping our kids’ lives, Steve says the answer to all our parenting worries might be simpler than we think: get outside.
“Nature gives them the same excitement, the same dopamine, the same energy—but with none of the downside,” Steve explains. “It’s our most powerful antidote to screen addiction.”
Whether it’s climbing a tree, hunting for bugs, or watching birds of prey glide overhead, Steve believes nature has a way of pulling kids in, and away from screens—without them even realising it.
No jungle? No problem.
We know what you’re thinking: Sure, it’s easy when you’ve got access to seals, sharks and safari parks.
But Steve’s quick to point out that outdoor magic doesn’t have to be exotic. In fact, most of the best stuff is right on our doorstep.
“You don’t need the jungle. You need your local park, your wildlife trust, your scouting group. That’s where it starts.”
He and his wife, Olympian Helen Glover, even wrote a book—Wildlings—packed with tips on how to bring nature into everyday parenting, even if you’ve never put up a tent or lit a fire in your life.
Takeaway for Dads
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Trade guilt for go-time: You don’t need to be Bear Grylls. Just get outside with your kids.
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Start small: A bug hunt in the garden beats another hour of screen time.
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Outdoors = bonding: You’ll both feel better, and they’ll remember it longer than another episode of whatever’s trending.
Steve’s ultimate advice? Don’t overthink it. Whether it’s pond-dipping, stargazing, or even just getting muddy, those moments build confidence, curiosity—and connection.
Want more from Steve?
If you’re feeling inspired (or just need a boost to finally organise that family walk), don’t miss the full conversation. Steve shares hilarious stories from the Deadly tour, the truth about parenting in the public eye, and what happened when his 5-year-old jumped off a kayak to swim with a seal. Yes—really.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Dadsnet Podcast featuring Steve Backshall here!
