Teaching Kids Outdoor Survival Skills: A Fun and Practical Guide
1. Why Teaching Kids Survival Skills is Important
As a parent who enjoys outdoor adventures, I’ve always believed that teaching my kids basic survival skills is one of the most valuable things I can do for them. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in nature, learning how to navigate the woods, build a fire, and understand the natural world. Now, I want my kids to have those same experiences and skills. Outdoor survival isn’t just about being able to survive in the wild—it’s about confidence, resourcefulness, and resilience. These are skills that will benefit them in all areas of life, not just in the great outdoors.
Survival skills also teach children how to respect nature and understand the environment around them. It encourages them to become more aware of their surroundings, develop critical thinking, and make informed decisions. For me, it’s about giving my children the tools to thrive in nature while fostering a deep connection to the environment. Plus, it’s fun and empowering for them to learn these skills in a hands-on way.
2. Basic Outdoor Survival Skills Every Kid Should Know
When I first started teaching my kids survival skills, I didn’t want to overwhelm them with too much information all at once. Instead, I focused on simple, essential skills that would lay the foundation for more advanced techniques later on. Here are the basic survival skills that every child should know:
2.1. Building a Shelter
One of the first skills I taught my kids was how to build a simple shelter. We started with basic lean-to shelters using branches, leaves, and other natural materials. I explained that a shelter protects you from the elements and keeps you safe and warm. As we built the shelter together, I could see my kids’ problem-solving skills and creativity in action. They learned to think about things like the direction of the wind, where to place their shelter, and how to ensure it was sturdy and weatherproof.
The key lesson here is that survival isn’t just about “doing” things—it’s about thinking critically and using available resources. My kids loved working together to construct their shelter, and it was an exciting, hands-on activity that immediately showed them the importance of this skill.
2.2. Starting a Fire Safely
Fire-making is one of the most essential survival skills, but it’s also one that requires patience and focus. The first time I taught my kids to start a fire, I kept it simple with fire starters and matches. We practiced in a controlled environment, and I made sure they understood the importance of fire safety. We talked about fire safety rules, such as building fires in a safe area, ensuring the fire is completely out before leaving, and always having water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Starting a fire is an empowering skill for kids. It teaches them how to be resourceful, especially if they ever find themselves in an emergency situation where they need warmth or the ability to signal for help. Over time, I introduced my kids to more advanced methods, like using a fire starter or friction-based fire-making techniques. Watching them light their first fire with a flint and steel was a moment of immense pride for both me and them!
2.3. Navigation and Map Reading
When I took my kids on a hike through the woods, I made sure to teach them how to use a map and compass. We discussed cardinal directions, how to read topographic maps, and how to estimate distance and time based on the terrain. I also taught them how to orient themselves using natural markers, such as the position of the sun or the moss growing on the north side of trees.
Navigation is a fun skill to teach because it can be incorporated into everyday adventures. We’d play games where they had to navigate their way to a destination or follow clues on a map. Over time, my kids developed confidence in their ability to find their way, and I could see them taking pride in this valuable skill. Navigation is not only useful for survival—it also promotes self-reliance and problem-solving abilities that will serve them in everyday life.
2.4. Water Sourcing and Purification
Access to clean drinking water is essential in any survival situation, and teaching my kids how to find and purify water became one of the most practical lessons we learned. We started by identifying safe water sources, such as streams and rivers, and then I showed them how to filter and purify the water using methods like boiling, using water purification tablets, and making a DIY water filter with gravel, sand, and charcoal.
Learning to find water in nature and make it safe to drink was an eye-opening experience for my kids. It made them realize how important it is to be resourceful and prepared. The hands-on process of filtering and purifying water also helped them understand the scientific principles behind water purification, which they found fascinating!
3. Teaching Through Play and Adventure
One of the best ways to teach kids survival skills is through play and adventure. I’ve found that when we make learning fun, it sticks. For example, we’ve spent afternoons in the backyard building shelters, creating scavenger hunts, and playing survival-based games like “find the water source” or “fire building relay races.” These playful activities keep kids engaged and motivated, making learning survival skills a natural part of their outdoor experiences.
Another great way to teach is through role-playing. I’d give my kids a scenario—like being stranded on an island—and they’d have to figure out how to survive using the skills they’ve learned. Role-playing allows them to practice decision-making, teamwork, and problem-solving in a fun, low-pressure setting. And of course, we always celebrate their successes with rewards like marshmallows roasted over a campfire or extra points for creative solutions!
4. The Importance of Instilling Confidence and Responsibility
As my kids learned outdoor survival skills, I noticed that they grew more confident in their abilities. This confidence extended beyond the outdoors and affected their approach to challenges in other areas of life. By teaching them how to be self-sufficient and resourceful, I’ve seen them become more responsible, independent, and resilient. Whether it’s figuring out how to purify water or solving a navigation problem, these skills empower them to take ownership of their environment and trust in their judgment.
Outdoor survival skills also teach kids the importance of teamwork and helping others. Whether they’re building a shelter or gathering firewood, my kids learned that working together is essential for success. As a family, we’ve developed a strong sense of camaraderie through these shared experiences, and I’ve watched my kids grow into more compassionate and capable individuals.
5. Where to Practice Survival Skills: The Perfect Setting
When practicing survival skills, it’s important to choose a safe, appropriate location. I always start small, with simple lessons in our backyard, or take short trips to local parks or campsites. For more advanced skills, like fire-making or shelter-building, we head to areas where we can safely practice in a controlled environment.
If you're looking for a great place to start your outdoor adventures, I highly recommend visiting a family-friendly camping location like Pine Cliff Resort. The resort offers the perfect setting for practicing outdoor survival skills in a beautiful, safe environment. Whether you're just getting started or want to deepen your knowledge, Pine Cliff Resort provides a great mix of nature and adventure for families.
