Most toddlers do not need much encouragement when it comes to getting them to do outdoor activities. Children are naturally curious and the great outdoors offers up seemingly endless opportunities for exploration. Toddlers are often quite energetic too, and outdoor activities enable them to use their energy in ways that strengthen their minds and bodies. It can be difficult to know which outdoor activities your toddler is ready for at each stage of his development. For example, you may think that it will be a few years before you take to the trails with your one year old. Fortunately, many toddlers can enjoy hiking with their parents. With the right equipment and the right state of mind, you and your toddler can hike safely together.
Dylan has been hiking ever since he was old enough to safely be carried in a back carrier. When he was younger, I used to work outside of the home on my husband’s days off. My husband often took him hiking during their time together and he has always loved it. When he started walking, he would still go in the pack for part of the hike and then spend some time walking before getting back in for the remainder of the journey. As time passed and he grew bigger and stronger, he eventually outgrew the pack and would walk the entire way on his own. At that time, our definition of “a hike” became “a walk in the woods that was only as long as Dylan could manage on his own”. Now that he is almost three, Dylan can comfortably spend about an hour to an hour and a half hiking, provided that we regulate our pace.
Today, Dylan and I met up with some friends for a hike at one of Vermont’s beautiful State parks. We chose a loop trail that was not very long and instructed the boys to stay within our sight. This is where age – appropriate expectations enter the picture. I know that Dylan has a lot of energy and physical stamina as well as a seemingly endless attention span for exploring the outdoors. That said, I also knew that we would need to keep our pace fairly slow in order to avoid getting overtired. I also expected to stop a few times for water and snacks. In case you’re wondering whether Blake came along for the hike, he did. I wore him in a front pack and he was completely mesmerized by the scenery when he wasn’t napping. We ll had a great time hiking, and I am excited to go again soon.