How to Make Hiking Fun with Kids
How to Make Hiking Fun with Kids
Kids always seem to have too much energy, help them use it productively with a family hike! Here is how to make hiking fun with kids!
Taking a hike with your family can be an excellent way for your kids to be more active and get out in nature. However, sometimes your kids can get bored quickly or just not be in the mood to hike. As a parent, we’ve all been there before. There is whining, and what was supposed to be a fun day outside is ruined. Here are some tips to make hiking fun with kids to avoid meltdowns.
Related: How to Start Hiking for Absolute Beginners
Hungry kids are unhappy kids
It might sound funny to think about, but the reality is that hungry kids are unhappy kids. Hiking is a very strenuous activity, and it’s more than most kids are used to. When your legs are half the size, and you aren’t used to that kind of activity, it takes a lot of work. Make sure that you bring a lot of snacks to keep the energy up and also to encourage your kids to stick with it. If your kids are throwing tantrums, they might just be hungry.
Plan your hike with your kids
While it’s okay to make some decisions yourself on what hikes to take, get your little ones involved in the process. Give them options such as attractions along the hike or which hike to take. Build up the anticipation for a fun hike by giving them a sense of choice. No one wants to feel like they’re being dragged on an outdoor excursion. However, even giving them the choice of where to stop for lunch can be just what it takes to get them excited about hiking.
Make your hike fun
Not all hiking trails are created equal, and some are more exciting than others; for at least your first few hikes with your little ones, select hikes that are pretty short and have experiences for your kids. Choose a hike with something to look at or something fun to do when they reach the end of the hike. Having a waterfall or a lake to swim in can make a little hike not seem so bad.
Hiking will take much longer with little ones in tow
One thing that might shock many parents is how much slower hiking can be with kids. Expect every hike you take to be about 2-3 times longer than you’re expecting. This isn’t always a bad thing, but it does mean that you might need to adjust your expectations so that everyone can do this hike. It’s okay to go at their pace or even take frequent breaks on a longer hike.
Be ready to make stops
Hiking requires a lot of effort and energy. To help keep your kids motivated and ready for the journey ahead, take some stops to fuel up and also to take some time just to hang out together. This will help make hiking easier for your kids and make it more exciting since they have landmarks or they know they can get a fun snack at the next stop.
Hiking isn’t the most fun thing for all kids. However, with these tips, you can make hiking more exciting and even more fun for them.
