Camping can be scary. Camping with kids can take that to a whole different level. There are two fears different sets of fears to conquer in this situation—the concern of children that haven't camped before. The second is the fear of parents that want to try camping with kids. 

Use "Corona time" to try out camping. It can be an excellent option for social distancing while traveling, or just as a safer way to get out of the house. Websites like Hipcamp offer private properties to camp on are an option that provides even less large group contact compared to camping on national parkland. 

Let's start with a few of the easy things that can make camping easier for parents.  One of the best ways to allay parental fears around camping is a bit of preparation so you have a handle on the things you can control. 

Once you have all the gear, and a great plan, try an at-home test camp. Planning and preparation it makes camping so much less chaotic.

Empowered Explorers

There are several tools in your toolbox to help your littles become lovers of exploration and adventure. Knowledge helps them not be as unsettled. 

Children new to camping will find the new sounds a little overwhelming, especially as it gets dark. Helping them listen to and identify the sounds they will hear can make the noisy dark feel less scary. The National Wildlife Federation is a great place to start in identifying Things That Go Bump- of Hoot In The Night.

Book Worms

Since kids already have summer reading programs, be sure to get them some great books to help feed their sense of adventure. PBS Kids has an excellent page of book recommendations about camping.

Plant Identification

It's a tool most campers learn as they don't want to use the wrong leaf-like poison ivy or nettle to wipe. Share it Science has some great ideas for plant identification activities on their website. 

Glowsticks

Have duel use to the family camping. They give children courage because of the light, and they help color code and keep track of children in the dark. Once in the tent for the night, they make the perfect night light that doesn't require electricity or batteries. 

Try New Things

If kids see adults trying new things and being open to ideas, they will be much more likely to try things also. There can also be healthy competition to keep up with the adults that are trying new foods and experiences. Just remember, you can only go as slow as the smallest person in your crew.

Gear

By preparing the right gear ahead of time, you make life a lot easier for all the campers. You might even have a few happy campers. A well-researched gear list makes camping a great deal more fun. 

Family Camping Essentials Checklist on Active Kids is a great starting point for figuring out gear. If you know someone that loves adventuring camping and has

gear, renting, or borrowing is a great option for a try before you buy savings. 

 

Organization

Locking bins are a parent's best friend. It keeps small pests out of your food storage, and it helps keep snacks readily available to kiddos. If the bins are kept packed and well-stocked, it allows packing to be a grab and go activity. 

The Fun Bin

Camping can be great fun. One way to do that is to keep a bin that just for fun. Some favorite recommendations of all campers are in the list below. Being a prepared camping parent means you have tricks up your sleeve when littles need a distraction.

• Glow Sticks
• Smores
• Hammocks
• Umbrellas/rain gear
• Cards
• Spot It
• Write and Erase books
• Sketchbooks
• Farkle- The Glow in the dark version
• Tow rope slackline
• Headlamps
• Frisbee/football/baseball

Fear Is A Liar

Fear is a liar to both parents and children alike. Finding out about this world we live in and sleeping under the stars is a beautiful way to spend time together, explore, and make amazing memories. With the tools mentioned above, you will be prepared for a great camping trip.