5. Snacks | Replenish your energy with trail
mix, power bars and other healthy treats
that will keep your family going.

6. Hydrocortisone | Keep this anti-itch
cream handy when bug bites do occur.

Children can be more prone to irritation,
says Donahoo.

7. Footwear | Wear supportive athletic
shoes, not sandals. If biking along a
wooded path, Donahoo notes your
shoes should be secured to your foot so
that they won’t fall off or get caught in
pedals or spokes.

8. Map or compass | Don’t rely on park
signs alone. Build your child’s skills in
navigation with the same tools the earliest
explorers used. Having a paper map instead
of a GPS encourages children to actively
engage with the hike.

9. Whistle | If your children like to wander,
have them wear a whistle as an extra safety
measure. They can also use it to alert you to
cool things along the path!
10. Wildlife sighting book | Teach your child
how to forage for edible plants or spot local
wildlife on the path with a book specific to
your area or your state’s park systems. T
beach, and they’re free! Walking along the
beach with your children to find the best
ones can be a great bonding moment.

10. Frisbee or volleyball | Lots of beaches
have volleyball nets. Bring a ball or a Frisbee
to toss along the beach—be sure to watch
out for others.

HIKER: MICROVONE/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Hiking at a State Park
1. Sunscreen | Hiking under cover of
the trees can shield you from some sun,
but you’ll still need to apply and reapply
sunscreen (as noted above). Zinc oxide can
be used sparingly for infants.

2. Sun-protective clothing | Donahoo rec-
ommends UV shirts, hats and sunglasses.

Collier says that outside of the water, a
wide-brim hat and loosely fitting light-
colored clothing is best.

3. Hydration pack | Look for age-specific
hydration packs for your child’s backpack
and keep them hydrated on the go. Infants
do not need water; use formula instead.

4. Bug spray | All kinds of critters can be
lurking in the woods, so protect against
mosquitoes, ticks and other invaders with
bug spray. Spray mostly on clothes to reduce
chemicals on skin.

Montessori School
of McLean
Where Authentic Montessori
Meets the 21st Century:
Ages 2-12
Cultivating each child’s unique ability to flourish in
mind, body and spirit
ENRICHMENTS • Science • Technology • Spanish • Outdoor Classroom
• Library • Music • Drama • Art • Physical Education
Extended Day • Transportation • Summer Camp
1711 Kirby Road
McLean, VA 22101
703-790-1049 Accredited by
www.mcleanmontessori.org WashingtonFAMILY.com 11