FCC Respect for Nature
It is another beautiful day at Falling Creek!
Morning Watch
This week we have introduced the Theme, Respect.
Benno, a Falling Creek Camp counselor, spoke to us all about his meaning of respect, what it means and why it is important. He spoke about how it is important to respect all those around you, and how respect can help you connect with people.
“One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” - Bryant H. McGill
Insight Into Activities: Let’s Get Into Nature
We are talking about respect, which perfectly connects with how we need to have respect for the nature and world around us.
Nature: In nature, we learn about the 3 different types of rocks. We have the Igneous rocks that are formed from melted rock deep inside the earth, as well as Sedimentary rocks that are formed from layers of sand, along with other earth matter. Finally, Metamorphic rocks are formed from other rocks that are changed by heat and pressure.
We also learn about identifying the different plants and flora. This is done often by taking nature hikes to various spots in camp. We identify certain plants as edible, for example sourwood which boys can chew on. Sassafras is another example, which can be used to make root beer.
We also let the boys indulge in nature by finding and identifying animals. This is an opportunity to get a closer look at certain bugs and insects. We also provide the boys lessons on certain animals such as frogs, snakes, beetles, and birds. We have caught sight of certain snakes, snapping turtles, frogs, salamanders and tadpoles.
“Mindfulness gives you time. Time gives you choices. Choices, skillfully made, lead to freedom.” – Bhante Henepola Gunaratana
Outdoor Skills: Brushcraft is an essential skill for living outdoors. We have taught the boys a few different methods or techniques for building a shelter. These include a Dome Shelter as well as a Lean To Shelter. They learn how to source material for the shelter, as well as knots to use for securing the structure.
Learning how to build a fire in nature is a valuable skill. We teach a few different methods and structures for building fires. One of the favorites is learning how to build a fire with a flint and steel.
F.A.R.M: The boys learn about compost, how to create their own compost heaps, why it is useful and how it benefits the soil. An example of how we repurposed materials, includes using bamboo sticks to prop up our plants that may be leaning. We teach the boys how to maintain the chicken coop.
The boys also learn how to identify weeds and de-weed the beds to ensure optimal growth to each plant. They learn how to identify any issues or cause for concern to each plant, as well as how to take care of it.
Evening Program
In tonight’s evening program, different groups will be enjoying a variety of fun activities. Sorrel will be having a blast with Taco Cat, while Tsuga dives into the excitement of Multiball. Betula will be partying it up at the Dock Party, and Robinia will get their adrenaline pumping with a game of Dodgeball.
