SURVIVE & THRIVE

Survive & Thrive Family Skills Day is a free, pre‑registered outdoor learning event for families in PA. Families rotate through hands‑on workshops that teach real‑world skills in a safe, supervised environment. Registration and ID are required. No walk‑ups are permitted.

Event Overview

This event includes six guided workshops: fishing and water safety, fire safety and outdoor cooking, foraging, fish cleaning and cooking, home growing and preservation, and water filtration. Families move through the workshops in small groups. All activities are age‑appropriate and supervised. All stations are verified by local safety and education professionals.

Family Registration

Registration is required for all participants. Adults must register with ID. Children must be listed under the adult. No walk‑ups are allowed. Exact location is sent only to registered families the night before the event. Families receive a QR‑coded passport for workshop entry.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers help guide families through the workshops. Volunteers complete a mandatory orientation and safety demonstration. Volunteers teach from approved materials only. Volunteers receive a station packet, badge, and lanyard. Sign up to join the team.

The Workshops

Fishing and Water Safety

Fire Safety and Outdoor Cooking

Foraging

Learn casting basics, knot tying, and water safety rules.

Learn safe fire setup and outdoor cooking techniques.

Learn how to identify safe plants and understand ethical harvesting.

Fish Cleaning and Cooking

Home Growing and Preservation

Water Filtration

Learn knife safety and basic fish preparation.

Learn simple growing methods and food preservation basics.

Learn how to filter water safely using simple methods.

Each workshop includes a badge challenge and a take‑home guide.

Educational Impact

This event supports outdoor learning, family bonding, healthy eating, and youth confidence. It aligns with homeschool portfolio needs in science, health, physical education, and the arts. Drama and storytelling challenges help build communication skills. Research shows that outdoor learning improves focus, emotional regulation, and long‑term retention.

Research & Science

Outdoor learning improves academic performance.

Experiential learning increases retention.

Nature exposure supports mental health.

Arts-integrated learning improves creativity and literacy.

YouTube Integration

Each workshop connects to a YouTube video. Families can watch tutorials, complete badge challenges, and submit reflections. Visit the channel to explore the learning playlist.

FAQ

Registration is required. Adults must register with ID. Children must be listed under the adult. No walk‑ups are allowed. Workshops are age‑appropriate and supervised. Families receive the location the night before. Bring water, closed‑toe shoes, and weather‑appropriate clothing. The event runs rain or shine unless safety is affected.

For questions, email or call the event team. Follow us on social media and subscribe to the YouTube channel for updates.