Is bushwalking with kids a challenge? How about turning it into a memorable adventure for you and your family? Walk with us as we guide you to bushwalking with kids, helping you find ways to increase interest in the outdoors and the experience of bushwalking as a family.
Connect with Nature Through Bushwalking
Bushwalking with kids is a fun and adventurous activity and a positive way to connect with nature and support good health and well-being. Being outdoors, surrounded by natural beauty, can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote physical activity. It’s a chance to unplug from technology and immerse yourself in the natural world’s sights, sounds, and smells. When bushwalking with kids, you can teach them about the environment, flora, and fauna and help them develop a love and appreciation for nature. This can instill in them a desire to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. Overall, bushwalking with kids is a beautiful way to promote a healthy and active lifestyle while fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.
Consider turning your Bushwalking venture into a camping trip. See our essential packing list and camping food list!
Introduce the Bushwalking Adventure
Once a destination is decided for your bushwalking adventure, have a conversation with your child about going for a walk to see a: waterfall (for example). Explain that “it will be a fun walk to get there, then we will see the beautiful waterfall!”. This will create excitement to go on an adventure.
Bushwalking With Kids Preparation Tips
Always check the weather forecast and any bushfire or other alerts for your destination. This can be found on weather apps like Willyweather; further, check National Parks alerts on their website. See our full guide to essential Navigation Apps.
Also, could you research the track and distance, as signage can be confusing with length: 1.5 k return walk or 1.5 k to the destination? A helpful tool is the Aussie Bushwalkers site or National Parks website for up-to-date track information, including distance, grade, maps, and points of interest. Allow extra time walking with children, as little legs can slow things down.
Packing for Your Bushwalking Adventure
Look at our list of items to consider packing for your Bushwalking venture. First, check the environmental conditions; this can help determine what you fill and consider how remote the walk is. Remember, everything needs to be carried and has its place.
- Food, snacks, sufficient water, and a special treat or reward for the destination point!
- Sunscreen, hat, repellant, tissues, wipes, bag for rubbish.
- Basic first aid. This may be as simple as a compression bandage—also any essential medication.
- Waterproof jacket for cooler weather, towel if swimming. A small toy can join the adventure!
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, and dress according to the environment.
- A comfortable day backpack to carry the items.
- Note: more remote/extended walks will require additional items.
Create a sense of achievement while developing a love and appreciation for nature when Bushwalking with Kids.
Guide to Bushwalking With Kids
- Start small: Start with shorter walks, working towards confidence, fun and increased fitness.
- Make it interesting: Point out interesting trees, flowers, rocks, animals.
- Sing a song, play a game, a race, who will get there first?
- Reminders of a special treat at the destination.
- Stop for a rest break, snack, and drink.
- Talk about the destination and how great it will be.
- Enjoy natures obstacle course, walking over rocks, tree roots, creeks.
- Be prepared to carry younger children part of the way, although encourage walking themselves like a big person!
- Give older kids (7 – 10 years) a small backpack to carry giving more purpose and understanding about carrying what you need. This is also preparing for bigger future hiking adventures.
Safety Tips Bushwalking With Kids
Think safe, as things may not always go as planned.
- Carry a mobile phone, (also useful for those adventure photos!) though it may not have reception.
- Handheld UHF, or
- For more remote locations consider a satellite messaging devise, satellite phone, or EPIRB.
- Stay on designated paths, while pointing out dangers to encourage safe thinking.
- Carry basic first aid items and any essential medications.
In conclusion, bushwalking can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to prepare and pack appropriately to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. By following the bushwalking preparation tips and packing guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped for your adventure. During your bushwalking venture, be mindful of your surroundings and stay aware of any potential safety hazards. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment. With careful planning and attention to safety, you can have a wonderful bushwalking adventure and create lasting memories with your friends and family.
Discover more on a Road Trip through Australia. Embark on a journey discovering Central Queensland, Tropical North Queensland, or perhaps Tasmania.
