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Camping with kids
by Helen Truszkowski
It is a shame that once children arrive on the scene, plenty of once intrepid campers seem reluctant to venture far from home. Parents face a common dilemma. Whilst there is no doubt getting the kids outdoors can make for lifelong memories - the question is, will they be good memories? You may well wonder whether taking the kids camping is worth the extra effort and planning, or whether limiting yourself to kid-friendly stuff is really worth denying yourself your usual camping experience.
I started camping with my son George when he was just two. Having set up tent in the New Forest, across Spain and as far away as Up State New York I have come across plenty of like-minded families prepared to give it a go. Like them, it took just a little forethought to make our trip both enjoyable and easy.
Why take the kids?
It is clear that children of all ages take to camping; kids relish the freedom of the outdoors and the laid-back atmosphere. In light of the restrictions we're compelled to put on our youngsters nowadays, camping at least offers your kids a chance to get out and explore their natural surroundings for themselves, to discover wildlife and to meet new lifestyle challenges head on. It can certainly be a welcome relief from the confined world of Playstation and Cartoon Network. Moreover, starting to camp early in life prepares your children for all types of travel. They can adapt to entertaining themselves more fully, and begin to appreciate the natural wonders each new environment has to offer.
As for us adults one of the biggest direct advantages of taking along the kids is the slower pace. You certainly come to appreciate things you would never normally notice without them. Individual rocks, leaves and sticks take on fresh importance. What's more, kids don't filter out the bird song, shadows, insects and sunsets we have all come so accustomed to. With children in tow, your senses are revived.
Getting started
If you are still intimidated at the thought of it all, start small-scale. Don't be overly ambitious first time around; you can always conduct a trial run at home. Simply pitch a tent in the garden and see how your kids adjust to the novelty. If it is a success, try progressing to a weekend camping trip close to home.
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