6 Ways to Get Your Kids Hiking
By: Sarah Thomsen
Tags: Nature Walk, Hiking, Children, Tips And Tricks, Hiking With Kids

With TV, games, and toys competing for your child’s attention, being outside could be the last place they want to be.

But whether it’s a vacation to the mountains or a local day hike, the tips below could help the transition run more smoothly.

1. Get outside. A LOT.

Fostering your child’s love for the outdoors could mean letting them get a little dirty.

Let them puddle-jump, collect weird things, feel the ground beneath their toes.

It goes beyond fresh air.

Harvard University says to get your little ones outside is not only good for their health but also crucial for their development.

Vitamin D and exercise are great reasons to spend time outside, but did you know that unstructured time outside helps children problem solve? It creates a safe space for risk-taking and responsibility. Promoting a love for nature, creativity, and imagination.

All things that will ultimately make time outside more enjoyable for them and for you.

2. Talk about it.

If you’re excited about your hike, chances are it will catch.

Children that are prepared for what’s to come experience less anxiety and stress. It’s like saying ‘it’s almost time for bed’ an hour before-hand so they have time to process it.

Books can be the best way to dive into visual explanations. Find some of the following titles at your local library or bookstore–

And most likely, the characters in their favorite TV show go on an outdoorsy adventure at least once or twice. Flip it on and watch it with them for extra effect.

3. Show them ‘the gear’.

If you’re planning on hitting the trails, share the equipment you’ll be taking along.

Whether it’s a headlamp, a map, or the carrier they’ll ride in, let your child get involved in the planning process. This encourages questions and gives you a chance to show how excited you are.

Have a test-run camp-out and set up a tent in your backyard or your living room. Let your kids roast marshmallows over a candle, and sleep in a sleeping bag.

I know I still remember when my parents let me set up my little wal-mart tent in the backyard, holding a flashlight until I fell asleep.

4. Give them a job to do.

For older kids, entrusting them with a job can make them feel confident and important.

Talk it up.

Let them ‘navigate’ with the map, or maybe they’re in charge of an important snack!

Sometimes the only way my dad could get me and my brothers up a mountain… was the promise of chocolate pudding. (Do I use this bribery today? Well, yes I do.)

A compass is a great lightweight tool for little ones to carry.

(Make sure an adult is always aware of direction.)

5. Make it interactive.

Bring along a journal, or nature bingo.

It’s a great reason to get outside, but also a good way to break up the monotony of walking.

Some great options are linked below.

Creating a prize is a great idea for some of those more resistant kids.

6. Make it memorable.

Remember disposable camera’s?

They’re a light, easy way to keep your kids entertained on trail. It’s a great ‘Leave-no-trace’ way to bring it back to #5. Without disturbing natural wildlife and delicate flora and fauna, you can document things you’ve found.

Not to mention the great memories to look back on once they’re developed.

If you’re lucky you’ll get more than just pictures of thumbs.

So get out there and enjoy the benefits of nature!

It doesn’t have to be work. Incorporating any of these tips into your daily life will strengthen your child’s love for the outdoors. Not to mention getting on trail easier and more enjoyable for all involved.