Hiking with kids is both beneficial for the young ones as well as for the parents. It helps everyone reconnect with nature and with one another. Since we live in an era which revolves around television, I pads and cellphones from time to time trading technology for nature is just what we need. There has been countless research pointing towards the benefits of walking among trees and breathing fresh air. In Japan scientists call it “forest therapy”, it clears the lung and reduces stress levels.
Hiking with kids
On the other hand, hiking with kids can be challenging at times. Which is why being well prepared will help you have a great time in the outdoors with your children. By following these tips hiking with kids will be a great adventure.
Finding the right hiking trail
Choose shorter trails for younger ones and as they grow slowly increase the length and difficulty. It is much easier to first tackle a smaller hike and not have to carry your child out. Try to incorporate a hiking trail which has a swimming hole, berries along it or high chances of wildlife sightings. Additionally if your kid is involved in the decision-making they will feel like they are not just dragged along to do their parents activity.
For hiking trails descriptions purchase my hiking book “Hikes of Western Newfoundland” by clicking here.
What to bring
Let your kids pack their own bags with your help. Bring tons of snacks, a healthy lunch, lots of water, and a change of clothes. Also don’t forget some sunscreen or a hat as well as warm layers and a rain jacket. Other extras could include a drawing book, binoculars, bathing suit and towel or maybe a compass and GPS. You can also put a plastic bin in the back of your car to put the dirty and wet clothes and shoes at the end of the hiking adventure. And most importantly pack a first aid kit with lots of band aids. I would highly recommend taking a basic first aid course.
Prepare games and activities
Turning your hike into a fun interactive game might entice your children to go out more often. Have them be the guide with a map in hand. Alternatively they could be on the lookout for certain wildlife or edible plants such as berries. Furthermore, geocaching has been on the rise and many families base their vacation time and destination around it. Another idea is to photograph a toy in as many different locations as possible and to then post the pictures on a map, geography class.
Know your kid
Every child is unique and no one knows them better than yourself. Thus it will be easy to turn hiking with kids into a memorable experience. Besides it is the time to break free from a classroom setting, let your child explore and push their limits. Taylor your activities to your child’s personality, interest and skills. Then read their body language in order to know when to turn back to prevent a frustrating end of a hike.
Summer is approaching quickly so start planning hiking adventures with your kids. For a few ideas check out our Adventure page.
Live Wildly Intrepid!
Carpe Diem
Alex
