Being able to read and use a map is a useful and practical skill that may come in handy in life, so parents, let the child lead the way and question them on their decisions – ask them to explain why they have chosen to go on a certain path at the fork. It’s often hard for parents to step back and give control of the map to the kids, but this is when the best learning takes place. Let them make the odd mistake too – it’s all part of the learning process. It doesn’t matter too much if you have to back-track if the map reading goes to pot; this in fact helps reinforce the need for accuracy within the young map reader.

Knowing how to read a compass can be a really important skill if you’re lost on a mountain. If you want to play a game with it while out walking, line up the arrow with the red needle to find out which direction you are going in, then guess how many steps away from a corner or puddle you are. Then check by walking to it while counting your steps.

For a brilliant series of videos by the OS and Steve Backshall, see the Ordnance Survey website: https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/resources/map-reading/