Camping and Backpacking with Children

 Exploring the wonder and beauty of the great outdoors is often one of the most joyful experiences parents can share with their children. It is also an ideal way to stress the importance of respecting wildlife and protecting the environment, leaving kids with valuable insights into the natural world and their place in it. And introducing youngsters to nature can give them a distinct advantage when they begin to study botany, geology, zoology, and natural history in years to come. For parents and others looking for guidance in the challenging but enjoyable undertaking, Camping and Backpacking with Children is an invaluable resource.

This handy how-to book starts by helping parents develop a "teaching philosophy" based on getting kids to ask the relevant questions on their own, through the use of educational games, books and props. Exploring nature in the backyard or in neighborhood parks is the next step; the book then moves on to detail the nuts and bolts of trail life. Handling a pack, setting up camp, and navigating in the wilderness are covered in thorough detail, with the main focus always placed on methods for making the outdoor experience enjoyable for both parent and child. Special emphasis is placed on safety and environmentally responsible activities; other highlights include suggestions on generating enthusiasm for the trip, making the best use of time before and after the adventure, respecting wildlife, and encouraging youngsters' curiosity. The author combines lessons learned through his 35 years of camping and backpacking with tips and anecdotes gathered from rangers, campers, hikers, and other visitors to national parks, forests, and wilderness areas.