Camping can be a great activity for a family. However, I’m the first one to admit that it is not always easy. Camping can be more difficult for younger children.
When camping with my twin 4-year-old boys, it can be a bit of a struggle, since I am usually the only one there. It’s not their fault, but the wife and daughter haven’t yet caught the bug of camping. There is nothing wrong with some little boy time.
What can you do to keep the kids entertained and safe at all times? What I have discovered along the way are these tricks.
The Practice makes Perfect
Practice, practice, and more practice is essential if this is your first camping trip with children. You can work out any kinks in your home well before you go. Both you and your guests will benefit from this.
You can practice and improve your camp-setup skills. It is not a good idea to try to put together tent poles when you have small children in your care. You should practice your camping setup until it becomes second nature.
A trial run is a great way for kids to get accustomed to camping without leaving the comfort of their home. It allows them to get used sleeping somewhere other than in their familiar bed. You have probably taught your children to love repetition and routine if you’re like many parents. As camping takes your kids out of their world, it’s best to ease them into the experience.
Organise Yourself in Advance
Get organized before you go camping. You need to be sure you have all the supplies you require and you can find them. Keep your camp supplies in separate containers to make it easier for you. Use different containers to store things like cooking equipment, first aid supplies, toiletries and so on.
Use clear bags to transport your equipment or label it correctly. You will have more time for your kids and will not be tempted to forget a vital tool.
You Can Bring Your Own Kid’s Food
Maybe you did a lot research to find out what tasty, interesting meals you could make for your children or maybe you are nostalgic and have a favorite food you’d like them to try. You can forget about all this if your kids are brand new to the camping experience.
You should bring food and snacks that they are likely to eat. You will be in an unfamiliar place. Do not make it worse by giving strange food. Save the camping food for another day and create a menu based on their usual diet. If this means your children will eat Spaghetti O’s then so be it.
Select Your Location With Care
You have many options for camping in most states. Pick a location that works for you and your kids. When you are dealing with kids who seem bored, the weekend can feel like it lasts a full week.
It is better to stay close to home for first-time camp trips. It will reduce the stress of long drives, so your children (and yourself) will be in a better mood upon arrival. You can also cancel the trip in case things get really bad.
In addition to the physical location of your campsite, you should also look at activities that children enjoy. Many campsites have amenities like playgrounds and nature trails that can help pass the time. Ask your kids what they want to do, and then plan the trip accordingly.
Making Camping Safety a Priority
Camping can be a fun activity for children and families, but it is not without danger. You have a responsibility as a parent to inform your kids about the risks and keep them safe.
You should have an extensive first-aid kit. You may require more than Sesame Street-branded bandages when you are out on the trails. Check out this rather complete list of first aid supplies from REI.
You should also set boundaries for your children as to what they are allowed to do. The temptation to get lost and disoriented is too great. Once you reach your camping site, immediately explain the boundary to your children. Teach them how to react if they get lost in the forest. The main thing is to remain still while calling out your name.
Do’s and Don’ts: Finally, make a comprehensive list for your children. Do not eat or drink anything that they may find. Wear your shoes at all times and don’t use adult tools. Do not overwhelm children by reviewing these items before camping. Camping should be fun.
Keep Your Mind Open
Most likely, you already have a general idea about the way things will unfold. It’s likely that you have some ideas about what to do.
If you are camping for the first-time with your children, be ready for unexpected events. Keep things interesting by being flexible.
Let it go if the children decide they don’t want to do anything or a certain amenity isn’t available at the campground. Plan some backup activities, or simply let the children do whatever they like. Last thing you want is to have a schedule that’s too rigid.
Remain Familiar
Children are creatures that thrive on routine. It is this consistency which keeps them happy. Keep to the same schedule you follow at home. If bed time is at 9PM at home, there is no reason that kids should not go to sleep at 9PM when you are camping. If you let the children stay up late, everyone will suffer the next morning.
Try to also bring some items from your home so that it feels familiar. Even bringing pillows and blankets can make a big difference in making your child feel secure and comfortable at night.
You can befriend layers
Both hot and cold kids are cranky. Layers solves this problem, especially when camping in the Fall.
It is impossible to predict the exact weather. It is possible to get a rough idea from the forecast, but that does not mean it will always be accurate.
It is possible to underestimate the cooling breeze or the cold front that may stall, leaving an area more hot and humid than anticipated. You could save yourself a lot of trouble by adding or removing layers.