Any outing with young children can feel challenging, so the prospect of hiking with children under five may overwhelm even former hiking enthusiasts. However, with a shift in perspective and help from their children, parents can experience hiking with a new level of awareness and satisfaction.
Patience and Flexibility
Young children focus on their immediate surroundings. Rather than focusing on the destination or the physical achievement of a hike, children experience a hike directly through their senses. They move slowly, take in the details, and stop when something catches their attention. Children take the time to touch, to smell, to listen.
Let children set the pace, perhaps designating a child to lead the hike, or alternating between child leaders. Young children have shorter legs than adults. They don't move as quickly or have the will or endurance of adults who may focus on the physical achievement of a hike. Children may require frequent breaks to rest or to have a snack to reenergize. Children may enjoy finding a walking stick to help them along, especially when hiking an incline.
A parent may be willing to carry a small child for lengths of time or to use a hiking backpack child carrier. Soft piggy-back style carriers allow small children to sleep comfortably against a parent's back.
Choosing Family-Friendly Hikes
Considerations for choosing a hiking trail suitable for young children include trail length, incline or elevation, availability of maps, signs, or printed guides, and features such as lakes, ponds, or waterfalls. Informational signs or printed nature guides indicating points of interest along the trail provide convenient rest stops and serve to peak and hold a child's interest. Destinations such as ponds, lakes, or waterfalls may help motivate a child to complete the hike or provide a pleasant association with going the distance. Young children also enjoy trail games such as "I spy . . ." or "Find something . . . fuzzy, slimy, yellow."
Parents can take advantage of "teachable moments" by pointing out animal tracks and signs and by identifying wildflowers, edibles, trees, or birds. Many field guides are available to help with observation and identification of local plants and animals within their natural habitat. Bring a magnifying glass, binoculars, and a sketch pad so that children can study and record their discoveries.
Essentials to Pack: Clothing, Food and Water, First Aid
Before heading out for a hike, check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Dress children in layers that can be removed in warm weather or added in cooler weather. Bring rain gear if warranted and additional changes of clothes including socks and shoes in case children get wet or muddy.
Bring plenty of water, snacks for along the trail, and a lunch for an extended break or for a picnic at the destination.
Pack adhesive bandages and tweezers for scrapes and splinters, and sun glasses, sunscreen or wide-brimmed hats for protection against sunburn.
With a relaxed attitude and thorough preparation, family hikes can become enjoyable family traditions. Hikes provide young children with exercise, learning opportunities, quality time with their parents, and treasured memories of discovery and adventure. Hiking with young children gives parents the opportunity to pass on their enjoyment of hiking and to foster their children's connection with nature.
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