As a child, I never camped with my family.  I think I might have camped once with Girl Scouts, but my real exposure came as an adult, when I dated an avid outdoorsman.  At first I found it uncomfortable and I didn’t sleep well.  I was awakened by every little sound outside the tent.  But it didn’t take long.  Before I knew it, I was backpacking around New Zealand and my tent had become my second home.

 

My husband and I took our son on his first camping trip when he was 9 months old.  He got so dirty and I finally had to let go of worrying about it.  We were both struck by how happy he was in this environment.  This began our family camping tradition.  It started as a fun and affordable opportunity for us all to be together, but over the years, we have realized that camping has provided so much more.  

 

Our children are now headed for adolescence.  Like many kids, they are into their electronics.  We have been pleasantly surprised to find that they will eagerly “unplug" for a weekend of family camping.  They are not yet in the full throws of teenage life, so this could change, but so far, so good.

 

I am a big believer that camping holds good lessons for all of us who are able to partake in this activity.  So, without further ado, here are my...

Top 10 Benefits of Family Camping:  

1.  Reconnects us with nature 

2.  Reconnects us with each other

3.  Teaches teamwork as everyone must pitch in

4.  Teaches problem-solving skills

5.  Allows parents to give our children our full attention

6.  Gives parents an opportunity to “let go” of dirt which can allow us to “let go” of other things

7.  Stimulates all of our senses

8.  Fosters flexible thinking

9.  Forces children to create their own natural entertainment

10.  Teaches children planning skills.. “What do we need to bring?"

 

You may have discovered some benefits that I have missed. If so, I would love to add them to my list.  Please send me a comment or reach out to me on my Facebook  page.  www.facebook.com/guidingbright.

 

Happy Camping!