Kids Who Explore

Ep. 133: The Ultimate Gifting Guide for Outdoor Families

The Ultimate Outdoor Gift Guide episode brings together Adrianna’s favourite adventure inspired ideas for every member of the family. From babies and toddlers to older kids, parents, and grandparents, we walk through the most loved items that make exploring easier, cozier, and more magical. In this conversation, Adrianna talks about why gifting outdoor adventures and practical gear matters, especially for outdoor moms. She talks about the power of creating lasting memories in nature, choosing experiences over excess, and investing in quality items that truly support time outside. She also talks about the value of secondhand gear and intentional gifting that brings families together and encourages a deeper connection with nature. If you are building a wishlist or searching for meaningful gifts that support adventure filled lives, this guide will help you choose items that bring joy on every trail in every season. Here are some of my blogs mentioned and links:

Ultimate Wishlist for an Outdoor Mom (24 Gift Ideas)

https://www.adriannaadventures.ca/post/ultimate-wishlist-for-an-outdoor-mom-24-gift-ideas-for-a-hiking-mom

A Baby Shower Wishlist

https://www.adriannaadventures.ca/post/babyshowergiftregistrylistforahikingmom

Kids Who Explore Gift Ideas:

USA Amazon: https://amzn.to/4oXHIPe

CAN Amazon: https://amzn.to/40gHcST

Adrianna's Amazon Storefront:

https://amzn.to/3XeiM9X

Best kids base layers: https://iksplor.com/

Use code "Kids Who Explore" to save 10%

 

Ep. 132: Winter Hiking with a Baby Safety, Gear, and Essential Tips

In today’s episode, Adrianna shares everything she has learned from hiking with her babies in the Canadian Rockies. From safety to layering to choosing the right trail, this episode helps parents feel confident taking their little ones outdoors year round. If you are beginning your hiking journey with a baby or want to deepen your family adventures, this episode is your starting point.

Watch an example of hiking with a baby in the Canadian Rockies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccBjx3bO3ME&t=87s

Read 7 Tips to Hike in the Winter with a Baby by Kids Who Explore
https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/post/7-tips-for-hiking-with-a-baby-in-the-winter

Explore the Hiking Mom Essentials Shopping List on Amazon
https://amzn.to/40gHcST

Find all Kids Who Explore checklists inside the FREE Kids Who Explore Membership under Resources
https://www.kidswhoexplore.com

Join the Online Program for Moms The Hiking Mom Circle
https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/thehikingmomcircle#:~:text=The%20Hiking%20Mom%20Circle%20was,babies%20while%20adjusting%20to%20motherhood.

Take an Online Baby Hiking Class
https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/events

Ep. 131: How to Diaper Change a Baby while Hiking on the Trail

In this episode, Adrianna discusses the challenges and joys of hiking with babies, focusing on practical tips for diaper changes on the trail. She emphasizes the importance of being prepared with the right gear, navigating various weather conditions, and finding humour in the chaos of parenting outdoors. The conversation highlights the necessity of flexibility and adaptability when managing diaper changes in nature, ensuring both the baby's comfort and the parent's peace of mind.

Highlights:

• Diaper changes are a natural part of outdoor adventures with babies.
• Preparation is key: bring essential gear for diaper changes.
• Navigating weather conditions is crucial for successful diaper changes.
• Quickness and efficiency are important during diaper changes on the trail.
• Finding humor in chaotic moments can enhance the outdoor experience.
• Flexibility in approach helps in managing diaper changes effectively.
• Using lightweight gear can ease the burden of hiking with babies.
• Practice changing diapers in various locations to build confidence.
• Planning for disposal of used items is essential for cleanliness.
• Creating a bond with your baby during outdoor activities is a beautiful experience.

Trail mat: https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/product-page/adventure-mat

Summit seat: https://alnk.to/4Mz3Xsc (affiliate)

Join Kids Who Explore Groups for free: https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/membership

Ep. 130: Sun Protecting Kids in the Great Outdoors with Sunny Cubs

In this episode, Adrianna talks with Jessica Schisler, founder of Sunny Cubs, about her mission to protect babies from the sun through thoughtfully designed UV-protective hoodies and onesies made for every outdoor adventure, from hiking and camping to backpacking and beach days.

In this conversation, Jess Schisler, founder of Sunny Cubs, shares her journey of creating a line of sun-safe clothing for babies and toddlers. She discusses the importance of sun protection, especially for young children, and how her personal experiences as a mother inspired her to develop products that allow families to enjoy outdoor adventures safely. The conversation covers design philosophy, material choices, and practical sun safety tips for parents. Jess emphasizes the need for more outdoor gear for babies and the mental health benefits of getting outside with children.

Takeaways:

• Jessica Schisler founded Sunny Cubs to provide sun-safe clothing for babies.
• 80% of UV exposure occurs before the age of 18, making sun protection crucial.
• Not all fabrics offer the same level of UV protection; choose wisely.
• The design of Sunny Cubs products focuses on comfort and functionality for active families.
• Sustainability is a core value in the production of Sunny Cubs clothing.
• Parents should start outdoor adventures early to avoid peak UV hours.
• Hydration is essential when spending time outdoors, especially in the sun.
• Using a makeup brush for sunscreen application can make it fun for kids.
• Jess emphasizes the importance of community and sharing knowledge about sun safety.
• The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, but passion drives success.

Sunny Cubs founder Jessica Schisler has gifted our listeners a special discount. Use the code KidsWhoExplore at checkout when shopping at Sunny Cubs to save on sun-protective hoodies and onesies made for little adventurers.

Ep. 129: Letting Kids Lead on the Trail: Building Confidence, Connection, and Curiosity in Nature

What happens when you let your kids take the lead outdoors? In this week’s episode, Adrianna shares how giving children — especially toddlers and preschoolers — a voice on the trail helps them build independence, confidence, and leadership skills in nature.

From choosing which way to turn at a fork to helping decide where the bear spray should go, every small decision teaches kids trust, awareness, and responsibility. Adrianna also dives into:

• Simple ways to turn hikes into hands-on learning adventures

• How to make outdoor play part of your child’s emotional and sensory development

• Mindful moments on the trail that strengthen family bonds

• Tips for managing meltdowns, keeping hikes fun, and embracing curiosity over summits

Plus, she shares her new Take a Hike and Count activity sheet — now available through the free Kids Who Explore membership — and why outdoor learning doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

Whether your little ones are collecting pinecones or leading the way to a creek, this episode reminds parents that adventure isn’t about how far you go — it’s about how present you are when you get there. 🌿

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Tune in and tag us @kidswhoexplore when you bring these trail lessons to life!

Ep. 128: Preparing for Fall Hiking with Babies

Fall hiking with a baby can feel overwhelming. There are so many layers, unpredictable weather, and high price tags on outdoor gear. But with the right preparation, thrifty tips, and a few layering tricks, you and your little one can enjoy the magic of the trail this season.

In this episode, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about layering babies for fall adventures in the Canadian Rockies (and beyond). From base layers and fleece buntings to budget-friendly gear swaps, I’ll walk you through how to keep your baby safe, warm, and comfortable outdoors without breaking the bank.

You’ll also learn:

• The 3-layer system I use for babies on the trail

• How to temperature-check your baby while hiking

• Affordable ways to find quality gear (thrifting, swaps, and secondhand gems)

• My go-to baby brands for bunting suits, base layers, and socks

• Why preparing for “just in case” makes adventures less stressful

Whether your fall is crisp mornings or mild afternoons, this episode will help you feel ready, confident, and excited to explore with your baby this season.

Ep. 127: Yes, You Can Backpack with a Baby: Honest Tips from the Trail

Thinking about taking your baby on their first backpacking trip? In this episode, I share our family’s real-life experience of heading into the backcountry with a little one in tow. From the fears and the unknowns, to the joy of watching my baby connect with nature, I break down what actually worked for us—plus the challenges that moms don’t always hear about before going.

Whether you’re wondering what gear you really need, how to handle unexpected moments (like baby messes or wildlife sightings!), or if this kind of adventure is even doable as a new mom, this episode will give you honest, practical insight.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the idea of backpacking with a baby can feel overwhelming—and why it’s still possible

• The gear that made a difference on the trail (and what I’d skip next time)

• Tips for handling feeding, sleep, and comfort in the backcountry

• The emotional side of adventuring as a mom and trusting yourself on the trail

• How to balance safety, preparation, and creating joyful family memories outdoors

Whether you’re planning your very first trip or just curious what it’s really like, this episode will help you feel prepared, encouraged, and ready to say “yes” to backcountry adventures with your little one.

 

Relevant Blog Posts:

Backpacking Gear Checklist for Moms & Babies

The Best Baby & Toddler Safe Sleeping Bag for Camping & Backpacking Adventures

Trail Magik: The Best Adventure Kid Carrier for Backpacking

Ep. 126: Pregnancy Loss: Healing with my Hiking Mom Community

Trigger Warning: Early Pregnancy loss

In this heartfelt episode, Adrianna opens up about her personal journey through postpartum, pregnancy loss, and the healing power she found in both community and the outdoors. She shares the inspiration behind creating Kids Who Explore meetups, and how nature became a grounding force during some of her most challenging seasons of motherhood.

Adrianna’s reflections remind us that outdoor parenting isn’t just about fresh air and trails — it’s about finding connection, support, and a safe space to navigate the highs and lows of family life. 🌿

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why community support is essential for mothers

• How nature can provide healing during postpartum and loss

• The story behind Kids Who Explore meetups

• Ways to find balance in motherhood through outdoor connection

• Encouragement for moms who are navigating tender seasons

✨ Whether you’re a parent looking for inspiration, someone seeking healing, or simply curious about the power of nature and community, this episode will resonate deeply.

Links + Resources

• Join my Hiking Mom Circle 10-Week Program 

• Find your local Kids Who Explore Meetup

• Follow us on Instagram @kidswhoexplore

Ep. 125: Backcountry With Kids: Family Adventures at Purcell Mountain Lodge

In this episode, Adrianna shares her heartfelt experiences of exploring the Canadian Rockies with her family at the stunning Purcell Mountain Lodge. From fields of breathtaking wildflowers to quiet moments of connection on the trail, she reflects on the joys and challenges of parenting in nature and raising kids in the backcountry.

Adrianna emphasizes the importance of helping children disconnect from technology and discover the magic of the outdoors through family adventures. She also highlights how community and connection form naturally when families come together to share in outdoor activities, even when the journey feels challenging.

Whether you are dreaming of your next backcountry escape or looking for inspiration to get your kids outside, this episode will remind you that adventuring as a family is not only possible but deeply rewarding.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why Purcell Mountain Lodge is a unique place for family-friendly backcountry adventures

• How to encourage kids to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature

• The emotional rewards of watching children grow and thrive outdoors

• Why community and shared experiences are vital for outdoor families

• How to embrace both the challenges and joys of parenting in the backcountry

This conversation will leave you inspired to plan your own family adventure in the Canadian Rockies, create lasting memories in nature, and embrace the beauty of outdoor parenting.

 

John Webster: https://www.instagram.com/johnwebsterartist?igsh=MTlxcmx0MzBkMW8wOQ==

Travel with Kids Who Explore: https://www.kidswhoexplore.com/travel

 

Ep. 124: Hiking With Kids: Outdoor Adventures, Safety, and Leave No Trace with Turner

In this special episode, Adrianna sits down with her five-year-old son, Turner, to chat about their favourite family hiking adventures in the Canadian Rockies. From packing tips for kids and lightweight trail toys to the importance of safety gear like bear spray, Turner shares what makes hiking fun and what challenges come with exploring nature as a child.

Together, Adrianna and Turner highlight the joy of raising kids outdoors, the value of Leave No Trace principles, and how early experiences in nature can inspire children to become lifelong explorers and advocates for the environment. This heartwarming conversation is a reminder that exploring the outdoors as a family is not only possible but deeply rewarding.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to prepare for hikes with kids, from gear to lightweight toys

• Why summer hiking is a favourite for families

• The role of safety gear and awareness in the Canadian Rockies

• Tips for teaching children about Leave No Trace and wildlife safety

• How outdoor adventures can spark a lifelong love of nature in kids

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just beginning your family adventure journey, this episode offers inspiration, practical tips, and a child’s perspective on why the trail is the best place to be.