ABC of family adventuring – DEF
As the famous Jackson song proclaims, ABC is, “easy as 123” so rather than write a numbered list of suggested ideas, hints and tips for family adventuring we thought we’d offer some thoughts using the alphabet. Here we focus on D E F.
D for DO not HAVE
Rather than spend hard earned cash on more materialistic items, think about what you can DO with it – some activities don’t even cost money. Doing more with your time, rather than accumulating “must-have”s creates longer lasting memories.
D for DON’T WAIT TO BE AN EXPERT
If you wait to be an expert, you might never end up doing what you want. You can always learn and get better as you go along and you never know, you might end up being an expert!
D for DISCOVER YOUR AREA
People often head further afield to escape their locality but there is a wide range of undiscovered treasures waiting to be discovered around the corner. Take a different route to normal to get to school or work or look at a map of the area and identify patches that you have never ventured into.
E for EXPLORING
There’s no better way to get to know an area or a part of the country or world than by going there and exploring yourself, really exploring it: talking to locals, finding out about the history and geography associated with the place and seeing as much as possible. The more you explore, the more you understand the world around you.
E for EXPEDITION
An expedition sounds impressive and definitely something adventurers do, doesn’t it but who says a family can’t go on a mini-expedition. Pack up a sledge in winter with some equipment, snacks and drinks and head off into the snow to build an igloo and cook with snow OR plan a hike and camp expedition into the hills.
E for EQUIPMENT
Having the right equipment is a helpful part to any adventure but it doesn’t have to be top-of-the-range stuff. Don’t let it be an excuse for not trying something. When you first start out adventuring, borrow equipment or buy cheaper brands. Then, if you get a taste for it and are going to carry on, think about investing in better quality items.
F for FIRE
There is something extremely comforting about sitting around a campfire with its hypnotic flames and warming glow. Making a fire is also a good skill to acquire and something that children can participate in. Learn the key skills needed and you’ll soon become experts but remember to keep safe and be responsible for your actions – don’t leave any trace. It’s always a good idea to bring along some marshmallows for a tasty family treat!
F for FORAGE
There’s plenty of food out there just waiting to be picked: brambles, elderberries, strawberries, raspberries, wild garlic…the list goes on. Once you’ve collected your stash, you can then get cooking. You don’t need to wait till you get home. You could create a culinary delight whist out and about, e.g. stewed brambles with porridge for breakfast or wild garlic with your omelette.
F for FAMILY – THEIR LEVEL
Family adventures involve all members of the family therefore have to be suitable for all abilities. Remember its a shared experience, creating shared memories. As the children grow the adventures will develop accordingly.
Looking for more family adventure ideas?
For more family adventure ideas, visit our 100 Family Adventures page.
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