It seems like every year it sneaks up on us: Summer Camp planning. Whether you started back in January (nope, we're not kidding), just getting around to it now, or you're willing and able to opt out of it all together, there is a common truth all caregivers know to our core...how much "fun" being around bored kids can be. If at some point this summer you're in charge of fun and you need a plan, we offer installment three of Geotoy's DIY GeoCamp: Where We Live.
Here's what you'll need:
Supplies:
- Drawing paper & pencils/pens
- Lined writing paper
- A computer or tablet for “virtual tours” of local landmarks
- Mobile phone for Geocaching
- Sunblock, water bottles, snacks, etc - this camp encourages a lot of exploration!
Activity 1: Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
Get out there!
Create a list of landmarks, natural features, and places of interest in the neighborhood for “campers” to find. They can take photos or collect small items as proof of their discoveries.
Give what they discovered some thought - here are some questions to share:
- Did anything that was discovered surprise your campers?
- Was there a spot that they’d like to visit again?
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How might natural features of your neighborhood effect the people who live there?
- For example, a hill in the road down your street may make a bike ride into town a bit more challenging!
Activity 2: Be your own Cartographer!
Wait - what’s a Cartographer?
Cartographers are people who draw or produce maps. Every “official” map you’ve experienced (even digital maps) have been created with the help of a cartographer.
You’ve explored it - now draw it!
Have campers draw a map of their local area, including important features such as their home, school, parks, and stores - include what you discovered together in the first activity if you wish. Any variety of materials can be used in this activity - a simple piece of paper and a pencil is enough!
Activity 3: Virtual Tour (a great one for rainy days)
Experience landmarks from where you are
Use virtual tour apps or websites to explore local landmarks and view geographical features from a new perspective. Some sites provide augmented reality experiences as well.
Did you like what you saw?
See if your campers can take a virtual tour of a space they know well or had an opportunity to explore in Activity 1. After they check it out, ask them how it compared to “visiting” the same place virtually.
- Make a list pros and cons - the conversation may get interesting!
Activity 4: Geocaching
Wait - what is Geocaching?
As defined by geocaching.com, “Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor adventure that is happening all the time, all around the world. To play, participants use the Geocaching app and/or a GPS device to navigate to cleverly hidden containers called geocaches. There are millions of geocaches in 190 countries waiting to be discovered—there are probably even some near you right now.”
Go on your own adventure
Participate in your own geocaching adventure! We recommend downloading a Geocaching app and exploring an area you are familiar with to start. Bring plenty of water, wear protective clothing and sunblock, and don’t wander too far off - getting lost is memorable but not always fun.
Activity 5: Geographical Storytelling: Create a Legend
Local Lore
Many areas of the world have legends based on the geographic features of the area. The Loch Ness Monster “lives” in the River Ness. Sasquatch is said to wander the forests of northwestern United States and western Canada. On a more serious note, we can also look the stories of Indigenous people who share stories of the land to reinforce their understanding of the world around them.
Does your area have a local legend?
Ready, set, WRITE!
Encourage your campers to write and illustrate a new story set in their area. They can incorporate real geographical features and landmarks into their narrative, helping them think creatively about their surroundings.
Side note: a few of us here at Geotoys are really, really into these legendary monsters, also known as Cryptids...so much so that we pulled together an entire post about Cryptids Across the Continents. We invite you to check it out!
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