Shelter Building & Survival Basics
Shelter Building & Survival Basics
Looking for a fun and meaningful way to teach teamwork, outdoor education, and problem-solving? Shelter Building & Survival Basics is a fast-paced group activity designed for youth development programs, camps, and outdoor education settings. Led by staff ages 16–22, this 60–75 minute session is packed with skill-building, laughter, and hands-on learning.
Whether you're training new counselors or running a themed activity block, this guide gives your staff everything they need to succeed—even if they’ve never built a shelter before.
🛠 What’s Included:
Step-by-step facilitator instructions (no experience required!)
Survival basics lesson using the “Rule of Threes”
Team-based Shelter Challenge
Scorecard for friendly judging and team reflection
Wrap-up discussion prompts & optional journaling activity
Safety guidance and tips for first-time instructors
💡 Perfect For:
Summer Camps/ Afterschool Programs/ Outdoor Education Days/ Staff Training Sessions
🧠 Skills Developed:
Communication & teamwork
Creative problem-solving
Leadership through play
Basic survival awareness
🔒 Licensed for single-organization use
Disclaimer: All Youth Development Pro training resources are intended for educational use by youth development professionals, educators, and program leaders. These guides are designed to support staff in navigating activities, behaviors, and sensitive conversations with young people in camps, afterschool programs, schools, and similar group settings.
While these materials include strategies for building social-emotional skills and team engagement, they are not a substitute for legal advice, mental health diagnosis, or therapeutic intervention. Facilitators should always follow their organization's policies, consult with supervisors as needed, and escalate any concerns requiring immediate attention to the appropriate authority.
Adult supervision is required for all activities involving children. Adapt all content based on the age, needs, and safety of your participants. Youth Development Pro and its affiliates are not responsible for how materials are interpreted or implemented in individual settings.
Always prioritize the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of both participants and staff.