Let’s Get Building!
Ever wondered how you’d stay dry in the wild if it started to rain? Building a shelter with natural materials is not only fun, but it can also keep you protected from the weather! Here’s how to get started.
Step 1: Choose Your Spot
First, find a good spot for your shelter. Look for a place with trees, bushes, or rocks around. The ground should be as flat as possible—trust me, sleeping on bumpy ground is no fun! Keep an eye on where the wind is blowing from, and make sure your shelter is built with its back to the wind.
Step 2: Collect Your Materials
Now it’s time to gather your materials! Look for fallen branches, sticks, leaves, and even stones. Bigger branches can be used to form the structure, while smaller ones and leaves will help you fill in the gaps to block the wind and rain. Avoid breaking branches off trees—there are usually plenty of materials on the ground.
Step 3: Build Your Frame
Start by laying out the larger branches to form the shape of your shelter. Think of it like a simple tent—two sides coming together at the top to give you a roof. You can lean the branches against a tree or rock to help hold everything up. Make sure it’s big enough for you to fit inside!
Step 4: Add Insulation
To make your shelter cozy and keep the wind and rain out, cover your frame with smaller branches, leaves, and any other soft materials you can find. Layer it up—the thicker, the better! If it’s going to rain, you’ll want to make sure the roof is covered really well.
Step 5: Test It Out
Crawl inside and see how it feels. Is the wind blocked? Would it keep you dry? If not, keep adding leaves or branches to improve it. Talk with your friends or family about how the wind and rain could affect your shelter—where might water get in, or how would strong winds affect your build?
Why It’s Important
Building a shelter with natural materials is a great way to practice problem-solving and learn about how we can use nature to protect ourselves. Plus, it’s an awesome adventure that makes you feel like a real explorer!
