Forest Fort

What did we learn last week? The boys spent three days out in the forest building a tree fort in the rain. They didn’t really have big enough nails, but did the best they could using a lot of twine and a few small nails. They measured, cut, sawed, dug with shovels, ( they worked on a latrine and a bunker) cleared brush, and generally got filthy and worn out. It was marvelous! They got one floor up in the trees, pretty level and sturdy, with a support beam under it- enough for one or two people to walk on. They also built a very nice ladder. All said and done, I was impressed considering they had no knowledge, plans, experience or even nails. Other than physical exercise and learning to use tools safely; what I was most pleased that they were learning was how to physically work hard for several hours in a row, in unpleasant conditions, while dealing with their frustrations; starting over when needed and learning to cooperate; and with the critical thinking and problem solving skills they acquired, made this the most valued learning experience, that in my opinion, will equip them best for real life. It truely thrilled my heart to see them walking off into the forest each day with their packed lunches and man tools!