Meals and Snacks Outside
This is probably the simplest way to get outside more consistently.
Bring the food outside! You could make it a picnic or simply grab your snack and sit outside your door.
Plan Ahead/Simple Meals
As a family, we strive to prioritize homemade meals. And when the weather gets warmer, the less time I want to spend in the kitchen. Therefore our meals become simpler and easier (i.e. sandwiches, snack trays, smoothies). Which makes it easier on a nicer day to either pack up food and go or spend less time inside prepping.
Keep Diaper Bag (Essentials) Packed and Ready To Go
I try to restock the diaper bag at the end of each day. We also keep essentials like hats, sunscreen, and bug spray right by the door or already packed so I have everything ready to grab and not searching around the house.
Walk or Bike? Change up how you travel
Try walking or biking to school, the store, a friends house, etc. It will take some extra time, but your body and mental state will thank you for the exercise and fresh air.
I know this specific activity depends on where you live. We have a very small amount of stores in a close enough walking distance.
Nap Outside
This advice mostly applies to babies and toddlers. Napping outside has so many benefits and is a common practice in Scandinavian countries.
When my son was taking multiple naps, at least one of his naps during the day was outside, whether in the stroller, on a walk, or in a carrier. This also helped me also not feel bound to the house as he learned to nap wherever!
(This can apply to adults too- have you ever had a nap in a hammock? It's wonderful!)
Final Thoughts...
Don't Let the Mess Stop You
It's spring, it's going to rainy and muddy. Kids and clothes are washable. If you're worried about the mess, here's some tips:
-Keep a towel by your entryway
-Splash suits help kids stay dry and cleanish
-Have extra clothes that you don't care if they get ripped or dirty (bonus- have a couple different sets)
-When the weather is warm enough, use your hose to clean off before entering inside