Getting outside for your kids is non-negotiable. Not only is your child able to burn off energy, but they are able to reap the benefit of tons of health factors – both physical and mental health. One of my favorite ways to get outside with kids is hiking.
When we go on hikes, it is an adventure. The kids are required to push through until the end. If you have infants or early walking toddlers, I recommend babywearing. I have been hiking with kids long enough to know there are some easy tricks you can implement to make the hike exciting and enjoyable.
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Outdoor Scavenger Hunt for Kids
I like to make scavenger hunts to go with our weekly study in Exploring Nature with Children. But these scavenger hunts carry directly over to our hikes. I give each kid a clipboard, the hunt, and a pen, and we set off on a hike to find everything on the list! It gives the hike a fun purpose and also lets the kids observe their outdoor surroundings. This is a great way to help build awareness in your children.
You can grab my FREE Winter Scavenger Hunt here!
Dress for the Weather
Nothing will bring a hike down faster than an uncomfortable child. “There is no bad weather, just bad clothing.” Rain or Shine Mamma. So when you are getting ready for your hike, look at the weather. Do your littles need layers, do they need summer clothing, do they need rain gear? Keeping your child comfortable will help them to have fun and focus on the adventure at hand. Check out my suggestions for the perfect outdoor winter wear for children below.
Hiking Snacks
No matter how short the hike is with the kids, bring some snacks. We all know how a hungry meltdown happens and when your kiddo is hiking, they are burning energy which inherently makes them hungry. I like to bring a bottle of water, mixed nuts, fresh veggies, and fruit snacks (depending on how far we go). If it is chilly or cold, we take hot cocoa hikes and bring hot cocoa in a thermos. We LOVE using out RTIC thermoses and lunch bags for our outdoor adventures. They have family-friendly pricing and hold up to the outdoors.
Let Your Child Lead the Way
Letting your child take charge and lead a hike not only is exciting to them but it helps your child develop critical thinking skills, independence, and leadership skills. It also allows them to dawdle and take in everything around them. As a parent, it is exciting to see where they will lead you too!
Talk It Out
Your child wants nothing more than to have you interested in what they are doing. So when you are hiking, ask them about what they are seeing, hearing, smelling, etc. Ask them how they are feeling! Even if the conversation is not related to the outdoors, this is a wonderful time to strengthen your bond and pass the time on an outdoor adventure.
Some other fun ways I get my kids excited about going outdoors:
- Looking at the weather and having them find weather appropriate clothing
- Having them pick a theme for our hike
- Let them help prepare and pack the snacks
- Bring along your family pet
What are some of your favorite ways to get your kids engaged on your hikes?
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