How to go Hiking with Kids

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By evgnspaces
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go hiking with kids

Hiking with young preschool age kids can be a very pleasant experience for everyone if the expectations are not too great and good preparations for the hike are made. Follow these guidelines and don't put off going hiking with kids.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Drinks
Snacks
Hats
hiking shoes
camera
sunglasses
love of nature
patience
Plastic trash bag to carry out trash
tissues and handiwipes
bandaids for little boo boos

Step 1

prevent forest fires when hiking

Choose the hiking site that is appropriate for the time of year and weather. Choose cool hiking sites in the summer and warm hiking sites in the winter. If you get too hot or too cold on the hike it won't be fun for anyone.
Step 2

hiking a mountain trail with kid

Wear proper clothes for hiking with kids. A hike can be just a small distance on flat ground or longer distances on steeper slopes. Little ones will probably trip and fall a few times so dress them in long pants to protect the knees. Wear socks and proper fitting shoes with gripping treads on the soles. Shoes that are a little too big are better than ones that are tight. Feet usually swell a little when walking and sweating.
Step 3

protect face with hat and sunglasses

Protect the skin and face from the sun with a hat and sunglasses. A long sleeved light weight cotton shirt is more comfortable than sunblock which can be sweaty and sticky. If you need sun block it can be put on at home so it has time to absorb before going hiking with kids to make them more comfortable.
Step 4

kid with twigs and rocks

Make the hike a fun exploration of the area. Stop and look at all the natural things along the way. Every rock, twig, insect and bird is a new experience for little kids. Take as many breaks and rests as you need to keep them walking on there own. Avoid carrying them and let them set the pace.
Step 5

take a break and have a snack

Drinks and snacks can be enjoyed at each little break or rest stop. This will help keep their energy levels up and they will be able to go hiking farther along the trail. This is a good time to look around and just enjoy being outdoors.
Step 6

enjoy the journey when hiking with kids

When hiking with kids it is the journey not the getting from one place to another that is important. Even if you only go 100 yards and they are ready to go back it is better than having a bad experience. the next time they will be willing and eager to go farther.