Getting Outside: 4 Tips to (Successful) Hiking with Kids

rain drop in puddle

mother and daughter in snow gear and big smiles

Get outside. Deep breath. Do you smell that clean air? The mild fragrance of fresh cut grass in mid-summer? A grove of whistling pines in the autumn breeze? The sweet scent of wet soil after a soaking spring rain? Or how about that peaceful balm of silence after a fresh winter snowfall? That's natural aromatherapy, friends. It's the real deal! Think about how you feel when breathing in the scents and sounds of the seasons. Don't you feel more calm and relaxed? I'd like to think we all do! Being outside is an important habit to form, for us mamas as well as our children. It helps us to refocus, especially on those days when things are getting a little out of control, and it's scientifically proven to be good for our health.Time spent in the outdoors has the power to change our moods and turn a rotten day upside down. Feelings of anxiousness, grumpy, fighting children, exhaustion or even sadness can be remedied with just a couple hours spent out of doors just hiking with your kids, even on the cold or cloudiest of days. I'm no scientist, but I do know our bodies function their best when we have adequate vitamin D. (Cue that sunshine!) But many of us get far too little light in the long winter months. Maybe we try to get those essential vitamins from our leafy greens, a plate of salmon here & there, or other fortified foods, but it's much easier to get this necessary vitamin from its' natural source: sunlight. So step outside. It's just plain ol' more fun!

Tips for Hiking With Kids

Observe:

Have you ever seen a couple of boys playing swords with sticks they've found along the way? Or how about little ones making a crown of daffodils from the fields nearby? It is evident that being outdoors naturally enhances our creativity.I think children especially have an innate interest in living things. That being said, they're learning when they're playing!I believe it's so simple to learn from nature. Just observe! Look at the way the treetops swirl in the wind, or listen to the sound of raindrops falling on the wet leafy forest floor. Pay attention to the sound your boots make crunching across the January snow, and the way the light falls in mid-winter, casting those long shadows across the glistening snowy back yard. Hear the rhythm and contrasting notes of the birds' songs, the water lapping upon the sandy shore, and the acorns falling from the great oaks.From big beautiful expanses of nature, such as an evening sunset, down to the smallest intricacies, like that of a spiders' web; nature is an awesome teacher. You don't have to get fancy and you don't have to go far. To take a walk along the same path, witnessing the changes of each season, is a wonderful way to learn the ebb and flow of creation.

Dress Appropriately:

But may I add, it is awfully hard to learn if we're cold, wet, and our feet hurt because we picked the sparkly shoes with the bow on the toe instead of our trusty white sneakers; the ones you have to sit down and tie.It's so important to dress appropriately for the weather, and - when hiking with kids - to make sure they do the same.That means hiking in good walking shoes, not flip flops, and dressing in layers when the day hasn't decided if it's going to be cool and crisp or drench you in warm sunshine. It means wearing boots that are rated for those zero degree days (We've loved and used these for years), 4putting on that extra wool layer, and wrapping a scarf around our necks to keep out the wind. It means wearing your red galoshes for splashing through those magnetic spring puddles and bringing along Dad's old umbrella, in the event the sky decides to open up again. Being prepared means wearing sunglasses or a hat, and packing the travel sized sunscreen and bug spray, just in case.

Snacks:

And in our family, one isn't truly prepared, unless the snacks have been packed.Snacks and water are always a good idea when hiking with kids. They give us a reason to sit down and linger a little while longer in that special cove the kids stumbled upon. A fresh sip of water will help to incentivize those who want to stop in the middle of the hill. "We'll take a water break when we get to that shady tree at the top." A snack allows rest for the littlest trekkers who are giving it their best, but can't quite keep up with their bigger siblings.A good snack, well planned and wisely used, is a helpful tool.

Helpful Tools:

There are many tools we have available that can aid us in making this habit of getting out in nature successful. If you have little ones, push them in a stroller. Use this as a time to get your exercise as well as a learning opportunity for them. Choose a park or location that has wide trails, paved or crushed rock work well depending on the type of tires your stroller has.I used the same double stroller for seven years and actually shed some tears when it came time to get rid of it. It was our trusty companion, both shelter and chariot to kids and creatures alike. I've also used a sled for those winter time hikes, and the littles who "can do it myself" and then can't, 10 minutes in because the snow is deeper than their boots.If you're one who likes your hands free, try wearing the younger ones in a backpack or a front wrap for the tiniest of hikers. Whatever vehicle you choose to aid in your outdoor adventures, may I suggest zippered pockets where you can carry binoculars, a camera, or a magnifying glass. There are treasures to be found out there! Encourage the hunt and don't forget a little basket or bag for keeping those treasures safe. You'll want to explore your special finds more thoroughly when you arrive back home. 

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." – John Muir

kids hiking on rocks in winter

I don't need to tell you that it's not always easy. Some days will be better than others. Often, getting everyone prepared and out the door is the hardest part. But the act of being outside, no matter the weather, is always worth it.I encourage you, if it is not already, make time outside a habit this month. Pay attention to those spring scents, the new light, and what sounds you hear as you explore. Find treasures, pick flowers, and jump in those puddles. Enjoy these moments together! Go home and incorporate what you experienced into your writing assignments or your nature journal. Reflect on your time together. Learn from it. And then do it all over again. Pretty soon, you've got yourself a healthy habit.Happy Hiking!Heidi