Getting the kids involved

Lightfoot · 03-15-2010, 09:59 PM

I feel like things are so fast paced these days that it is important to make time to get away and spend time together. Do you find it difficult to get the kids to break away like I do?

jason · 03-19-2010, 04:13 PM

Mine is only two, and never been camping. She has no choice to go or not. We do hike though. But she loves to walk. I'm interested in seeing how she does in the carrier this year. I've got to check the weight limit on it though. She does love bike rides too, and going to the park playground around the corner from us.

HikerChick · 03-20-2010, 01:11 PM

The younger you get them used to it, the better. I don't have any of my own, but cousins of all ages join us on regular camping trips. No video games, one radio everyone shares, and kids come with us from before they can even walk.

They all LOVE to camp.

Mandy · 03-22-2010, 09:02 AM

How old are your children? I think all kids reach a certain age where they would rather be where they can be with their friends rather than be with their parents. My two nephews, 5 and 7, are staying with me right now while mom and dad sort out some marital issues. When mom explained to each of them what was going on the 7 year old was upset because she didn't pack the Wii and the 5 year old is upset because he doesn't have any friends here to play with.

campclose · 03-22-2010, 11:59 AM

Nope, my daughter loves to go camping! She wants to book every weekend this summer somewhere different. She loves to be outdoors and she loves to camp! She is 13. I always let her take a friend with us.

Hilltopper · 04-01-2010, 08:42 PM

I can say I have never had that problem. Our kids are always ready to take a trip and get away. Last year, though the older asked if one of her friends could come along...don't know if this is going to become a trend.

BigBackyard · 04-03-2010, 04:08 PM

I think that the problem comes when they have friends and start to want to hang out only with their friends, and want nothing to do with you. That can come as early as six or seven unfortunately

WileECoyote · 04-03-2010, 08:40 PM

I really think you need to schedule family time that just includes your family. I think you should start when they are young enough to get used to it. I don't think it's a bad idea for them to bring a friend if they wish but I really do think families need to schedule a little "me" time away from everyone else. It helps them to bond and become stronger as a family.

mommyof2boys · 06-01-2010, 12:39 AM

I agree with what some people have been saying that it's important for families to spend time with just each other. It definitely makes a difference if kids are started on camping young - they get to love it and think it just "goes" with summer! Have them help pick out places to camp, meals to make while there and things to do and they'll feel a part of it and want to do it.