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Some of life’s most rewarding moments take place in the great outdoors. |
Set them up for success
Make sure your budding outdoors enthusiast is prepared — both mentally and with the right gear.
Today’s children are spending significantly less time outdoors than ever before — and even fewer are participating in traditional outdoor activities like fishing, shooting, camping and hunting.
The problem has become so prevalent it has earned its own title, Nature Deficit Disorder. In addition, childhood obesity is at an all-time high, and many experts believe it is a direct result of the lack of youth participation in outdoor activities.
The need to introduce youth to the outdoors has never been greater. Whether you’re introducing your little munchkin to hunting or hiking, setting them up for success — both in confidence and gear — should be your main focus.
Success often begins long before you head to the woods or water. Their enthusiasm will increase quicker if you gradually build up their skills, not force a result. And when it comes to fostering a little sportsman or woman, your job is to lead by example. Kids learn so much by watching.
Kids also want their own stuff, and nothing spoils an outing faster than waiting to use the fishing pole or mucking around in ill-fitting, blister producing boots. Hand-me-down clothing may save money, but it may do more harm than good. Many would-be duck hunters have lost interest because they sat in a pit blind wearing boots so tight they could not keep their feet warm.
Between soccer practice, dance lessons, school and work, many parents are challenged to find quality family time. But those who make the effort quickly discover that some of life’s most rewarding and memorable moments often take place around a campfire or packed into a two-person tent. — Lisa Metheny
The right stuff
A good rule when it comes to buying equipment for kids: If it looks like it should come with fries and a milkshake, chances are it will not last long. Instead, invest in a few key pieces of clothing, such as base layers, boots and outer garments, and solid starter equipment.
Check out these products created for young outdoors enthusiasts:
Hunter Dan and Hunter Ann
www.cabelas.com
These cool action figures, with their authentic looking gear, will fuel your little sidekick’s desire to participate in the outdoors.
Hunter Safety System
www.basspro.com
Hunter Safety System makes the Lil’ Treestalker safety harness, perfect for keeping your budding hunter safe.
Kampp Tales
www.kampptales.com
Author J.J. Reich offers a fun and engaging series of books that will feed their wild imagination.
LaCrosse
www.lacrossefootwear.com
Check out their complete line of kids hunting footwear, from 1,000-gram Thinsulate chest waders to snake boots.
Lucky Bums
www.luckybums.com
Buy your kids their very own upland or fly-fishing vest, just like Mom and Dad. They also have high-quality sleeping bags rated like the adult versions, ideal for chilly camp outs.