Snacklaces
Okay I’ve got a life changing hack for hiking with children. If you’ve spent a significant amount of time with children you will come to realize that snacks are crucial. Seriously, every trail should have a sign labeled, “Warning do not attempt if you are not adequately prepared with water and snacks.”
Even when you are prepared, children often end up fighting over snacks or inevitably someone spills half the bag in the dirt.
I think we can all agree that the solution to keeping little bodies happy, motivated, and moving is food. Introducing….SNACK NECKLACES or as we have dubbed, snacklaces. Now your children can self-monitor their own snacks and learn rationing. It also provides them with choices and they can take ownership in the process.
If you need anymore encouragement, this activity also works on fine motor skills and pattern making. What’s not to love? One more thing before we get started.
Before making these snack necklaces, be aware of the wildlife that live in the region. We live in Southwest Michigan and enjoy making these fun snacks while camping and hiking at local parks and trails. We do not make them if we are in bear country.
Disclaimer: If you are hiking in a remote wilderness area, please use common sense. I would strongly caution against making your child a walking snack for bears.
Supplies Needed
Needle and thread needed for snack necklaces
1. Wide-eyed needle & thread
Depending on the age of your child and your snack selection, using yarn is another option. I allow my 2 year old to pick his snacks into a pattern and then I assist with assembling them onto the thread. My 4, 6, and 8 year old children are independent with the needle once it is threaded. They just need help with tying off the necklace.
2. Snacks
Variety of Snacks for Snack Necklaces
Now for the fun part! Select any snack with a circle opening or that can hold its form when a string is passed through the item. Some great options: pretzels, fruit loops, cheeze-its, cheerios, salami, cubed cheese, bagel chips, gummy life savers, peach rings, popcorn, dried fruit, yogurt pretzels, blueberries, and grapes.
Directions
Cut thread twice as long as you need so the necklace can slip over your child’s head.
Knot one end.
Allow your child to create a pattern with the snack items.
String selected food through the needle and thread.
When completed, knot the other end and tie around your child’s neck.
That’s it! Such a simple and fun way to get kids excited about hiking. Remember to make a snack necklace for yourself.
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The ultimate guide to camping at Platte River Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Here is our honest review of the camp sites and facilities. This is a Michigan Bucket List trip for families. Numerous outdoor activities will keep kids occupied as you swim, catch a sunset at Lake Michigan, race down a sand dune or hike the miles of scenic trails and overlooks.