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Archive for Camping and Health

Books That Inspire: Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 April 25, 2014
Reading a Book Outdoors

Last Child in the Woods

If you’ve never heard the term “nature deficit disorder” or the theory behind the phrase, you might want to read Last Child in the Woods. Written by Richard Louv in 2005, this powerful book sheds light on the physical and emotional effects experienced by children who spend too little time with nature and too much time with technology. Overall, this one of those books that inspire and completely change the way you think about outdoor activities.

Planning outdoor activities like camping isn’t just a good way for kids to stay active (although that’s also a great benefit). It’s also a way to improve both children’s and adult’s overall well-being. Last Child in the Woods presents developing research on this topic, and the book will make you eager to spend more time outdoors with your kids. Now is the perfect time to get outside since the weather is warming up!

The Nature Principle

Richard Louv isn’t just about causing a scare. He’s also about providing hope and solutions. In The Nature Principle—his follow-up book to Last Child in the Woods—Louv calls people to bring about a happier future. Louv inspires us to spend more time with nature by describing the ways it can boost creativity, happiness, and wellness. He also calls us create more sustainable solutions for businesses and communities.

Are you ready to make a change? Think about how you can incorporate nature more into daily life for you and your kids. Learn more about nature deficit disorder by reading these meaningful books.

The Man Behind Nature Deficit Disorder: Richard Louv

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 April 18, 2014
Mother and Child with Dandelions

Richard Louv may not be a doctor or a psychologist, but that hasn’t stopped him from influencing the way we think about nature and our well-being. A journalist, Louv has conducted extensive research into our relationship with nature. Featured in his book Last Child in the Woods, the condition he calls “nature deficit disorder” has raised critical issues every parent should consider.

In case you haven’t heard of nature deficit disorder, the term refers to the mental and physical symptoms that can occur when kids don’t spend enough time outdoors. These symptoms include anxiety, depression, obesity, and attention deficit disorder (ADD). As you can probably guess, we at My Camp Kitchen believe in the positive effects of the great outdoors and are interested in Louv’s theories.

Louv’s thesis is more than just a theory, though. His books have started an international movement to bring kids and nature back together, and they have inspired campaigns across North America. He has won prestigious awards for his work, including the Audubon Medal given by the nonprofit environmental organization National Audubon Society. Louv has been featured on national TV shows such as ABC’s Good Morning America. With Louv gaining recognition, more parents are becoming aware of the damaging effects of spending too little time outdoors on their kids. We hope they will be compelled to take action.

So what’s the solution for nature deficit disorder? According to Richard Louv, it’s more time spent outdoors. In his latest book, The Nature Principle, Louv discusses his hopes for the future and challenges readers to rethink their relationship with nature.

Nature Deficit Disorder: Why Spending More Time Outside Is Good for Your Children’s Health

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 April 11, 2014
Kids Lying in Autumn Leaves

You might think of camping as just a fun family activity, but it’s far more than that. Camping provides a reason for your kids to break away from technology and spend quality time outdoors, which is extremely beneficial to a child both physically and mentally, according to the nature deficit disorder (NDD) theory.

Nature deficit disorder was coined by author Richard Louv in his book Last Child in the Woods. It describes the ill effects that can occur in those who spend little time with nature—especially children, who are still in crucial developmental stages.

In his book, Louv argues that kids have become so consumed by technology that many of them have never developed a connection with the natural world. This isn’t surprising considering the multitude of screens children are exposed to from birth. Even toddlers use smartphones, computers, televisions, tablets, e-readers, and more.

Nature deficit disorder is a serious issue and can result in symptoms such as attention problems (e.g., ADD), anxiety, depression, and obesity. The good news is the solution to these symptoms is right in your backyard! Make outdoor activities a priority with your children and look for opportunities for the whole family to spend more time with nature. A little dose of fresh air now could be the best medicine.

Easy Camping Meals That Are Also Healthy

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 April 2, 2014
Oatmeal

With a portable camp kitchen like the Summit, it’s now much easier to cook gourmet meals while camping. That said, it’s always a good idea to have a few easy meals in mind for when you’re tired and need a break from cooking. These easy camping meals are still healthy, and they require little work to prepare.

Breakfast: Oatmeal

Oatmeal is perfect for breakfast because it comprises whole grains and is substantial enough to keep you energized throughout the day. All you need are instant oats, water, and any toppings you might like to include. When buying instant oats, be sure to look for Original and avoid buying flavored packets, which contain added sugar. After cooking your oatmeal, add fruits, nuts, and other healthy toppings as desired.

Lunch: Black Bean & Mango Salad

Nutritious food can also be delicious if you choose the right meals. This salad is refreshing on a hot summer’s day and is great if you have any vegetarians camping with you. All you need are black beans, mangos, a sweet red bell pepper, onions, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and a dash of salt. To make this meal even easier, prepare the salad beforehand and store it in a cooler. That way, all you’ll have to do is serve the meal when you’re ready for lunch.

Dinner: Grilled Chicken Tikka

When you’re burnt out from a full day of activities, take it easy and make grilled chicken tikka for dinner. Before your camping trip, simply marinate boneless chicken pieces in a mixture of tandoori paste and plain Greek yogurt, then freeze it in a Ziplock bag. Make sure the chicken is fully thawed before grilling.

Snacks: Cut-up Veggies and Hummus

Instead of bringing along a bag of potato chips for an easy snack, cut up vegetables like carrots and broccoli that the family can snack on throughout the day. If you don’t like to eat veggies plain, hummus is a healthy alternative to vegetable dips.

Camping can be exhausting, so give yourself a break now and then with these easy and healthy camping meals.

Healthy Camping Recipes That Are Both Delicious and Nutritious

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 March 17, 2014
Cooking Vegetable Campfire Hobo Packets

During a camping trip, you’re typically left with fewer options when it comes to food. That doesn’t mean, however, that you have to eat the same unhealthy meals over and over again. With the right cooking gear and these healthy camping recipes, you can be a little more creative when preparing meals so your tastebuds don’t suffer.

Oatmeal with the Works

Instead of just frying up bacon or breakfast potatoes, start your day off the right way with a healthier, energizing meal. Serves 10 (serving size = 1 cup).

Ingredients

  • 6 cups of rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped dried apricots
  • 1 cup tart dried cherries
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

Optional toppings

  • 1 cup toasted unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 cup roasted hazelnuts
  • milk

Directions

  1. At home, combine oats, apricots, cherries, and brown sugar in a large bowl and store in container.
  2. At the campsite, add water (3/4 cup per serving) to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Then stir in oatmeal mix (3/4 cup per serving).
  3. Remove oatmeal from heat and let stand for 5 minutes or until water has been absorbed. Add toppings and enjoy.

Vegetable Campfire Hobo Packets

This recipe is perfect for both vegetarians and those who just want to eat healthy while camping. Serves 4.

Ingredients

  • 2 red onions, sliced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large zucchini, diced
  • 2 broccoli crowns, cut into florets
  • 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • salt and black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in an airtight container to pack.
  2. When you’re at the campsite, tear off 4 large sheets of aluminum foil.
  3. Toss your vegetables and place a pile of veggies in the center of each foil sheet.
  4. Fold foil over vegetable mix and make sure the edges are sealed.
  5. Cook packets over coals for 20 minutes.

Ready to give your taste buds a break? Try out these healthy camping recipes and enjoy food that is both delicious and nutritious.

How to Camp: Top 5 Tips for Camping

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 January 22, 2014
Happy Family Roasting Marshmallow over Campfire

Swimming in the lake, roasting marshmallows, playing games—what’s not to love about camping? Camping can be ridiculously fun and is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. To enjoy your trip as much as possible, you should carefully prepare beforehand. If you’re new to camping and aren’t sure how to plan for your camping trip, here are five basic how-to-camp tips that will help make your adventure stress-free.

1. Bring a first-aid kit

Whether you’re out in the middle of nowhere or spending time in a nice, familiar campground, you will want to bring a first-aid kit. Some of the items you should include are prescriptions, Band-Aids, aspirin, antiseptic creams, ointments, sterile wipes, rinse solutions, tweezers, and scissors.

2. Plan activities

More than likely, you’ll have plenty of free time on your camping trip. Fill up those hours where you have nothing planned with a fun game or group activity! Cards are perfect because they don’t take up a lot of space and you can use them to play a variety of different games. Other activities you might consider include swimming, hiking, and canoeing.

3. Pack lightly

People tend to overpack, thinking they are playing it safe. They regret that decision once their camper feels way too crowded. Pack only the essentials, but make sure you are prepared for both warm days and cold nights.

4. Plan out each meal

Planning meals ahead of time will prevent you from running out of food or packing too much. Take into account that some people on your trip may want seconds or even thirds.

5. Always pack bug spray and sunscreen

Out of all the miscellaneous items you pack for your camping trip, you’ll be most grateful for your bug spray and sunscreen. Find a bug spray that contains 20 percent or more DEET and be sure your sunscreen has at least 30 SPF.

Being prepared is an essential part of camping. Follow these five camping tips and make your trip an experience you’ll cherish forever!

For more information on how to camp, check out our other posts:

C&NN Releases Updated Edition of “Together in Nature: Pathways to a Stronger, Closer Family” Tool Kit

Posted by Sky //
 July 15, 2013
Parent and Child Together in Nature

I follow Richard Louv and his work on getting kids and families back to nature. He is the man who termed the phrase “nature deficit disorder.” As a psychotherapist, I see this all the time. Anyway, here is link to a recent post by them well-worth reading:

Children and Nature Network (C&NN) Releases Updated Edition of “Together in Nature: Pathways to a Stronger, Closer Family” Tool Kit

Kids and Nature … What a Beautiful Thing

Posted by Sky //
 December 13, 2012
Child Embracing Nature at Sunset

I was reading through my emails this morning and found my C&NN newsletter. Opening it up, I read two beautiful pieces that I want to share with you.

Tierra y libertad

The first is written by a young man after camping with his family for the first time: TIERRA Y LIBERTAD: A Camping Trip Illustrates Nature’s Place in Family and Heritage.

Peace in nature

And the second, which I actually read first, was written by a young girl contemplating a beehive: PEACE IN NATURE: Aylee Tudek, 16, Shares Her Sense of Wonder.

Both are beautiful and so well-written. I could not say it better. Thanks, Juan and Aylee.

Go Outside and Play!

Posted by Sky //
 November 3, 2011
Child Playing in Nature

I just read an article in the newspaper this morning about a 100-year-old woman who attributes her long life to listening to her mom’s advice to “go outside and play.” Where safer and better to play outside than camping? Oh, the freedom and fantasies—I remember it well!

Family Leisure Time: Creating Happy Kids

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 October 20, 2011
Family Spending Time Together Outdoors
by Analisa Macias (daughter of Richard and Eleanore Snogren)

As parents, we have goals and expectations of ourselves and our children. But what, really, are we expecting our children to gain from all of our parenting? What do we really want for our kids? What do they need to launch them into a successful and happy adulthood?

We want our kids to be good, smart, respectful, and happy. We want them to make us proud and to feel good about themselves. But in reality, these terms are elusive and subjective. How do you teach someone to be happy? Or good? Often teaching “respect” ends up instead teaching fear and intimidation. Smart is relative and unique to each individual.

Good and happy comes from within, it is implicit in our beings—not a personality trait. Respect for others is treating someone well and as an equal and can only come from a strong sense of self-respect. So as I ponder how to help my children develop a happy, good, smart, and respectful inner self, I often go to fearlessness.

More than anything, I want to help my kids be fearless. I don’t mean literally to feel no fear, but rather to feel unafraid of failure enough to try whatever they feel inclined to try. To give things a shot, to take initiative, to not be afraid of judgment or rejection, and to not fear not being good at something. We learn by being and by doing. And if my kids are not afraid to be and not afraid to do, then they will grow up pretty fulfilled. This will translate into a happy and respectful human being.

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