First Campout With Your Family : Make It a Winner
By Jan Pierce
If your family has a long history of camping and is totally outdoor-savvy , then you need read no further . But if your children haven ’ t been camping before and you ’ d like to take them , there are some important points to take into consideration .
Much as we would like it to be otherwise , many of our children have become indoor creatures . They don ’ t play outside unless they ’ re playing an organized sport . It seems that old-fashioned playing is a bit of a dinosaur these days . The indoor trend could be the result of technology . All of our computers , video games and other screened entertainments occupy children without challenging them to physical activity .
So there we are , with children unused to the outdoors . That said , there are so many good reasons to get out into nature ; learning about the flora and fauna of an area , relaxing in the company of family and friends and building healthier bodies and minds . It ’ s a great thing to do .
As you begin to think about a camping trip , you ’ ll want to ask :
Where ?
A first-time venture probably should be relatively close to home and shouldn ’ t be overly challenging in terms of comfort and endurance . Perhaps it would be best to choose a place with bathrooms and showers and maybe even a children ’ s play area . After all , you want the children to have a good time , and a Spartan trip , especially if the weather doesn ’ t cooperate , will only ensure that it ’ s the last trip for your children . When you ’ ve found a suitable place , be sure to include some bona fide camping experiences such as day hikes , fishing , boating and the traditional evening campfire .
22 | ST JOHNS PARENT MAGAZINE