Simple gift ideas for Outdoorsy Kids
Hey Folks,
It’s a busy (and costly!) time of year! We thought we’d share some of the cool things and tools (and practical stuff, too!) we use at Forest School on a semi-regular basis in case you need some stocking stuffers – and all for $20ish or less! Whenever possible, please support local!!!
TOOLS:
Light My Fire FireSteel Bio Scout
At FNS, we build a lot of fires and this tool here is a fun, fairly simple way to do that. This is our favourite one to use! Check it out (MEC has the best price, around $15)
Carving Knife
For our older students, we regularly use this Morakniv carving knife to carve hammers, spoons, arrows and whatever our imaginations come up with! Students are taught all the safety protocols and create some truly awesome pieces of work!
Headlamp
Get out and explore all the cool crevices in the area. But not just for caving, these are great for any nighttime activity. And for some reason we don’t quite understand, we’ve found our kids just love to wear ’em.
BOOK IDEAS:
A great book for inspiring outdoor adventure and skill development!
Plant or Animal Guidebooks
Some students like these more than others – but those who do, LOVE them!!
(Shameless Plug Alert!!!)
There’s a lot of Noise in Silence By Matt and Kim
A story about nature connection and sit spots! Email us and we’ll get you a copy ($15 and delivered to your school for pick up!)
EXPERIENCES:
Geocaching App
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, our students love going on adventures and treasure hunts. It’s no wonder Geocaching is a huge hit. And it can be FREE (or a small monthly fee) with the app, see geocaching.com. Or you can borrow a GPS from the library in Collingwood.
Homemade Stuff!
Buying stuff is expensive and can be overwhelming. Putting some love into your gifts is so rewarding and Pinterest has so many cool ideas for gifts! Try something homemade – knit a scarf, bake some cookies, carve a spoon, make some jam – you name it!
Even better – Time Spent Together.
We live in a BEAUTIFUL place with seemingly endless opportunities. Check out all the local wild spaces or try a new activity. We’ve found developing a Bingo Card with your favourite activities and projects – go for hike, build a snow fort – you can do as a family can be the best gift of all.
And Support some of our Supporters!
Go for a ski at Duntroon Highlands Nordic! Or a Climb at Climber’s Corner! Or a get a pizza at Amici’s! Or a hike in a local Ontario Park!
If you’ve got any more ideas, please add them in the comments below.
Happy Holidays Everyone! And be sure to play outside over the break!
Your FSFNS Crew