Interested in getting started camping? I share a lot of Camping 101 style classes and keep it simple to scaffold up the progression of skills. 1. We’ll color a map to familiarize ourselves with “Where We Are Going”. 2. Make a list of “What to Bring” and unpack a hiking backpack. 3. Explore “How to Start a Campfire” and examine tinder, kindling, fuel wood and methods of fire starting. 4. Discuss “Staying Found” by examining a compass and learning to read trail blazes. 4. Discuss “Leave No Trace” principles and how to poop in the woods (bury a pinecone). And so many more skills depending on ability level and time scheduled. The kids thrive on the active engaging “learn by doing” approach as they develop skills through applied practice with content in context.

David Alexander is author of the Buzz Into Action & Hop Into Action Science Curricula.  He enjoys making nature more accessible to people and wildlife.  You can follow him at www.natureintoaction.com