Get Out for Nowt

Walking in Pendle is a great way to get the family together and make some fantastic memories as the weather improves this spring. It can be hard to tear the kids away from the screens, but getting out in nature is perfect for breaking up the holidays and staying active. Best of all, it’s free!

Scavenger Hunts

Organising a scavenger hunt can transform an ordinary walk into an exciting expedition. Develop a list of natural items such as stones, leaves from common tree species, and flowers, or find a pre-made list online. This enhances the enjoyment of the walk and imparts knowledge to children as they identify and mark off various plant types. Equip them with binoculars and a magnifying glass to explore birds or insects. Remember to leave everything as you left it, and don’t take anything away; tick things off as you find them.

You’ll be amazed by the abundance of wildlife that reveals itself when you’re actively seeking it!

Located in Cotton Tree, Ball Grove Country Park is an ideal destination for embarking on a scavenger hunt adventure. With its picturesque millpond, expansive lake, and vast nature reserve, the park offers ample opportunities for exploration.

As you traverse the winding paths around the millpond and follow the meandering river, look for various waterfowl species. The path is flanked by patches of wood, making it easy to spot fallen leaves, woodland birds, and playful squirrels. You’ll be amazed by the abundance of wildlife that reveals itself when you’re actively seeking it!

While you can stroll for miles within the park, take a well-deserved break at the café conveniently situated near the millpond. Additionally, there’s a playground nearby, perfect for little ones to expend their energy. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity amidst nature or engaging in family fun, Ball Grove Country Park offers something for everyone.

Lead the Way

Employ the classic parenting technique of letting children take the lead during a walk. This technique is particularly effective on the way home when fatigue threatens. When tired legs threaten rebellion, a simple ‘Can you show me the way home?’ can inspire an exhausted child to transform into an energised one.

Take it further by having a child plan the walking route using a simple paper map. This works well with slightly older children. If things go awry, ensure you know the route for the first few times. However, you can build up the routes according to your child’s map skills. This method helps build up your child’s map skills, self-reliance, and independence.

If your child takes a wrong turn, try not to intervene immediately. If it is safe and doesn’t mean another ten-mile hike to get home, help them figure out the correct route. Smaller children can still get involved but may need more help. Try familiar routes first to avoid kids becoming overwhelmed.

After a long walk, kick off those shoes and have a paddle in Wycoller Brook.

Wycoller is a great place for kids to test their map skills. There are plenty of well-signposted routes. See if your child can find the way from the ruins of Wycoller Hall to The Atom panopticon art perched high on the top of the hill.

After a long walk, kick off those shoes and have a paddle in Wycoller Brook. On a hot day, the cool, shallow stream is great for splashing. Head downstream for the best paddling points, as the cobbles at the Ford can get a little slippy. Only attempt this on a warm, sunny day when the stream is shallow, and always keep an eye on children when they are near the water.

Bring a Picnic

A classic outdoor activity, the promise of a picnic will get even the most obsessive gamers to put down their controllers. Get your children involved in the kitchen, too. Find simple recipes they can help with, and don’t forget to remember their favourites for a family feast.

Once you’ve prepared your feast, Alkincoates Park in Colne is a great place for a picnic. There’s plenty of green space to set down your picnic blanket, along with the odd park bench. After your picnic, take a walk through the woods and see if you can spot the family of woodpeckers who live in the park’s trees. A visit to the park’s playground, with a brilliant slide kids are sure to love, will finish the day nicely.

These three methods to get your kids walking this Easter are the perfect start. You can devise your own methods, such as singing hiking songs (this probably won’t work with a moody teen) or taking turns telling stories.

Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you head out. A little rain doesn’t mean you must call off the whole thing, but it may mean pulling on your wellies and raincoats.

Always ensure everyone is equipped with water, warm layers, and suitable footwear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, rain or shine.

ColneLife May/June 24