HINTS AND TIPS FOR TAKING THE KIDS HUNTING

 

  1. Try and understand the capabilities of each party member by going for walks not far from home, so you don’t overcommit them to a trip they will hate.
  2. Ask them to write a list of what they need to take and go over it with them, so they get an understanding of what is needed while they are on the hill. Also include anything they want to do in the bush, so they feel like they are a part of the planning.
  3. Take colouring books, notepads for keeping a daily diary, and anything else to keep them occupied while you are at camp. This will also help you to relax.
  4. If rain is predicted, take some pancake mix or something to make or bake to pass the day. We try not to take any iPads or similar, but that might work for you. The adults need to relax so everyone has fun, and if that means letting them play a game, so be it.
  5. Go and make a hut, help them put a roof on it and have a roof shout with fizzy drinks, or take the jet boil to the hut and make some hot chocolates.
  6. In the summer make a bridge across a creek with rocks, or dam an area to make a small pool for swimming.
  7. Take plenty of food with you and tell the kids when you get to the planned destination they can have a nice treat, to dangle the carrot!
  8. Ask the kids to be observant and point out any deer prints, native birds, and bugs. This will help them learn to identify them and subsequently learn the ways of the bush faster. Knowledge is key.
  9. Teach them ethics. We all have different ethics and here are a few of my own rules that I have taught the kids:
  • Do not litter in the bush: you take it in, you take it out. Don't bury it.
  • Look after others in your team and don't push someone too hard as that might make them hate it.
  • If you use the firewood make sure you replace it with more than you burnt.
  • If you come across anyone in the bush have a talk to them and make a plan that is safe for both parties before you carry on.
  • Clean the camp up after you, even if the last party did not.
  • Respect the bush and don't go around chopping random trees at campsites with hatchets . We are lucky to be able to use the bush the way we do, so respect it.
  1. Have a plan for all weather. Make sure you carry plenty of water, food and clothing for the kids. If you do a big walk one day be careful not to follow it with another the next day as the smaller kids won't have the stamina. To reiterate, make sure you know the child's capability and this will ensure everyone has a good time and wants to do it again.

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