Month: April 2021

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, SPRING, SUMMER

    Kite Flying with Kids

    Springtime means warm breezes and sunny days – perfect weather for flying a kite. Children absolutely love flying kites and it’s easier to do than you think. Flying a kite is one of those activities that people often talk about, but never get around to doing. Today, we want to change that and challenging you to take your kids out for a kite flight! We’ll walk you through the steps of how to choose a kite for kids, how to launch, fly and land a kite, plus explain all the benefits of kite flying. Here are some great tips for flying a kite and ways to make your kite flying extra fun! 

    {This post contains affiliate links.}

    How to Fly a Kite with Kids - Kite Flying

    Let’s go fly a kite… up to the highest height.” Mary Poppins

    Benefits of flying a kite

    There are so many great reasons to go fly a kit with kids and a lot of physical, educational, and social benefits. Kiting is a healthy and active outdoor activity for kids that is usually very low-cost and budget-friendly. Spending time outside means that kids get a healthy dose of Vitamin D from sunlight. Flying a kite also provides exercise for your child’s body as they chase. It’s wonderful for hand-eye coordination, kinesthetic awareness, and gross motor skills. Kite flying also helps strengthen the eyes, as they focus far and near observing and controlling the kite’s flight. 

    Fling a kite also provides social benefits. When kids are outside flying kites, they have the opportunity to interact and spend quality time with parents, family, and friends. Kite flying is a great bonding activity and requires coordination and communication skills with others. 

    Feature image credit: @susan.grimes

    Feature image credit: @jenniferdonlevy

    Kite flying is fun and educational

    There are so many great lessons to be learned while flying a kite. Kids can learn about science, physics, aerodynamics, weather, and ecology. Kite flying also helps develop hand-eye coordination, kinesthetic awareness, and gross motor skills.

    Once you have a kite, kids love the challenge and the thrill of launching the kite. Once they figure out how to get it flying they can begin to master the challenge of keeping the kite in the air, and maybe even learn a trick or two. The final challenge is how to get the kite down when you’re ready to head home.

    Feature image credit: @ashleytheislander

    Feature image credit: @fokys_pokys

    How to choose the right kite

    The first thing you need to do to get started with kite flying is to get a kite! There are more styles, colors, and sizes of kites than ever before – not to mention, kites are now easier to put together, get into the air, and fly. You can purchase a basic-shaped kite (diamond, triangle, prism) for not much money (under $20) that’s easy to assemble and easy for little kids to handle. Elaborate 3-D box kites or dragon kites may look cool, but the standard shapes are the easiest to fly for beginners. Once you’ve mastered the basics of kite flying, you can move up to the more creative designs and shapes.

    Here are a few highly recommended budget-friendly kites for kids:

    Make your own kite for a STEAM activity

    If you have older kids and are up for a challenge, you can choose to make your own kite and turn this into a STEAM activity. Kids can learn a lot from designing, building, and decorating their own kites. 

    Feature image credit: @kristcx

    The perfect kite-flying wind

    The next step is to assess the wind. You will need to pick a kite-flying day with good wind, but not too much wind. Days with consistent light to medium winds are good kite flying days. Flags on masts should be extended straight out (good wind), but not rippling or snapping (too much wind). Too much wind could result in your kite looping and diving. It could be very difficult to control or keep a hold of. Too little wind and your kite may not be able to stay in the air. Make sure to check the weather and never fly a kite in a thunderstorm.

    Feature image credit: @larissahollowayphoto

    Feature image credit: @rachelkrausmannphoto

    Look for a wide-open space

    Next, you’ll need to pick the perfect location for kite flying. A beach or wide-open field is the ideal spot. Check out your local parks, ball fields, farms. The more room you have, the more fun you will have kite flying with kids. Avoid hills, because the wind will make kite flying difficult. Take note of your surroundings and avoid power lines and nearby trees.

    Feature image credit: @desireemacke

    How to launch a kite

    The hardest part of kite flying is initially getting the kite into the air. Young children love to run to launch a kite. While this is fun for kids, it is actually not the best way to launch a kite. You can certainly let them try, though! If you would like to launch this way make sure your child is running into the wind with only a little bit of line. Once the wind catches it they’ll need to stop and let out more line.

    The best way to get your kite in the air is to stand with your back to the wind, hold the line in one hand, hold the kite up in the other (with the nose pointing straight up). Let the wind catch the kite then let go. Don’t throw it into the air, just gently release it into the wind and let line out as the wind lifts the kite. If the wind lulls, pull the line in tight to make your kite gain altitude.

    You could also let your child hold the kite about fifty feet away. Pull the line tight and signal to them to release it. Take a few steps backwards and the kite should shoot up into the sky, just like if you were running.

    Feature image credit: @sixdegreesofchaos

    Tips for keeping your kite in the air

    Each different style of kite (design, size, shape, and material) will need different amounts of wind for successful flying. If your kite is new, try checking the package for wind recommendations. If that’s not an option, the best way to figure it out is through trial and error! You might have to try a few different times or locations to find the best wind for successful flying.

    However, once the kite is flying high and smoothly, keep the string at a comfortable tightness and it will not be hard to keep it flying. If the string is too slack, reel some in. If the kite pulls hard, let some additional line out.

    Feature image credit: @wildlyraised

    How to bring your kite down

    When you’re finished flying the kite, simply wind the kite string around the spool or handle while walking towards it to bring it in. Remind your child to wind up the string slowly and carefully so it does not get tangled or knotted. Easy peasy!

    Feature image credit: @sara_mccarty

    Kite flying tips & tricks

    • The perfect length – Don’t let out too much line. It’s hard for people to see and enjoy if a kite gets too high. If your flying line becomes slack, bring in a little. If the kite begins to pull too hard or act unstable, let some line out.
    • Teaching about turbulence – Turbulence is an irregular motion of the air resulting from eddies and vertical currents. Sometimes, as the wind goes around objects (trees, buildings, hills), it causes turbulence. Other times, turbulence might be in the form of updrafts over pavement or barren places and downdrafts over vegetation and water. As you’re kiting, you might feel your kite get bumpy. If you find this phenomenon, it’s a fantastic learning opportunity for children. 
    • Come up with challenges – If your child likes a good challenge, there are definitely ways to make kite flying more interesting. Challenge your kid to see how quickly he can get the kite in the air or if he can get the kite to dive and soar. When it’s time to leave, challenge your kid to bring the kite in without letting it touch the ground. He’ll have to pull it in quickly to keep it airborne.

    Feature image credit: @eliza.flaska.mi

    Have you flown a kite with your kids?
    What kite flying tips do you have?

  • FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    Outdoor Rainy Day Activities for Kids

    It’s raining, it’s pouring! So, now what? When it’s rainy outside, you have two options: stay inside and let your kiddos run amuck, or get outside and enjoy some outdoor rainy day activities for kids! In my opinion, this isn’t a hard one – let’s go and play in the rain! We know that most rainy day activity posts are usually about things you can do inside, but that’s not our style! There is so much fun to be had when you play outside with your kids. Today, SarahRuth Owens, Creative Team member and Georgia homeschooling mom of three is here sharing her family’s favorite outdoor rainy day activities for kids (and toddlers, too!), as well as the gear and supplies you might need to enjoy these days the most!

    Outdoor Rainy Day Activities for Kids

    Fun things to do on rainy days outside

    While playing outside in the rain might not sound like a blast for parents, it’s so much fun for kids! Rain makes everything feel more magical and can turn ordinary adventures into extraordinary ones! Today, I’m sharing some of our favorite screen-free rainy day activities for kids. All of these rainy day activities have been tried and tested by my crew of adventurers and are sure to get your kids excited about the rain. Because there’s no such thing as bad weather! 

    Best rainy day gear for kids

    When engaging in rainy day play, one might ask oneself: to be wet, or not to be wet? A lot of factors play into this. Things like…how much laundry is already sitting in piles on your couch. And whether or not there are currently any crayons melted to the inside of your dryer (just me, eh?).

    If you don’t care how wet they get, then just send them outside to play in whatever they want to wear. If the weather is warm and your kids aren’t sweet enough to melt, let them out to play in the puddles and engage in rainy day play outside, getting as wet as possible. 

    Doing outdoor rainy day activities with kids sounds good, but maybe you just don’t want soaking wet kids? If you are in the not-to-be-wet crowd, there is a great solution! Rain gear has come a long way in the past decade. It can be found in a variety of sizes, patterns, and even price points. We’ve got a huge comprehensive list of the best rain gear for kids and toddlers, if you’re in the need of new gear. 

    When it comes to great quality rain gear for kids, here are a few of our favorites:

    • Mk Nordika sells rainy day gear in a mid-point price range. It is high quality and includes adorable and cheerful rainbow stripes! They have sizes from toddler up to adult. We own this brand and it is so easy to care for. You simply wipe it down if it is muddy. 
    • Oaki also has a great full-body rain suit that easily slips over kids’ clothing. It is lightweight and you don’t have to keep up with multiple pieces. They have toddler-sized rain suits all the up through big kids. 

    Rainy play - screen-free rain day outdoor activities for kids

    Safety concerns playing outside in the rain

    While outdoor rainy day activities are fun, here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:

    1. Never encourage children to play outdoors in a thunderstorm. Lightning is real and does strike. Teach children to come indoors and speak to an adult if they hear thunder and are unsure about safety.
    2. Be certain your children have on the right shoes for their location. If they are headed on a hike, the muddy trail is different than the puddles on the pavement. Choosing the correct gear for where your child will play in the rain is important.
    3. No swimming in storms, please. Remember when the lifeguard had everyone get out of the pool for half an hour when there was thunder? There is good reason for that as water is a conduit for electricity and lightning spreads over the water, impacting anyone in it.
    4. If you’re near running water (streams, creeks, rivers), keep a close eye on the water level, as streams can rise very quickly in rain. You never know if it may have rained much more higher upstream, so always keep a careful eye out and stay in shallow water, away from currents. 

    Be sure and keep safety in the forefront of your mind during outdoor rainy day activities! 

    You don’t need anything special to do outdoor rainy day activities with kids

    There, I said it. You don’t actually need anything special or planned or extravagant to enjoy rainy day play. You don’t need Pinterest perfect crafts or any special rain toys. The rain itself creates so many fun things outside. Rain makes everything ordinary feel different. It’s a full-body sensory experience that kids can’t get enough of!

    So, what do you really need for outdoor rainy day activities for kids? A smile is your best supply!

    free rainy day outdoor activities for kids

    Go for a rainy day walk

    One of my boys’ favorite things to do on a rainy day is gear up, bring umbrellas, and walk to town. Would you believe that they can walk miles in the rain? Without complaining! They can, and I bet your crew can as well. This activity requires absolutely no planning or prepwork. It’s something we could do at any time, but the rain makes it extra special and novel.

    Things you can try if your kiddos do begin to get the rainy day blues on your walk:

    • Sing songs (Singing in the Rain is always a fun tune)
    • Jump in puddles
    • Have a contest to see who can save the most worms (this means put them back in the grass and off the sidewalk)
    • Collect nature items
    • Watch water go into a sewer drain (I promise this entertains children)
    • Cup your hands and see who can overflow their hands with rainwater
    • Play “I Spy” as you walk
    • Wave at passerby and vehicles

    rainy day activities for kids - go for a rain walk

    Outdoor rainy day activities for kids in the woods

    Are you ready to unlock expert outdoor parenting level? Go play in the woods….in the rain! Let’s do this. Honestly, rainy day play in the forest is absolutely magical. Some special things happen when you visit the wet forest and see the changes happening as the flora and fauna drink in the rain. There is so much to do while in the woods on a rainy day.

    I organized a forest playgroup for kids for years and rainy days in the woods were some of our favorites! Here are some of the best and favorite rainy day outdoor activities to do in the woods from our forest school excursions:

    • Build a shelter – bring tarps, some twine, etc. and challenge the kids to build a dry shelter
    • See if you can build a fire when it is wet outside
    • Go on a mushroom hunt (fungi love wet conditions)
    • Sketch the woods in the rain
    • Get in the creek – hey, you’re already wet, right? (be careful and cognizant of rising water)
    • Play rainy day hide and seek
    • Bring a ruler and a clear glass or cup and measure the rainfall during your time in the woods

    rainy play

    Outdoor rainy day activities for kids that use supplies

    Ok, so you tried the rainy day activities without supplies (or maybe you didn’t…that’s ok, we won’t tell), but maybe you want to enjoy some structured organized fun like crafts and games. That’s great! I’ve got you covered!

    Here are some fun outdoor rainy day games, crafts, and activities for kids and what supplies you need:

    Rainy day bike ride

    Clearly, you need your bikes and helmets. My sons like to have bike gloves because in the rain, your hands tend to rub the handlebars more. Try sloshing through puddles! We also like to have a manual bike pump on one of our bikes, and don’t forget to bring water!

    Water-gun fight

    This one is so much fun during Summer showers. Each person gets a water gun and you can go to town. I suggest having buckets of water on hand, or even a large rubber maid tub filled with water for refills. 

    Water balloon fight

    Yep, let’s do this water thing all the way! About 100 balloons usually works for our crew of 5. We like to prefill and place them in the fridge in Summer. This means that humid, warm weather won’t be an issue! Swimsuits are smart gear to have on during this activity. Also, be certain to clean up any broken balloon bits; they don’t decompose. 

    Water table fun

    You can create a simple water table at a mud kitchen, or even just at a table, by providing your kiddos with scoops, spoons, a colander, shovels, bowls, and cups. Sometimes simple is best. 

    Bob for fruit

    This one is so much fun in the rain. I cannot explain it, it simply is! Add some apples, peaches, or whatever round fruit is in season, to a big bowl or rubber maid container filled with drinkable water. Now bob!

    Paint with mud

    All you need is some mud, a few paintbrushes and something to paint! This could be anything from a piece of paper or cardboard to your driveway. It doesn’t have to be fancy. If you want more ways to play with mud, check out this post with lots of fun and creative Mud Activities for Kids.

    Boat races

    Have your kids find natural materials (sticks, leaves, pinecones, etc.) and make a small boat. Then race them down the run-off water in the street or down a stream. This is a great way to also teach kids about engineering and what floats (and doesn’t).

    rainy day activities for kids - bike ride in the ride

    What are your favorite outdoor rainy day activities?

    We want to see you and your kids having fun doing rainy day play. Use the hashtag #runwildmychild for a chance to be featured on our Instagram account!

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @kindle_togetherness
    RWMC posts: SarahRuth 

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    10 Hiking Essentials for Families

    Have you heard of the concept of the 10 essentials for hiking? It’s a basic gear list that attempts to prepare you for all the things that could possibly happen while out hiking. The list is composed of items in ten categories, to cover everything you may need out on a hiking adventure. And hiking with kids is definitely an adventure! Today, Creative Team member and Arkansas mom of 2, Nichole Holze walks us through 10 hiking essentials for families. She breaks down the list to what’s practical for parents, what she’s tried and tested, along with tons of pro tips for hiking with kids. 

    This post contains affiliate links

    Hiking Essentials for Families - What to Pack When Hiking with Kids

    Hiking essentials for families

    Hiking has always been one of our family’s most favorite hobbies. Before having kids, while I was pregnant, then with littles, and now with not-so-little children (when did my kids get so big!?), hiking has been a big part of my life. Hiking can be such a fun family adventure, but it also has a few inherent risks. The best way to be prepared for those risks is to be aware and make sure you packed your hiking essentials.

    In this post, I’m going to share the 10 essential things you should have with you on any hiking adventure with kids. I’ll also break our hiking essentials list down for shorter hikes, longer hikes, and everything in between. Plus, I’m including a few tips I’ve learned after hiking with kids for almost ten years!

    But, before we begin, I have this piece of advice for you regarding sustainability and eco-friendly choices. Before buying anything new, start with what you have. Most likely, you can find something for each of these categories that you already own. Begin there. Then, as you’re ready for more challenges you can make adjustments, tweaks, or additional purchases where necessary. Alright, let’s go! 

    What are the 10 essentials for hiking?

    The official idea of the “ten essentials” came from Mountaineering magazine back in 1974, but has gained popularity since then as being an excellent way to be prepared while exploring the outdoors. While the original list of essential hiking items was designed with extreme adventure in mind, it can still be used by families. Because, let’s be honest, hiking with children of any age is undoubtedly an extreme adventure, whether it’s two miles or ten!

    The 10 essentials of hiking gear list has always sought to answer two basic questions:

    1. Can you prevent emergencies and respond positively should one occur?
    2. Can you safely spend a night (or more) outside?

    The list of hiking essentials falls into these categories: navigation, light source, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, food, water, and clothing. Generally, I keep something in my backpack to check off each of those categories. But, what you need for hiking with your family can change depending on the adventure. So, let’s dig a little deeper into each category and modify them a bit for what you’ll need when hiking with kids. 

    hiking essentials for families hiking with kids

    Choosing a hiking backpack

    Before I get into the details of what essential items you need for hiking with kids, I want to talk about a bag to carry it all in. In my opinion, a backpack is an essential piece of gear! It needs to 1) be comfortable, 2) have enough pockets to hold your important items, and 3) be something you love.

    My “adventure bag” is a Jansport Agave 32 that I’ve had for years. It’s held up well to all kinds of adventure. I’ve added patches and pins to make it my own, and it even has a sleeve for a hydration bladder (more on that later).

    Hiking backpacks for kids

    My children’s first adventure packs were the Scout backpack from Camelbak. They worked great up until around age six, when they outgrew them. You can check out a video of the little backpacks in action HERE. 

    As my children grew, their next (and current) packs are the Osprey Daylight packs, which they use with the water bladder from their old Camelbak packs. The packs are a little bigger, very comfortable, and have plenty of pockets for stashing treasures. 

    Quick note: I believe in letting kids carry backpacks as soon as they’re big enough to hike on the trails. Yes, parents, you’ll end up hauling their bags for the second half of the hike, but if you plan on bigger adventures as they get older, it’s a good habit to begin while they’re little. Greta Eskridge talks about this in her book Adventuring Together. 

    hiking with kids 10 essentials backpacks

    1. Navigation

    The first item on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to navigation. You probably already have an excellent navigation tool in your hand. In fact, it’s probably what you’re reading this blog post from. Yup, it’s your cell phone. Your phone, with its built-in GPS is already an extremely powerful navigation tool! And navigation is one of the ten hiking essentials for families!

    Depending on where you’re adventuring, you may or may not have cell phone service. One of the ways that I prep for this is to download a map offline. Using an app like AllTrails is a great way to do that. I pay for the pro version of the app because I use it so frequently and love all the extra features I get with the upgraded paid version. Always check the trail map before you go, but as an added level of safety, having an offline (or hard copy map) saved is important.

    Note – For safety’s sake, I recommend NOT recording your hike through the app. You can record it another way and save it privately, there’s no need to share where you adventure unless you feel comfortable doing so. 

    I also carry a compass in my backpack. It is a small compass that also has a mirror for emergency signaling. I’ve never used it, but I do know how to, if the situation were to ever arise. Learning to use and navigate with a compass is a really great skill to learn as a family! Someday, the ability to read a map, terrain, and use a compass may save your life. I recommend the book Squiggly Lines as a starting point. Geocaching is also a great way to learn directions and reading a map. 

    10 hiking essentials for families waterfall backcountry

    2. Light source

    Another hiking must-have for families is a source of light in your backpacks. Even if you plan on being back to your car well before dark, it’s critical that you have light, just in case you need it. The outdoors can be unpredictable so it’s best to be prepared.

    For our family, we each carry a headlamp in our backpacks. All of our headlamps are from Black Diamond. Mine is a rechargeable headlamp and the others use triple-A batteries. I let my children carry their headlamps in their own backpacks, because when they’re little it makes them feel pretty special. When I first gave my daughter her own headlamp, she wore it the entire hike, in broad daylight. But, it made her feel like she could conquer the world. 

    Pro tip – if you’re going to invest in headlamps, don’t bother buying children’s headlamps. Your kids are only going to grow so get them a piece of gear that will grow and last for them. 

    Flashlights or pen lights also work great as a light sourcet! As a last resort, you can also carry a lighter or matches in your pack and emergency candle. 

    headlamps essential hiking gear for families

    3. Protection from the elements

    Having something that can protect you from the elements is one of the hiking essentials for families that can vary depending on the seasons and weather. Where we live and hike most often, our protection needs to be from the sun. It’s always important to be mindful of sun protection wherever and whenever you’re hiking, but how much protection you need will change.

    For us, I like to carry extra sunscreen and sunhats just in case. My children each carry a Sunday Afternoons sunhat in their backpacks, which my daughter wears more often because she’s prone to sunburn. If you’re going to be adventuring near water or the ocean, please be sure that you’re using a Reef Safe sunscreen! We also really like the Sahara shirts from REI. They are moisture-wicking and lightweight enough to not be too warm in the heat of the sun, but also provide great sun protection. 

    Pro tip: Children grow, quickly, so if your kids are over the age of four, I recommend just getting them an adult size hat and not a child-sized one. Most of them have a chin strap and head strap you can cinch down, and it will last them into adulthood.

    It’s important to be mindful of what season you’re in or what weather you may encounter. For us, it’s all about layering. In cooler or cold weather, we layer a warm sweatshirt with our rain jackets to stay warm. It works twofold: it locks in body heat while also keeping out moisture and wind. Get in the habit of checking the weather as you prepare for your adventure day! But also, prepare for the unexpected. A lightweight raincoat can provide protection from the sun as well as wind, rain, and cold. 

    4. First Aid

    I’ll be the first to say it: I am not a wilderness first aid expert. Shocking, I know! I’m just a Mom, who has learned through experience what works, what doesn’t, and what is important. First aid is definitely important, especially with wild rambunctious kids. So, the next thing on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to first aid.

    If you plan on bigger and more epic expeditions, I would recommend picking up a book on Wilderness First Aid to read at your leisure or taking a wilderness first aid class. This training and knowledge will make you much safer and more confident on the trail.

    For our first aid, I always carry an Ultralight/Watertight first aid kit from Adventure Medical Kits. They’re very compact, last for years, and hold up to being fully submerged in a creek (yes, I know this from experience). Having some sort of first aid kit is essential for families, whether your hiking solo or with your whole crew.

    Pro tip: when my husband and I rode Amtrak out to Glacier to go backpacking (that’s a story in and of itself) we made our own First Aid kit. This is easy to do with a waterproof bag (like a Ziploc bag) and supplies you already have at home. For space-saving and durability, I do recommend purchasing an adventure or camping-type first aid kit. 

    For a full list of what should be in your first aid kit and how to be safe on the trail with kids, check out our post on Hiking Safety Tips and Hiking First Aid. 

    hiking essentials for families first aid kit adventure medical kits

    5. Multitools or a knife

    Having a multitool or knife is a hiking essential that is up to interpretation and what each family feels comfortable with. What you choose to carry as an essential is based on your needs. This essential hiking item could come in handy in a variety of ways and scenarios, but should always be supervised around small children. 

    I always carry a knife and my children each have their own multitool. My daughter even named hers, it’s called her “Brave Tool.” A multitool or even a first pocketknife make wonderful gift items for outdoorsy kids. My children love carrying their own multitool and whip out the little knife on theirs almost every chance they get to whittle their own little spears.

    The knife that I carry serves a dual purpose; as a survival tool, but also as self-protection, should I need either. My knife is one of the tools in my backpack that always stays there, along with my headlamp, compass, and first aid kit, so that it’s always ready to go. The same is true for my children’s multitools. They always stay in their backpacks. They can get them out to play or use at home, but they are stored in their adventure packs. 

    hiking essentials for families kids multitool

    6. Fire

    I never plan on needing to make a fire while out on day hikes with kids, but there have been times that I’ve done so just to keep warm while we stop for lunch, or relax for a little while. The ability to start a fire can literally mean life or death in a survival situation, so I always carry a way to start a fire on every adventure, big or small. A method of making/starting a fire is the next hiking essential for families. 

    The easiest thing to do is to always carry a lighter, which I do. It’s just a simple Bic lighter that takes up minimal space. However, I also like to have a backup, so I also carry a magnesium fire striker. You can also look into a flint and steel rod.

    Pro tip: whatever backup method you choose, practice with it! Make sure you know how to use it! Here’s a great post about teaching kids how to build fires from another creative team member! 

    7. Shelter

    One of my kids’ favorite activities is to practice building survival shelters in the woods. Because who doesn’t love building a fort? While those forts are great practice for an emergency. And shelter is the next essential hiking item for families.

    I like to be prepared for the worst and carry an emergency bivvy in my backpack, especially if it’s a hike over five miles or very remote. A “bivvy” is short for bivouac shelter, which means any sort of temporary or emergency shelter usually employed by soldiers, mountaineers, backpackers, or other outdoor adventurists. The ones we use are basically a reflective blanket in sleeping bag form. They are packed very small and take up little to no weight or space in an adventure backpack.

    For our big hikes (ten miles or more) I have each of my children carry one. We like the Emergency Bivvy from Adventure Medical Kits, which is no longer available. But, here is a great alternative: Go Time Gear Life Bivvy. This piece of essential hiking gear may not be one you ever need, but when you need it, it could save you or your children’s life. They trap body heat while also providing protection from the elements. 

    hiking essentials for families hiking with kids creek crossing

    8. Water, water, water

    Never underestimate how much water you’ll need when hiking with kids. On our last big hike (a ten-mile round trip hike to see a hidden waterfall), I forgot that the hike had no access to water. This meant I was sharing what I had in my hydration bladder with our dog. (ps – do not recommend). I ended up running out of water with two miles to go still. Don’t do like I did, plan ahead. Water is one of the most important hiking essentials for families. 

    Both of my children carry their own hydration bladder (also from Camelbak). We introduced these when they received their first hiking packs when they were tiny and they LOVED them. Water is HEAVY so it’s important to find a way to carry it without added weight. The insulated water bottles are nice, but they also add a lot of weight. We prefer hydration bladders, for any and all outdoor endeavors. 

    The last piece of essential hiking gear for families is a means to purify water. We love the water filters from Sawyer, check out their mini filter in action HERE. I keep one of those filters with a straw in a Stasher bag, in my adventure pack at all times.  You can also check out Lifestraw or this neat on-the-go filter from MSR. In a survival situation (or if your water filtration fails, which we’ve had happen to us) you can start a fire to bring water to boiling. It’s critical that the water reaches a boiling point for sixty seconds to kill off any bacteria. Water is the most important thing for all adventures and will be priority one in any survival or unexpected outdoor mishaps. I would recommend doing your research to find what feels right for your family and your situation. 

    9. Extra food

    The ten hiking essentials require extra food, water, and clothing. Again, what you carry depends on your situation, the season, and the weather predictions. Just remember, the outdoors can throw all kinds of wrenches in your plans so it’s best to be prepared.

    In general, I carry one to two extra snacks for each person (and my kids don’t know about them.) Those “extras” can be a bonus on the ride home, but will also come in handy if our day takes a turn. Once on a nine-mile day hike with a very poorly marked trail, I had to ration out the extra food. But those extra chocolate chip granola bars were the perfect motivation to keep little legs going, mile after mile.

    For other extra food options, sometimes I grab a few meals from our stash of dehydrated meals in our camping gear. These are lightweight, easy to prepare, and last a long time. I never use them unless we have to. My favorites are the meals from Good to Go foods. And here’s a great post filled with awesome trail-test kid-approved hiking snacks. 

    10. Extra clothing

    The final item on our hiking essentials for families gear list is a bit of extra clothing. Extra clothing can be essential when hiking with kids, but we’re not asking you to pack a suitcase or bring along a closet of clothes for everyone. Extra clothes can also take up a lot of room in your backpack, so pack smart. For extra clothing, we start our hike in all of our layers, then peel them off as we warm up. But as a general rule, we always carry lightweight rain jackets in our bags, just in case. I also recommend an extra pair of dry socks for everyone. Dry socks can help prevent blisters and keep you warm if/when your feet get wet. The same goes for extra gloves in the winter. If you know you’re going to get soaking wet or muddy on a hike (hello creeks!), then bring the essentials on the hike with you and pack a full set of change of clothes to leave in the car so you can change before driving home. 

    Backpack essentials and who carries what

    I know, I know. I just shared LOTS of information with you. These ten hiking essentials for families may sound like a lot to pack and carry with you on a hike. So, here’s a little breakdown of who carries what in our family that may help you divide and conquer: 

    • Mom – water filter, first aid kit, knife, emergency bivvy, sunhat, sunglasses, my own water, main food, compass, fire starter/striker, phone/map
    • Kids – their own water, a multitool, two granola bars/snacks, emergency whistle

    That’s just for the essentials. Please remember that these are meant to be guidelines, you can adapt and change what you need for your family. Just be sure to have at least something from each of the ten categories listed above. I also recommend letting your children get used to carrying a backpack with some of their own essentials as soon as they are able to hike more than one mile. 

    Additional items to pack when hiking with kids

    Now that we’ve covered the basic hiking essentials for families, here are a few more items that you might also want to pack and take with you (which may or not be essential, but could definitely be useful!):

    • Baby wipes – I always bring a few in a reusable Stasher bag. Why? Because they’re amazing. 
    • A garbage bag and disposable gloves – Thes are great to carry out our own trash, but also any trash we see. Because inevitably we will see other peoples’ trash on the trail and we are determined to leave the trail better than we found it. It’s just good outdoor etiquette. 
    • Net – My kids would like to argue that a net is also essential, along with a small container for critters or nature treasures found along the way. (Please collect responsibly.)
    • Charger – If you’re going to be out for an extended period of time, a backup wireless phone charger is helpful! 
    • My kids also love their Relay Go – a screen-free, smartphone that lets me give them a little more freedom to run ahead on the trail, but also lets me keep track of where they are and stay in touch. Learn more HERE. 

    Family hiking checklist

    There you have it! The 10 hiking essentials for families that will help you feel more prepared, safe and confident when out on the trails with your little ones. Here’s a quick recap of the ten things you need when hiking with kids:

    1. navigation
    2. light source
    3. sun protection
    4. first aid
    5. knife
    6. fire
    7. shelter
    8. water
    9. food
    10. clothing

    Be prepared, be responsibly brave

    Thanks for reading, friends! If you’d like to follow along with all of our shenanigans, you can find me on Instagram HERE. You can also sign up for my once per month Field Notes newsletter HERE.

    P.S.  If you join my newsletter you’ll be the first to know when I open up my FREE Respsonsibly Brave Adventure course again! Here’s to chasing the adventure, prepared for whatever gets thrown our way. ~Nichole

    More resources for hiking with kids 

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    About the author

    Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl. They are in their seventh year of homeschooling. She’s married to her best friend and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can find her in the woods somewhere, probably up a creek, and jumping off waterfalls.

    You can find more from Nichole online in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.luckeywanderers.com
    Instagram: @coleyraeh
    RWMC posts: Nichole

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, GOOD FOR NATURE, HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Outdoor Etiquette & Nature Manners for Kids

    If you’re raising outdoor-loving kids, chances are that you’re also teaching your kids outdoor etiquette (whether you know it or not). Nature manners are a set of rules that help kids understand how to treat outdoor spaces, the environment, and wildlife. They’re practices that help us show respect to our planet and our fellow outdoor adventurers. Today, Creative Team member Michelle Garrett, California mom, and creator of Wonder Club Explorers, is here with some guidance for parents about teaching outdoor etiquette to kids and seven easy nature manners to teach your little nature-lovers. 

    Outdoor Etiquette & Nature Manners for Kids

    Outdoor etiquette and nature manners

    Our littles have a great big world waiting for them to explore. With a little help from us grown-ups, we hope they will grow to love and appreciate all the joys that nature has to offer. For many, nature’s benefits include the serenity that comes from being outdoors, breathing in the fresh air, or feeling the sunshine on one’s face. Being outdoors also affords nature-goers the wonderful pleasure of meeting other kindred spirits who, too, enjoy being outside. 

    One of the benefits of spending time in nature is the opportunity to teach children how to be good stewards of the outdoors. Whether the mountains are calling or the beaches are beckoning, there is a certain set of etiquette for the outdoors. We’re not talking Emily Post-style etiquette, but rather a handful of good manners and practices to set in motion while kids are young to help them appreciate and respect nature, as well as preserve the enjoyment of the outdoors for others.

    What are nature manners?

    Nature manners are a set of rules that help kids understand how to treat outdoor spaces, the environment, and wildlife. They’re practices that help us show respect to our planet and our fellow outdoor adventurers.

    Nature manners are equally as important as the ones we learn around the dinner table. Especially if nature is to be enjoyed by everyone. They’re not hard and fast rules that are difficult for kids to grasp or implement. We’re certainly not asking your kids to be quiet outside or stay calm at all times (don’t worry, that’s not our style).

    Our nature manners for kids are merely ways to teach kids how to respect and appreciate nature, without doing harm. They’re based on the “Leave No Trace” principles, but adapted for little ones. 

    7 easy nature manners for outdoor-loving kids

    Today, we’re sharing seven easy manners to teach your kids when adventuring outside. We hope these easy-to-implement manners will help to raise awareness and decrease frustrations when we are out enjoying our beautiful outdoor spaces together. These concepts are all practices that we can teach our kids through modeling and with gentle reminders when we’re out and about in nature. They’ll pick up on these nature manners quickly and they’ll become second nature to them as they grow into nature-loving adults. 

    Nature Manners when Hiking With Kids

    1. Give a hoot, don’t pollute!

    Woodsy the Owl said it best, “Give a hoot, don’t pollute!” Teaching kids to properly dispose of their trash – food wrappers, juice boxes, and bottles – is one of the easiest manners to teach kids. Trash has no place along trails, waterways, and oceans. Not only does trash not look nice, but it is also harmful to native flora and fauna.

    One of the best ways to prevent littering is to teach kids the “pack in, pack out” mindset. On your next adventure, carry along a grocery bag and stuff it with all of your trash. This includes food scraps and toilet paper. When the adventure is over, ask your little one to toss it into a trash can so they know how to dispose of it for next time.  

    And if you want to go a bit above and beyond and really teach amazing outdoor etiquette, teach your child to practice “negative trace” where they also pick up the trash and litter others have left behind. Leaving an outdoor area even better than you found is one of the best things you can do for our planet and a wonderful concept to teach kids. 

    2. Just say no to graffiti

    Kids are natural artists, but we certainly don’t want to encourage them to leave their mark on nature in a damaging way. On our family hikes, we would often let our son grab a stick and draw zigzags and numbers in the dirt along the trails. But, when we came upon graffiti carved into trees or painted on rocks and signs, we made sure to point out that it was destroying the natural beauty of the trails we all enjoyed. 

    No one wants to see spray paint or carvings when they’re outside enjoying nature. Graffiti and vandalism have a permanent impact on beautiful places. Even when it can be cleaned up, the parks don’t always have the resources to take care of it. There are appropriate ways to express selves artistically in nature such as Plein air painting or taking photos, but graffiti sure isn’t one of them!

    outdoor etiquette and nature manners for kids

    3. Look with your eyes, not with your hands!

    How remarkable is it to come across the habitat of an animal in nature? Nests, dens, hives, and other habitats give rare glimpses into the animal kingdom and are the equivalent of a science textbook come to life! Bu animal habitats can be delicate, carefully constructed, and teeming with life. They should be observed with an abundance of caution. 

    Kids, however, are naturally curious creatures. The lure of touching these habitats is strong. And while we are all about hands-on learning, nevertheless, it’s important to impart respect for our animal friends and teach kids to follow the simple adage, “look with your eyes, and not with your hands” in these instances. There are plenty of other things in nature that kids can touch and experience up-close. 

    4. You had me at “hello”

    One of my favorite nature manners to teach my son is to be friendly and courteous to other outdoor adventurers and nature-goers. By saying hello, smiling, or nodding one’s head, you’re acknowledging another person’s presence without being overbearing or intrusive.

    The benefits of engaging in this type of hiking etiquette extend beyond just being warm & friendly. Being courteous gives folks a chance to share potential hazards ahead or landmarks to assist with navigation or distance. Conversation with fellow hikers also makes one more memorable in case a rescue team needs to locate a lost adventurer. 

    And while it’s really nice to be friendly with your fellow explorers, remember that most people aren’t out there to make new friends or hang out with other people. Say hi and be helpful, but do not monopolize your time or help yourself to another group’s space or resources.

    Outdoor Nature Manners for Kids

    5. Leave it as you found it

    The simple, yet effective, phrase “leave it as you found it” speaks to one’s influence in maintaining nature for everyone to enjoy. Some might even say, “leave it better than you found it.” Regardless, don’t do anything to destroy the outdoors. Try not to disturb things and leave items in their natural condition, whether it’s rocks or vegetation. 

    We all know what happened when Goldilocks explored the home of the three little bears. Had she “left it as she found it,” that particular nursery rhyme would have ended a lot differently. 

    6. Be mindful where you walk

    When you’re out exploring, teach your kids to be mindful of where you walk, sit, put down your bags, and allow your pets. Life outside in nature can be fragile and our missteps can damage it for years to come. When possible, stay on the marked trails and try not to disturb the plants and environment around you. Sometimes this is a hard concept for kids because they’re naturally curious and want to explore. We’re not telling you that you can never go “off trail,” but if/when you do, just be mindful of your steps and your actions to not harm or disturb your surroundings. 

    7. Show respect for wildlife

    It’s important to teach your kids to respect wildlife and wild animals. Don’t feed wild animals or leave food scraps behind. Animals fed by humans may become dependent on that food and have difficulty learning how to fend for themselves in the wild.

    For the safety of both kids and animals, keep a safe distance from wild animals. Animals need privacy (particularly during breeding seasons) and can be very protective when approached. A good rule of thumb is, actually using your thumb: close one eye, and then if you hold your thumb up to your open eye and can cover the animal with your thumb, you are at a safe distance.  This works out to about 100 yards for large animals like bears and moose, and 25 yards for most medium-sized wildlife. 

    Wonder Club Explorers - Nature Scouting for Kids

    Use your nature manners to love Mother Earth

    As Earth Day approaches, families will have opportunities to talk about nature and how to protect our planet. A great way to underscore nature manners is to repurpose items found during hikes and beach days into art. Known as process art, kids can creatively make unstructured art projects like sculptures and collages using bottle caps, straws, and other commonly discarded items. Shore Collections Art has some really creative and inspiring ways to think artistically about the impact our individual actions have on Mother Earth.

    Connect with Wonder Club Explorers

    If you’re looking for other fun ways to connect with your kids and nature, Wonder Club Explorers might be for you. A fun scouting alternative, Wonder Club Explorers offers merit patches and adventure vests to inspire wonder and curiosity in kids. Open-ended and self-guided, kids earn patches such as “Nature Explorer,” “Process Artists,” and “Good SamariKids.” These are just a few patches that can be earned by practicing good “nature manners” like the ones above.

    Have fun exploring and remember to tag #runwildmychild on your next outdoor adventure. Until next time!

    What nature manners are you teaching your kids?

    About the author

    Michelle spends her days working on projects to improve the quality of life for the citizens of her community and her nights reading books to her 6 year-old about every kind of dinosaur there ever was (there are 900 validated species, in case you’re wondering). Together with her son, Michelle created Wonder Club Explorers, a company to inspire wonder and curiosity in kids. She carves out time for herself on the weekends as an early morning exerciser and metalsmith of fine jewelry. She resides in Altadena with her husband and son amongst California Oak trees and a stone’s throw of the San Gabriel Mountains.

    You can find Michelle online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wonderclubexplorers
    Website: http://www.wonderclubexplorers.co
    RWMC posts: Michelle Garrett

  • BEACH, BIKE, CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    7 Family-Friendly Places to Explore in Illinois

    Illinois might not be on the very top of your family’s outdoor adventure bucket list. But, this Midwest state just might surprise you with some really incredible hikes and trails, amazing state parks, camping options, lake adventures, and more! Today, Creative Team member Meghan Garriott, Illinois mom of 2 (soon to be 3) shares 7 of her family’s favorite free family-friendly places to explore in Illinois! (try saying that five times fast!) If you’re in or around Illinois (or even just driving through on a road trip this summer), make sure you check out this post and add a few of these destinations to your adventure list! 

    Family-friendly outdoor places to explore in Illinois

    7 outdoor places to explore in Illinois

    Let’s be honest here, Illinois is not usually a top destination for scenic views or epic outdoor adventures. When most people think of Illinois, cornfields and Chicago are probably the only 2 things that come to mind. And while both of those are a big part of this state, you might be surprised to find that between the big city and miles of corn and soybeans, Illinois has some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural habitats in the Midwest. There are high waterfalls, deep canyons, enormous bluffs, and prairies and waterways that are full of life and beauty. Read along to discover some of Illinois’ most beautiful and fun-filled outdoor places to explore with your family. 

    1. Matthiessen State Park 

    Matthiessen State Park is in Northern Illinois, just about an hour or so outside of Chicago. It is positioned just south of the Illinois River and next to its better-known neighbor Starved Rock State Park (see below).

    Thanks to the Vermilion River that winds and curves throughout Matthiessen, there is no shortage of waterways to play in or gape at during your visit. The most scenic of these waterways are the upper and lower dells. The lower dells is home to a towering 45 foot waterfall called Cascade Falls. This waterfall is breathtaking to view from the bottom, inside the canyon. 

    Cascade Falls at Matthiessen State Park

    Favorite Matthiessen trails 

    Matthiessen State Park is broken up into two areas: (1) the Vermilion River Area, and (2) the Dells Area, as seen on the trail map. Dells area is where you will find the Cascade falls along with other falls and sights like “Giants Bath Tub” and “Devil’s Paint Box”. The best trail to see all the sights is the Dells Canyon and Bluff trail. Along this trail there are many stairs, bridges and wet crossings.

    Both these trails are fun for kids of all ages. However, make sure you bring a change of clothes for everyone. The trails are often wet and/or muddy during the spring and summer. If you’re going down to the lower dells, be prepared for a lot of stairs. This is not a stroller-friendly trail and little legs may tire quickly.

    When visiting Matthiessen State Park in prime season (spring and summer), I recommend going on a weekday. Due to its proximity to the city it can be a very popular destination for those looking to escape into nature. If you love chasing waterfalls put Matthiessen on your list!

    Wet crossing at Matthiessen State Park - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Wet crossing at the upper Dells

    2. Ferne Clyffe State Park 

    Ferne Clyffe State Park is an all-time favorite for my family. Its versatility in scenery and low difficulty trails make it an easy place to spend the entire day with little kids. Tucked right in the middle of the Shawnee National Forest, Ferne Clyffe has some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring rock formations. One of my children’s favorite rock formations has been named “Spider-Man Rock” (pictured below) because you can slide down like Spider-Man does on buildings. In addition to rock formations it boasts beautiful waterfalls and tons of fern-covered foliage. 

    Moss covered rocks Ferne Clyffe State Park - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Spider-Man Rock

    Kid-friendly Ferne Clyffe trails

    When hiking with children, especially young children, it’s nice to have some short trail options. Ferne Clyffe has 8 trails that are under 1 mile. While these trails are short, they definitely do not lack views. Many of short trails begin in the same area centered around a picnic area, which is great for resting, snacking, and potty breaks between trails. I love how different each trail is despite being so close in proximity to each other.

    Rebman Trail, Hawks Cave Trail, and Big Rocky Hollow Trail all start from the same parking lot but boast very different views. Rebman Trail has high rock formations where rock climbing and repelling can be enjoyed. Hawks Cave Trail (pictured below) leads to and under one of the largest shelter bluffs in Illinois. Big Rocky Hollow Trail is a wide wheelchair accessible trail that leads to a 100foot tall waterfall. Learn more here about accessibility and exploring the outdoors with medically complex children.

    Family in shelter bluff
    Hawks Cave trail

    Ferne Clyffe waterfalls

    Nearly every time we visit this waterfall at Ferne Clyffe we have it all to ourselves. Even on the weekends, this stat park is relatively slow, which is great for being able to sit back and enjoy nature’s beauty. This waterfall is intermittent, however. It is usually flowing the most in the spring and dries up with little rain or during the heat of that summer.

    The trail to the waterfall is easy and the water around the bottom is shallow and fun for kids to splash around in. With all the green foliage and the mini waterfalls that surround the big one, it is easy to forget you are in Illinois, as it feels much like a jungle. 

    Boy in blue at the bottom of a waterfall

    3. Rock Springs Conservation Area

    We are bringing things back to the middle of the Prairie State with our third favorite outdoor Illinois destination – Rock Springs Conservation Area. Rock Springs is one of 5 conservation areas in Macon County, Illinois. Their mission is to promote the conservation of natural and cultural resources by acquiring, maintaining, and restoring natural areas and cultural sites so as to leave them unimpaired for future generations.

    At Rock Springs, there is so much to learn about native Illinois. You can easily spend a day learning, exploring, and enjoying without spending a dollar. Its many trails lead through historic prairies with native grasses and wildflowers. There is a paved bike trail as well as many grass and dirt trails.

    One of our favorite places to hike through is the old Christmas tree farm, which now boasts tall pine trees and an open forest floor.  If hiking is not your thing you can still spend the whole day here learning at the historic prairie house, fishing from the ponds with borrowed equipment from the nature center, or exploring the nature center itself. 

    Sun burst through pine trees
    Pine Forest at Rock Springs

    Rock Springs Nature Center 

    The Rock Springs Nature Center is a great place to hang out on hot summer days or cold winter days. There are many fun and educational exhibits that focus on habitat and history in Illinois. The Ecocenter is a hands-on and interactive museum exhibit inside the nature center. This exhibit features life-sized native wildlife inside their habitat, and shows how the environment in Illinois is ever-changing.

    The other part of the nature center houses live animals like turtles, snakes, fish, and salamanders. The nature center also has a free-to-the-public library, which is great for curious kiddos when that weather doesn’t allow outdoor exploring.

    One of our favorite rooms in the nature center is bird viewing window. There is a big comfy couch in front of a wall-sized window that allows you to comfortably enjoy many birds as they come and go from the many feeders. If you are going to be in the area be sure to check out their website, as they often have educational events for children year-round, making it one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois.

    Boy viewing birds out large window
    Bird Viewing Window at at Rock Springs Nature Center

    4. Garden of the Gods 

    Garden of the Gods is definitely one of those places that you cannot believe is in Illinois. The views year-round are breathtaking. Garden of the Gods is said to be one of the most photographed places in Illinois. It’s not hard to see why. Garden of the Gods is one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois.

    The Observation trail leads you high above the treetops looking over unique sandstone rock formations. This trail is only about .25 miles long but there are many stops and observation lookouts along the way so it can take up to an hour to finish. While short, the Observation Trail can be dangerous because of the high cliffs. You will want to make sure children walking this trail have a good safety awareness and stay close to the trail itself. While the Observation Trail is the most popular trail there are many other trails to explore. There is also a campground and picnic area so that you can stay a little longer. If coming through Illinois Garden of the Gods is a must-see site.

    Garden of the Gods - Family-friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Garden of the Gods from the Observation Trail

    5. Allerton Park and Retreat Center 

    Allerton Park is unlike any of the other locations on this list of family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. Allerton Park started out as a private residence, then was donated to the University of Illinois. According to their website, the property is used by the University as an education and research center, as a forest and wildlife and plant reserve, as an example of landscape gardening, in a public park. U of I now oversees its 14 miles of hiking trails, 1500 acres of woodland and prairie, a 10-acre meadow, it’s many many gardens. The gardens include sculpture gardens, annual and perennial gardens, a conifer garden, and many more.

    Boy looking at purple flowers
    One of the gardens are Allerton Park

    Allerton Park garden trails 

    While Allerton Park has lovely woodland trails, but when we visit, it’s usually for the garden trails. You can spend a lot of time walking and enjoying the gardens through many different seasons. In the spring the peony garden has many different varieties of peonies and is one of the most pleasing smelling gardens. One of my kids’ favorite things to do at Allerton Park is to walk between the arborvitae where small trails allow kids to walk along the main trail (pictured below).

    If you were looking for somewhere to stay in the area, the Allerton has many overnight options, including guest rooms in the Allerton historic mansion or 3 different guesthouses around the property. You can plan your visit or look at lodging options here. 

    Boy in red hat among the arborvitae
    Arborvitae trail that runs along the main garden trail

    6. Giant City State Park 

    Giant City State Park, in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, is one of our top family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. Like Ferne Clyffe and Garden of the Gods, it has beautiful rock formations. Giant City’s rock formations differ from the other two though, in that many of the trails take you through rock formations that look much like walls of a city for giants! This is where the park gets its name. The Giant City Nature Trail is a favorite for viewing the scale of these large rock walls as well a heap of plants, animals, and insects. 

    Giant City State Park, Illinois - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Giant City Nature Trail

    Giant City camping and lodge

    The campground at Giant City is one of my family’s favorites. We have camped here in both the summer and fall seasons and thoroughly enjoyed both. Each time we’ve stayed we’ve eaten one meal at the Giant City Lodge restaurant, which is great. In addition to 85 campsites, they also offer 34 cabins with heating/air conditioning. Just down from the Lodge and restaurant is a Nature Center, which is a great place to start your day and learn about all that you may see while hiking the trails of Giant City.  If you are looking for a one-stop place to camp/stay, hike, eat, and learn, then Giant City should be on your list!

    Giant City Nature Trail - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Giant City Nature Trail

    7. Lake Shelbyville 

    Our final place to explore in Illinois is back in the heartland of the state. There is no shortage of outdoor activities to be done on and around the banks of Lake Shelbyville, making it one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. This man-made lake which runs along the Kaskaskia river is made up of 11,100 acres of water, and 23,000 acres of land.

    There are over 50 miles of developed multipurpose trails. The bike trails are a favorite for our family. Our favorite bike trails are: (1) Camp Camfield, outside Sullivan, Illinois, (2) The General Dacey Trail, and (3) the Pumptrax at the head of the Dacey Trail. Both of these last two trails are located at the southern part of the lake in Shelbyville, Illinois. 

    Child in red shirt and helmet riding bike over ramp
    General Dacey Bike Trail

    Water fun at Lake Shelbyville

    While most of the places on this list are most enjoyed during the fall, spring, and summer seasons, Lake Shelbyville is definitely your go-to place for summer fun. There is not a better summer day than hanging out with the family in the hot sun and splashing in the cool water.

    Whether it be by boat or beach, there is no shortage of family-friendly outdoor places to explore along this lake for outdoor fun.  If you don’t have a boat, both Findlay Marina and Lithia Springs Marina have rental options for fishing boats, pontoon boats, or houseboats. While out enjoying the lake you will see all kinds of water sports, from water skiing to tubing, to fishing and everything in between.

    When visiting Lake Shelbyville, don’t forget to visit the 108-foot high dam that allows water from the lake to flow into the Kaskaskia River. Down the road from the dam is the Lake Shelbyville Visitors Center. The visitor center includes aquariums and terrariums, a library, an art exhibit, an education room, and expansive views of the lake and dam areas. It’s a great place to learn about water safety, wildlife along the lake, and the building of the lake itself.  

    If you are interested in spending a fun-filled week in the water, check out the many campground and cabin rental options. 

    Lake Shelbyville - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Playing in Lake Shelbyville on a summer day

    Budget-friendly outdoor family fun in Illinois

    Illinois may not be at the top of everyone’s vacation bucket list, but there is no shortage of beautiful views and fun adventures to be had. And because everyone isn’t flocking to see the views, all of these adventures are budget-friendly and almost always less crowded than well-known tourist destinations. Each of these family-friendly places to explore in Illinois can be visited for free, all you have to do is get there! If you are looking for a fun adventure getaway for the whole family, without breaking the bank, make sure you put Illinois on your list. You never know…Illinois might surprise you with its beautiful views and outdoor adventures to be had. 

    About the author

    Meghan is a country living, mom of 2 boys in rural central Illinois. She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion to capture her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.

    You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghangarriott
    RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

  • GOOD FOR NATURE, HOLIDAYS, INFORMATION, PRINTABLES

    Earth Day Challenge

    Do you feel like you should be doing more to help the environment, but don’t know where to start? Are you overwhelmed by all the “eco-friendly” products out there and how expensive they can be? Do you want someone to help guide you through easy ways to take small steps towards reducing your carbon footprint? We’ve got the answer for you! Introducing our very first ever EARTH DAY CHALLENGE! 

    Earth Day Mini Challenge - Run Wild My Child

    Introducing our Earth Day mini-challenge

    The Run Wild My Child Earth Day Challenge is an 8-day challenge designed to help busy parents become more knowledgeable about eco-friendly swaps, products, and actions, without the guilt or overwhelm.

    No matter where you are in your journey to reducing your carbon footprint (already making changes or just getting started), we’re here to help offer tips, action items, and products you’ll love. At the end of the challenge you should have everything you need to start making small, but powerful, changes in your life and around your home.

    Who this challenge is for…

    This is the perfect challenge for busy parents that love and appreciate the outdoors. You know the importance of reducing your carbon footprint and want to make sure your children (and their children) will have a beautiful healthy planet to explore.  You already make a conscious effort to make some eco-friendly decisions, but would like to know how you can do more, without getting shamed, overwhelmed, or pressured into spending a lot of money. 

    EARTH DAY CHALLENGE

    How this challenge will help you

    This challenge will give you lots of easy-to-implement eco-friendly ideas for different rooms in your house. You don’t have to do all of them – you get to pick and choose what works best for your family, your budget, and your lifestyle. 

    The challenge will give you an online support group with others going through the challenge together and taking action. You can meet friends, ask questions, help others and hold each other accountable.

    By the end of the challenge, we know you’ll be educated and equipped to start making small (but impactful) changes in your home and life to help save the planet. And we’ll help you get your kids involved, too! Together, we can make a difference! 

    What’s included in the challenge

    Our Earth Day Challenge includes so many amazing products and bonuses. Here’s what you can expect to get:

    • 30+ page downloadable PDF & workbook
    • Access to a private pop-up Facebook group for support, interaction, and accountability
    • Daily challenges and eco-friendly action items
    • Challenge hashtag and features on @runwild.mychild Instagram page
    • List of 30+ eco-friendly activities to do with kids
    • Printable Earth Day Bingo cards
    • DIY “green” recipes for household cleaning products
    • And so much more!

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    (we know, it’s crazy cheap)

    Daily challenge themes and action items

    Each day of the challenge has a theme and a worksheet where you can take notes and write down the action items you’d like to take. We not only take you through your home room by room to find ways to be more ec0-conscious, but we’ll help with some mindset changes and encouragement so you don’t get overwhelmed.  

    • Day 1: Create an Eco-Friendly Bathroom
    • Day 2: Create an Eco-Friendly Kitchen
    • Day 3: Create an Eco-Friendly Bedroom
    • Day 4: Eco-Friendly Outdoor Spaces
    • Day 5: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
    • Day 6: Eco-Friendly Kids & Baby
    • Day 7: Shopping Local, Little, and Less
    • Day 8: Celebrate Earth Day

    Meet the hosts

    Chelsea Furlong

    Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, member of the RWMC Creative Team, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing their best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived.

    Sara McCarty

    Sara is the Founder of Run Wild My Child, a resource website, online community, and podcast all about getting kids off screens and outside, one adventure at a time. She’s a mom of 3, a wife, and a corporate securities lawyer. She grew up in the country, but now lives in St. Louis and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She’s passionate about reading, photography, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.

    Challenge details

    The Run Wild My Child Earth Day Challenge starts Thursday, April 15, 2021, and ends on Earth Day, April 22. We’ll send out materials the day before and get the ball rolling! We’re super excited about this and can’t wait to see you there! 

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    Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead