Getting your kid out of the house during the summer can be a feat. Some kids would rather watch TV or play video games than enjoy all the splendor that nature has to offer. However, providing them with an outdoor experience can help them connect with nature and learn more about the world around them. Hiking can be a terrific family activity, but it can also be intimidating for parents. These simple tips will help make your hiking trip fun for the whole family.
Smaller children probably don’t have the stamina or physical ability to hike long, grueling paths, so start simple. Short, easy paths are ideal for beginning hikers. Better still, try to find an easy path that reaches a feature destination, like a waterfall or scenic lookout. This can give young hikers a clear goal.
Taking frequent breaks can help prevent children from getting tired and cranky. Plus, it gives the whole family an opportunity to linger at pretty spots along the trail.
Snacks can make any trip more fun. Since your kids will burn a lot of energy hiking, snacks can be particularly important to keep them fueled. Portable options like trail mix, nuts, and granola bars can be convenient.
Even on a short hike, your kid may need a hand wipe, tissue, bandage, sunblock, bug spray, lip balm or other items to provide for their physical well-being. To make the hike even more fun, you could also bring things like binoculars, a magnifying glass, or a camera to give your kids additional activities.
Pay attention to the weather forecast when you choose what to wear, but always be prepared for changing conditions. Bringing rain gear and extra layers just in case can help keep a hike comfortable even if weather conditions change. You should also consider where you are hiking when selecting clothing. If you are hiking in an area with high grass and ticks, wear long pants and socks to help prevent bites.
Kids can get bored easily. Making up games to play on the hike can help keep things light and fun. For instance, you might make a list of things for your children to look for, like certain types of trees or flowers. This can make the hike feel like a scavenger hunt while encouraging your children to pay attention to the natural world around them.
With the right approach, a family hike can be a fun and affordable activity that creates lasting memories.
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