GO FOR A TREAT
I try not to resort to bribery, but sometimes, let’s face it, the promise of a post-hike treat helps gets kids moving. Ice cream is the biggest carrot in our family, and, thankfully, great ice cream places abound on the South Shore. Hornstra, Crescent Ridge, and Peaceful Meadows, (in that order) are our favorite go-to…
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HIGHLIGHT THE MAP
My kids love to see where they’ve been. We highlight the trails we’ve just done so they can see where they were and get a sense of how much ground they covered. For some trails this isn’t really feasible (because there is only one trail that you hiked when you arrived at your destination), but…
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TALK ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE PART
While you’re in the car on the way home, talk about what parts of the trail or experience you all enjoyed most. This serves to highlight the good and take attention away from how tired their legs are or how glad they are to be in the car again!
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SHARE YOUR PICTURES, SKETCHES, AND VIDEOS
Post your pictures to Facebook or Instagram, show the kids the photos, make a photo collage of your favorite outdoor family pictures and leave it somewhere where the kids will see it. Or start your own blog about your family’s adventures! 🙂
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PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
When you’re done with one hike, start thinking about where you’ll go next, who you’ll go with, and what you’ll bring! Use the momentum generated by a fun, family, outdoor experience to get everyone fired up about the next one!
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