How to Go Camping with a Toddler

Plan for naptime to coincide with setting up camp.

Expect a wide range of emotions from toddler as she takes in the unusual new circumstances.

Let her explore the campsite.

Explain and demonstrate that the tent is for sleeping. Allow for practice.

Allow as much time as necessary for toddler to become familiar with tent.

Come prepared with a stroller, baby carrier, or wagon, in order to avoid carrying tired toddler on hikes.

Remain patient and calm during temper tantrums on the trail. Do not tell family and friends that it took 25 minutes to get toddler to move from spot.

Take toddler (still hiccupping from tantrum) to get her feet wet in the river.

Encourage toddler to pretend she is Goldilocks sitting on the Little Small Wee Bear's little small wee chair.

Play tent-flap peekaboo.

Join the rest of humankind (present, past, and future) in the universal ecstasy of staring at fire.

Introduce toddler to mandatory camping procedures, such as S'mores.

Try to duplicate regular bedtime routine as much as possible.

Stare at fire unencumbered by toddler after she goes to sleep.

Come prepared with spatula for pancakes. Forks do not work, despite reassurances that "We'll figure something out."

Be prepared for toddler to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed long before other campers.

Expect a little sadness upon leaving the campsite. Assure toddler that the future is full of more camping adventures!