Tips for Camping with Kids
Not that long ago kids spent all their free time outside, playing in the dirt or riding their bikes. In fact, getting them back inside the house required some clever strategies, usually involving food. However, times have changed, and nowadays both little ones and teens spend hours and hours glued to their phones and tablets. If you wish that your children would spend more time outdoors, why not take them camping? No matter how little or big they are, this can be the perfect opportunity for some family bonding. Sleeping in a tent, listening to the crackle of a campfire and playing outside can awaken your kids’ senses and help them reconnect with nature. If you want your first camping trip with children to be a success, here are a couple of tips.
Make a trial run
Are you wondering whether your kids will enjoy your trip? If so, pitch a tent in your backyard and spend one day camping behind your house. This way you will get to see how your kids will react to the experience and find out where you might run into problems.
Don’t do all the work
This camping trip is a great opportunity to teach your children about responsibility, so instead of doing everything on your own let them pack their own camping gear. Of course, they should use a list you created, otherwise they will bring a lot of unnecessary things, and not those they do need.
Choose your campsite wisely
Different campgrounds offer different amenities. In some locations you will find swimming areas and playgrounds, in others you will have picnic tables, running water, and showers at your disposal. For your first camping trip it is recommendable that you camp someplace close to your home and choose more developed campgrounds. Also, instead of sleeping in sleeping bags, let your little ones rest on comfortable cots for children. This way your kids will surely get a good night’s sleep and won’t wake up cranky.
Do not experiment
When someone mentions camping, the image of marshmallows and long roasting sticks immediately comes to mind. Preparing food over the fire is one of the camping perks and you kids will surely enjoy that part. However, be sure to make meals you know your children like, this is not the time to experiment with new ones. This is especially true if your kids are little and you want to avoid unnecessary tantrums.
Plan your activities
If your kids have spent all their free time on their phones, it is quite possible that they have no idea how to play in nature. Also, there is nothing worse than having to listen to your little one whine about how bored they are. Therefore, make a list of activities they can do on their own or that you can do as a family. Maybe bring your bikes or find a place where you can rent a boat. Charades anyone?
Safety comes first
Talk to your children about boundaries. Are they allowed to go near the water? Can they explore the forest on their own? Can they go to the bathroom alone at night? As a parent you are constantly worried about your kids’ safety, so make sure your children know what they can and cannot do. You can also give them whistles they can blow in case they are in trouble or get separated from you.
Camping with your kids can be an amazing experience if you are well prepared. Therefore, make sure you have everything under control before you head out the door. These tips should help you get prepared and avoid stressful situations.
