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Taking your Kids Hiking
If you are planning on going hiking, the thought of taking your kids might have crossed your mind, for a brief second, and then you might have dismissed it by just imagining the sound of their cry after fifteen minutes of walking, the whining that they are hungry, or the moan that they are bored. After all, who would even consider taking a child on a hiking excursion? While filled with challenges, hiking with children can enrich their lives and yours. When you’re tired and frustrated on the trail, remind yourself of the many benefits of hiking with your children.
Hiking is a special activity to do with your children. Getting away from all the stress of everyday life gives you a chance to talk to your kids about their interests and dreams, not just what they want for dinner or this week’s homework assignment. Bring a field guide if you can or even a book about birds and plants and have fun identifying the birds and plants you see with your child. Some field guides will tell you about the traditional edible and medicinal uses of plants. If you’re hiking in the Southwest, you might pass archaeological sites. Hiking can be a great way to learn about nature and history as real things instead of just words in a book.
Helping your child develop a lifelong habit of exercise is one of the best things you can do for his or her health. Hiking is a fun, exciting outdoor activity that doesn’t require a big expense. Nature encourages imaginative, creative play, and experiencing nature is an important part of childhood. Kids that get to experience nature firsthand will be more likely grow up to respect and love the world around them. Hiking can be a physical and mental challenge for kids, and completing a trail may give them a sense of satisfaction and increase their self-confidence. Just be careful to choose trails that are an appropriate difficulty level for your child, one that is not too hard or frustrating.Hiking with children can be a great way to introduce young ones to the wonders of nature. By planning successful, enjoyable hikes when they’re young, you’ll set your children on the path to a lifetime of outdoor adventures. The best advice about hiking with kids and what they are able to endure is to remember this, children 2 to 4 years old can hike ½ to 2 miles on their own. They should stop every 10 to 15 minutes to rest. Children ages 5 to 7 can hike for 1 to 3 hours each day, covering 3 to 4 miles over easy terrain. Rest stops should come every 30 to 45 minutes. Older children, up to the age of nine can hike a full day at an easy pace, covering 5 to 6 miles over variable terrain. Set your group’s goals based on the youngest child’s ability. Generally, children over 4 will do better with a fanny pack but be prepared to carry it out for them. Stay flexible and know when to stop and go home.
Photo Credit: pmorgan
