Archive for June, 2008
Published by
Jana on
June 30, 2008
It’s great when the research supports your own personal convictions. So, I was excited to find this article about the importance of kids spending time outside. I was shocked to read that on average kids only spend a 1/2 hour each WEEK in unstructured outdoor play - that is just so wrong and I refuse to ever have my kids fall into that average! A few of the benefits for having kids spend time in nature (as if we needed any convincing) include:
- Improved attention span and self-control
- More creative play
- Handle stress more effectively
- More physically active and vigorous in movements
- Burn more calories
- Improved immune system
The National Wildlife Federation has a fantastic program called the Green Hour which gives heaps of ideas on things kids can do outside. Another resource is the Sharing Nature Foundation - it has a Sharing Nature Newsletter, which includes several activities to engage and inspire our youth in the wonders of nature. It’s a PDF document, so is available of their homepage.
And for those of you in the Los Angeles area, there’s an amazing organization named the Children’s Nature Institute which advocates kids learning about and experiencing the outdoors. I thought their Urban Nature Week program was especially exciting - it encourages activities for finding nature in the city. While it’s organized in LA - it still has great ideas for finding nature in any city - and I’m all about that.
Published by
Jana on
June 29, 2008
Well, we didn’t end up joining in the Great American Backyard Campout last night. The reason — we don’t have any camping equipment yet. I know, it’s pathetic - and I am working on it. I did buy a couple of camping chairs for the kids last week as Taz so kindly tried out in the store.
So, we’re getting there one step at a time. But I’ve been finding great resources for camping with kids, including tips, games, recipes, activities and even good ole campfire songs. And for those who want to have a more hands-on experience with learning to camp as a family, check out one of the Shenandoah park family campouts - there will be one in July and another in August. It’s $50 a session and is geared for kids ages 5-12. I asked about it while we were out there recently and was told that they are really keeping it to kids 5 and older - I was hoping we could slip a 4 year old in there…
I also found that Hudson Trail Outfitters held a basics of family camping class last week. We were in Philly that day, so I missed it, but will definitely be on the lookout in the future. We’ve camped with Kai before of course, but I’m always curious to learn some pointers, see new gear and find out cool places to go.
Published by
Jana on
June 26, 2008
So, a few days ago, my friend, Tally, and I decided to get together at the zoo - we could chat and the boys could play. So much easier than trying to keep them occupied in a restaurant. I thought Kai would be ever so excited to see the animals - but no… his one wish was to play on the giant pizza in the kid’s farm area. So, that’s where we headed. It started out well, Kai could play and we could visit - but within minutes, while jumping from the olive to the crust Kai landed on the sauce (no, that’s not a sentence I ever thought I’d say), and sprained his ankle.
Of course, it happened at the bottom of the zoo - so Tally and I took turns carrying him and pushing him balanced on top of the stroller all the way to the metro. On the way up though, the one animal he did want to see again was the panda - but I think that may have to do with Kung Fu Panda, which we’d seen a couple of days before, more than anything. I hope he wasn’t disappointed by the panda’s lack of theatrics…
I opted not to take Kai to the urgent care as I didn’t think the sprain was too serious - and we’d already been there earlier that week due to an infected splinter (not to mention Kaleo’s visit the week before for his own sprained foot).
We did put a bandage on it for good measure, which Kai bravely wore the next day to the National Building Museum’s family day where he limped around very slowly with a straight knee - I’m not sure if that had anything to do with his ankle… This was my first visit to the building museum and it was fabulous - gorgeous architecture (as can be seen from the columns and high ceiling).
But what impressed me the most was the focus on green building - even the children’s play area was built with green materials. Personally, I think being into the outdoors and being green go hand in hand - after all, we need to preserve the earth so that our grandchildren can enjoy the outdoors.
As of today, Kai’s ankle is much better - though I do still see a limp here and there when my attention is lacking. And I highly recommend the National Building Museum - entry is free and it’s easily accessible from the Judiciary Square Metro on the red line (though we drove as it was a Saturday and metered parking was free).
Published by
Jana on
June 21, 2008
camping! And what better way to start than the National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Backyard Campout next Saturday, 28 June. What a great way to start camping with kids - heading out to your own backyard. Food, supplies, everything - right there. I know it takes away from a lot of the excitement of going away, but you have to start somewhere. And we’re lucky, we have ten acres and a bonfire pit in our backyard, so it’s not that far off from camping anyway. Any excuse Kai has to use a tree instead of a toilet, he’ll take it. So, I’ll be posting lots of camping ideas soon - in the meantime, welcome to summer!!
Published by
Jana on
June 20, 2008
in West Virginia - or any out of the way spot that strikes your fancy. Kaleo and I honeymooned in West Virginia, so it has a soft spot in my heart. And it’s one of my favorite places to go exploring - from hiking to spelunking, I’ve had great adventures in those parts. So, I was excited to come across Wildwater, West Virginia’s Original Outfitter, which caters to families. Okay, so my kids aren’t quite old enough, but they have a river rafting trip for kids as young as 6. In just two years, we’re going to be all over it. They also offer lake kayaking that caters for little ones so just another thing to add to the list to check out.
Published by
Jana on
June 19, 2008
Explore. Learn. Protect. Our kids can become National Park Junior Rangers! Designed for kids ages 5-14, the program (which is available at about 286 of the 388 parks) offers a fantastic way for kids to learn more about our country’s National Parks. Through various activities, games and puzzles, kids can learn all about a specific national park and earn badges, patches and certificates. An activity booklet can be picked up at a visitors’ center, then returned to receive a award when you’ve completed the activities.
Here are the Junior Ranger Programs in the DC area:
I haven’t signed Kai up yet as he’s a smidge too young, but I think I might try to sneak him through this summer. I really need to take every opportunity to inspire him to love our National Parks. This is the kid who suggested to the ranger in the Shenandoahs that they should add a jumping castle - after all, there’s plenty of room!
Published by
Jana on
June 18, 2008
Where else can you chase a pig, ride a ferris wheel, watch a tractor pull, slurp a fresh-squeezed lemonade, listen to live music and gasp at the stunts of rodeo riders?? That’s right, ye ole county fair. Okay, so I’ve never taken my kids to one in this area, but both Virginia and Maryland have numerous fairs. I blame it on the fact that before we moved to Tasmania, Kai was too small to appreciate all the aspects of a quality fair, but I have been to the Montgomery County Fair and it was great. This year, I think we’ll head out to the Fauquier County Fair as it’s not too far from us in Stafford and is one of the earliest ones of the season as it’s held 10-13 July, whereas most aren’t until August. Any chance for my kids to get dirty and fraternize with the animal kingdom in a good thing. Check out a fair in your area!!
Published by
Jana on
June 16, 2008
In just 5 days summer will officially be here. Okay, so there’s some debate on whether it starts the 20th or the 21st. It’s normally the 21st, but with leap year, does that make it the 20th instead? Regardless, it’s coming and it’s time to make some plans to explore a bit, entertain the kids, but hopefully not fry too much - there’s no denying summer’s on it’s way - it’s been sooo hot and humid…
So, in honor of summer’s arrival, we’re going to have an official suggestion-filled countdown!!
#5 Check out the National Arboretum in NE D.C. With nearly 450 acres, over 20 distinct gardens and heaps of trails, there will be plenty to explore. And trees - lots and lots of shade-producing trees. There is even a garden dedicated to children. Admission and parking are free, though a guided tram which runs between the gardens is between $2 and $4 depending on age. The Arboretum does offer special classes, including some catering to kids. The next one is in October and will focus on stones. I’ve never given much thought to stones, but I guess there’s no time like the present - or, at least, no time like October… The event that sounds especially cool to me is the Full Moon Hike - while it isn’t recommended for kids, perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to have kids who sleep through the night so you can go. The June hike is full, but there will be more in the autumn, although they will not be advertised until 1 August.
And maybe you’ll be inspired to start your own garden. While in Tasmania, I lived in a little flat and longed to have my own garden as several of my friends did - well, now that we’re living on 10 acres, that dream is being realized. So far, we’ve planted herbs, lettuce, tomatoes (the stems of which are growing yellower by the day - I don’t think they’re going to make it), zucchini, watermelon, scallions and pumpkins. The only thing we’ve been able to eat so far is the lettuce and herbs, but it is so fun to just walk outside and pick our own food. Okay, so I know most of you have probably been doing that for years, but this is all new to me! And it’s great to do it with Kai. He loves having his own job of picking the herbs while I cook. A couple of weeks ago, he and I planted the pumpkin seeds together and there are already several sprouting up. I’m starting to think it wasn’t such a good idea to plant so many jumbo pumpkin seeds in such a small area - I just wasn’t sure how many would come up. I’ll post a pic soon - I’m in Maryland for the time being, so hopefully they’re surviving. Let’s just say, we may have our own pumpkin patch this fall…
Still, I have a lot to learn about gardening. The other day, I took the boys outside to garden with me. I laid Taz down under the peach tree so he’d be in the shade while I cleaned up the fallen peaches to add to the compost pile. Well, he fell asleep, so I decided to leave him there while I worked on some flowers. So, what’s wrong with this picture? It seriously took me about 20 minutes before I thought that a baby under a peach tree which is dropping rock hard peaches probably isn’t such a good idea. Apparently, I have a lot to learn about parenting as well as gardening. Thankfully, not a single peach landed on his adorable head.
Published by
Jana on
June 10, 2008
as promised:
- Train with your child: practice carrying your child in the carrier backpack. This will help you adjust to carrying the pack and your child will acclimate to the routine. Take your older children (4 and up) on weekly walks.
- Choose a trail that offers easy access to domesticated amenities. Having a base camp or prearranged lodging allows you to be a parent, not a Sherpa. Check into transportation options. You should have a plan if you need to get off the trail. Inquire about grocery amenities. Since you’re traveling on food, it’s good to know what’s available before you arrive so you know what to pack.
- Research the area you plan to trek: obtain maps & guidebooks of the area; check with local travel experts on hiking - rangers, guides, etc; determine if the water is safe for drinking; find out what type of wildlife you can expect to see; research the weather and terrain - avoid hiking in freezing temps, lightening storms and extreme heat.
- Dress your child in proper clothing. No cotton - choose synthetics, fleece, wool and waterproof breathable clothing instead.
- Be prepared for trail emergencies. Carry a first aid kit and brush up on your children first aid and CPR. Learn about the dangers of hypothermia and monitor children for signs.
- Keep the journey fun!! Make your trek a child directed event. Whatever animal or rock your child takes interest in, stop and let them play. Talk to your child about what you’re seeing. Label the animals, rocks, trees & flowers. Bring along some trail toys: harmonica, flute, bells, books, stuffed animals. Tone down your mileage goals to the comfort level of your child.
Tips courtesy of Jeff Alt.
Published by
Jana on
June 8, 2008
at Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park - what better way to spend National Trails Day and the day before my birthday. And what better way to escape the intense heat and humidity that we’ve had all weekend then to be up in the mountains hiking on a shady path.
So, I didn’t know quite what to expect from this Trekking with Toddlers seminar, but it was fabulous - with snacks and all. It started with a lecture by Jeff Alt who provided us with useful advice on the how-to’s for hiking with kids as well as a hands on gear demonstration. (okay, so he provided great notes, but I can’t look at them because it’s really late and Kaleo is sleeping - but when else do I have time to write??? - I promise to pass on all the tips ASAP.) During the gear portion, I asked how old Taz needed to be to graduate from a front carrier to a backpack - Jeff thought 9 months, his wife, Beth, estimated 6 months, but when we took Taz for a test ride, he looked quite content back there already… and so I’m pining after the Kelty FC 3.0 Child Carrier…
With our new found knowledge, we took a short nature hike with the kids to a stream and back.
One of my favorite parts was all of the rangers that accompanied our little group - a couple of them had kids on the hike as well and all were more than patient. They had obviously been trained to provide educational programs to kids so were easygoing and engaging. My one question through this whole thing was how to really motivate kids and encourage them to enjoy hiking. Because, of course, my kid was the one complaining loudly through the first part of the hike about how he didn’t like hiking, it was boring, he wanted to go back, it was hot, he was tired, he wanted binoculars like one of the other kids… But once Regina, one of the very patient rangers, brought out magnifying glasses and bug boxes - Kai was enthralled and I heard no further complaints (except for when I had to carry him on my back - yes, with Taz also on my front - up a couple of hills on the way back - luckily Nana (aka my mom) joined us and could carry my backpack). He was at the back of the group still throughout the hike but it was because he was curious about everything and was looking for bugs everywhere.
When it was all said and done, we sat in the shade and chatted with the other families. It was so nice to hike in a group - it’s usually just me and the kids, so I enjoyed the company and will definitely be on the lookout for more family hiking opportunities — or maybe organizing some of my own - anyone interested??
And I have to say thanks to my mom for the best birthday present this year (well, besides the marbles from Kai) - a National Parks Annual Pass. Let the adventures continue…
