Entries Tagged as 'Plan Your Weekend'

Plan Your Weekend: Letterboxing

Letterboxing is an easy activity that you and your kids will enjoy. It’s a combination of treasure hunting and stamp making. It uses navigational skills with a fun twist. Letterboxing is searching for small boxes that are hidden in public places – there are clues to finding letterboxes posted online.

To get started you will need:

  • a “trail name”
  • rubber stamp
  • pencil or pen
  • small sketch book
  • one or more ink pads or brush markers
  • a simple compass
  • clues

The other part that is fun for the kids and fun for the adults is preparing by making your own stamp with your own design.

One of the best resources for letterboxing is: www.letterboxing.org – you’ll find tips to get started, clues, locations, tips for stamp making, and everything else all on one website. They even have a special section specifically focused on getting children started. The only other thing I would recommend is to bring a snack and something to drink for your adventure.

James

Plan Your Weekend: Take a hike

Ok; guys this is a no-brainer. Kids love the outdoors and its good exercise, so, go for a hike. Be sure to bring the right gear, depending on how far you decide to trek. For those who have younger kids (or are newbies) make it a short trip, .5-1.5 mi. Bring lots of water and some snacks to keep energized. Add a little something extra and bring binoculars along with a local animal guide to watch for birds and critters.

If you are not sure where to go; check with your local Parks and Recreation dept. or google state parks. You can also look at REI’s website here. The site lists favorite hikes and have a program where your kids can earn a free water bottle.