Fresh air, open spaces and kids having fun. They all go together naturally and there’s now loads of research to support what common sense tells us. Active children are fitter, healthier, happier, co-operate much better and even have better co-ordination. Plus, of course, tired children sleep much better – a real joy at home or on holiday, especially when camping.
You know how kids can suddenly run out of steam so don’t push them too hard on country walks as it might turn them off walking for life!
Whether it’s playing in a park or stepping out on a footpath, we’ve got some great ideas to help you make the most of family time outdoors.
Nikon COOLPIX W150 waterproof camera – Flowers
Capturing unforgettable family moments in superb photos and videos is a breeze with Nikon. Whatever the weather, and even underwater, the COOLPIX W150 is shockproof up to 1.8 metres and waterproof to a depth of 10 metres. So, it’s perfect for walks, the beach and anywhere else where it might face tough conditions. It’s easy to use so there’s no need for adults to hog the camera but let the kids develop their creative spirits with trial, error – and the camera instructions – leading the way. There’s a range of in-camera photo effects and an optional interactive Variety Menu for kids. Its dedicated movie button makes it easy to switch straight to recording Full HD movies with stereo sound. And it looks groovy as well!
Nikon COOLPIX W150 Waterproof camera – Blue
Not flowery but sharing the same top performance and spec as the Flowers design, the Blue version offers an alternative look and we can share more detail about both cameras’ performance. Through the optional interactive Variety Menu for kids, users can attach voice messages to photos, activate fun welcome screens, animate slide shows and much more. At the beach, swimming pool or on the water, waterproof accessories such as Nikon’s easy-to-spot floating strap will keep the camera safe. Its SnapBridge feature makes it easy to share the best shots or use a smart device to shoot remotely. As well as being shockproof and waterproof, both cameras are dustproof and coldproof to -10C. That’s every holiday angle covered!
EasyCamp Sleeping gear
The Kids Cuddly Koala is the cutest of Easy Camp’s range of sleeping bags for children that includes the Aquarium and Sleepy Stargazer designs. Each can be used as a cosy, zipped up bag or opened out for use as a duvet. With a huge koala print, it’s a cheery bedtime companion that’s perfect for summer camping, sleepovers or outdoor events, the sleeping bag is a child and parent pleaser. Soft to the touch and just the right size to keep young kids snug and happy. With a hardwearing outer and a polyester fill, it’s easy to clean and very affordable. For older kids, the adult-spec Cosmos Junior is ideal. There are also options in airbeds, sleeping mats and self-inflating mats as well as travel sheets.
Kidunk
It would be easier to herd cats than to keep kids clean when playing outdoors! That’s where Kidunk’s award-winning range of play suits comes into its own. Durable, breathable and adaptable, they offer kids the freedom to play without inhibition – or parents worrying about ruining their clothes! Ideal for wearing indoors or outside, tops and bottoms can be worn separately or together instead of normal clothes or on top of thin underlayers. Packed with carefully thought-out and tested practical features, the outfits take the worry out of play for parents with style and comfort guaranteed. It’s why Kidunk is such a hit with nurseries and Forest Schools.
Family-friendly places to stay
Nobody wants to stay anywhere where their children aren’t made welcome. That means being more than just tolerated but positively and warmly welcomed. Plus, it’s about thinking about the practical details such as cots, pram storage and the detail that takes away concerns rather than adding anxiety. As well as the practical matters, it’s also attitude that makes such a difference. Our family-friendly accommodation offers have put themselves out to help you and your family enjoy every moment with them. Have fun choosing somewhere to stay – for a night, weekend or a longer fun-packed family holiday. From hotels, inns and B&B to self-catering in cottages or glamping and champing, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Good footwear from Cotswold Outdoor
Sound boots or shoes are truly the foundation of happy days outdoors for adults and for children. Not only for safety but also for comfort. And comfort starts with wearing the right size. Good boot-fitting is a skill that has to be learned and the team at Cotswold Outdoor know exactly what they’re doing. With a range of styles, materials and designs to consider, they’ll find out what you plan to do, what you need and guide you through the process of narrowing down your options. Once you’ve decided, then getting the fit just right is where the next level of skill and experience comes in. The result should be many comfy miles of exploring the countryside as a happy family.
