Treating children for trail's thorns, burrs

Photo courtesy of Illinois DNR

Thorns and burrs typically are more an annoyance than anything, but with a child the nuisance can be enough to put an end to the hike. If left untreated, infections also can result.

The plants can be avoided by walking down the center of the trail.

Use tweezers to pull out thorns. Then swab the site with an antiseptic such as iodine.

Cockleburs, nature's original version of Velcro, simply need to be pulled them off. Be aware that they can prick you as you're doing that, so you may want to wear thick gloves.

Read more about day hiking with children in the guidebook Hikes with Tykes.