Homeschool Hiking—A Learning Experience

Sunny summer months are a great time to take your family for a hike through God’s beautiful creation. The kids may have a break from school, but that doesn’t mean your next family hike can’t be a learning experience. Here are just a few tips to encourage your child to explore and learn by combining his or her natural curiosity with outdoor fun.

Preparation

Work out the details ahead of time to help the day be relaxing and fun for everyone.

• Call the park or check the park’s website to get the low-down on trail sizes and difficulty level. Choose a trail that will accommodate the entire family.
• Consider the trail’s final destination—a waterfall or wading pool at the end is a rewarding treat on a hot summer day.
• Research the site so you can talk about the land’s history as you hike. Did Native American tribes ever live there? Was it ever a battlefield, key trade route, or an old settlement? History becomes much more personal and real when you are walking on the ground it was made on.

On the Trail

Be prepared to see wildlife on the trail. The types of wildlife you’ll see on the trail vary widely depending on which part of the country you’re in.

• Ask your child what kinds of animals he expects to find on the trail.
• Ask the ranger what to look for before starting.
• Make a game of seeing how many different kinds of animals each of you can find—bugs optional.
• Take your time. If you or your child sees an animal or a lovely view, stop and enjoy it. Make some observations about the animals you see. What does it look like? What does it eat? Where does it live? If you find an animal that’s not too skittish or is slow (like a turtle), your child could try making a quick sketch.
• Take along our printable Trail Journal to help your children jot down their learning experiences as they go.

Don’t let the summer pass you by without getting outside and enjoying nature. With a little creativity, a hike through the woods can be a memorable, meaningful experience for both you and your child.