Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the basics of camping, including what items are needed, how to set up a campsite, and the importance of nature while having fun with camping-themed activities.

Materials and Prep

• Blanket or large piece of fabric (to simulate a tent)
• Pillow (for comfort)
• Paper and crayons or markers (for drawing)
• Imaginary camping gear (like a backpack or flashlight)
• Space in the house or backyard for setting up a campsite

Before the lesson, find a suitable area to set up a pretend campsite. Make sure the student knows that this is a fun pretend camping experience!

Activities

• Build a Tent

  Using the blanket or fabric, help the student create a cozy tent. This is a great way to introduce them to how tents are used when camping. Let them decorate the inside with pillows for comfort!

• Nature Scavenger Hunt

  Go outside (or around the house) and look for items in nature, like leaves, flowers, or rocks. The student can collect these items and discuss their colors and shapes.

• Camping Drawing

  Give the student paper and crayons to draw their favorite camping scene. They can include tents, campfires, or animals they might see while camping.

• Storytime by the Campfire

  Set up a pretend campfire using pillows or a circle of rocks. Share a fun camping story or let the student make up their own story about an adventure in the woods!

Talking Points

• "What do you think we need to sleep outside? Yes, a tent! Let's build one!"
• "Camping is fun because we get to explore nature. Can you name some things we might see outside?"
• "Look at all the different colors of leaves! Nature is like a big art box, isn't it?"
• "When we go camping, we have to be safe. What do you think we should do if we see a bear?"
• "What’s your favorite thing about camping? Is it the tent, the food, or the stories?"
• "Camping helps us learn about nature and have fun. What do you want to do first on our camping trip?"