On a camping trip, kids need extra supervision around campfires, grills, fishing hooks, matches, knives, hatchets, and other camping equipment. They also need to be watched near lakes, rivers, or streams close to your campsite. (For tips on water safety, see Is My Child Ready for Swimming Lessons?, and Swimming Rules. For advice on protecting kids from the sun, see Sun Safety for Children.)
What to Take on a Hike
Even parents of infants can go hiking—babies in back carriers are a familiar site on hiking trails these days. For kids who are good walkers, investing in sturdy shoes or child-size hiking boots can make their hiking days more comfortable. Dress your child in layers to accommodate changes in temperature, and don’t forget the sunscreen. One mistake many hikers make is not carrying sufficient water. With a child along, you may not be going that far, but summer sun could still cause dehydration. Take water bottles for each family member, some snack foods, and a small first-aid kit. Also, take a map and a compass. In case your child gets tired, you’ll want to know the shortest route back to the trail head where you started. Caution your children not to drink stream water.
