Teaching Your Child to Be Safe and Have Fun with You While Taking A “Walk in the Woods”

Posted: May 29, 2025

(This blog post is the third post in a series regarding physical safety and psychological well-

being of our children during unexpected and special circumstances.)

In my most recent series of blog posts, there has been a theme of teaching physical safety and psychological well-being to our children. And now it's summer, and most kids are out of school. What a great time to think about safely taking a “walk in the woods”!

Okay, let's get you and your young hiker ready for some safe and fun adventures that can be filled with learning in the woods! While I’m sure the information posted herein is not inclusive, here's a reasonable step-by-step guide on how to prepare and teach your child to walk in the woods safely:

Phase 1: Preparation is Key!

Before you even set foot on a trail, some groundwork will make all the difference.

1. Choose the Right Location (Start Easy):

Familiar Territory: Begin with well-maintained trails in local parks or nature centers that you know well.
Short and Flat: Opt for shorter loops or out-and-back trails with minimal elevation gain. Little legs tire quickly!
Consider Accessibility: Ensure the trail is wide enough and relatively even for comfortable walking.

2.Dress for Success (and Safety):

Sturdy Footwear: This is non-negotiable. Closed-toe shoes with good traction (hiking shoes, sturdy sneakers) are essential to protect their feet from rocks, roots, and potential stumbles. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.
Layers of Clothing: Weather in the woods can change. Dress your child in layers (e.g., a t-shirt, a light long-sleeved shirt, and a light jacket) so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
Long Pants and Sleeves: These offer protection from scratches, insect bites, and even mild irritants like poison ivy. Tuck pants into socks to deter ticks.
Bright Colors: While you might love earthy tones, bright-colored clothing makes your child much easier to spot if they wander a short distance.
Sun Protection: Even under tree cover, the sun can be strong. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin and you might consider a wide-brimmed “boonie” hat.

3. Pack Smart (Essentials Only):

Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, even on short walks. Bring enough water for both of you.
Snacks: Young hikers burn a lot of energy. Pack easy-to-eat, nutritious snacks like trail mix, granola bars and high energy food bars (make sure they don’t contain caffeine).
Basic First-Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief wipes or spray for minor cuts, and any personal medications.
Insect Repellent: Choose a child-safe insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and ticks. Apply it according to the product instructions.
A Whistle: This is a vital safety tool. Teach your child how to use it to signal for help (three short blasts repeated).
Small Backpack (See my previous blog post on “Child ‘Go-Bags’”): If your child is old enough, let them carry a lightweight backpack with their ESSENTIALS. This can foster a sense of responsibility.

Phase 2: The Teaching Moments (Before the Hike and On the Trail):

Before and during your walk, actively teach your child about safe practices:

1. Pre-Hike Safety Chat and Teaching as You Hike:

"Buddy System": Explain that you're a team and need to stay close to each other. For young children, this might mean holding hands or staying within arm's reach. For responsible slightly older children, establish a "safe zone" where they can explore but must remain within your sight.
Beginning the Hike: Trail Following, Sticking Together, Safety and Love: Emphasize the importance of staying on marked trails. Explain that the path is the safest way to walk and helps prevent getting lost. Make it a game by purchasing trail markers and placing them along your path (these are both bright colored and reflective strips which can be placed on low hanging branches and bushes). Teach your child that “if you turn around, these markers will lead you home”. Remove the reflectors if the property isn't yours on the way back. Remember: “Leave no trace.”
Identifying Hazards (Gently): Show pictures or point out (from a safe distance) potential hazards like slippery rocks, roots, steep drop-offs, and stinging plants (like poison ivy). Teach them to look out for these things and how to navigate them carefully. Avoid scaring them but make them aware.
Wildlife Etiquette: Explain that wild animals are interesting to observe but should NEVER be approached or touched. Teach them to look from a distance and respect their space.
The "Stop, Stay, Shout" Rule: This is crucial if separation occurs. Teach them that if they can't see you, they should:
- Stop: Stay right where they are.
- Stay: Don't try to wander around.
- Shout: Yell "Help!" loudly and repeatedly. Also explain that the whistle is another way to call for help (three short blasts means “HELP”).

Listening to Grown-Ups: Emphasize the importance of listening to your instructions for their safety. Reinforce their appropriate actions.

2. Leading by Example (Modeling Safe Behavior):

Verbalize Your Actions: As you walk, narrate what you're doing: "See this rock? I'm going to step on it, look down to see what’s on the other side, and then step over it carefully." or "This part of the trail is a little slippery, so we need to walk slowly.”
Special Rule: Depending on your geographical location, a very important but simple rule is: “Never put your hands or your feet anywhere you cannot see.”
Follow the Rules Yourself: Always stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and be mindful of your surroundings. Your child will learn by watching you.

3. Making it Engaging and Fun:

Turn it into a Game: Point out flowers, types of trees, insects. butterflies, and maybe even small animals. This is a fun activity.
Environmental Science: Playing "I Spy" with natural objects along the way Is also a teaching moment! Most states have laminated tri-fold easy carry pamphlets on “flora, fauna and wildlife”. (I recently purchased each of my granddaughters a set about the area where they live.)
Focus on Discovery: Encourage their curiosity. Point out interesting and beautiful things you see. Teaching about the beauty and importance of taking care of nature can be understood by even young children.
Keep it Short and Positive: End the hike before your child gets too tired or frustrated. A short, enjoyable experience is better than a long, tiring one.
Celebrate Your Adventures: Praise their efforts and enthusiasm for exploring the woods safely. Ask them what they liked most about their hike.

4. Gradual Progression:

Start Small and Slow: Begin with very short walks and gradually increase the distance and difficulty as your child gains confidence and stamina.
Repetition and Reinforcement: Regularly review the safety rules before and during your hikes. Repetition helps solidify these lessons.

Phase 3: On the Trail - Reinforcing Safety:

Regular Check-Ins: Frequently ask, "Can you see me?" or "Are you staying close?"

Practice "Stop, Stay, Shout": In a safe, controlled environment (like a park), practice what to do if they get separated. Have them shout and use the whistle.
Point Out Safe Spots: Identify landmarks along the trail that you can use as reference points.
Be Patient: Learning takes time. Be patient and understanding as your child develops their outdoor skills and safety awareness.

By combining careful preparation with active teaching and positive reinforcement, you can empower your child to become a confident and a safe hiker in the wonderful world of the woods! Here’s one of my own personal experiences with this rewarding activity:

Remember, the positive outcomes of this activity are multiple. Enjoying the outdoors, increasing parent-child attachment, fostering a love for nature, the importance of taking care of our world, and ensuring our children’s physical safety and psychological well-being are all our goals.

As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out.

Dr. M