Why take kids camping
Categories: Kids 5-7, Kids 8-11, Teens & tweens, Fun & Activities, Holidays, Environment
I love camping. Being out amidst the trees, the rocks, and, yes, even the dirt is relaxing and comforting to me. If I could live in the woods year-round, I would. Not everyone is quite the Grizzly Adams type that I am, however. If you've got kids, though, it's worth it to take them camping now and then. I came across this great video that offers some insight into what's so great about camping, put together by the website Joy of Camping:
And if you're convinced, you might be interested in their list of ten things to bring for kids when camping. I wholeheartedly agree about the flashlights and whistles, and have to admit I wouldn't have thought of the bug jar or the star finder -- both fantastic ideas. I'd also include some reading and coloring books for down times and some musical instruments -- shakers, rattles, and the like -- to save your pots when the kids want to form a marching band.
All in all, I can't recommend camping more -- it's a great experience for the kids and it's a cheap vacation. If you've never been and are a little hesitant, get together with other families who are more outdoorsy and plan a group trip. The kids will enjoy it even more and you'll be able to sit back and just watch the swarms of kids running around.
And if you're convinced, you might be interested in their list of ten things to bring for kids when camping. I wholeheartedly agree about the flashlights and whistles, and have to admit I wouldn't have thought of the bug jar or the star finder -- both fantastic ideas. I'd also include some reading and coloring books for down times and some musical instruments -- shakers, rattles, and the like -- to save your pots when the kids want to form a marching band.
All in all, I can't recommend camping more -- it's a great experience for the kids and it's a cheap vacation. If you've never been and are a little hesitant, get together with other families who are more outdoorsy and plan a group trip. The kids will enjoy it even more and you'll be able to sit back and just watch the swarms of kids running around.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ame s 9-17-2008 @ 6:11PM
I've been with my girls 3 times, once at Girl Scout Camp where we had a "cabin" (roof, screened walls) and got to sleep on cots. I ended up having to chase a bird out at 2 a.m., ha!! I learned during that trip that wild turkeys wake up before the sun rises and are very loud. No wonder people shoot them. Kidding!
The girls love them some camping. Me: hate it. I must be one of the very few people who can't sleep with all of those nature sounds happening.
I've decided my idea of camping is a hotel room with an ugly bedspread and no pay-per-view channels.
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Karen 9-18-2008 @ 8:57AM
Well, this is one thing I can agree with you about.
Camping is a great family activity. I'm not exactly the camping type, but I do it for my family and it is their favorite activity.
We started camping with a group of other families and I can't recommend that enough. Invite friends. Invest in a tent, a few supplies ( you can share with a group ) and just head out.
I've also read that camping is one of things that is consistently mentioned by adult when they talk about a positive childhood. It is also supposed to help keep families together.
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