My school has an amazing program called Classroom of the Earth. We call it COE. The program allows students to learn Leave No Trace principles, experience time in nature, hike and backpack, and focus on stewardship towards the earth. This is my third trip with students this year and I love getting to see students grow, be challenged and enjoy life in new ways. I feel like I also grow, am challenged and enjoy life in new ways on these trips as well. I also feel like there are some lessons I’ve learned while spending time in the woods that easily transfer to the classroom.
First Lesson: Nothing is permanent.
Rain. Mud. Cold. Uncomfortable. Given time, it all changes. Sit where you are knowing that it won’t always be this way.
Second Lesson: Make the best decisions you can based on what you know at the time.
There were several decisions that our guide, Forrest, and I had to make together based on what we saw that students needed and the weather coming in. We had specific
Third Lesson: Count 50 steps. Pause for a bit. Then go 50 more.
We had a tough section to complete on the second day. Over two miles uphill the entire time with a decently steep grade. With 30-40 lbs on our backs, it feels even more challenging. As I was leading the group
Fourth Lesson: Rest is not only productive, but necessary.
After hiking, you are physically tired and sometimes hungry too. How can you fit rest into your schedule?
Fifth Lesson: Spend more time outdoors (or at least away from technology)
The time outside was refreshing. But as soon as I got home, I immediately spent a lot of time on my phone checking social media and looking up things for the week. I already miss the outdoors!