Generally, exploring and discovery is enough for kids, but sometimes even they can grow bored with that and become restless. Remember that they naturally have shorter attention spans than adults.Fortunately, there are lots of tried and true activities you can do on the trail that’ll keep kids from getting bored. Among them is Magnifying Glass.
Pull out a lightweight magnifying glass and look up close at various objects seen, such as flower blossoms, tree bark, pine cones and of course, bugs. Ant hills are great, and if your child isn’t squeamish, turn over a fallen log for a plethora of cool bugs. Remember to gently replace the log as it is a habitat for the insects.
Materials: Magnifying glass; if you have multiple children on the hike, buy one for each child or pair of kids
Ages: 3 and up
Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.
