Checkpoints to Confirm Before Going Hiking or Trail Running with Your Child and Ways to Keep Kids Engaged During the Activity

Hiking and trail running with your child is a wonderful opportunity to share adventures in nature and strengthen family bonds. However, proper preparation and creativity during the activity are important. This time, we will introduce the checkpoints to confirm before going hiking or trail running with your child, as well as tips to keep your child engaged.

Checkpoints to Confirm Before Going Hiking or Trail Running

1. Check the route and itinerary

Route Selection

• Let's choose a route suitable for the child's physical strength and age. Courses that can be enjoyed in a short time or those with rest points along the way are recommended.
• By choosing trails suitable for beginners or families, you can enjoy them safely.

Confirmation of itinerary

• Check the course distance and elevation gain, and plan a manageable itinerary.
• It is important to estimate extra time and act with a buffer compared to the schedule.

2. Prepare the necessary equipment

Basic Equipment

• Mountaineering boots and trail running shoes: Choose ones that are slip-resistant and provide strong ankle support.
• Backpack: Prepare a lightweight and easy-to-carry one, and carry drinking water, snacks, rain gear, and a first aid kit.

Children's equipment

• Children's backpack: Choose one that is lightweight and has a good fit.
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses: We will take thorough measures against ultraviolet rays.
• Change of clothes: Bring a change of clothes in case you sweat or get dirty.

3. Check the weather and local information

Check the weather

• Check the weather forecast before departure, and consider changing your plans if rain or thunderstorms are predicted.
• I will bring a rain jacket and warm clothing in preparation for sudden weather changes.

Check local information

• "Research information about trailheads and trail entrances in advance, and check the location of parking lots and access methods."
• It's reassuring to know the locations of rest areas and water sources along the way.

Ways to Keep Children Engaged During Activities

1. Incorporate nature observation games

Observing plants and animals

• Let's observe the plants and animals we find while hiking, and research their names and characteristics together.
• By bringing a nature observation notebook and sketching or taking notes on what you find, you can maintain your interest.

Bingo Games

• Create a "find it list" in advance and enjoy nature observation in a bingo format. For example, it's a game where you check off things you find, such as "red flower," "large tree," and "frog."

2. Use storytelling

Adventure Story

• Let's create an adventure story together while hiking or trail running. We can weave a tale where children are the main characters and enjoy a richly imaginative adventure in the forest.

Natural History

• By talking about the history and formation of the natural landscapes and terrains found along the way, you can add an element of learning while enjoying the walk.

3. Organize your breaks

Picnic Time

• Let's have a fun picnic time along the way and prepare special snacks and drinks. Eating while enjoying the beautiful scenery will be a delightful moment for the children.

Activity Break

• Let's incorporate small activities during breaks. We will enjoy playing with natural materials, such as stacking stones to build towers or using leaves to create art.

4. Go at your child's pace

Don't force yourself

• It is important to walk at the child's pace and take breaks as soon as they get tired. By not pushing them too hard, it will be remembered as a fun experience.

Gain experience of success

• Set simple goals to instill a sense of achievement and build confidence. Short goals like "Let's push until the next break point" are effective.

summary

Hiking and trail running with your child is a valuable opportunity to share wonderful experiences in nature. Let's make sure to prepare thoroughly in advance and plan safe and enjoyable activities. By incorporating nature observation games, storytelling, and creative breaks, you can keep your child entertained and engaged.