Lock down and it’s restrictions has meant that the daily permitted exercise we are all encouraged to do is
“ Go for a walk “
Now don’t get me wrong I love a good walk , however I’m finding my 9yr old is now becoming bored of the walk! , as it’s the only thing we can do ! In the past we love a good ramble or yomp as we call it . However when you are doing it EVERYDAY ! because the others forms of exercise such as team sports , skate park and swimming are not available ,it can all become a bit too much
So here are10 ways to make a walk something a little different or maybe a little more exciting !
A couple of these suggestions will require some pre planning , but well worth doing . You will also want to adhere to the current Covid guidelines in reference to walking distance from your house etc
1. Scavenger Hunt walk .
Collect 10 items along the route . Items could include An empty snail shell , a feather , a black pebble , a brown leaf , a flower etc . Some items may not be obtainable depending on the time of the year , and also you may want to consider wearing loves if collecting objects . 
2. Word Search .
This one takes a little pre planning .However this makes for a great surprise or longer type of walk . Choose a word to be spelt from letters posted on peoples doors , gates or windows .
Prior to the walk ask local friends, neighbours and family to display the chosen word letters , upon their door , gates hedge or windows .
So this is where the planning of both the word and route is required . . So for example the word is Sweets . The letter S could be at the start ( your house ) then you walk a route passing 6 other houses displaying the letters in a mixed up order . Upon returning to your house , the kids get some sweets ! .
This walk could also be played as a riddle or even a joke .
If you can’t ask people to display letters for you . Get the word and letters , from letters you will see along the route , from shop, house ,or street names .
3. I-Spy Spotters
This is a great way to encourage observation of the local area the walk that you do . You can also play this game as you walk along , or for a slightly harder version upon your return! . Possibly some pre planning is required for I-spy Spotters .
Example of spotting could be , How many Post boxes did we see?
How many Barns did we pass?
What was the colour of the door at the big house?
What type of animal was in the second field we walked through?
4. Walk a dog !
For people who are shielding or unwell having the dog walked for them could be a great help . Many local communities now have volunteer action groups that you can liaise with to offer your help .
5. Ordnance Survey Map.
The Ordance survey has a great app , detailing walks , The annual paid version is a little more detailed and suggests highlighted walks from other users . It’s also a great way to teach kids how to use a map , compass and direction plus map reading details such as hills and footpath recognition .
6 Math and walk !
Before setting out on a walk get everyone to estimate the mileage and steps for the walk ,wether the walk is a know planned walk , or a walk that just happens ! There are many various apps and smart watches that will tell you the information . As an added activity with a home learning element .Get the kids to make a graph of the different walks , detailing the mileages differences and rate the walk on its enjoyment factor , effort , and beauty . This I can guarantee will be a continued source of argument ! & discussion .
7. Painted Pebbles
This simple and crafty activity is still adding a fun element to any walk ! Paint a pebble ,perhaps add a message and place along the route .Simple easy fun
8.Nature SpottingRecord the various birds , insects and larger animals you may see along the route . This wa our lucky find
9. Ninja Circuit.
Create your own very own exercise plan as you walk along the route!. Perhaps it’s sprints between lampposts , Jumping jacks when you pass a postbox , Step ups on stiles , or even Flossing at Footpath signs ! . It doesn’t matter what it is!, it’s your Fitness walking circuit !
10. Wombles Walk!
And last but not least .Why not do something for the environment and do some litter picking along the way ? Long handled litter pickers are available to buy from many outlets , or can also be borrowed for local authority /council hubs . Just like the kids Tv show the Wombles picked up and recycled rubbish whenever possible ! This is a great way to engage the family with looking after the local environment and you will feel better for it ! .Trust me I know 😉 Search out Wiltshire Women Rants about rubbish !! its me getting grumpy about rubbish being left on country walks !
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