Get children used to walking from an early age. Start early, use a sling or pushchair to take babies and toddlers out for walks.
When walking with very young children it is fun to go in a group so why not keep in touch with those friends you made in ante natal classes?
Remember when walking with young children, make sure the route is as interesting as you can make it, keep it easy and not too long. This way you both will keep calm and happy.
How far you expect your child to walk.
As a general guide to distances - a child can be expected to walk about ½ a mile per birthday.
So for example a five year old could be expected to walk up to 2½ miles and a seven year old should have no problem with walking 3½ miles.
A 14 year old should be able to walk for 7 miles - but only if he/she has been used to walking all his/her life. Walking now and again is no good you need to build up to a regular walking pattern each week.
Enjoy your walking.Don’t forget your children will follow your example so relax and make the most of your time with your family.
When walking with young children allow lots of time. Don't plan a tight schedule - make time for breaks and maybe take a picnic.
You must be enthusiastic and walk at the child’s pace.
Avoid forcing them on if it is too much for them. Know when to stop for if they get too tired or cross you might put them off walking forever.
Take water and fruit with you, children get very thirsty quickly and the fruit will boost their energy levels.
What to wear
Clothing and footwear need to be appropriate.There is no need for special walking shoes. Comfortable well fitting trainers are fine.
Use layers that can be added to or taken off if it gets too cold or hot.
Look after those little ears which are very prone to sunburn.
Please don't expect your kids to walk in a *best* outfit. Children easily attract dirt and fall over – dress them in older clothing or something you won’t mind if it gets dirty - because it will!
Walking in the rain is fun if you have a waterproof and rain boots, there are always lots of puddles to jump in – and adults can join in too, remember *Singing in the Rain* with Gene Kelly?
Make your walks interesting.
Children of all ages like constant entertainment
So plan the walks to include plenty of points of interest along the way - you could include things such as animals, playgrounds, streams, zoos, parks, buildings, even Grandma or Uncle.
Many parks and riverside walks have self-guided nature walks, and children enjoy looking for things. Take along guidebooks such as the I-Spy’ series for spotting flowers, trees, or birds, so older children can learn about nature. Collect fallen leaves to take home to paint or make collages etc.
Consider getting a dog that needs regular walks. Walk together as a family or take it in turns in walking the dog daily. Dogs provide companionship plus some protection for children and can help to reduce stranger danger, but remember dogs need looking after as much as children.
As your child gets older teach him/her to read maps, and lead you back to your home or car. You could take some more adventurous routes or let them plan he walks.
Use family walks to talk to your children as you walk along, about what they do at school, their opinions on various topics and really listen to what they say.
To recap
- Kids can be expected to walk a half mile per birthday
- Make your walks interesting and exciting
- Vary them as much as possible
- Let your kids see that you enjoy walking
- Make walking a family time or special time together
- Lastly and most importantly enjoy your walking with kids.
For more tips on walking with kids click here
Enjoy your walking!
