I’m a sucker for inexpensive family activities. Not only do they save cash with a family of five, but they teach my boys that spending time together is the main event and the chosen 
entertainment is just the icing on the cake.
Cheap family fun isn’t just my idea, but it’s a legacy passed down by my parents, who always seemed to make even the most understated event a family adventure. Some of my happiest memories from childhood were from simple trips to a local walking trail, where we would either ride bikes or hoof it for a mile or two. In my early years, we lived in a large suburb, so the trail was extra special because it was far removed from the hustle and bustle of taxi cabs and cranky commuters.
It’s funny, looking back on it now, it never once occurred to me that my dad was actually getting us away from our Atari and having us exercise. It was just hanging out with dad while mom was getting a little time to herself…after she packed us a lunch, of course.
Taking a walk or riding bikes on a trail with your kids is great exercise and gets them close to nature in a somewhat controlled environment. The trails are usually paved, or in the case of nature preserves and state parks, lined with cedar chips or well-packed soil paths. You’re away from traffic and there are occasional benches and tables to sit for a rest or enjoy a picnic lunch.
If you’d like to hit the trails with your family, there are a few things you should take with you.
- Insect repellent
- Small first aid kit
- Water
- Packed lunch
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Picnic blanket
- Stroller for babies and toddlers or a wagon for young children
This may seem like a lot of stuff for a walk, but if you’re going to be out for a while, you need to be prepared. Backpacks are always helpful on family trips, especially when you’re going to be outside. Keeping your hands free while you’re walking is not only convenient, but essential when you’re with little ones. You can even find picnic “baskets” that are actually built into backpacks which are super cool for family outings.
When you’re all packed up, you’re ready to hit the trail. For the best trail walking experience, remember:
- Naturally shady trails keep sun exposure and heat down, but you should always apply sunscreen to everyone for added protection.
- The younger your children, the more frequent your rest breaks should be. Your natural stride is much larger and quicker than your kids, so they’re working harder to keep up.
- Stay mindful of their endurance and stamina. You’ll have to turn around and double back to get to your vehicle, so only go half as far as you think they can handle.
- Don’t leave the trail. Even if you’re curious about something you see just off the path, leaving the safety of the trail will prompt your kids to do the same.
- Always have one parent following the pack. You always want to keep your eye on all your children, it only takes a few seconds for a little one to walk off the trail and get hurt.
- Stop for a potty break just before getting on the trail and whenever you see a restroom along the trail.
- Marvel at the small stuff and take lots of pictures. Little eyes see things differently than those of adults. You’ll love capturing their amazed faces every time they see something cool. Children’s energy and wonderment can be contagious.
Spending time together is always fun, and keeping it simple can provide you hours of inexpensive adventure. This summer, show your kids that the finer things in life can sometimes be found where you least expect them. So hit the trails.
Image Source: flickr.com/photos/acrider/1800515758
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