Doing the Camino de Santiago with children
Doing the Camino de Santiago with children is a wonderful and enriching experience with multiple benefits for the whole family. This pilgrimage with the little ones of the house may seem challenging, but with proper planning, consideration of their needs and an adventurous mindset, it becomes a unique and unforgettable journey full of discoveries and growth for both adults and for the little walkers.
Preparations and physical preparation before starting the Camino
Choosing the right route and taking into account the preparations and physical preparation before starting the Camino are fundamental steps. You should make sure that children are physically prepared, even turning it into a family game before the walk. Camino de SantiagoThe physical endurance of the children and their ability to exert themselves will have to be adapted to their physical strength.
We always recommend that a few months before the trip you start walking and doing small hiking trails or excursions on terrain as similar as possible to the Camino to test yourself physically. You can start by doing a couple of kilometres each day and increase it as the date approaches. This way you can see how much walking you can do and adapt it accordingly.
Stories of the Camino de Santiago for children and motivation
In the months prior to preparing the trip, it is essential that children are interested and excited about the trip. It is therefore a good idea to teach them about the history and culture of the Camino de Santiago, through books or topics of interest on the internet, so that they become familiar with the Camino.
You can involve them in the culture of the Camino, exploring the cathedrals and cultural monuments, meeting other pilgrims and encouraging respect for the cultural richness of this unique experience. Once you are on the Camino de Santiago, to maintain the motivation of children you can perform entertainment activities such as games to keep their spirits up.
The Camino has breathtaking landscapes that can serve as a backdrop for fun and distraction in the middle of nature. Setting small rewards for each goal achieved and celebrating daily achievements will also keep them motivated on the pilgrimage to Santiago.
Another great idea for older children is to write a diary of their experiences each day after each stage; it will be something they will have as a keepsake for the rest of their lives.
The right backpack and equipment
Here we point out the importance of teaching children to carry a light backpack with the essentials and appropriate equipment. You should ensure that they carry a small backpack, always distributing the weight appropriately and including their water bottle and snacks or a snack for the road.
In addition, choosing comfortable footwear and suitable clothing is essential to make the walk more pleasant. A first aid kit in your backpack is essential, with everything you might need in case you get injured or hurt, not forgetting to include sun protection, which is essential, and insect repellent in case you need it.
Appropriate footwear
Not only for children but for all pilgrims who make the Camino; choose appropriate footwear is essential to prevent blisters and chafing. Always wear footwear that we have used before, never brand new for this type of walk. In this case, children should also adapt to hiking boots or trainers before embarking on the adventure.
Age of children
In Viajeros Canallas we have had families with young children who have done the Camino de Santiago and repeat year after year. It is recommended from the age of 6 years, as they will enjoy it more and can perform the stages with more agility. The stages should be designed according to age, that is, we will have to ensure breaks for every hour walked and take food such as cereal bars, juices, fruit or nuts to give them energy.
In addition, it is best to take advantage of the early hours of the day to make progress in kilometres and avoid the heat of the sunny hours. This way you will have the afternoon free to rest and have fun on this fun family trip.
The French Way
We have mentioned the importance of planning the right route and, in this case, the best route to do as a family because it is the busiest route and with more entertainment and hostels is always the French Way.
The French French Way from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela is the most popular route among pilgrims and the most recommended especially for people who want to do it for the first time; in addition to the number of pilgrims, it has the largest infrastructure, is well signposted and is ideal for the last 100km to Santiago de Compostela.
Conclusions
Doing the Camino de Santiago with children is more than a walk; it is a family adventure full of laughter, discovery and growth. Every step tells a story and every day is a new opportunity to learn, connect and enjoy together.
Happy trails to all the families embarking on this wonderful journey!
