Things You'll Need:
- Rule lists
- Print out cards
- Boundary tie outs
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Step 1
Learn about the places you'll be camping before you go. Go online or to the library and research the places you'll be going. Print out pictures of poison ivy, snakes, bugs, or anything else that might hurt you. Teach children to identify these things ahead of time, and discuss as a family how you will stay away from them.
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Step 2
Before you leave, discuss the rules as a family. For instance, a good rule would be to always keep the campsite in your line of sight while you are playing or gathering wood. Rules should be in place for when to go to the bathroom, who to take with you and what to do if you find something you don't understand. Go over these rules before you leave, and remind each other of them as you are traveling.
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Step 3
When you get to the campsite, set up boundaries for children right away. Take them along with you and tie colored strips of fabric to the trees that mark the edges of the campsite. Discuss staying in bounds, and discuss what will happen if they leave the boundaries.
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Step 4
Depending on the ages of your children, have a check in each hour, half hour, or even fifteen minutes. Make this a family event and have each child check in when they are supposed to. This can also be a great way to learn about telling time.
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Step 5
Use each thing that comes along as a chance to learn more. Campfires can be a great way to learn about fire safety, and hiking can be a great time to learn about safety in the woods.
