changes by coloring them in and by adding the flowers that grow at its base or the birds and squirrels that live among its branches.
Older kids can add more informa- tion, such as where the tree originated, its general lifespan and what it’s used for. “You can also carry along a camera to record things you encounter on your walks,” advises Friend. “Then, help your children assemble a scrapbook of their walking adventures.”
Into the Wild
Vacations are another opportunity for family walking adventures. Have kids research the area you’ll be visiting before leaving home, and plan walking routes ahead of time to make the most of your vacation.
Remember, though, that huge ex- panses of wilderness can be intimidat- ing, especially if you’re not even two feet tall. “Short trails are good for small kids,” counsels Friend. “Make it an ad- venture by picking a topic before you head out. If it’s butterflies, for example, have your child point out what they notice when they encounter one.”
Make it a Quest
Don’t discount the mysteries and mag- ic of your own backyard. Especially when children are very small, walking around the seemingly vast universe right outside their back door can be the source of some pretty great adven- tures. Hang a birdfeeder and learn the names of the birds that come to visit. Chart the seasons with their comings and goings, as well as the changes in the nearby plants and various trees. Older children can be in charge of their own garden plots; strolls to and from watering and caring for them can be a slow excursion to examine the rocks and insects along the way. Just be sure you’re ready to answer questions about everything you see.
Poet, screenwriter and author Debra Bokur looks forward to her daily medi- tation walks in the Colorado Rockies. She is a contributor to Mindful-Mama. com, a healthy parenting community. Her latest Web-based project is
NextPlaneMedia.com.
natural awakenings
June 2010
29
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