Taking children to a festival

Stuck for a way to entertain the kids this summer? Why not take them to a festival? But be prepared.

Think about whether you really want to take children

If you can't cope with not being able to watch every band of your choice until the early hours, maybe you should leave them with relatives for the weekend and just have fun! Or you could compromise by going to a day festival rather than a whole weekend shebang. However, taking your children can completely change the festival experience for you and you may well discover a whole new side to it all.

Have a back-up bad weather plan

Should the worst come to the worst and it all gets too muddy, you may not want a baby with you. Toppling over by yourself is bad enough, but with a small child on your back it can be dangerous. Arrange for a mate or relative to be on hand to pick up and look after the kids if need be.

Invest in a backpack carrier

A must for carting tired children around. Prams and pushchairs are not advisable unless you don't mind hoards of punters tripping up over your toddler, and this way your child can see what's going on too.

Take nappies/potties

If your child is over nappy age but under 10, it is quite likely that a potty will be preferable to the muddy, shitty portable toilets, and less of a health hazard too.

Kidz fields

Glastonbury, Womad and Guildford have to be some of the best festivals for young children as they are not just focused on the music. Glastonbury, for example, has arts and crafts tents, theatre, circus, rides, face painting, storytelling and much much more, not just in the Kidz field but the Green kids area, Tipi field, Circus and Theatre fields. They won't take responsibility for your child, but if you can mix an hour doing what they want with an hour seeing your favourite band, everyone should be happy! Don't plan days too much though as they'll never run to schedule, so try to relax and go with the flow.

Security

Kids can get lost. Make sure they know what to do if it happens - speak to a police officer, steward or someone with kids for help - and get them to carry your mobile number and camping area with them at all times. If you lose your child find a steward or information point. Wrist straps or reins may be an idea for small children.

Camping

It is best to camp away from the central arenas if possible, as it will be quieter, however chances are your kids will be exhausted by the end of the day and able to sleep through anything.

Packing

Take anything you know they won't cope without, be it a favourite book, toy or item of clothing. It will be much less hassle if you do! A massive supply of baby wipes and loo roll will also be essential, as will water bottles, dummies (you can't buy them there), nappies and soap, although you can often buy most things there for a price. Also prepare for wet and sunny weather - hats, wellies, sunblock, spare clothes etc.

Bands

Remember that crowds can be scary things for small children, and try and keep out of the midst of them. When watching bands at larger stages stand further back, away from the speakers and if possible put your kids up on your shoulders so they can see better. It is also a good idea to play the music of some of the bands you will be watching before you go. Your child will enjoy it all the more if they recognise the music.