Hike Together and Create Unparalleled Connections
"Simplification is a process; a pebble dropped in the waters of a family's daily life."
- Kim John Payne, Simplicity Parenting
I hope this doesn't seem too elemental. But the reason we even started this blog in the first place was because we began spending expansive time outside at local parks and over the course of several years we never ran into any other kids. Ever. Now, I'm not talking about playgrounds. Those are teeming with children - especially in the summer. And I'm not talking about sports fields. Same thing. In fact, at the sports fields closest to our house there are always cars parked up onto the grass throughout the weekend. These seem to be the places where the families are at. Sports games are fun and so are playgrounds but I believe spending time as a family amidst nature will foster some unparalleled connections.
Let me admit that there are not many things my children enjoy that I also enjoy. Forgive me, dear children - but I don't like to read lego catalogs, shop in the toy aisle, swing (or push swings). I don't like Curious George books and I especially don't like Calliou. The Lego Movie was pretty entertaining and I hear Frozen is all the rage - but for the most part I don't enjoy kids movies. In a similar fashion, I know there are many things I enjoy that my kids aren't fond of. I mean - I'll be honest. I don't really do much of anything but I would love a good nap - and the kids are not a fan of those. Fostering connection is difficult when there are so many varying ages and interests. Additionally, a common household occurrence I hear of often is that even if everyone is in the same room, maybe for dinner or to watch a tv show, everyone is really only partially engaged because of cell phones and other electronic devices.
This simplest of all remedies to intentionally foster inter-family connection is to spend some time in nature. Take your family and head to a park, or along a river bed, to a great hiking trail, or even just out in an open field. Head out for an hour or two. Leave electronic devices behind in the car. All ages are welcome. Babies or toddlers can be carried. Many places have great accommodations for those with different abilities.
Beyond the chunk of quality time you will enjoy there will be a host of other benefits just from your outdoor adventure. Increased vitamin D exposure can improve health. More time in motion will help get you toward the minimum number of steps a day needed to maintain a healthy BMI. Exposure to light and increased physical activity will lead to a happier disposition.
If you are looking for a place to go start with your local parks and recreation department. Give them a call or use their online features to find some hiking tails nearby. State parks and recreation areas are also good resources. Utilize the Map of Play or network with friends to find some of the best spots. If you're just starting out stick with something that's around a mile or less. Enjoy accomplishing the same thing. Enjoy breathing in the same fresh air. And enjoy uninterrupted time with family. In the grand scheme of things we really don't get all that much of it - so intentionality is the key.
Schedule a family hike in on the calendar! The simplest of moments often bring with them great memories.
