Thanks hikermor. As long as you make it fun, kids are like sponges. They learn without even trying.

Adults can be more like concrete blocks sometimes. Let's hope that in this case, the little chidren shall lead the way.

I wouldn't necessarily do all your teaching to a combined group. Get the parents together and scare the pants off them with the horror stories. Ask them to analyze what was done right and done wrong. Ask them what they would have done. Then give each of them a scenario and make them think it through.

With the kids, I think they need to start thinking for themselves, with guidance showing them the differences between what REALLY could be done, and pie-in-the-sky TV thinking. Most kids have only been subjected to TV situations, not real life, and they think the problems will be solved in 30 minutes (less commercial breaks).

Maybe you could make a game out of it. Make out a list of possible scenarios (with any limitations, like no cell phone or dead cell phone) and write each one on a separate piece of paper, folded, and put into a bowl. Let each kid choose one (have extras), then go round discussing each one, with the main objective being getting the kids to think rationally, and letting them add their input, nonsense or not, then work through each suggestion. And if the kids do have some equipment, be sure to include how many more options they have if they have those things with them.

Sue

I like Sue's approach. Scare the pants of the adults with real world events, then figure out positive ways to enable the kids, giving them strategies to deal with common scenarios.

One thought: kids seem to absorb or integrate this sort of thing if they do it with their own hands. Theoretical knowledge doesn't really connect with behaviour until they do it, hands-on. So, giving scenarios to small groups in a campground or nature area, with resources provided, can keep it interesting and contribute to true learning. For example: give each group a scenario and a location, let them analyze and come up with a plan, then have an adult listen to their plan and give suggestions, and have them implement the plan. And move them to the next station/scenario. Followed by hot chocolate, of course.

My $0.02.

You guys are awesome! Apologies to hikermor for hijacking the thread. Thanks for all the great ideas Sue and Doug!

Doug is right about the hands-on approach, but I think a discussion should precede that because of TV contamination. There's no danger in thinking, and kids can think, but they need guidance. What doesn't work is just telling them what they should do... that sticks like water over a duck's back.

Hijacking a thread, how AWFUL! I'm sure that's never happened before....

Sue

You guys are awesome! Apologies to hikermor for hijacking the thread. Thanks for all the great ideas Sue and Doug!