June is always a crazy month. Between track meets, report cards, field day and the year end camping trip, I always wind up asking myself why I do it to myself. But, then we arrive at camp and I remember why. I spend the month running around like a chicken to get everything ready.
This year was no exception. I always try to go somewhere that the kids wouldn't likely go with their parents. This year we went to Jackfish Lake, in Spruce Woods Provincial Park. It's a back-country campsite used by cross-country skiers and hikers but can be driven to on some turkey trails.
Any grade 7/8 students that want to come sign up and organize themselves into tent groups (I have a little input to make sure no one gets left out). Once they've figured out who is in their tent groups they then plan their meals for the three day trip.
This year we did a variety of activities including biking, hiking, archery, survival skills and tons of time for spending around the fire and playing capture the flag.
I teach in a rural school, so most of the kids do get outside a fair bit, but the camping trip forces them to spend 3 full days outside and I'm always amazed at the creative ways they spend their time while "disconnected" from their personal devices.
I know I will feel overwhelmed again next June, trying to get everything else done so we can go on the camping trip again, but I know it will be worth it!
This year was no exception. I always try to go somewhere that the kids wouldn't likely go with their parents. This year we went to Jackfish Lake, in Spruce Woods Provincial Park. It's a back-country campsite used by cross-country skiers and hikers but can be driven to on some turkey trails.
Any grade 7/8 students that want to come sign up and organize themselves into tent groups (I have a little input to make sure no one gets left out). Once they've figured out who is in their tent groups they then plan their meals for the three day trip.
This year we did a variety of activities including biking, hiking, archery, survival skills and tons of time for spending around the fire and playing capture the flag.
I teach in a rural school, so most of the kids do get outside a fair bit, but the camping trip forces them to spend 3 full days outside and I'm always amazed at the creative ways they spend their time while "disconnected" from their personal devices.
I know I will feel overwhelmed again next June, trying to get everything else done so we can go on the camping trip again, but I know it will be worth it!