I've been climbing hills with my 4 year old daughter since she was two and a half and recently we went on our first 'wild camp'. I'm not claiming to be an expert but here are a few lessons / tips that I've picked up along the way...
1) Let them be involved in the planning - this will give them a sense of ownership of the trip. They could help to choose the menu and what clothes they're going to wear.
2) Compromise - this is their trip as well. It may seem totally impractical to pack Ski Barbie, but bringing her may mean the world to them (and Barbie's skis make great chopsticks)!
3) Let them set the pace - let them walk in front of you. They'll enjoy taking the lead a lot more than trailing along behind. And you'll be able to see when they want to stop, when they're getting tired and if they need any help.
4) Don't rush them - let them explore their surroundings. Those plants / insects / rocks that you've seen a hundred times might be new and exciting to them.
5) Let them be involved in making decisions - this will also give them a sense of ownership. They could decide when to take a break or help choose a suitable spot to pitch a tent.
6) Show them the map - it's never too early to teach them the basics of map reading.
7) Distract them - tell them a story or play a game if they look like they're flagging.
8) Give them targets - break the hike into manageable chunks. We'll often stop for a piece of chocolate every half hour.
9) Comfort over the 'ultralight' approach - a wet cold night under a tarp could put them off camping for life!
10) Bring a full change of clothes - children are drawn to mud like moths to a flame, plus their clothes are so small they'll take up hardly any space in the pack!
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