Riding along in a kid's wagon is so exciting for little ones, but it's more than just plain fun—while they're watching the world go by from their "open cockpit," youngsters have a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the outdoors. Whether you're going for a spin around the neighborhood or rolling along on the beach, a forest path, or down on the farm, make the most of your family's next wagon adventure with our tips:

Dress children for the weather

Just as you would for any outdoor play, be sure to dress them in layers (as appropriate) for lots of temperature settings. A hat is also a good idea, whether it's to keep their little heads warm or to protect them from the sun.

Don't forget the sun block

Being dressed for the weather includes protecting sensitive skin from sunburn, even on cloudy days.

Pack favorite snacks and drinks

They'll enjoy munching as they ride along. And of course, a picnic at the park or playground is always a special treat.

Encourage little riders to look up, down, and all around

There's so much to take in, from the clouds in the sky all the way down to the grass on the ground. Point out all the sights and sounds so they don't miss one exciting thing.

Make every wagon ride a nature ride

Share with your children the names of trees, flowers, and birds on your route. If you're not familiar with them, don't worry -- try checking out a book or searching the web for identification guides.

Be sure to stop and "smell the roses…"

…and see the busy bugs, listen to the birds, and experience all the other wonders the outdoors has to offer. When you or your child see something interesting, take a "pit stop" and spend some time investigating it.

Bring along plenty of discovery items for exploring

Tools like binoculars, magnifying glasses, and butterfly nets are must-haves for little nature explorers.

Blow bubbles, blow bubbles, blow bubbles!

Bring a spill-proof container of bubble solution for on-the-go floaty fun.

Play word and counting games

Word games could include thinking up words that rhyme or words for each letter of the alphabet, and naming shapes and colors. Also, you can make a game of 1-2-3s by counting the number of houses or trees passed, how long it takes to get to the next mailbox, etc.

Make up your own "Wagon Ride" song

Singing isn't just for car trips -- try coming up with a song to sing together on wagon outings. Include things you typically see on rides, how riding feels, your children's names, or anything else you can think of. It doesn't have to be fancy, just fun!

Go for rides at different times of day

Take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather of spring and summer and go for an early-morning or evening ride—little ones might discover new insects, birds, and more.

Relive the day's outing when you get home

When the ride comes to an end, the fun doesn't have to! Help your children recall the excitement of their ride by talking about or drawing pictures of things they saw and experienced.