·:[ National Park Reservations Blog ]:·
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National parks are a wonderful place to bring the whole family. With wide open spaces curious kids never get in the way.  National parks also provide excellent learning opportunities.  I know when I bring the little ones their rapidly developing minds soak up all the information just as they reach to know even more.  There are several ways you can encourage kids to get involved in your national park vacation.

 

On the way to your destination explain to you kids what national parks are and why they are important. For your information here is a synopsis of what the national parks are:

 

The first National Park was established on March 1, 1871, it was Yellowstone National Park in what today is Montana and Wyoming. On August 25, 1916 the National Park Service was established. The Park Service manages and regulates the National Parks. National Parks include natural, historic, and recreation areas.  There are over 369 parks, monuments, historic sites, and recreation areas in the country today. 

 

You might find out more about John Muir and the others who loved the beauty found in places like Yosemite, Yellowstone and Glacier.  Telling your kids about these characters will peak their interest in history.  These are great topics to keep everyone involved on the way to the national park.

 

When you’re at the park make a trip to the visitor’s center; here large maps, pictures of various wildlife, post cards and books on the park can be found.  You may also check into a movie giving a background on the park you are visiting.  Many visitor’s centers offer showings of these films throughout the day. 

Next make sure your kids get to experience the beauty that is found in the adventure of the national parks.  Take age appropriate hikes with them pointing out flowers and shrubs along the way.  More often then not you will see wildlife from the path, whether it’s a scampering squire or shy mountain goat these are just some of the animals you will see (keep your distance) when you visit a national park.

 

Lastly, give your kids something to remember their experience.  If they are old enough to write encourage them to keep a journal at the end of the day writing about their experiences; for little kids let them color pictures of the animals and plants that they encountered.  Save all the pamphlets and other literature on the park and activities you do to include in a scrapbook once you get home.  Let your kids take pictures of the things that impress them throughout the trip.  These make great reminders in the future of a wonderful time at a national park.