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Ahh the SUMMER!
Some people may consider it a crazy idea to go camping with toddlers and very young children. However, those who have discovered just how fun and gratifying it can be cannot wait for another opportunity to go outdoor camping with their kids.
In case you have tried it before and never liked it, then it might be that you never did it correctly.
If you want to develop the culture of camping in your kids, you must start at an early age. For your kids to love camping, you need to do it right. Here are some camping ideas for kids that will guarantee you fun even if you have young children.
1. Take adequate safety precautions
The most challenging thing when it comes to camping with children is ensuring that they are secure. Unlike adults who can discern danger for safety, young children may see hazards in the wood as objects for playing.
Take time to prepare your kids in terms of security by talking to them about their new environment. Tell them what not to touch without first asking; what they should avoid altogether and what they should do in case they are injured or bitten.
You have to ensure you use a language they can understand. Besides, make sure you carry with you a well-equipped First Aid Kit. Carry things like bug-spray, after-bite and aloe vera gel among others. Don’t forget the mosquito repellent!
2. Prepare for the weather and comfort
Despite what the weathermen may say concerning the weather patterns for the day of camping, you have to prepare for all possibilities. Carry clothing for both warm and cold conditions as well wet and dry surfaces. If the weather is fine, well and good but you will be ready if something unexpected happens.
Among the clothing you should carry for them include comfy T-shirts, wool and sun huts, many wool socks, many jogging pants and both short and long sleeved pajamas as well as wool shoes. If the venue you have picked for you camping has a beach or a little bit swampy then you should include in packing some water shoes. In terms of bedding, you should give comfort priority. Instead of the usual single air mattresses, you can carry toddler sleeping mats or toddler cots preferably with mosquito netting. Grumpy kids make bad campers.
3. The comforts of home use a variety of food and accessories
Although they will camp away from home, try as much as possible to make them feel at home. Carry all sorts of meals, snacks and drinks your kids love. Healthy choices are best. If possible you can give your kids an unforgettable treat by serving them some special meal they seldom eat at home. This will go a long way to making them look forward to such camping trips in the future.
4. Make it fun
Young children cherish fun and games. When taking them out for camping, make sure you include enough interactive games. In addition, you can surprise them by getting them new books and/or toys just for the occasion. If you kid or kids love reading then you can bring them comic books and magazines they have never read before.
When it comes to game time, try introducing some new but interesting games. You have to ensure such games are simple and cheap. Train then on how to pay and play with them along with your partner if you are not a single parent. Such games must also be safe for the children and you must keep watchful even as they play. Remember to carry with you toddler gears such as a wagon and tent if you intend to do the beach.
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