Night Nature Walks With Kids: 7 Eye-Opening Benefits Plus Safety Tips For Your Family
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As the days grow shorter and the evenings remain warm-ish, without the cold or rain of typical British weather, our family is rekindling one of our most cherished traditions – night nature walks with kids.
It all began when Mimi, our eldest daughter, was just 2 years old. What started as a simple way to wind down after a busy day has become a beloved family ritual, offering a unique blend of adventure, learning, and connection.
Night nature walks with kids have become a staple in our intentional parenting approach, and here’s why we love them so much:
Benefits Of Night Nature Walks With Kids
1. A Symphony of Sounds
One of the most magical aspects of night nature walks with kids is the quiet. Without the usual daytime hustle and bustle, we can truly listen to the natural world. The rustling of leaves, the distant hoot of an owl, or the soft croak of frogs – all these sounds become clearer and more captivating. It’s an opportunity for our children to develop a deeper appreciation for nature and its often-overlooked nighttime rhythms.
2. Discovering Nocturnal Wildlife
The night offers a completely different perspective on the natural world. From spotting bats fluttering overhead to hearing the rustle of a hedgehog in the underbrush, we encounter wildlife that we wouldn’t typically see during the day. It’s a chance for our children to learn about the habits of nocturnal animals and to witness the beauty of the world after dark.
3. No UV Rays, No Worries
One of the practical benefits of night walks is that we don’t have to worry about harmful UV rays. Especially in the warmer months, it’s a relief to know that our children can explore the outdoors without the need for sunscreen. This makes night walks a safe and comfortable way to enjoy nature even in the heat of summer.
4. The Excitement of Gadgets
Bringing along a torch or other gadgets adds an element of excitement to our walks. The simple act of lighting up the path ahead becomes an adventure in itself. For children, using a torch or a headlamp can feel like an exploration tool, turning a regular walk into a treasure hunt for hidden wonders in the dark.
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Interesting Reads
- Clarke, J. (2023) ‘What is the red light function on your headlamp for? (And why you should use it)’, Advnture, 21 August. Available at: https://www.advnture.com/features/what-is-the-red-light-function-on-your-headlamp-for-and-why-you-should-use-it
- Oliver, T. (2022) ‘Top of the Keweenaw tidbits: Why red light is better for night-time activities’, Keweenaw Mountain Lodge. Available at: https://keweenawmountainlodge.com/2022/03/22/top-of-the-keweenaw-tidbits-why-red-light-is-better-for-night-time-activities/
5. Unplugging Before Bedtime
In a world where screens are an ever-present temptation, night nature walks with kids offer a perfect alternative to screen time before bed. Instead of winding down with TV or tablets, we spend quality time together, immersed in nature. This not only reduces screen exposure but also helps our children relax and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
6. A Gentle Way to Unwind
There’s something inherently calming about a walk in the cool evening air. After a busy day filled with activities, noise, and demands, night nature walks with kids provide a peaceful way to transition into the evening. The slower pace, the soft darkness, and the focus on the natural world help all of us – parents and children alike – unwind and reset.
7. Making Darkness Less Frightening
For many children, darkness can be intimidating, especially at bedtime. However, our night nature walks with kids have helped Mimi and Lou become more comfortable with it. As we explore the night together, we feel adventurous and brave, turning what could be a source of fear into a source of pride. By the end of our walks, there’s a shared sense of accomplishment that we conquered the night together, and by experiencing the night in a positive, controlled way, they’ve learned that the dark isn’t something to fear but rather a space full of its own beauty and mysteries.
Safety Tips For Night Nature Walks With Kids
While night nature walks with kids offer a wonderful opportunity for adventure and bonding, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure that the experience is enjoyable for everyone. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind as you venture into the night with your family:
Plan In Advance And Stay On Familiar Paths
While it might be tempting to let your inner explorer loose and see where the night takes you, trust me, you don’t want to find yourself navigating a surprise hill with a toddler who suddenly “needs a piggyback”. Mapping out your walk beforehand isn’t just smart – it’s essential. You’ll avoid uncharted territories and stick to paths where others have safely venture before. Furthermore, by sticking to well-known trails, you’re less likely to get lost and avoid turning your peaceful night walk into a scene from a spooky story. When going for a night nature walks with kids the only unpleasant surprise you should have is to find out how long their energy lasts.
Staying Cool With Nocturnal Neighbours
While nighttime wildlife in the UK is usually more “cute and cuddly” than “creepy and crawly,” it’s still a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Do a little homework on local wildlife before you head out on your night nature walks with kids, so you can identify who’s who in the dark. Stay alert, listen for rustles and hoots, and keep your eyes peeled. This way, you can enjoy the wildlife spectacle and handle any surprises like a pro – whether it’s a friendly fox or just your child’s overactive imagination!
Wear Reflective Clothing
Outfitting the family in reflective clothing or gear during night nature walks with kids is must to ensure visibility. Think of it as turning your crew into a parade of human glow sticks – there’s no chance anyone (including yourself) is missing your sparkly, shining troupe, making it easy to spot any stragglers who wander off to investigate a particularly interesting twig. Plus, children love anything that lights up, so you can spin it as a fun, fashion-forward choice rather than just a safety measure.
Carry A Small First-Aid Kit
Children have a special talent for finding the one rock, root, or uneven patch of ground in the entire forest to trip over. And in the dark, those boo-boos feel even more dramatic (cue the Oscar-worthy wails). So, be the hero they need and come prepared with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and maybe even a couple of fun stickers for extra bravery points. Plus, having a kit on hand gives you peace of mind, so you can focus on the fun, not the ‘what-ifs’. After all, night nature walks with kids are about exploring and bonding, not emergency trips to the nearest clinic!
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Take It Slow
Think of this as a leisurely nighttime stroll rather than a race against bedtime. Everything looks different in the dark, even that “easy” trail you’ve walked a hundred times. So, during night nature walks with kids, don’t expect to be breaking any speed records or covering the same distances you would in broad daylight. The good news? Slowing down means you’ll catch all those cool nighttime details – like the glow of a firefly or the mysterious rustling that might just be a mouse and not, as your child insists, a forest monster.
Check-In Before You Check-Out
Before your night nature walks with kids, tell someone where and when you’re going, or better yet, share your live location. With children, a “quick walk” can easily turn into an epic adventure (or detour). Let a friend or family member know your plan – or at least your best guess – so if you end up off the beaten path because someone found the “coolest slug ever,” they’ll know where to find you. It’s a simple way to keep everyone safe and ensure your night walk doesn’t turn into an unexpected camping trip!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Night nature walks with kids aren’t just a fun way to shake up your family routine, they offer a unique way to bond as a family, foster a love of nature, and help our children develop resilience and confidence. As we step out into the night, torches in hand, we’re not just taking a walk – we’re creating memories, learning about the world, and nurturing a sense of wonder and adventure in our children. So as the evenings continue to grow darker, I encourage you to grab your torches, put on those reflective vests, and try a night nature walk with your family. You might just find it becomes your favourite new tradition too.
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