All About Magazine - Issue 12

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Looking for something to do with the family at
the weekend? Experts from the Ramblers, Britain’s
leading walking charity, have offered their top tips on
how to get children out and walking.
Ramblers’ Director of Walking Development Simon
Barnett said:“We all know that getting kids away from
computer games and out of the house can be a bit of
a challenge, especially as the days get shorter and the
temperatures start to drop. That’s why we’re sharing
our top tips on the easiest ways to make walking fun
and appealing for your youngsters.
The Shropshire countryside boasts some of the
most scenic walks in the country that people of all
ages can appreciate, and the weekends are an ideal
time for all the family to enjoy it.”
To help get kids interested and involved in the great
outdoors, here are some tips from the Ramblers on
how to make walks more fun and educational for
children.
Go out on a mission - Transform an everyday walk
around your local area into a walking adventureby
taking part in the Ramblers’ Big Pathwatch. Simply
download the Big Pathwatch smartphone app, walk
your favourite paths togetherand report back onwhat
you find.Itis the perfect way for kids to learn more
about the great outdoors, but more importantly your
family will also be helping to protect and improve
paths for generations to come.
Fun activity sheets - The Ramblers have created
fun activity sheets for kids aged 5-10 which can be
downloaded from the Ramblers website (www.
) and printed off to
take along on your walk. Youngsters will love the
rainbow ramble activity, sharing funny jokes or
playing walk-themed bingo.
Include a destination - Try to choose an area that
takes in a rewarding site that children love: it could be
a cave, a castle, sand dunes or a decent climbing tree.
Tantalise your children with the prospect of visiting it,
so they have a destination to get excited about.
Go on safari - Focus on the flora and fauna to keep
interest levels high. There are lots of games you can
play that focus on spotting wildlife. Draw up a list of
animals, insects, birds, flowers and trees, and award
points for each one spotted. Try to identify animal
tracks in the mud, or create your own using a stick.
Employ diversionary tactics - Have something up
your sleeve for when their energy level drops. If it’s
windy, pack a kite. Frisbees and tennis balls are also
good. A sketchbook and pad are always handy for a
rest period and sailing a Lego man in his little rowing
boat is a great alternative to Pooh-sticks in a stream.
Set their sights high - Encourage your children’s
rugged ambitions with a bit of hill climbing. Start
with a walk that takes in the highest point in your
area, then move on to a bigger incline, before setting
a date for a real challenge: theWrekin or the Clee Hills!
How to get your children out and about
by Joanie Koh,
12 SEPTEMBER 2015