Exploring the Wonders of Water: Teaching Essential Survival Skills at Wild Nomads Forest School
Introduction
At Wild Nomads Forest School, located amidst the serene beauty of Fonthill, Ontario, we believe in providing students with a holistic and hands-on learning experience that goes beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings. Our forest school offers a unique opportunity for students who may not thrive in standard educational environments to connect with nature, develop essential life skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. In this article, we’ll delve into one of our most exciting adventures: teaching forest school students how to fish, filter water, and master water-related survival skills.
The Importance of Water Skills in the Wild
Water is one of the most fundamental elements for human survival, and teaching students how to interact safely and efficiently with water sources is a crucial aspect of our curriculum. By instilling a deep respect and understanding of water-related skills, we empower our students to become confident and self-reliant in the great outdoors.
Fishing: A Skill as Old as Time
Teaching our students how to fish is not just about providing them with a delicious meal but also about fostering a connection with the natural world and its cycles. Here’s how we introduce fishing into our forest school program:
1. Learning to Observe: We start by teaching students how to read the water, identify potential fishing spots, and understand fish behavior. Observing the environment helps them become skilled anglers.
2. Basic Fishing Techniques: We teach them various fishing techniques, such as casting, reeling, and hooking. Students get hands-on experience with different types of fishing gear, from fishing poles to nets.
3. Respect for Conservation: At Wild Nomads, we emphasize catch-and-release practices. This ensures that our students not only learn how to fish but also develop a deep respect for the natural balance of ecosystems.
Water Filtration: A Survival Skill
Access to clean drinking water is vital in any outdoor adventure. We teach our students how to purify water from natural sources, ensuring they can stay hydrated safely. Here’s what our curriculum includes:
1. Identifying Safe Water Sources: Students learn how to spot suitable water sources and avoid contaminated areas.
2. DIY Water Filtration: Using natural materials and basic filtration techniques, we demonstrate how to make drinking water safe.
3. Emergency Water Purification: In case of emergencies, we teach students how to purify water with items they might have on hand, such as containers, cloth, and fire.
Water-Related Survival Skills
Survival skills are an integral part of our forest school program. Students learn various techniques to navigate and thrive in the wild, including those related to water:
1. Building Waterproof Shelters: In the event of rain or unexpected weather, students learn how to construct shelters that keep them dry and safe.
2. Fire and Water: We teach students how to start a fire even in wet conditions, essential for staying warm and cooking food.
3. Navigation by Water: Understanding water bodies and using them as navigational aids is crucial for safe exploration. Students learn how to read maps and use waterways effectively.
Conclusion
At Wild Nomads Forest School, we are dedicated to providing students with an enriching and immersive educational experience that equips them with essential life skills. Teaching them how to fish, filter water, and master water-related survival skills not only empowers them in the wilderness but also fosters a deep connection with nature and a sense of self-reliance.
By instilling respect for water, our students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the challenges of the great outdoors while leaving minimal impact on the environment. Through these experiences, we hope to inspire a lifelong love for nature and a commitment to its conservation. Join us on this incredible journey at Wild Nomads Forest School, where the elements of water become a source of inspiration and empowerment for all.
COST: $240.00/wk or $68.00 per student, per day
Time: 5hrs (10:00am to 3:00pm)
Extended Care: Available ($15.00/h)
Materials: All equipment and materials are provided
Setting: Students will be outdoors for their entire day (shelter will be available)
Ages: Minimum 6 years old
Booking: Due to COVID-19 Restrictions all students must schedule online.
Location: 1874 Highway 20, Fonthill, ON L0S-1E6