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Five Best Family Walks in Leicestershire
Posted on 30/07/2009
Community Services
Looking for something to do this summer holiday without having to shell out loads of money? Why not try out one of our five best family walks in Leicestershire www.leics.gov.uk/familywalks. They are free, and you might just discover a part of the county you’d not visited before.
Even just the thought of taking youngsters on a walk may conjure up the overused and irritating responses like; “I’m tired”, “I’m hungry”, “how much further?”, “I want to go home”. To combat this situation be prepared, arm yourself with distraction techniques. I once heard there were six important rules of walking with children, the first one being, encourage them to collect things along the way. This can be anything; the prettiest feathers, the shiniest stones, the gnarliest sticks, leaves of all shapes and sizes.
Rule 2: Using your imagination will stimulate theirs. Entice the children to look at their surroundings, searching for unusual things; like if you spot a mushroom ring try getting them to quietly creep up to see if the fairies are home.
Rule 3: Being near water; lakes, rivers, streams, canals, or just muddy puddles can be fun. There are so many different activities to entertain even the most difficult of children; feeding ducks, paddling, throwing in stones and making big splashes, pooh sticks, (whilst being mindful of the wildlife). A warning, a wet child is usually a miserable, moaning one! Remember spare clothes or strip them down if it is warm enough.
Rule 4: Look out for animals and birds, and their tracks, they are a great distraction: sheep, cows, deer, ducks, swans, squirrels; there are plenty to spot.
Rule 5: Leave their “toys” behind and let them play with whatever they find. Children can be very resourceful with what is out and about; such as: scrambling on rocks, jumping off logs, climbing over fallen trees, and sword fighting with sticks.
Rule 6: Bribery. Always have a fail safe. Sweeties, or biscuits and drink for an impromptu picnic, or the promise of a tasty treat from the shop, pub or cafe.
Tired and happy after fresh air, exercise, and a fun time you may actually get to enjoy some peace and quiet whilst they rest.