Use a good quality tent; this isn’t the time for the beach shade. It must be a tent you’d really camp in, to protect you from the rain, bugs, and wind. [1] X Expert Source Britt EdelenOutdoor Educator Expert Interview. 7 February 2020.

Before laying out the seating area, do a sweep for doggy do-do, anthills, prickles, or other irritants and nasties that might spoil the experience.

Ensure your children know not to touch or play with bug zappers, citronella candles, or tiki torches. Even bug spray can be dangerous if ingested or sprayed in the eyes. Make sure an adult supervises or applies the products for children.

Pizza Hot dogs Fries Popcorn Lemonade Chocolate chip cookies

If your space doesn’t allow for a bonfire, consider using a terracotta pot as a fire pit. Line your pot with aluminum foil, fill it with charcoal, and light it up. [6] X Research source This will allow you to roast s’mores or other items, giving you that true camping feel. Just remember to keep a hose or fire extinguisher handy, and never leave your fire pit unattended. Make sure children are supervised by adults when near any open flame. Consider drawing a circle around your bonfire or firepit, and teach children not to cross the line.

You could ask children to point out shapes in the flames or coals and see where their imaginations take them (similar to finding shapes in clouds). The campfire is also a great location for group activities such as telling stories or singing songs. [7] X Research source

Use a spinner from the game itself, or make your own with paper and markers. Someone could even call out the colors and body parts at random (e. g. , right foot blue, left hand yellow, etc. ). Use contractor’s marking spray paint if you want to easily wash away the paint after your camp out.

A few ideas for your list include a four-leaf clover, a ladybug, something yellow, two identical leaves, a feather, a round rock, etc.

If you have close neighbors, try to quiet down as the evening progresses. Your neighbors may have small children who are trying to sleep. Don’t make deafening noises or play loud, booming music all night, especially after 9-10:00 pm.

You could even hang a picture frame from a tree branch to create your very own photo booth. [9] X Research source