There is always something to be said about learning through observation. As human beings, we are naturally wired to problem solve or to improve functionality. As great as that can be, it does not always allow for simplistic survival tactics.
Our Earth still faces natural disasters, leaving us with monstrous devastation and the question: how do we survive this? There is never a quick answer for that question, but there is always a learning process that can take place. Animals and insects have the criteria we are looking for.
Now this isn’t saying this will cure natural disaster survival, but it can sure help. Or even if you and your family want to excursion off the beaten trail during your next family holiday and get a little lost, well then. Take a step back and let nature be your guide!
At Kidz Village, we have Forest School. During this time of our week, we grasp nature’s gifts and observe the plethora of wonder we can learn from. Students have pointed out frogs burrowed in turtles’ nests, gecko lizards standing as still as the trees waiting for bugs to munch on, fish swarming the water’s surface if they even think food is present, birds chasing one another, birds flying away when thunder clouds are approaching, and the best observation I have witnessed was how quiet it was one day… right before a HUGE clap of thunder erupted the afternoon air. With those simple observations, we were able to identify survival tactics.
The frog is burrowed in a home that does not belong to itself? So it must be aware of another danger in the area (was it us humans playing outside? Is there a snake or a big bird nearby that would want to eat it?). Gecko lizards waiting as still as the trees? Maybe we could learn from that if we are ever in the need to hunt. Waiting for the prey to approach you could be a survival tactic that saves your hunger! Fish swarming the water’s surface? Well, if you are desperate for a catch, then place yourself close to the water’s edge, throw a leaf or some dirt on the water’s surface and when the clan of fish comes to the top, try to snatch one of them right out of the water! And you just saved yourself from hunger once more. Birds flying away in mass swarms? There is imminent weather on the way, which means it is time to follow the birds!
Of course, there is an incredible amount more you can learn from animals and nature. These are some of the best lessons our K2/K3 class has taken away from their nature observations.
