Years ago every child went on camping trips at one stage or another and entire scout groups would learn wilderness skills such as foraging, building fires and how to read maps. Thanks to advances in technology many children only run through grass if they’re catching a Pidgey

on Pokemon Go, climb if they’re in the playground or walk because they’ve gone and missed the bus. However, there is something quite magical about camping whether it’s the thrill of sleeping out under the open stars, telling scary stories around the campfire or hiking out in the fresh air.

 

Flickr Photo Credit: Virginia State Parks

 

It’s Quality Family Time

 

No matter whether you choose to sleep in a tent, camper van or caravan you can be sure that the rest of your family won’t be far away. The kids will adore learning how to set up and break camp properly, fish for their dinner, hike surrounded by nature and wash the dishes in a bowl in the middle of a forest. You’ll have lots of opportunities to share stories, reminisce over other family vacations and have a whole bunch of new adventures to enjoy together. If you’re always complaining that everyone’s too busy to have dinner, catch a movie or just have coffee then camping is an excellent way to secure some much-needed quality time.  

Flickr Photo Credit: Dhinakaran Gajavarathan

 

They Won’t Realize They’re Exercising

 

Running, jumping, hiking, biking, fishing, and climbing are just a few activities you can do on camping holidays. If  you’re staying at a campsite, the chances are they may even have a gym, pool and some tennis courts for guests. Make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand during the trip as your kids may be a lot hungrier than usual thanks to all that fresh air, exercise and exploring they’ll be doing. Bear in mind the number of activities and exercise you do all depends on your fitness levels, so make sure that children know their limits and watch out for signs of tiredness

Flickr Photo Credit: Pete

 

Minimum Electronic Usage

 

There’s no such thing as power outlets when you’re on a hike, fishing by a river or sleeping on top of a ravine. Let the kids know that their devices may not work, and any electricity source such as a USB bank charger or a portable diesel generator in the camper van is purely for cooking and running whatever lights or sound you may need. During the trip your kids may start to realize that there is, in fact, a world outside of TV, smartphone and computer screens and discover that they really enjoy activities such as drawing, playing chess and reading.

Flickr Photo Credit: ChrisA1995

 

Nature Is A Great Classroom

 

Not everything can be taught in school so go ahead and take inspiration from your surroundings, teaching your children about animal habitats, types of trees and even geological formations. Take along a guidebook to the local area so you can tell them fun facts, discuss what animals might be around and learn about why trees are important. You never know you may end up learning something from them. As kids can often be the best teachers when it comes to explaining things quickly, simply and clearly.