Camping with kids
We've all heard of 'happy campers', but it seems families who enjoy camping could be more accurately described as 'happy, educated campers'.
New research shows children who camp in the great outdoors at least once a year tend to do better at school, and are healthier and happier.
Kent's best family campsites - click here.
Sue Waite, the associate professor at Plymouth Institute of Education who led the study, says; "Interestingly, the parents surveyed believed camping supported the key curriculum subjects of geography, history and science and actually, that stacks up, because the most common camping activities were natural, like rock pooling and nature walks, where children are getting to understand ecosystems and identify lifeforms, respecting nature and the environment."
Children who took part in the research were asked what they loved about camping - making and meeting new friends, having fun, playing outside and learning various camping skills were all popular answers.
Rob Ganley, spokesman for the Camping and Caravanning Club, points out that as well as campers making plenty of trips to the seaside, historical sites and going on nature walks, campsites are safe places for children to play freely.
"Camping will prise kids away from smartphones and tablets and get them exploring the outdoors. There's no better place for climbing a tree or making a den than a campsite, and the great thing is that they're safe environments.
"They can leave the tent, run around the site and make friends with kids from other families staying there. It harks back to the days of a safer world, in some ways. It's a really safe and healthy environment for kids to make friends and develop new skills."
And for parents worried about any potential discomfort while camping, Mr Ganley reassures: "Modern camping equipment is streets ahead of what it used to be - you can even get inflatable tents that are up within a minute, and there's always glamping."
The Camping and Caravanning Club offers Ready Camp safari-style pre-erected tents on 17 club sites around the UK, while family friendly festivals will also help families with their camping – putting up tents or allowing the hire of shelter and everything required for time in the great outdoors.
Mr Ganley adds: "Families just turn up with their bedding, with no worries about pitching a tent. Glamping is definitely a popular option."
For more information visit www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
