Don’t Overthink it

From conversations with other parents, one of the biggest reasons people hesitate to go on an outing with their children, especially when the children are infants and toddlers, is the amount of planning and preparation it takes. My advice is to not overthink it. Instead, just stick to the basics.

1. Choose a location based on your abilities and gear
2. Know the weather and terrain. Is it going to be cold? Is there a chance of rain? Is the terrain mountainous, swampy, flat? This will tell you how to dress.
3. Pack food and water, lots of it!
4. Pack diapers and wipes
5. Always take rain gear
6. How will carry the children? We use a Deuter Kid Carrier II for our toddler, and an Ergo baby carrier for our infant. When our toddler wants to walk, she walks.

It’s that simple! Keep to the basics, but most importantly just go outside with them. Pick an easy location, like a park, to get started, and then work your way into trails after you feel more comfortable.