My 9 year old has joined the cub scouts. He has wanted to for three years and he is thrilled to be there. But after only a couple of months, they are planning a 5km hike and an overnight camping trip. My initial reaction was no, no. No hiking. But I know it will be good for him . . . .if we can get them to carry enough Gatorade to keep him hydrated. He dehydrates SO fast, he's beenin trouble a couple of times despite our efforts to keep him well hydrated. But even if I can get myself past that, the overnight camping trip has me confounded. I see aspergillis in the leaves, b cepacia in the dirt, pseudo in the river, streams and lake. . . . . No, I'm not interested in putting him in a bubble. We live in the woods, and he plays, climbs trees and goes on explorations. But I'm there to ensure no pooled water or streams or lakes or rivers make their way into his mouth, nose or eyes. When he's done playing we wash up - in the house. We avoid stacks of leaves to roll in (although he has experienced that joy on several occasions). He is "allowed" to play in the dirt to some extent, but again with precautions in mind, and clean up within 100 feet.
Any practical suggestions from those who camp to help him avoid situations risky to his health? I am NOT a camper. What situations do we look out for? What do we do to ensure a healthy as well as fun experience? Anyone?
Any practical suggestions from those who camp to help him avoid situations risky to his health? I am NOT a camper. What situations do we look out for? What do we do to ensure a healthy as well as fun experience? Anyone?