New Report Outlines How to Camp With Kids, Tips Promoted by Joanna C. Higgins

PHILADELPHIA, PA, May 28, 2013

A recent report by the United States Department of Agriculture discusses the topic of camping with children, a challenging aspect of outdoor living that Joann C. Higgins personally strives to improve. She is the owner of Outdoor Explorations, a wilderness adventure company near Lake Tahoe. As a certified guide and seasoned outdoor professional, she applauds the article's effort to provide practical advice for camping families.

The article is written by Mason Edwards, a conservation environmental educator who is rehearsed in the art of entertaining kids outdoors. He outlines the balance between fun and education in order to build life-changing experiences, sharing personal camping tips for families. He begins by pointing out the need to include the kids in various planning stages.

"Gauge what they are most excited about seeing or doing," he comments. "Is it waterfalls or caves, searching deep in the forest for bugs or looking for larger animals like eagles or moose? The possibilities are endless. The things they are excited about can be used to reinforce behaviors like following instructions or being open to trying new things."

Joann C. Higgins earnestly concurs with his advice. "You have to plan a trip that's the right fit for everyone, especially if you want to tame the unpredictable and often inevitable chaos that follows with children in the great outdoors," she said. "If they can't keep up with the pace or don't seem as interested in the hike, keep searching until you find something that intrigues them."

The article continues to emphasize the need to customize a trip when kids are involved, especially with food preparation. As a guide expert, she responds to his approach. "Packing simply is always the way to go," she said. "Don't over-complicate dinner or you will worry about it and miss all that your adventure has to offer. Along the same lines, don't fret about how you will carry all of your kids' personal belongings. Let them store their flashlights, snacks and clothes in their own packs. It teaches responsibility and gives them a sense of ownership."

Mason Edwards continues with this idea of ownership and how it can engage kids or inspire them to enjoy their surroundings. He also notes that in order to fully take it all in, parents should discourage their children from bringing electronics and a heavy amount of toys. "After all this exercise and fun, it should be easy to get him to sleep," he comments.

She responds to this tip by pointing out the unique opportunity every individual has when exploring the outdoors. "There is so much to see and do," she said. "Children are already far too stimulated by electronics and touch screen, instant-gratification devices. Teaching them to step back and marvel at the endless possibilities found outside is what we strive to nurture at Outdoor Explorations, said Joann C. Higgins.

ABOUT:

Joann C. Higgins is the founder of Outdoor Explorations, a wilderness company that supplies guests with outstanding outdoor experiences and packages. She is a certified wilderness emergency medical technician and qualified as a guide and wilderness first responder. She is enthusiastic about fostering a love for outdoor adventure and using her expertise to change the lives of men, women and children. The group provides day trips, international excursions, youth programs and more.