Things You'll Need:
- Snowshoes
- Warm layers
- Water and snacks
- Backpack or sled for wee ones
- Gators
-
Step 1
Choose the right snowshoe based on weight of the child; aluminum-framed or plastic designs are easier to use.
-
Step 2
Rent snowshoes for the kids from a local ski or outdoor equipment shop, or borrow from a friend before investing in equipment kids can grow out of quickly.
-
Step 3
Start young kids out on flatter terrain in areas with less snow so they can get the hang of walking with snowshoes on.
-
Step 4
Teach the kids how to walk with snowshoes first. Keep the legs wide like a cowboy to prevent stepping on the opposite snowshoe. Lift the feet directly up out of the snow in an exaggerated motion.
-
Step 5
Take a small walk with the kids around the yard or the park first before taking on an afternoon hike.
-
Step 6
Dress the kids in layers. They will build up a sweat, and it's better to remove clothes than not have enough.
-
Step 7
Break trail for the little ones so they do not have to struggle through deep snow.
-
Step 8
Bring babies or little ones along in a backpack or special sled designed for skiing and snowshoeing. Do not leave them out of the fun.
-
Step 9
Challenge the teenagers by venturing to the hills and surfing on snowshoes--similar to snowboarding.
-
Step 10
Walk in the unpacked snow along the side of existing trails that tend to be hard-packed from skiers or snowmobilers.
-
Step 11
Pack the kids up once they are comfortable on snowshoes and take them to a nearby state forest or park for a day of exploring the forest and bushwhacking through the woods.
