8 Before 8

Roarsome is turning 8. That's right we're growing up too!

To celebrate, we’re sharing eight things that every child should do before turning eight, in hope of sparking a lifetime of adventure

Growing up is full of firsts. These early years are about being curious, finding out what you're capable of, what excites you, what challenges you and what you love.

Riding a bike without stabilisers, sleeping under the stars, shredding your first ski slope.

That's where some of life's greatest memories are made.

We believe childhood should be full of moments like these. Chances to be brave, get muddy, discover something new and come home with a story to tell.

So here’s our 8 before 8. A little inspiration for your next family adventure, with plenty of room to go at your own pace.

Whether you’re four, eight or forty-eight, there’s always another first waiting outside.

1. Master the cannonball

Small person. Enormous splash.

Knees tucked. Grin firmly in place. A splash that gets everyone on the sun loungers.

There’s a particular joy in learning to love the water. The ability to swim builds confidence for the whole family and opens a whole new world of adventures. Family holidays then come with water-sports, boat trips, underwater discoveries, afternoons in the pool and lazy days at the beach.

It all begins with mastering that cannonball.

Start with swimming confidence, then work on that splash.

2. Surf your first wave

A few seconds you’ll remember forever.

First come the wobbles. Then the wipeouts. Then, suddenly, you’re standing — and your first wave is carrying you towards the beach.

Learning to surf is full of moments worth celebrating, from your first paddle to finding your feet. A beginner lesson with a surf school is a brilliant way to get started, with an instructor choosing conditions suited to your age and ability.

Pull on a wetsuit, give it a go and maybe one day it will become a lifestyle. There's always a cosy robe waiting for you when you get out.

3. Ride full speed through a puddle

A bit of spray. A lot of shred.

Back in our time it took a while to lose the stabilisers. These days the transition from balance bike to pedals is much quicker.

A few reassuring hands on the saddle and then let them fly.

There's not many things that make you feel more alive than riding full speed through a puddle shortly after finding your feet on pedals.

A feeling of pure glee. That's living and those are the moments that stick with you forever.

So get that helmet on. Roarsome Riders kit ready. See where your wheels take you.

4. Hit the slopes

The best place on Earth.

There’s priceless magic in your first ski trip. The crunchy footsteps. The clouds of breath. The discovery that you can actually slide down a mountain.

Mastering a new challenge, with your family, amongst the most spectacular scenery that the world has to offer. Now that's what we're here for.

It starts with a funny shuffle across the snow. The first snowplough. The discovery that turning and stopping are rather useful skills. And, somewhere between the tumbles and the hot chocolate, that moment it all starts to click.

A first ski lesson can happen on a family mountain holiday or at an indoor snow centre closer to home. Wrapped in cosy layers and a favourite animal snowsuit, even the smallest skier can feel ready for something big.

We've got a family ski trip planned this Easter if you want to join?

5. Skate a ramp

Let the butterflies come along for the ride.

A ramp can look pretty big when you’re standing at the bottom of it.

Start small. Learn your balance, pushing and stopping on flat ground, then try a gentle slope with help from a skate coach. A helmet, pads and room to move belong in every beginner’s kit.

One day, the slope that seemed enormous will feel familiar. You might even spot someone else looking nervous and give them a cheer.

That’s a good thing to learn at the skatepark, too.

6. Sleep under canvas

Swap your bedroom ceiling for the stars.

A torch beside your pillow. A sleeping bag zipped to your chin. The sound of birds, breeze and someone rustling the snack bag.

Camping makes familiar things feel exciting again. Setting up base becomes a team effort. Dinner tastes different outdoors. Even brushing your teeth turns into an expedition.

For your first family camping adventure, the back garden counts. So does a campsite close to home. Pack warm layers, waterproofs and your favourite bedtime companion.

Wake up, unzip the door and see what the world brings.

7. Climb a tree

Find a little courage in the branches.

Find a foothold. Choose a branch. Work out where your hand should go next. Then comes the proud grin when you look down and realise you’ve climbed up all by yourself.

Climbing a tree is a little lesson in patience, problem-solving and trusting yourself. Each move takes thought. Sometimes you pause, try a different route or decide you’re happy exactly where you are.

Choose a sturdy tree with low branches, have a grown-up close by and take your time finding your way up and back down. There’s plenty of adventure just a little way off the ground.

8. Connect with the planet

Get to know the world you’re growing up in.

Watch a beetle find its way through the grass. Listen to the birdsong. Learn the name of a tree. Look closely into a rock pool and discover how much life fits into one little space.

Connecting with nature starts with paying attention. The more familiar a place becomes, the more reasons you find to care for it.

Give wildlife room. Appreciate your surroundings. Bring your rubbish home. Pass on your clothes to the next mini adventurer.

If we can inspire kids to fall in love with the great outdoors from a young age, we can empower them to protect their planet as they grow up.

Eight years of Roarsome. A lifetime of adventure ahead.

For our eighth birthday, we’re celebrating the moments that stay with us: first tries, proud smiles, new friendships and days that end with muddy clothes by the door.

They’re the reason we make outdoor clothing for kids. From swimwear and wetsuits to ski suits, biking kit and rainwear, we’re here for every adventure, whatever the weather.

Which of our 8 before 8 will you try next?