Page 55 - Michigan RV and Campgrounds directory

Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds
Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds
Tips for Hiking with Children
Hiking is an activity the whole family can enjoy, and with hundreds of trails to choose from, ranging from very easy to expert, families can challenge one another as the children grow and can handle longer or more advanced hikes. In the process, you see new places, connect with nature, and get some physical exercise.
4.BRING SUNSCREEN AND BUG REPELLANT. Michigan has seen heavy mosquito and tick populations the past couple years, along with increased incidence of diseases those bugs carry. Older kids can spray themselves with bug spray on their arms, legs, neck, and face, while you’ll need to spray
the clothing of younger children so that it doesn’t get on their hands – and into their mouths – directly. Sunscreen and hats will help keep your kids from sunburn, which takes all the fun out of the days that follow. The face is especially important to cover.
5.TAKE YOUR TIME. Don’t rush through the hike. Let your kids experience being outside, taking a look at flowers and leaves, and wondering if any animals live in that log. Younger children, ages three to six, tend to take their time anyway. Don’t hurry them along. Encourage older kids to interact with their younger siblings by helping them explore. And by all means, take lots of photos! Digital photos can be uploaded to a photo website such as Shutterfly or Snapfish and arranged in
a hardcover photobook, a wonderful keepsake of memories.
1.GO EARLY. Kids are typically early risers and they wake up with plenty
of energy, so put that energy to use
by getting on the trails. Organize everything the night before so that you don’t forget anything. Bring snacks for the time on the trail and a picnic lunch if you won’t be back to the campsite before noon. Getting out early in the summer also usually provides more comfortable temperatures and the chance for some down time back at the RV or at the beach during the hottest part of the day.
2.CHOOSE A TRAIL YOUR YOUNGEST CHILD CAN HANDLE. This can be bothersome for older kids who want to hike longer or higher.
Save those types of hikes for other times such as taking the older kids out specially, or save them for down the road. The exception is very young children, age one month to two years old, who can comfortably and safely be transported around in a front or back carrier.
3.PLAN STOPS. Consider choosing a trail with plenty of stops along the way such as waterfalls, rock formations, and overlooks to give your kids a chance
to take a break from the walk, have a snack, and maybe learn a little history. Make sure all younger kids use the rest room a couple times before the hike begins -- there may not be anywhere along the hike to stop.
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