Adventures in the Outdoors

Summer is a great time to go out at night and reveal some of the mysteries of the forest. Here are some different ideas for exploring the outdoors:

Ask an elder in your community to tell a traditional story by the fire.

Plan a night walk with various props along the way to teach children about the wonders of the forest. Choose props that also teach the children about the complexity of nature.

Senses are heightened at night. Bring along some foods that have different smells, textures and tastes such as mint leaves, strawberries and peeled bananas. Blindfold the children and have them try to guess the foods they have touched and smelled. Ask children to remain quiet until asked for their guess.

Whatever activity you chose to do - think about safety. Get plenty of adults to help out. Know the area well and scout it out the night before.

Bring:

• light rope for all children to hang onto as they walk through the bush
  
• water
  
• first aid kit
  
• insect repellant
  
• extra clothing
  
• bandanas or scarves to use as blindfolds
  
• flashlight
  
• bag or cooler containing foods for the "senses activity"
  
• mats to sit on