lifestyle, little adventuresGuest UserNovember 27, 2018waterproof, winter clothes, hats, wellies, family activity

winter proof adventures

lifestyle, little adventuresGuest UserNovember 27, 2018waterproof, winter clothes, hats, wellies, family activity

Ah here, I started writing this almost a year to the day ago. Talk about unproductive. Now that the weather is fully splash worthy I decided to finish it off and post it, even if it’s not 100% perfect, cause whose got time for that?!

I don't know about you, but my kids are ALWAYS happiest outdoors and in among nature. I really want to just let them explore freely, smiling broadly with rosy cheeks, mud on their boots & leaves in their hair. Truth is, although I have this romantic notion of allowing them do all this, I regularly have to stop myself from keeping their play clean and organised, and my husband is far worse, he would've had a wipe in hand at all times just incase a few years back! Winter time can bring its added weather challenges. But, if you know what it's like to be around the wrath of a cooped up kid, you'll also know it's worth the little added effort. I regularly find Nathan clawing at the back door, whining to just be set free! Not to mind the kids, everyone feels better after a good dose of the great outdoors. Right?!

Hands up whose experienced the second photo? Read on.

Waterproof it

Whoever invented the waterproof trousers and all in ones needs a medal!!! Like seriously, this makes the clean up so much more manageable and the mucky play so much more fun. Because, let's face it, there's nothing like a clean obsessed parent to dampen the explorations of a tot. I can hands down say that waterproof trousers, all in ones and wellies are the BEST purchase you can make this winter as well as the ultimate gift of fun for your kiddies. Game changer.

I also think a pair of wellies for mama is essential if you’re really out in the elements. If it’s really wet or it’s snowing I recommend wellies or ski boots. If you feel like a little splurge, I picked up a pair recently of my absolute fav Hunter wellies. They are comfy as wellies go, they look good and they aren’t too heavy or clumpy and best of all make playing in muddy streams with your littles a breeze. I bought the fleece liners as wellies do not keep your feet warm in my experience. I've linked all my favorites at the bottom of the post.

I recently put a box into the car to store all the waterproofs. So I’m prepared. Always!

The right apparel

In colder weather, thermal clothes are a great option for keeping everyone snug. Or just layer it up. As far as I'm concerned good gloves are an essential! Spare gloves are also essential. Refer back to the above picture if you need reminding! My own kids taught me this recently as the icy weather put a serious chill on our forest walks last weekend sans gloves particularly if the snow is around. There’s not many things more grating than a childs wrath because their hands are freezing. Especially, when we all just really wanna build a snowman.

Sling it

I definitely encourage my kids to walk & explore when we hit the trails. But, they don't always have the same plan and so to save my arms and ears I stick a Tula in my backpack or else just clip it around me "just incase". Sanity saver.

Bring Snacks.....Always!!

Foraging, mud pie making and adventuring is hungry work. Do not underestimate the power of the snack. I like to pack a variety of pre-prepared mini lunch boxes of I’m super organised! Otherwise I pick up a pack of blueberries, bananas and lentils crisps and I’m on my way. Sometimes even a hot drop for Mama and Daddy.

Be Realistic

Build up their walking ability. Always remember that however far you walk, you gotta walk back. We used to do loads of hikes but in recent years opt for shorter walks in the woods, or by the sea. Being within 20/30 minutes of the car is generally my rule with young kids.

Spare clothes

Pack up a bag of spare trousers and socks for the family and leave it in the car. I bring a big bag to put all the wet, mucky gear in until we get home. There's nothing like a new pair of snuggly socks if you've been doing extreme puddle jumping.

Cook Ahead

Knowing you've a warm pot of chunky soup or veggie shepardless pie ready to go is heaven sent after an afternoon in the great outdoors. Make an extra large portion because appetites are exceptional on days like this.