Fun camping foods for kids

The family fun of camping season is upon us. Camping with kids while doing fun healthy outdoor cooking is the best. Getting kids involved in the cooking process while keeping safety as a top priority can teach invaluable lessons and make great family memories.

Recipes that involve putting a mix of ingredients together into a foil packet, allows kids to pick and choose what they want in their mix. Some ideas include: diced potatoes, sliced onions, shredded cheese, bacon bits, butter or oil such as olive, canola, etc. herbs (basil, chives, etc.), salt and pepper to taste. Place the potatoes on pieces of heavy-duty foil. Sprinkle desired toppings over potatoes; dot with butter or lightly drizzle with oil. Fold foil up around potatoes. Seal the edges of foil well. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 30 to 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Try to prepare as much in advance of your camping trip as possible such as shredding cheese and dicing onions. Place ingredients in plastic bags and keep cold in coolers until ready to use.

Building a variety of vegetables and meat on skewers to be grilled or cooked over the campfire can be another fun opportunity for children to help prepare a meal. Kids can learn more about the foods they eat and how to be safe when cooking. Be sure to review food safety with your child in any cooking environment.

Campfire safety

Campfire safety will make the experience more enjoyable. Rules around campfires:

• Safety always comes first!
• A first aid kit, directions to the closest emergency care facility, and cell or land-line phone should be readily available before the campfire activity starts.
• Always supervise children carefully. Absolutely no running or playing near campfires.
• Never leave the campfire or grill unattended and have a bucket of water nearby. A responsible adult must be present at all times.
• Have a safety circle around the campfire or grate.
• Never wear loose or flammable clothing near campfires.