Family Camping: Kids Corner

Aired on Lifetime Television for Women
Sunday, August 6 and November 19, 2006

Show 321

Camping is a great family getaway, but, before you and the kids venture off too far from home, try a night outside in your own backyard. Use the same gear you'll take on the trip and teach your kids the proper way to take care of it. During your backyard camping trial, teach your kids the survival plan beginning with some essential items that should be carried with them at all times. A whistle alerts others to a child's location should they become lost. In poor weather an industrial sized garbage bag will keep them protected, and a hat and socks will prevent heat loss. When it gets dark, a pretzel headlamp can calm some of those nighttime fears. And to stay hydrated and energized, make sure they have plenty of water and an energy bar handy. Once you've got the safety part down, it's time to experience what the great outdoors has to offer. A hike on a well-established trail will introduce your kids to nature. But, never let them roam without adult supervision. Along the way, keep a look out for animal tracks. Identify them using a reference guide. You can do the same with surrounding plants, trees, and bugs. If your child should wander off and get lost, they should stay put, and blow that emergency whistle in their survival kit. If you're near a pond or lake, make a water scope. Stretch clear plastic wrap around the bottom of a round plastic container and place it in the water to explore the underwater world. Remember, don't go overboard your first time camping with the kids. Only spend one or two nights away, and pick a family friendly campsite with the essentials like running water, electricity and of course bathrooms. At nightfall, nothing says camping like a warm glowing fire. Well, except for the smores and hotdogs.