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Simple Tips for an Enjoyable Camping Trip with Kids
Camping is an American pastime, and not to mention a great way for you and your kids to unplug, relax, and bond. As a single parent, planning and executing a successful camping trip rests on you alone, so there’s a little bit of pressure to make sure you are prepared and the kids aren’t begging to leave. Whether this is your first camping trip as a single parent, or you are simply looking for a way to make things go a little smoother, check out these camping tips you’ll be sure to use.
List It Out
You might think you have everything, but what happens when it’s 10 p.m. and your child is refusing to go to sleep because you forgot their favorite stuffed animal at home that they absolutely can’t sleep without? What if you forget the ketchup, and eating a hotdog without ketchup is a tragedy? Create a comprehensive packing list and check it twice. You might consider making a separate list for items that can’t be packed until the morning of, such as pajamas, toothbrushes, or nighttime toys. Load up what you can in the car the night before to avoid the morning rush, as well as keep little hands from removing items.
Make Preparations at Work
If you’re a business owner, getting away for a little while may seem impossible. However, like everyone else, entrepreneurs need time to unwind. So, take steps to disconnect from work so that you aren’t constantly in contact with work on your vacation. You can do so by training team members to help cover aspects of the operation you’d usually handle on your own. This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that someone has those particular bases covered. Don’t forget to supply your employees with contact numbers in the event of an emergency.
Opt for Simplicity
When it comes to mealtimes, keep it as simple as possible. Prep whatever you can ahead of time such as slicing fruits and veggies, preparing sandwiches, or mixing together batter for sunrise pancakes. Anything that can be roasted over the fire is a great hands-on option for kids, but make sure they are supervised at all times. Use long roasting forks to avoid burnt fingers and mark a line on the ground with rope or twigs to designate how close to the fire your kids can safely be. Bring extras in case the inevitable happens and food falls into the fire pit, whether on accident or on purpose because it seemed like something fun to do. Of course, don’t forget the s’mores.
Stick to Routines
A camping trip is like a vacation, but that doesn’t mean all routines should fly out the window. It might seem like a good idea at the time to skip the afternoon nap, but a cranky toddler on a hike is just about equivalent to a run-in with a grizzly. Stick to naps and nightly routines to keep everyone happy. If you have both younger and older children, play fun campsite games during nap times so that the fun doesn’t have to stop for everyone. Don’t forget to stick to regular mealtimes as well to avoid rumbling tummies. However, if you will be cooking over a campfire, keep in mind that you can’t leave it until it is cool to the touch. Plan accordingly, as this could delay your day adventures or leave you going to bed late.
Safety First
If you will be the only pair of adult eyes on this camping trip, it will be important to take extra precaution to keep everyone safe. Have each child wear a whistle and show them how to blow it should they get lost or separated. However, reiterate that it isn’t a toy, and blowing it for fun won’t be tolerated. If your child isn’t fond of having something hanging around his or her neck, attach the whistle, along with a small flashlight, to their belt loop so it will be with them at all times. To amp up the safety, make sure a friend or family member knows your exact location and what time you expect to be home so they can alert the proper authorities if necessary. If your four-legged family member will be tagging along too, keep them safe by checking out these canine-friendly camping tips.
Camping offers an opportunity for a unique experience with your kids that they will be sure to remember. Turn it into a fun family tradition they’ll look forward to by planning ahead, keeping it simple, putting safety first, and of course, having fun.