Free Viking Way activity sheets helping young explorers enjoy Lincolnshire walks
Parents planning a family walk along the Viking Way this summer can now download a pair of free activity packs designed to keep young explorers entertained every step of the way.
Anyone who has ever set off on a countryside walk with children will know the familiar question: "How much further?"
Now Lincolnshire County Council is hoping to swap complaints for curiosity with a free "50 Things to Look Out For" checklist and a collection of specially-created I-Spy sheets designed for families exploring the county's iconic Viking Way.
The downloadable resources encourage children to spot wildlife, landmarks, trees, countryside features and other hidden gems along the route, helping turn a simple walk into an outdoor adventure.
Debby Braund, Countryside Access and Community Projects Officer at Lincolnshire County Council, said the activity sheets have already proved popular with families.
"Parents tell us the sheets make a huge difference. Kids stop dragging their feet. They start spotting things and they take the lead," she said.
"It turns the walk into something shared rather than something they're being dragged along for – the aim of the sheets was always to make the Viking Way feel open to everyone.
"You don't need to be a seasoned walker either, you just need a bit of curiosity. The sheets do the rest."
The 50 Things to Look Out For list challenges youngsters to find a variety of features and wildlife along the trail, from local landmarks to creatures and countryside details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Meanwhile, the themed I-Spy sheets focus on areas including wildlife, trees, landscapes, rights of way and historic buildings, encouraging children to become active participants in the walk rather than reluctant followers.
Council officers say the activities help families slow down and appreciate the surroundings, turning attention away from the distance left to walk and towards the sights and sounds around them.
Whether tackling a short section of the Viking Way or setting out on a longer adventure, the sheets can be used anywhere along the route.
The free resources are available to download through Visit Lincolnshire and are aimed at helping more families discover the county's countryside while making lasting memories together.
So next time little legs start to tire and questions about the finish line begin, there may be a simple answer — hand over an I-Spy sheet and start spotting.