In the hills, there's still blood.

A family in the Slovenian Alps has shared insights into navigating mountain hikes with children, offering practical advice for parents seeking to make their outings both safe and enjoyable. The experience comes from Urška Petek, a mother of four who grew up in a hillside community and now leads a youth section of the local hiking club in Kamnik. Her expertise stems from personal experience, raising her own children while guiding them through the rugged terrain and teaching them how to appreciate nature’s beauty. Petek recently published a guide titled Mali koraki, veliki vrhovi, which systematically addresses the challenges of taking young children on mountain excursions. The book covers everything from pregnancy and early childhood trips with infants to the teenage years, providing a comprehensive resource for families. Her approach combines hands-on knowledge with structured guidance, making it one of the first books in Slovenian to tackle this subject in such depth. In an interview, Petek recalled a memorable incident during a hike near the Kokrško Pass. A sudden storm caught them off guard, forcing the group to descend quickly. Despite the chaos, she emphasized the importance of keeping calm and ensuring the safety of all children. “We had to act swiftly, but we avoided panic,” she explained. “It was crucial to reassure the kids, help them change into dry clothes, and ensure they were comfortable before returning to the car.” She stressed the need for careful route selection, especially for families with small children, and advised checking weather forecasts beforehand. Another common challenge faced by parents is when a child becomes reluctant to continue walking. Petek suggested maintaining a calm atmosphere and allowing brief breaks. “Instead of pushing or scolding, sit down beside the child and ask how they’re feeling,” she recommended. Engaging the child with questions about the surroundings, such as pointing out animals or interesting rock formations, can help shift their focus away from fatigue. Playful activities, she added, can transform a long hike into an exciting adventure. When it comes to introducing children to backpacking, Petek advised starting early. “Children can begin carrying a light backpack once they become independent in walking,” she said. However, she cautioned against overloading them too soon, suggesting that heavier items should initially be carried by adults. For younger children, simple items like a toy or snack might suffice. She also noted that hiking poles are generally not recommended for children until they have developed sufficient balance and coordination. Teenagers, she observed, often resist going on hikes, preferring more freedom. Rather than pressuring them, Petek encouraged giving them space. “Sometimes, they’ll return on their own if given the chance,” she said. She advocated for gradual independence, allowing teens to explore with friends or even go solo, as long as they remain within safe boundaries. The rise in mountain tourism has brought increased foot traffic, but Petek expressed concern over declining etiquette among visitors. “There are more hikers than ever, yet fewer people respect the environment,” she said. She highlighted the importance of leaving the trails undisturbed, avoiding littering, and respecting wildlife. “We must remember that we are guests here,” she added. “Our presence should not disrupt the natural harmony.” For parents considering enrolling their children in a hiking club or mountain society, Petek recommended waiting until the child shows interest in social interaction beyond just family trips. “Starting with school-based hiking groups or youth sections offers a great opportunity for kids to learn new skills and gain confidence,” she said. These programs provide structured experiences, fostering independence and a deeper connection to the outdoors. As the popularity of outdoor activities continues to grow, Petek’s work serves as a valuable guide for families eager to embrace the mountains while prioritizing safety and enjoyment. Her insights reflect a blend of tradition and modernity, rooted in personal experience and a deep respect for the natural world.