Making Sure Your Children Have Fun Camping

Authors: Genaro Westbrook

Americans are experiencing a health and weight epidemic like never before, and children are not immune to it. Modern children have countless distractions that keep them indoors instead of going outside to play. TV, computers, and video games are all major culprits in keeping children glued to their seats at home instead of getting fit while playing outside. If you want to get your children outside enjoying some fresh air, then consider taking them camping.

As you prepare to go on a camping trip, you need to think about each child's limitations. For instance, little kids will have trouble navigating the rocky terrain of the Grand Canyon, while teenagers would enjoy the challenge. If children are accustomed to being exclusively indoors, roughing it on a deserted island only accessed by canoe may be a bit extreme. Keep reality in mind.

Have your kids provide input about the activities and have them participate in the packing. If feasible, let them pick from two or three approved locations. They might be interested in deciding which foods to take. Have them choose some activities that the whole family will participate in when on the camping trip. Maybe they will want to go swimming, hiking, biking, or exploring. Maybe, they will just want to hang out with the family around the campfire.

You can help them understand how important nature is by enjoying it to the fullest. Take walks, look for flowers and critters, and keep a nature journal of interesting things. Use outdoor opportunities to teach children outdoor safety and respect for nature and wildlife.

A great way to prepare for the actual camping trip is to stay out in the backyard for a night. To prepare for any hiking you might do, you can go to some nearby hiking trails.

Remember that not everything on your camping foray will go as you planned it, so be prepared. You never know when a heavy rain will occur, someone will fall in a pond, or a stray dog will run off with your shoes. It is therefore wise to pack extra clothing and arm yourself with an extra pair of shoes, anti-allergy medicines, and other necessary supplies to make sure these minor issues do not ruin your trip. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.

A first aid kit should also be part of your camping gear. Bring flashlights and batteries, and, if possible, carry a cell phone for emergency use only. If you have a small child who is nervous about new places, bring a much-loved toy and light stick or a mini battery-operated camp lantern. This helps them feel safe and secure.

Just in case there should be rain, it is best to be prepared with some indoor activities as well Let the children bring a couple of their favorite possessions, such as a toy, sports equipment, or a book. You want to make the camping trip as fun as possible.

Your trip will absolutely not go as planned. Whether that results in a good or bad trip depends heavily on your attitude. Make sure you stay optimistic and deal with situations as they arise. You should also plan to have some downtime so your kids aren't over-scheduled. Don't make your camping trip a chore to your kids, but still involve them in the work. Be willing to explore, play catch, or go for a hike, as well as take a break when your children require it. Teach your children what to do in dangerous circumstances, and set boundaries around your camp so they don't get lost. Don't be overprotective, but don't be too relaxed either. Try to find a nice balance. Your kids should have your permission to get dirty. That is what makes camping fun, after all.

The camping days will always be a memory to be cherished by all family members. Your children will discover how much fun it is to explore outside and will show more interest in the great outdoors. Camping can also inspire kids to spend more time outside and less time with their electronic appendages.