Family Camping - How to Reconnect with Your Kids in the Great Outdoors

As far as our family is concerned there's no better way to reconnect in the summer than to go a family camping trip. I remember a few years back when my then 8 year old son said, "I love camping with the family because there's nothing to do but be together."

When our family goes camping we typically leave the TV, computer and cell phone at home. (Okay, we bring the cell phone in case of an emergency but keep it turned off.)

To us the appeal of camping is in escaping the day-to-day and getting back to basics where no one is rushing to be anywhere at a specific time. Our daily schedule is completely open to what inspires us in the moment.

Camping gives us an opportunity to dust off those board games and pull out that deck of cards. While weekly family game nights are an excellent way to stay connected throughout the school year they often take a back seat to pizza and movie nights.

We've been avid campers for the last eight years. The variety of provincial parks and private campgrounds in our part of Canada is what appeals to us most. Having a cottage provides a great escape but it doesn't compare to some of the breathtaking sites (and sights) we've been able to experience.

As our children get older we may lean more towards a permanent cottage getaway but for now we're going to hook up our tent trailer to our mini van and head out to the great outdoors as often as we can.

If you're seriously looking for a way to reconnect with your kids this summer, camping is an experience not to be missed. Children are only kids for so long.

If you don't have your own equipment - borrow some, and get packing.

Following is a collection of family camping tips:

Involve your kids in the planning. Decide where to go and what activities you're going to do e.g. hikes, campfire treats like S'Mores or Hobo pies, shadow games with flashlights etc.

Test your equipment in advance. This is particularly important if you're borrowing or haven't used your camping gear in awhile. Don't forget to check your flashlights too. (If you've reserved an electrical site then you can always take some rechargeable ones otherwise load up on batteries.)

Make packing a family affair. Give everyone a list of what to pack including clothing and toys. Don't forget the first aid kit, bug spray, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and bottled water.

Plan quick and easy meals. Wieners and beans and Kraft dinner may be popular camping fare but just about anything can easily be made on site with a little forethought.

Cutting up fresh fruit and vegetables in advance is not only nutritious but saves on cooler space. Another great idea is to pre-cook foods like ground and roast beef for quick spaghetti or hot beef sandwiches. I often freeze my pre-cooked meals in advance and then wrap in plastic, foil and newspaper so they stay frozen longer.

Leave electronics at home. This includes hand-held computer games and personal MP3 players. Consider instead encouraging activities everyone can be involved in as well as books for bedtime reading. Don't make an exception for the car ride unless it's a long one. Play some old fashioned car travel games like I Spy instead.

Anticipate rain. You can't control the weather but you can plan for it. Rain gear and a deck of cards are a must have.

Create a scrapbook. Depending on the age of your kids encourage them to take photos, seek out nature treasures and/or create a camping journal. Once home, have them compile everything into a scrapbook.

Go with the flow. Things will be forgotten and raccoons may get into your garbage but don't let it spoil your outdoor adventure. Ask a neighboring camper for a can opener and hang your garbage high in a tree and enjoy the rest of your holiday.