I wish someone had told me about the unexpected benefits of hiking for kids

“I wish someone had told me” is a series of posts that feed into our inquisitive nature at CN&CO. Each week we hear from someone in our network about something interesting or surprising that’s recently happened or occurred to them – or lessons they learnt. These blogs are a way to pay it forward and form part of CN&CO’s belief that the world can be a better place – and we all have a responsibility to make it so. This week’s post is by Blake Dyason.

Hiking is often thought of as a fun outdoor activity that provides exercise and fresh air. However, it turns out that hiking can have many unexpected benefits for kids that go beyond just physical health. As a qualified mountain guide, I have been working with my close friend Celine Gimenez, a primary school teacher at the French School of Cape Town, to guide regular day and overnight hikes on Table Mountain for their students. I have seen first hand how hiking can positively impact children in ways that I wish I had known earlier. Here are some of the unexpected benefits of hiking for kids.

Decreased bullying
One of the most surprising outcomes of hiking for kids is that it can lead to a decrease in bullying. When children spend time in nature and work together to overcome challenges and accomplish a shared goal, they often form stronger bonds and develop more empathy towards one another.

Increased empathy towards others
As mentioned earlier, spending time in nature can help children develop a deeper sense of empathy towards others. Being surrounded by natural beauty can lead to a sense of awe and wonder that can inspire children to appreciate the world around them, including the people in it. They can learn to value differences and understand that we all have a responsibility to protect and care for each other.

Improved leadership skills
Hiking provides an opportunity for children to practise leadership skills in a safe and supportive environment. Whether it’s leading the way on a trail, helping others in their group, or making decisions as a team, children can develop their leadership skills in a practical and hands-on way.

Improved teamwork skills
As children work together to navigate trails, carry gear, and support each other they learn teamwork skills.

Increased self-confidence
When children successfully complete a hike, they can experience a sense of accomplishment and pride that can boost their self-confidence.

Personally, I believe we have a responsibility to connect children to nature, not only for the benefits listed above, but for the physical and mental benefits too.

Hiking connects us to nature, our peers and ourselves.