Finally got my 5 year old interested in hiking

3w ago1 min read

I've been trying to get my son into hiking for like 2 years and he always complained. Last weekend my wife suggested we let him pick the trail and surprise - he picked one with a waterfall. Made the whole difference. He led the way the whole time, found cool rocks, didn't complain once. We did a short 2 mile loop instead of my usual 6-8 miles but honestly it was perfect. Now he wants to go again this weekend and is already looking at the map. Lesson learned: let them own the adventure instead of forcing them into yours.

6 comments190 views

Comments(6)

NNathanNew Dad3w ago

This is huge. Two years of trying and then boom, it clicks. What finally got him interested? I've been struggling with my 6 year old on the same thing.

DDerek P.Regular3w ago

Nice work sticking with it. A lot of parents give up after a few tries. Now you've got that adventure buddy for life.

DDerek S.Regular3w ago

This is the win right here. Getting them to actually enjoy nature instead of just dragging them along is tough. How far did he end up going on that hike?

RRexRegular3w ago

Nice! I'm still working on getting my younger one interested. Did you pick an easier trail or was it just the right moment?

JJason B.New Dad3w ago

Two years of trying pays off! What finally clicked for him? Was it a specific hike or did something just change?

BBrandonRegular3w ago

That's awesome! My kids finally got into hiking last year and now they actually ask to go. The trick that worked for us was letting them pick the trail and getting those little hiking poles. Makes them feel like explorers instead of just walking.