Nicola Simpson, we feel your pain!
"Parents of toddlers, how are you getting your miles in?" asks exasperated 1000-miler Nicola Simpson – and as ever, there were plenty of great tips from fellow 1000-milers...
"Our wee one has started getting grumpy when being carried or pushed on a walk” says Nicola. “He’s 17 months old and wants to explore. If we let him out to walk (which we do) he literally stops to examine every little thing. He now also knows where the play park is and screams for a good 10 minutes after we leave. Is this something we just have to endure? Will this phase last for the next 10 years?!"
'It will definitely last the next 18 years, never mind 10! We usually take the buggy or carrier and walk him until he gets tired, then put him in either. Also, snacks are a very good distraction to keep them occupied, whilst you walk as quick as you can to get the miles in, until they want to get back out again.'
Iona Podmore
'You could try giving him a little backpack with snacks and drink to carry himself – although this does equal more stops to enjoy said snacks and drinks, it really made a huge difference and all three of mine love walking with their packs and snacks. You could even make a dinosaur pic with him on the map together. It might result in lots of miles over time and you could share your fun shapes with us all. We’d like that!'
Vicky Eastwood
'We used a Tula (baby carrier). It was slightly pricy but worth every penny. Using it we managed 11 miles of the Camel Trail (in Cornwall). It also folds into a backpack well.'
Vicky Williams
'Follow him and count your steps – you'll soon do your miles. Enjoy his walks and the pleasure he gets from exploring – it won't be long before he's a grumpy teen who won't go out or be seen with you!'
Suzanne Lamb
'Mine are 12 and 10 and are bribed! A packet of mints each for the walk, and Xbox time when we get home. Every time they moan I threaten to add an extra lap of the village!'
Jane Rogerson
'When our youngest got to 18 months she did her first Wainwright and walked six miles very, very slowly, stopping and collecting every stick and stone, and having 10-minute snack/drink stops. We always planned the walk to include added hours then, as she got older and understood more, we would stop for ice cream or play in the park so this gave her an incentive to walk. But snacks were the biggest incentive at the younger age.'
Leanne Woodall
'To keep the four-year-old moving, I have to play following the leader, with any amount of marching, arm swinging, side steps, hopping etc. She's walked three miles today, bless her (the last 100-metres running because she saw lightning!).'
Susie Dale
'You're teaching him to love the outdoors and nature, so go with the flow. You might have to do some solo walks to get your miles up, but I would say cherish these early years and don't worry too much.'
Sally Claydon
'Scooters will be your best friend as soon as he can use one.'
Charlotte Manjrekar
