Camping can be a magical experience for anyone at any age, but there’s something special about camping with young children. Parents get to see their children looking out on a beautiful landscape, spotting the Big Dipper, enjoying a campfire, and eating delicious s’mores. Spending time together in the great outdoors can create moments and memories to cherish for a lifetime. To make sure it’s a successful trip, here are a few safety tips for camping with young children:
1. Dress for the Outdoors
One of the most important tips for camping with kids is choosing their attire for the trip. Mother nature can be unpredictable, which means you could encounter rain, cold, or excessive heat, depending on the season. Hiking boots or sturdy tennis shoes, protective hats, rain gear, good socks, and long-sleeved shirts and pants are essential to protect little bodies. Pay attention to the fabrics you pack as well. When cotton gets damp, it can stay wet and uncomfortable. Wool or quick-drying synthetics from an outdoor outfitter is a better choice.
2. Bring the Right Supplies
Preparation is vital for a successful and fun time outdoors. A first-aid kit can help you handle scrapes or cuts, and don’t forget bug sprays intended for wooded areas if needed. Packing sunscreen with a high SPF or UV-protective clothing can extend the time children can spend in the sunshine. With young children, nature walks can entertain and teach. Bring a few small bags to collect items on the footpath to bring back to camp. Acorns, oddly-shaped sticks, fallen leaves, and colorful rocks can be placed at the campsite for interesting discussions later.
3. Fun with Camp Food
Depending on the length of your trip, it’s important to pack sufficient food, snacks, and bottled water, for both cooking and drinking. Plan to keep food chilled as needed for food safety. Many campers freeze a gallon of water or water bottles and place them in the cooler. This keeps food dryer than regular ice and can be used as drinking water as it thaws. Prepping ingredients will save time when you have hungry campers. Food on a camping trip can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, but either way, it’s an adventure to eat in the great outdoors. Remember to clean up and store your food and dishes before bedtime to avoid attracting unwanted furry guests.
4. Remember Water Safety
If you’re camping near a lake, river, or stream, review water safety protocol with your child. Water time should always be supervised by an adult, especially in natural water sources. Depth changes, rock shifts, or current strength can be a factor, so consistent monitoring of waders and swimmers is important. Also, it can help to do a little advanced research on the water sources near your campsite to be aware of any water quality alerts.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Nature is meant to be explored. Natural areas are extremely beautiful, and preschoolers love walking a wooded trail or hiking in a new location. While you’re in the great outdoors, teach your family to keep an eye out for special plants, new insects, and changes in elevation or terrain. Safety is always key, and with the freedom of summer, it becomes even more important.
The Gardner School
The Gardner School understands the value of travel and exploration to help children to develop their love of nature and new experiences. We are committed to helping you raise adventurous and active children. Schedule a visit or a virtual tour today to learn more about our warm and welcoming early childhood care.