How to Have Fun Hiking with Kids

You enjoy hiking and want your kids to as well. The pressure is on to make the first time out fun. Follow these tips to have fun hiking with kids.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a child
• patience
• good weather
• an easy hiking trail
• snacks
• water

1. 
   set appropriate expectations to have fund hiking with kids

   Lower your expectations to have fun hiking with kids.
   You may be able to traverse mountain tops in three feet of snow under the cover of darkness but most kids can not. Typically, young children have the physical and mental stamina for around 20-30 minutes.
   Don't expect too much for your inaugural outing and you won't be disappointed.

2. 
   have fun hiking with kids

   Pick a hike with lots to see.
   Ponds, waterfalls, majestic trees, rivers, the ocean and wildlife are all great at captivating young children.

3. 
   kids like rainbows too

   Check the weather to ensure a good hike.
   Most children do not tolerate weather extremes very well. Go when the weather is working for you, not against.

4. 
   bring great snacksto have fun hiking with kids

   Pack smart.
   Bring plenty of water and your child's favorite snacks. Goldfish crackers, Z-bars, granola bars, whatever makes your kid happy.
   Don't forget the sunblock.

5. 
   slow down to have fun hiking with kids

   Slow down.
   Young children are small. They take four steps to your one. Take a deep breath, relax and find their pace.

6. 
   you'd step on it, she'd cuddle it

   Stop often.
   What you may consider commonplace and mundane, your child may see as unbelievably cool. Bugs, sticks, rocks, flowers, butterflies, logs-- these are the important things for your child, not the destination.

7. 
   dog tired is not having fun hiking with kids

   Make it a short hike.
   Remember: as far you go in one direction you need to hike it back. Turn around before your child gets tired and make it back to the car with energy to spare.

8. 
   the simple pleasures make it fun to hike with kids

   Celebrate.
   Ice cream, pizza, a ride on a carousel, a dip in the pool. You and your child have reason to celebrate. Live it up after the hike and he/she will be much more likely to get excited for the next outing.

Tips & Warnings

• this is a great chance to really listen to what your child has to say. You may learn a lot about him/her
• Let them lead the pace and direction. Having a vested interest in the hike increases interest.
• Children get blisters too. Make sure they have good socks and shoes.