It’s all in the tone of your voice when you tell someone, “Go take a hike!” Are you telling them to “Get lost!” or are you recommending that they adopt a healthier lifestyle?

Hiking benefits both kids and adults, combining exercise, quality togetherness and exposure to the outdoors. Hiking requires little or no equipment, is a very safe activity, and can be performed almost anywhere, not only in the woods. The earlier kids get acquainted with nature, the more likely they will continue their interest when they grow up.

1. Start kids hiking before they can walk. Carry them on your back, so you can hike and get them used to the outdoors. Start when they are about six months of age, a time when they can hold their heads up. Check that you have an infant carrier appropriate for you and for the infant’s age and size. Be aware of branches and bushes as you walk. Protect their eyes from the sun, especially in snow country.

2. Don’t bother trying to predict how far, how fast or for how long toddlers will walk. (Toddlers are defined as being between one and three years of age. Then they become preschoolers.) Medically speaking, let them walk as long as they like; no need to limit them. Let them set the pace and direction - which may be slow and in circles. The first few times you go “hiking,” stay close to your house or car. You may hear the “carry me” at any time and, possibly, many times. Don’t go further than you can easily carry kids back.

3. Most four year olds will walk one mile. A rule of thumb: motivated kids will walk/hike one additional mile for each year over four, i.e. three miles for a six year old. Factor in physical fitness, difficulty of the terrain, and weather.

4. Keep them motivated. Let them help you pick out snacks for the walk/hike and tell them about what they will see on route. Call for rest stops when you see them dragging and losing interest. Do so before they complain. Let them lead the family. Alternate leaders if there is more than one child.

5. Choose interesting routes. Young children are rarely impressed by historical sites and scenic landscapes and prefer picking flowers to viewing them. They tend to like waterfalls, lakes (especially ones with ducks in them), lakes into which they can throw stones, and rocks on which they can climb (safely). Ideally, choose routes with attractions close together so you can entice them on with something interesting just ahead. Point out animal tracks and burrowing holes, anthills, and birds’ nests, for example.

6. Provide young kids with backpacks. Wearing backpacks makes them feel part of the group. For toddlers, it doesn’t matter what they carry - a light toy, a small water bottle, their favorite snack, or nothing. For older children on serious hikes, backpacks should weigh no more than fifteen percent of body weight, less for tough terrain, first time hikers, and extremes in temperatures. (This holds for school backpacks too.)

7. Keep kids well hydrated. Dehydration sets in before thirst does and decreases energy levels. Drinking is especially important in hot and humid environments. For children of all ages, even on fairly strenuous hikes, plain water is adequate. Energy drinks and electrolyte solutions are unnecessary.

8. Snacks are important.  “Trail mixes” consisting of dried fruits, nuts, grains and chocolate are very popular, and available everywhere. These mixtures provide energy, taste good, are lightweight, and are easy to carry, store, and eat.

9. Teach young children to “Hug-a-Tree” if they lose sight of you. If children feel lost they start running in the direction they happen to be facing, greatly complicating reuniting. Supply preschoolers with whistles, when appropriate. Check the many electronic gadgets now available to keep track of children.

10. Miscellaneous. Allow kids to bring a friend along. (Adults are boring, friends are cool.) Have lists of supplies to carry: insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreens, extra clothing, a small first aid kit, and a cellular phone that works where you are hiking. Avoid becoming goal-oriented. The sole purpose of hiking with kids is to have fun.