Eastern Carolina Parent - April 2009 - (Page 7) over the phone so you can decide on your choice of sites. For example, we always request a site reasonably close to a restroom as we have small children who have trouble holding their water through the night. Another way we plan ahead is to pinpoint a campground close to some activities of interest. We have found that our children look forward to prearranged activities to break up the day. For example, there are campsites near Hatteras that would allow families to take in the beachfront, as well as spend time at Kittyhawk National Park, and view nearby lighthouses. We have also learned to plan for the unexpected. Several years ago, while living in New York, our family camped in the Adirondacks and it rained for the first 24 hours we were there. Luckily, we had planned ahead for such a possibility, tucking away packs of cards, board games, and simple craft ideas that could be accomplished in tents. The children still had fun as we waited out the bad weather. Margaret Monteran, author of Family Camping 101: Tips, Hints, and Resources, suggests packing a small tackle box with pull out drawers, full of art supplies such as crayons, markers, pencils, etc. for quiet moments or inclement weather while camping. Monteran also suggests decorating small notebooks ahead of time that can act as camp journals. Don’t forget glue, which can be used to add leaves, small stones or other treasures children may wish to save. Another plus to planning ahead is to consider inviting other families. We have gone camping with the same family friends for the past three summers, and it has become an important tradition for all of us. We have since invited other families to join us, which result in massive kickball games, sing-a-longs, and exploring expeditions. If you choose to invite friends with similar aged children, camping can become a super slumber party/play date of the very best kind. We begin discussing which week will work for the annual camping trip as early as January or February. Being away from civilization to one degree or another, it is important to plan to take everything you will need when going camping. There are several books on the market that may assist in preparing for a family camping trip. Here are three that we have found helpful: • Family Camping 101: Tips, Hints, and Resources, by Margaret Monteran www.easterncarolinaparent.com • A Guide to Happy Family Camping, by Tammerie Spires • The Essential Family Camper, by David and Zora Aiken We also recommend visiting the following website: lovetheoutdoors.com. This site has many practical tips and lists so families can have a successful camping experience. Family camping has become an important page in our family’s history. Our children look forward each summer to family time unplugged. It is a time to enjoy nature, strengthen family ties, and leave behind the trappings of technology for a brief time. May you have just such an experience with your family this summer in the great outdoors! Dr. Alan Taylor is a Certified Family Life Educator and Assistant Professor in the Family and Community Services program within the Department of Child and Family Studies at East Carolina University. Mrs. Kelly Taylor holds a master’s degree and is an adjunct faculty member in the same department. They currently live in Greenville with their five children. Bailey Boys Deux Par Deux Room Seven Wes and Willy Mulberry Bush Kissy Kissy Anavini children’s clothing & toys Brio Thomas Doll Furniture 3 Marthas Girls * infant to 16 Boys * infant to 7/8 Frenchman’s Creek (next to Neuse Sport Shop) Hwy 70 East Kinston, NC 28504 lapetiteboutique.lp@gmail.com 252-523-2229 Microdermabrasion • Waxing • Customized Facials • Back Facials • Chemical Peels Lunchtime Facelift • Eyelash Extentions and much more! 3483 Evans Street, Suite B (Bedford Commons), Greenville Recieve a FREE mini-facial with the purchase of a makeup application. All services are performed by Licensed Medical Estheticians (252) 561-SKIN (7546) For Moms or Proms! Gift Certificates Available. Eastern Carolina Parent : April 2009 http://www.easterncarolinaparent.com
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