Introducing Pathways
There’s an awful lot going on for our young people these days, no least the big questions about the environment and the ecological crisis we’re finding ourselves in. What is becoming of the planet we’re handing over to the next generation and how will it look 10 years from now? There’s a lot of expectation that our young people will shoulder this responsibility, but are the adults of today really equipping them with the tools to truly lead?
A quick google search shows me that there are plenty of scripted outdoor activities in my area for teens; rock climbing, caving, “thrilling adventures”, “epic outings”, learning specifics of bird watching and identifying, all usually presented in a top down hierarchy. Where are the true nature connecting opportunities at a pace to build relationships? Time spent meandering, working the land, questioning, playing, discovering, just as we offer for our youngest- and increasingly for adults, these types of outdoor moments are just as vital for our 10 and overs- herein lies the disservice we’re doing to our young people.
Now is the time to provide access to more Natural Pace Learning, more autonomy in outdoor education and more emphasis on how to work alongside our natural world. We need a huge step back from corralling our growing children into highly scripted activities, to focus instead on the relationships, supportive peer groups and inspiring locations. We absolutely know pre-teen and early teen years are a pivotal time, they’re not without their developmental hurdles as with any stage of childhood. The teen years are where young people begin stepping beyond their immediate family to find their own identities, ideas, beliefs and voice. During this time they need secure peer groups, those they feel safe to flex language with, test ideas and find common ground amongst, and most importantly, the space to do it. And in the mele of all of this, where does the budding naturalist fit in?
Here at Kith, we believe that real eco-warriors start not with learning all the facts and figures about the natural world, but with a deep sense of connection with it. It’s easy to assume that if young people simply know the names of plants and animals, they’ll naturally grow to protect them. But to inspire true stewards, we must offer moments to deepen connection in low-risk ways amongst people they can trust.
I’m thrilled to be launching Pathways, a progressive programme created especially for our growing young people. Our approach is not about pushing facts and figures, it’s about providing an environment where our growing children can feel at home outdoors in wonderful company they can grow amongst.
The framework starts with the Beginners Pathway, a month that brings young people together in a community. Through hands-on activities, reflective practices, expansive ideas and a meaningful bond with the land, each young person will gain skills and ideas to put into practise beyond the homestead.
As they progress through each level of Pathways-over the years to follow, they grow in both skills and confidence, emerging as thoughtful, compassionate leaders ready to stand for the earth and their communities. If you’re looking to give your budding naturalist a chance to grow in a space that honours their individuality and inspires their potential, Pathways may be the perfect fit.
