Do you enjoy the outdoors? Did you hike before children, or have you been thinking of introducing your little one to a new outdoor activity? We can help!!
Starting this summer, we have five backpack child carriers for hiking that will be available at no cost for checkout through the Lend & Learn Toy Library!
Partnership with Missouri River Relief
The child carriers are funded through a partnership with Missouri River Relief. Earlier this year, they approached us about partnering together to make these carriers accessible to families in our community, and we quickly said yes!
“When families have meaningful experiences outdoors their quality of life, health and social wellbeing improve. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, but we know that outdoor gear for families can be expensive, especially when kids outgrow these items so quickly. Whether you’re new to hiking or an experienced hiker, consider making the next time you hit the trail for a few miles into the woods a family affair by checking out one of our child carriers.”
About the Child Carrier
The child carrier has state-of-the-art safety features and is designed for ease of use and comfort. It has loop features to keep toys and pacifiers within reach and a built-in sunshade protects your child from the sun’s rays.
The child carrier is for children weighing between 16 lbs. to 40 lbs. A child must be at least six months and able to sit upright unassisted.
Hiking with Children
To help you prepare and plan for your adventure, here are some tips for hiking with children and Columbia trail recommendations:
Family Friendly Trails in Columbia, MO
Checking Out a Child Carrier
The child carriers will be available for check out through the Lend & Learn Toy Library for up to one week. Families must complete a brief enrollment form and sign a lending agreement. Our staff are trained to help you use the carrier safely and get the right fit for both you and your child, so please allow 10 minutes to go through the features together.
Carriers will be checked out on a first come, first serve basis. Hours for pick up and drop off are weekly on Tuesdays 9-11am and Thursdays 1-3pm or by appointment.
First Chance for Children Staff Contact:
Charity Quinn
Text/Call: 573-340-1341
Email: quinnc@fc4c.org
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is eligible?
Caregivers who have a child under the age of 5. If this is your first time participating in a First Chance program or activity, fill out our online enrollment form.
What size child can use the child carrier?
The child carrier is for children weighing between 16 lbs. to 40 lbs. A child must be at least six months and able to sit upright unassisted.
What does this cost?
It’s free!
How long are checkouts available?
The child carrier can be checked out for 1 week. Families can renew for an additional week if there isn’t a hold on the carrier.
How do I reserve a child carrier for check out?
The child carriers are listed in the Lend & Learn catalog of Baby and Toddler toy sets at these links: click here for baby and here for toddler items. The catalogs list which items are currently available.
To reserve the child carrier, contact Charity Quinn, by call or text at 573-340-1341 or by email at quinnc@fc4c.org. If the child carrier is unavailable, you may place a hold and will be notified upon the first availability.
Will I be able to do curbside pick up and drop off?
Park in First Chance for Children’s office parking lot at 1010 Fay St during our checkout hours:
Tuesdays 9-11am and Thursdays 1-3pm.
Text or call when you arrive and we will bring out the child carrier. Please allow 10 minutes for our trained staff to show you how to use the carrier safely and fit it correctly for you and your child.
How do I fit myself for the child carrier?
A trained staff member will help fit you and your child for the carrier. Please follow all of the child carrier recommendations for fit and use in the product manual.
Poco Child Carrier
Hipbelt Sizing: 26″ – 48″
Torso Sizing: 15″ – 21″
VIDEO: Osprey Packs Product Tour
For more information, refer to the Osprey Poco Child Carrier Manual.
What if I break something on the child carrier?
We ask that while it is in your possession you take good care of the child carrier so they can be enjoyed by many families. We understand though that accidents happen. If something happens to the child carrier, just let us know. We will replace the buckle or fix the carrier at no cost to you.
What if the child carrier gets dirty?
Please return gear in the condition you received it. If you need to clean some dirt off the child carrier please use a mild dish soap.
When does checkout begin?
We will launch this program in Mid-July 2021.
How do I sign up?
You can fill out our First Chance enrollment form online ahead of your checkout if this is your first time participating in a First Chance program or activity. For any questions about reserving the child carrier, contact Charity Quinn by call or text at 573-340-1341 or by email at quinnc@fc4c.org.