Parents and children, getting outdoors

Posted by Jane Thompson on 04/10/2016

Getting in to the outdoors with your children is a great thing to do. We look at different ways to get out there.

The BMC is supporting the NSPCC with their Parents in Sport Week and so this week we will be providing guidance, support and ideas for parents who wish to introduce their children to climbing or walking, or for those who wish to develop their skills, or for parents with children who compete in climbing competitions.

Recent research by Sport England and the Outdoor Industries Association (Getting Active Outdoors) states that 43% of participants in outdoor activities first participated with their family with over 70% of participants stating that doing the activities with their family strengthens family relationships.

These activities may happen several times a week, once a month, or just on family holidays. Whichever it is we know that for the parents and for the children spending time in the outdoors is a great thing to do.

There are lots of articles on the BMC website that give ideas about activities to do and we have pulled them together for you.

A walk with an extra purpose such as a treasure hunt or wildlife spotting can be a great way to keep children engaged in the outdoors. Read our article looking at some of the best wildlife spotting walks that are suitable for families, or watch a film about great walks in the Lake District

Want to try a bit further afield? How about looking at trekking in Europe – we’ve got the top 5 places for family trekking

Do you climb indoors as a family and are looking trying it on real rock? Check out our guide to getting started in the outdoors and the best bouldering venues for beginners

Read about family climbing with mothers and fathers, or listen to two climbers talking about how they have continued to climb after having children

Family memberships are available through the BMC - Read more about them here

Youth Outdoor Climbing Courses

Whether you want to make the leap from indoor climbing into Sport or Trad climbing outdoors, we run many courses across the country and throughout the year that are specially for 11-17 year olds.

BOOK: Youth Trad Climbing Course

BOOK: Youth Sport Climbing Course

Subsidised Youth Course Places

There are a large number of free places on courses for families who may struggle to afford it. Any families who live in rented accommodation and who receive income support or universal credit may contact the instructor of a course or Alex West for a place.