As a parent and an uncle to my sons, nieces and nephews, I thought buying expensive toys for them will make them happy.  However with recent camping trips to the bush and the river, I realise they can also be very happy without expensive toys.

On the last few trips, I did not bring their Nintendo DS, there was no PSP, no gadgets and no electronic games. All I brought were sleeping and cooking gears.

They are as happy, if not happier playing with sticks and rocks.  Simple yet very effective. At the campsite, they gathered sticks for the camp fire. While they were searching, they chatted and played with their friends. At the same time, the new and different environment also create a sense of excitement and adventure. Jadon loves playing with his wooden sticks, swinging them like a kung-fu master or jedi master. He also like burning them and using them as a tool to cook his marshmallow. :-)

At the river, they look around for wild life and learn about their habitat.  They also like skipping rocks while the parents cook up a storm. ;-)

On the last night, Jadon surprised me and said “Dad, can we stay for one more night?”  Obviously he was enjoying himself.

Get out and enjoy the nature.  The kids will love it!

As usual, please ensure kids are supervised at all times. Sometimes they can get carried away.