How To

How to Dress Kids for a Hike

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Dressing your kids for a hike requires more than rifling through the closet for old clothes. Protection against injury and illness is of the utmost importance when considering how to dress a child for a hike. Use these tips to make your child's hiking experience as comfortable and safe as possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Pick clothes that are brightly colored, long-sleeved and cotton. Cotton clothes allow your child's skin to breathe and bright colors contrast with natural landscapes to help your child stay within eyesight. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts help to protect your child from insect bites and contact with poisonous plants.

  2. Step 2

    Allow your child to choose a hat he wants to wear. Wearing hats keeps your child cool and protects him from dangerous ultraviolet rays. Add sunglasses to protect your child's eyes.

  3. Step 3

    Choose hiking or trail boots that are already broken in. Regular sneakers do not provide the necessary support to keep your child comfortable and injury-free. Having your child wear boots that have already conformed to the shape of his feet and ankles reduces the potential for bruises, blisters and sprains.

  4. Step 4

    Put a whistle around your child's neck. The whistle acts as a safety guard against possible separation during your hike. Instruct your child to blow the whistle if he becomes lost.

  5. Step 5

    Give your child a small bag. Fanny packs or old school back packs are often the perfect sizes to include a cell phone, snacks, water and other materials needed for your child's safety and well-being. Limit the bag's total weight to less than 20 percent of your child's body weight.

Tips & Warnings
  • Consider the weather, the season and the amount of time planned for hiking when dressing your kids. Apply sunscreen and bug repellent, if the weather calls for it.
  • Keep an extra change of clothes on hand in case of unforeseen mishaps.

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