Walking

Practicalities Getting Organised Getting Around Walking 

Children of three upwards are generally too heavy to be carried. They can walk significant distances but generally in circles round their parent rather than in a straight line. This makes it difficult to get them to cover anything more than around half a mile.

Funny walks - possum, kangaroo or leopard, - can keep them at it for a while but better to ensure that the destination is something they will enjoy - a swimming pool or a fine ice cream parlour.

Just as at home children should understand the dangers of traffic , particularly if it drives on a different side of the road.

Older children and teenagers, who might be allowed out without you, need to be aware that pedestrian crossings may not be particularly safe crossing points. In southern Europe even one-way signs and red traffic lights are often ignored.

In the countryside stick to marked trails and ask locals for advice on routes. Public rights of way are rare in some parts of the world and private property may be defended with aggression. (This might include guard dogs, which should never be approached, particularly by children.)