How to Make Family Walks More Fun (Without Screens!)
We’ve all been there: you suggest a family walk and get a chorus of groans or the dreaded “Can I bring my tablet?” But walking as a family doesn’t have to be boring or a battle. With a little creativity, you can turn a simple stroll into an adventure your kids will actually look forward to.
Here’s how to make your next family walk fun, screen-free, and full of laughter.
1. Turn It Into a Treasure Hunt
Kids love a challenge, especially when it involves finding things. Before you set out, create a quick scavenger hunt list: a red door, a feather, a funny sign, a seagull, etc. You can even reward them with a small treat for checking everything off the list.
2. Try a Story-Based Adventure Trail
Instead of wandering aimlessly, give your walk a purpose. Bailiwick Trails offers downloadable mystery trails that turn the outdoors into a storybook setting. With puzzles, clues, and locations to explore, your children become the heroes of a quest. It’s a great way to mix fun and learning—and they’ll be too busy solving clues to ask for a screen.
3. Let the Kids Take Turns Leading
Give each child a turn to be the “walk captain.” They get to choose the path (within safe limits), set the pace, and maybe even lead a song or game. This boosts confidence and makes them feel invested in the experience.
4. Bring Binoculars or a Magnifying Glass
Sometimes it’s the little things that create big excitement. Give your child a magnifying glass to examine leaves and insects, or binoculars to look for birds. You’ll be amazed at how much more they’ll notice along the way.
5. Add a Theme
Make your walk about something silly—like pretending you’re on the moon, or that you’re spies, or wildlife explorers. Give everyone a role and play along. The sillier, the better!
6. Include a Surprise Stop
Plan a fun surprise along the route: a visit to a bakery, a quick beach detour, or a playground stop. Kids love the mystery and anticipation.
7. Make It Competitive
Who can find the most birds? Who can walk the longest without stepping on a crack? Who can count the most dogs? Turning your walk into a playful contest helps keep kids engaged and laughing.
8. Choose the Right Time
A tired or hungry child is not a happy walker. Aim for a time when everyone is well-rested and fed. Avoid walks when they’re grumpy from school or overtired from a big day.
9. Go Somewhere New
Routine can make any outing feel stale. Try a different trail, park, beach, or path. The Channel Islands are full of hidden gems and stunning scenery—plenty to keep everyone curious.
10. Celebrate the Finish
When you get home, mark the walk with a little celebration—whether it’s a snack, a sticker on a wall chart, or a shared family photo. Kids will start to associate walks with positive memories.
Bonus Tip: Make It Magical with a Trail from Bailiwick Trails
Our mystery adventures are designed to make walking fun again. With built-in clues, characters, and interactive storytelling, your child becomes part of a real-world quest.