Camping with Kids
It’s time to turn off the camping video games and pitch yourself a real tent at the nearest camping ground you can get your family to. From mindless visual sensory to full-nature sensory experience, captivate your whole family with the sounds of nature.
Experience the whistling wind as it brushes through the leaves and the roaring water that fights its way through the rocks. Enjoy the crackling sounds of fire and birds singing to you as you wake. Let camping explode and awaken the kids’ senses to their natural environment.
Camping doesn’t have to be complicated. There are so many types of camping that you can choose from depending on your family’s line of comfort.
-
Backyard Camping
Maybe it doesn’t sound as daring, but it allows the whole family to appreciate the outdoors while having the comfort of home amenities. It is an enjoyable activity to bond with the entire family. And it also helps your kids get accustomed to sleeping in a tent if you plan to go big in the future.
-
Glamping
It’s a way to experience nature without having to sacrifice the creature for comfort. It has all the amenities of a luxury hotel in a natural setting. There are hot and cold showers, heaters, air-conditioning, and even a kitchenette. You don’t have to worry about insects.
You don’t need to wonder whether or not you brought enough blankets to keep your kids warm. It is not a cheap way of camping. But if you enjoy comfort, this type of camping might just be the one for your family.
-
RV camping
Is one of the most popular camping types in North America. There are different RV types that you can choose if you are too intimidated driving such a massive vehicle. Airstreams and Pop-up trailers that you can just hook up behind your car.
It comes with the same features as a typical small house would. Some RVs have bunk beds, television, even a Rock-Climbing wall to tire out the kiddos. It can be safe enough to bring the grandparents too.
-
Car camping
Isn’t what you think it is. It means that you carry all your gear in your car instead of your backpack. But for some, they customize their vehicle to fit a mattress. You can bring more gears and essentials that you and your whole family need during the trip.
The Perfect Location
If your kids spend most of their time indoors, the best way to get them familiar with camping is by pitching a tent in your backyard. Don’t dive them in too soon. Spend the whole day at the nearest lake or park and see how to do it. By doing so, you may predict how they will act and know what they will need during the official camp.
Find a campsite that offers amenities that suites your family’s needs. Ask yourself if your family enjoys swimming, hiking, or has an interest in animals. What are the types of activities you want to introduce to them? Ask for their ideas. You may tailor your plans with whatever activities and amenities your family needs.
Enjoy the Moments
Concerns and worries are normal for planning a camping trip with the kids. Even an avid camper can get some anxiety when camping with their kids for the first time. These questions are common: “What if my kids can’t sleep, what if they get lost?!”
Keep them warm and worn out. Check the forecast ahead. Even if it says it is going to be hot, bring extra blankets anyway. Sleeping bags are the best option. There are sleeping bags that fit from 6 months and up.
Plan your activities according to your daily routine. Don’t push activities on the first day. This is the best time to just set up camp, rest, and cook a simple meal. Try not to stress too much during bedtime. It’s going to be a new and stimulating environment.
Have the kids remember the simple rules of camping to avoid getting lost. The buddy system; always bring a buddy wherever you go and inform at least 1 parent of their whereabouts. Always stay on the trails. Give each kid a whistle – if they feel lost, just blow the whistle.
What to Bring
Let the kids help with the packing. Allow them to bring their favorite blanket and toys (at least 2-3); you still want them to enjoy the outdoors but always give them the security of something familiar.
(See simple checklist below)
Meal Time
Always have snacks! Protein-rich snacks. Stay away from the sugar-filled snacks as much as possible. Pack their favorite food to lessen the fuss. You do not want to introduce something new in a foreign place right away. Search for a 1 pot recipe of a dish that you usually cook at home.
Prep your dishes ahead of time. Put them all in a zip-lock bag in your cooler to save space. Write for breakfast, lunch, dinner for easy identification.
CHECKLIST
Author
As a child, NJ Caplinger has always wondered about the world around her. Growing up she found a connection with nature that deeply rooted within her throughout. An intimate relationship that solidified when she landed a job as an Island Manager on an island sanctuary by an NGO, PRRCFI. She launched an inspiring brand, Circularware as a beacon to curve pollution. Now a mother, she hopes to show her daughter the extraordinary world around us.”
