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Going for a family walk in the evening after dinner is one of our favorite things. The kids get a little bit of extra energy out, and we can talk and enjoy each other’s company. Plus the weather has been so nice lately before the real Summer heat sets in.

Taking walks with multiple kids at such young ages can be a little intimidating and maybe even stressful for some people so I thought I’d share a few tips for making your family walks more enjoyable. It’s just such a relaxing way to spend time together.

Here are my top five tips for an enjoyable family walk with toddlers:

 

1. Be prepared

Bring water, sun glasses, hats, and even a toy or two. It is inevitable that someone will ask for water (especially if we forget to bring it), and the sun will be in someone’s eyes. It’s just a good idea to get ahead of the whine sometimes, if you know what I mean.

Bring toys that enhance your walk. So we aren’t talking about the fidget spinner or electronic device. Squeaks enjoys bringing her doll stroller and a stuffed animal. You will frequently see her wheeling Pooh Bear in her little umbrella stroller trying to keep up with Daddy as he pushes her brothers in the big stroller. And of course our teething Flash needs something to sink those gums into (this one is a favorite). So keep toys relevant so as not to distract from your family time.

2. Don’t keep the kids in the stroller the whole time.

Yes, we let our older two ride in a stroller part of the time too. This is part for safety as some of our usual route is along a semi-busy road, and part for convenience. Once Squeaks decides she’s done pushing her little stroller I can fold it up and stick it in the bottom basket of our big stroller. Even though baby-wearing (love my Tula carrier) is still my number one choice in transporting Flash, if we’re on a longer walk the stroller gives my back a little break. There may be times when their little legs need a break too. I love that our stroller has a glider board attachment for Squeaks.

Once we’re past the busy road though, Flash is the only one in the stroller and the bigger kids can take off with dad while I take over the stroller. Get those little legs moving!

3. Play games

One of Squeaks favorite games to play on our walks is Eye Spy. It has been a great way to incorporate an educational element while still having fun. We spy colors, shapes, and even letters and numbers on street signs.

Another favorite is a good old fashioned race. Who can get to the next tree or street sign the fastest?! Nothing like some healthy sibling rivalry, and they’re good and worn out at the end of it.

Or you can go on a scavenger hunt! Try the one I have in my free printables library!

4. Encourage conversation.

I love just holding my daughter’s hand and asking her questions as we walk. She asks me a million questions a day so I like to take our quiet walks as an opportunity to ask her a few. I ask what her favorite part of the day was, what she enjoyed about dinner, or simply just what she’s thinking about at that moment. I usually only get a few questions in because she LOVES to talk. If she brings up a new topic I’ll ask questions about that. Just keep the conversation flowing and get to know your kiddos. If they’re like mine, their interests change practically day by day.

5. Don’t be in a hurry

The second Little Dude is out of the stroller he wants to explore. Whether it’s a bug on the sidewalk, the neighbor’s sprinklers, or a cool rock, he wants to stop and check it out. The curiosity is endless and they’re soaking up so much information. You just can’t be in a hurry. Take your time to look at what they’re interested in and maybe ask a few questions about it. It might take you an hour to get around the block, but it’ll be worth it!

So enjoy your walk and savor this quiet time with your little ones. Don’t be intimidated to venture out. If we can do it with three kiddos four years old and under, so can you! It’s such a great way to keep those little ones moving and learning.

Take me to the FREE Printables Library!

What are some of your favorite things to do on a family walk?