Camping offers families the benefit of being able to bond together without the interruptions of technology and daily responsibilities at home. Preparing your children for the wilderness is important. Your child should know what to do in an emergency while camping and should be familiar with the tools that are needed while spending time in the outdoors.
What to Teach Kids
Perhaps the most important thing that you can teach your children about camping is how to care for their surroundings. Picking up trash, even when it isn't yours, and keeping nature as pristine as possible is a lesson that your kids will carry with them their entire lives. You should also be familiar with, and share, any rules that you are aware of for the specific area you will be camping in. For example, some state parks won't allow you to gather firewood from the local surroundings, while others won't allow wood to be brought from outside the campground. These rules are important to know and share because they protect native species within the state park.
It is also important to stay away from wildlife and avoid leaving food out for local deer or other animals. Respecting the environment ensures that the local habitat can make memories for generations to come. You will also want to talk to your kids about the tools you use while camping that aren't commonly used at home. For instance, axes are a common tool that is used while camping that is both dangerous and useful. Teaching your kids to use their tools properly is a lesson that also lasts a lifetime.
Using Resources While Camping
Your kids will need to be familiar with the tools they have on hand that can be used for tasks around the campsite. Your family may need several water canteens, quality automatic knives,matches, and your normal supplies of food. Your kids may not be familiar with the food served at a campsite. Adventurous older children may be willing to try new cuisines, but toddlers may be less willing to try new foods. Make sure that your children know that camping is an enjoyable experience, and bring along a supply of food that you know the pickier eaters in your family will enjoy.
Your child may want to know how to manage the campfire, or how to cook dehydrated soups, or when to wear their personal flotation device. Older children may be able to work with the campfire as long as you are available to supervise. Make the rules about these important aspects of camping before you begin your vacation.