Geocaching – In today’s digital age, while technology rules the roost, getting our kids outdoors can be difficult. Surfing the Web on iPads, “connecting” with friends through social media apps on smartphones, or (if you’re old-school) playing games on Xbox or PlayStation, often takes preference over getting out, running around, rolling on the grass, and jumping in the pool.
I don’t like seeing my kids stuck inside when they could be enjoying the great outdoors and making memories. I have nothing against technology; however, I do feel that there needs to be a balance between incorporating it into our daily lives alongside good old-fashioned Gross-Motor activities.
If you’re with me on this, then I have an idea to share with you… Geocaching!
What is Geocaching?
Geocaching is an increasingly popular, fun, and healthy activity for all ages. And families can get involved together. I don’t mean to sound like an expert, I’m not… I’ve only recently discovered this gem (I know, I live under a rock). But stick with me, I really think this is a lovely idea for families.
This increasingly addictive sport includes 3 of the most amazing concepts. Technology, adventure, and nature. Now, what child wouldn’t love that? Participating members use GPS and other navigation tools to hide and seek out containers called geocaches at specific locations marked by coordinates.
It’s basically a treasure hunt on steroids!
How To Go Geocaching
The idea behind this “sport” is to use your handheld GPS to guide you to a specific destination where you will find a hidden container (cache). Once this container has been found, you log your visit in the logbook and trade one of the hidden treasures for your own. These exciting finds can range from painted rocks to bracelets to any swag.
Geocaching: An Outdoor Sport?
This seems to be the perfect way to get children outside and, in turn, entertain the entire family. You can even hide your own caches, send your coordinates to the website, and have others hunt them down. Some of these hidden gems contain a simple log that you mark once found (take a pencil), and others contain what is termed “SWAG” – little trinkets. Some expect you to solve a riddle or puzzle, and others keep you looking by sending you to dozens of other “hideouts””
The excitement and possibilities are endless.
Children can replace the SWAG with their own little toys, puzzles, and riddles. I love the idea of a family treasure hunt, running around, curiosity growing, excitement brewing and in turn learning about and using technology in this innovative way!
Geocaching In South Africa
I think the first rule would be to always go in a large group. Scout out the area and make sure it’s safe before adventuring into the unknown. South Africa boasts many beautiful parks that have become involved with geocaching.
I do, however, think that Geocaching can be a wonderful experience, especially for families to enjoy together.
Many websites encourage us to learn more and provide ideas on where to go geocaching.
Geocaching Acronyms
BYOP -Bring Your Own Pen
CITO (Cache In Trash Out ): Geocachers dedicated to cleaning up parks and hiding caches.
DNF – Did Not Find
FTF – First To Find
LPC – Lamp Post Find – A cache hidden under a lamp post.
SWAG – Stuff We All Get
TB – Travel Bug – A trackable item with a unique code that is carried from cache to cache.
TFTC – Thanks For The Cache
TNLN – Took Nothing Left Nothing
TOTT – Tools Of The Trade
What is your opinion on Geocaching? I’d be interested to know!
Leave A Comment