I’ve been thinking about something I saw recently on instagram that really made me appreciate good positive coaching. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVjaJF8FASR/?igsh=dHlvejhuNXBpM3ly When proper coaching is in place, organized sports can teach lessons that go way beyond the game. Not just skills… but sportsmanship—and that can shape how kids show up in the world, in fact it’s one is the outcomes we want out of sport. To shape good societal citizens. Quick disclaimer: I know I’ve got a bias here and I will share them within you. There are parts of organized competitive sports that I struggle with—especially early specialization and when kids don’t get much room for individual expression or skill expansion. I’m not anti-sports… I’m pro healthy development. And I also want to say this clearly: I have a lot to be grateful for in the organized sports world, especially jiujitsu and judo for me personally. Those communities and coaches played a huge role in getting me to where I am today—and they’ve given me opportunities I’ll never forget, including traveling across Canada, the USA, and parts of Western Europe. So this isn’t a “sports are bad” post at all. What great coaching can teach kids (things that transfer to real life): Respect (teammates, opponents, refs, rules) Accountability (effort matters; own your choices) Emotional control (frustration happens—what do you do with it?) Humility + grace (win without being a jerk, lose without falling apart) Team mindset (you’re part of something bigger than you) That’s not “sports stuff.” That’s society stuff. At the same time, I don’t want us to lose what unstructured outdoor free play gives kids—because nature teaches a different set of life skills: self-direction (“what should we do now?”) problem-solving (real problems, real consequences) risk assessment (smart brave, not reckless) creativity + independence So for our families, I see it like this:

🌲 Welcome to a community built for parents who want to raise capable, confident kids through real-world outdoor skills 🌲 This space is all about helping parents teach hands-on skills—building simple wood projects, learning camping essentials, playing outdoor games, and reconnecting kids with the outdoors in a meaningful way. In a digital world, we’re here to support you with practical guidance, ideas, and encouragement so you can confidently learn with your kids, not just for them. If you believe time outside builds confidence, resilience, and lifelong memories, you’re in the right place. Come learn, share, and grow with us—your next outdoor adventure starts here. 👣🔥 Please post on here and let us know where you are from. 🧭 HOW THIS COMMUNITY WORKS (IMPORTANT) There are two valid paths here — and both are respected. 🟢 Free Members Some parents prefer to: - Learn quietly - Practice when time allows - Improve at their own pace That path is fully welcome here. 🔥 Participate in event (Optional + up and coming) Others rather hands on face to face learning : - More structure - Direct instruction - There is obviously be associated costs due to space/equipment rental or purchases - Coaching instead of trial and error Either this is is really all about enjoying the outdoors in a judgement free space. And I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience. I will also be including subject matters expects to participate in the face to face events. More to come on that. 👉 You never need participate in face to face events to belong. It’s about your preference, not pressure or obligation. So that’s it, I am Pat from Ottawa Canada 🇨🇦 🍁 Welcome.