Take Photos
As parents, we know how fast time flies when our kids are little. Why not ask your kids to be photographer for the day and have them take photos of what they think is cool or interesting along the trail? Nature from a child’s perspective can be a lot more interesting and even show us something we may have missed. Upon returning home, turn those photos in to a digital photo album for them to keep.
You may also want to sneak in some candid family photos to capture memories for years to come.
Color and Make Art
Nature not only provides the inspiration for some of the world’s greatest art, it can also supply some of the best materials. Be sure to pack simple art supplies such as paper, washable paint, markers and crayons. Collect unique natural materials (without destroying anything) such as leaves, flowers, rocks, and sticks during your hikes or from what may be around base camp to create the following pieces of art:
-Flower pressings
-Tree rubbings
-Paint leaves
-Rock mandalas
-Drawings of animals/plants
This very special artwork can be framed and displayed at home as a reminder of how much fun you and the family had on your overlanding adventure. It would be great to add a piece of art from each expedition! Check out some additional nature art ideas for kids
Time Outs Inside
There are times when the kids will need some quiet time (or you will need a break from each other). The inside of your Off Grid Trailer can serve as an oasis. With all the power options available with OGT, you can turn on a movie or show and have them just relax in their own quiet space and not worry about running out of power. Plus, they can stay cool with air conditioning or warm with the heater, depending on the weather.
Outdoor Movie Night
Plan a relaxing outdoor movie night by hanging a plain sheet between two trees or even on the side of your trailer to create the perfect outdoor movie screen. An affordable outdoor projector makes it easy to watch your favorite movie under the stars. Add comfortable camp chairs or inflatable furniture with some lightweight blankets on the backs in case of a chill. Cook some popcorn over the campfire and you have the perfect movie night out.
Yes, overlanding with kids is much different than going on a solo expedition but kids help remind us how magical the outdoors can be. Seeing nature through their eyes reinforces our own passion for going off grid and exploring the wild. And, how great is it that we are teaching our kids the importance of preserving and respecting our wild world.