Adventures with Kids: Reflections & Tips from Our Semi-Nomadic Life

Our son, now nine, has already had some incredible adventures. On his 6th birthday, he went tandem paragliding in Patagonia! He has  swum with penguins and baby hammerheads in the Galapagos, ridden horses in the dunes of the Sahara, river rafting in Argentina, and even fly-in backcountry camping in Alaska—where a bear snuck into our camp at night and stole our food supply bag!

He’s been fortunate to have these experiences, many of which are a by-product of our semi-nomadic lifestyle. I’ve seen how much they’ve benefited his development. He’s confident and capable while entering most situations, which is especially helpful as an expat kid navigating lots of tricky new environments—like starting 4th grade in a close-knit Spanish village, where most of his school day is in a regional language. He is quick to say "yes" to trying new things and loves being outdoors and exploring nature—all of which I believe are connected to many years of new experiences and adventures.

But here’s the thing: adventures don’t have to be far-flung or exotic to be meaningful—kids can benefit from all kinds of experiences, big or small. Whether it’s scrambling over rocks in a nearby national park or camping together in the backyard, doing something new together is great for the whole family. I once read that psychologists found new couples feel closer after doing new activities together—there’s something there for families too! Shared adventures bond us in ways nothing else can.

So, how do you make the most of adventures with kids? Here are 6 tips I’ve learned along the way:

1. Don’t Underestimate Your Kids
   Kids are naturally inclined toward adventure, even if they don't always show it. They have an innate curiosity and love for exploring the world. Give them the opportunity to embrace that. Whether it's hiking, climbing, or even just playing in the dirt, they thrive when they’re outside doing things. Don't be afraid to challenge them a bit—you may be surprised at what they can accomplish.

2. Plan Activities with Variety
   A lot of kids (even older ones) may not love walking on a straight, flat trail for long. Look for paths or destinations where the environment changes—like trails with rocks to climb on, streams to explore, or areas that bring a bit of unpredictability. These natural “adventure zones” will keep your kids engaged and curious.

3. Consider Private Guided Activities
   If you're doing a guided activity like a hike, rafting, or wildlife tour, consider going for a private experience. This way, you won’t feel pressured by other groups, and your kids can take their time to stop, explore, and interact with their surroundings. For example, my son loves turning over rocks and checking out insects—something that might slow down a larger group but brings him joy and wonder.

4. Talk About the Adventure Before It Happens
   Especially if you’re doing something new, build excitement before the activity. Show your kids videos of what they’ll be doing—bonus points if it features other kids, not just adults. Help them visualize how cool the experience will be. This can help ease nerves and get them pumped for the adventure ahead!

5. Accept That Family Adventures May Be Slower
   Doing an adventure as a family may take more time than if you were doing it with just adults. Don’t fight it, or the experience won't be fun for anybody; just plan for it. When we go hiking, for example, I usually double the estimated time, knowing we’ll want to stop and explore along the way. This is also why we try to get private guides whenever possible.

6. Bring Lots of Snacks and Take Breaks
   This might seem obvious, but it’s essential. Snacks can be a game-changer when energy starts to wane. Keep a stash of easy-to-eat snacks on hand and build in plenty of breaks. These pit stops aren’t just for food; they give kids a chance to rest, take in the scenery, and get excited about what’s next.

So go have some adventures with your kids, no matter where they take you. Whether it’s a big expedition or just exploring your backyard, every adventure is an opportunity to bond, learn, and grow together.

Ready to plan your next family adventure? Let me help you create unforgettable experiences. DM me for ideas, tips, or to start planning your journey today!