We all know how exciting it is to welcome the new little member of the house. We are always eager to celebrate those little milestones such as that awesome first smile, first words and first step. Seeing your babies grow and develop from one stage to the next stage is surely an exciting moment in one’s life. Apart from the normal children’s developments, to the outdoor lovers, there is also another special milestone worth looking forward to; that first hike!
Parenting toddlers and even older children is a stressful endeavour. Every parent will agree to the fact that parenthood is one special career without off days no matter how tired you are. Thus, getting an opportunity to go out there and indulge in the fresh air can work wonders for both the parents and their kids.
Hiking with kids can be lots of fun and an incredible way to bond as a family. In fact, if you just became a parent recently and you are now thinking about taking a break for your outdoor activities, for your information, that is not the way to go. Interestingly, you are now beginning another beautiful chapter of your outdoor affairs. It’s time you get prepared for the greater fun. Besides, you can’t wait for your kids to head to college for you to restart your hobby. Taking a break after childbirth is absolutely okay but after that, you need to get back to your older self but this time around together with your babies.
However, going out there with kids without a plan can be really messy. Kids require constant attention, care and guidance. This is something that can drain even the most adventurous parent. But no need to worry, this article is written to help parents and their little ones enjoy spending time on the trail.
Tips when hiking with kids
If you want your kids to enjoy hiking and purpose to do it even when they are adults, use these tips:
Be flexible
Flexibility is the key to a joyous hiking experience when kids are involved. For kids, the beauty of hiking is not about reaching a certain destination within a certain duration but rather exploring the trail plus the surroundings. Hence, if you want them to have fun and look forward to the next hiking trip, be flexible. Be ready to change plans if the kids seem to get bored. Be keen and observe the things that are interesting to them more. A plan that makes everyone happy is more rewarding.
Allow the kids to set the pace
This is not the time to show your dictatorial side not unless you are doing this for the last time. If you want hiking to be part of your family outdoor activities, then let the children have some control. Allowing them to make some choices along the way or set the pace won’t spoil them. It doesn’t have to be anything serious. Simple things such as letting them decide on when to stop to have lunch or giving them ample time to explore their surroundings. You can even allow them to play with the things they find interesting on the trail as long as they are safe and you are going to put them back before leaving.
Keep them well-hydrated
Remember to pack enough fluids especially water. Dehydration is not something you want to subject your kids to when you’re out there. Kids may get so occupied with the surroundings and fail to realize they are thirsty. Thus, make it your duty to remind them to sip some drink even if it’s after every thirty minutes. If you top it up with high energy food, your kids will remain in good spirit throughout the trip.
Consider a short interesting hike
Kids get bored very easily. They need to come across interesting views along the way for them to enjoy the hike. Pick a trail with attractions such as a waterfall, a historic site, a lake or a stream. The kids will find such things interesting and make them love their hike. Also, ensure you allow them enough time to explore and investigate what they have just discovered.
Offer a helping hand
Don’t feel frustrated if your little ones decide they can’t walk any further. Kids can break down if they are tired, frustrated or just bored. No matter the reason, don’t make the mistake of assuming them. This will only worsen the situation. Instead, take your time to listen to their predicament, offer a solution and move on. This way, the kid won’t fear going hiking next time.
Benefits of hiking with kids
Probably you are wondering why you should do all these while you have a chance to leave the kids behind. Well, hiking is one outdoor adventure that can benefit your kids a lot and teach them remarkable things that they may never have known if they weren’t introduced to hiking at a tender age. The benefits are quite many but to top it up, here are the benefits your little ones will get from hiking.
They become responsible
Hiking can be a tiring affair. Thus, to keep the kids going, they have to bring along enough snacks and drinks. Although you can carry the snacks for them, it’s important to train them to carry their personal belongings. This helps them to understand that in life, to get certain results you have to work hard to attain them. That is, for them to enjoy the snacks, they must carry them. Training your children to carry their things will not only reduce what the parents will carry but it also helps the kids to be more responsible even in their adult life.
Goal achievers
When you accomplish your hiking mission, the kids feel they have accomplished a great mission. Help them by setting realistic goals depending on their age and strength. When they finish the line, congratulate them with a treat. You’ll find that they will all be looking forward to that finish line. Such a trait will help them achieve greater things later in life. Kids who have overcome the challenges of hiking and emerged victoriously will stop at nothing to get what they want.
Appreciate nature
Have you ever come across adults who don’t care about their surroundings? It’s probably because they were never trained to appreciate nature when they were growing up. Hiking enthusiasts and outdoor lovers will tell you how disgusting it is to find garbage on the trails. If you happen to come across garbage when hiking with your children, teach them to collect it and throw it at the garbage can. They might resist at the beginning but if you lead by example, they will surely appreciate the importance of leaving no trace on the hiking trails now and in the future.
Kids and hiking
Hiking offers an amazing opportunity for parents and their kids to spend time together in a fun way. It is also an economical way for young families who may not afford to go on luxurious vacations. As long as you have done your research, invested in the right gear, chosen the right destination at the right time, nothing should stop you from having an unforgettable hiking experience.
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