My son is 3 (actually about 2 3/4) and he's already learning the outdoor essential skills for his age group. He picks up sticks and has several methods of destroying them. Making kindling? He is also becoming very proficient at digging up rocks out of the dirt and throwing them in the streams, lakes, and ponds along our trails. That's his favorite outdoor activity at the moment. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Seriously though even at his age I see him learning very basic but important woodsman's skills. He can walk through the brush and not trip over roots, he can avoid plants with thorns, etc. Lots of basic stuff that old folks (older than 3) probably take for granted. Okay so he hasn't mastered the hand drill or shelter building, but I think he sets the example that it's never really too soon. I started him in the woods when he could barely walk and it has been a very positive experience for both of us.