Tiger Adventure: Backyard Jungle

Backyard Jungle... that's how I'd like to imagine all small children see their yard and neighborhood.  It's totally a place to explore and have adventures.

This is one of the new adventures for Tiger Scouts (first grade, or seven years old) that I have seen get a lot of flack.  People were up in arms over a "1-foot-hike" before they even read that a longer hike will be required in a different adventure (Tigers in the Wild).  Also, a listening walk is required in this adventure.

I love the idea of not discounting what is right in front of you.  Teaching children that they don't have to leave home (which can be difficult for urban scouts) to experience the wonders of nature is a good thing.

Now that I've got that off of my chest, let's look at the requirements for this adventure...


Tiger Adventure: Backyard Jungle 

1. Take a 1-foot-hike.  Make a list of the living things you find on your 1-foot-hike.
2. Point out two different kinds of birds that live in your area.
3. Be helpful to plants and animals by planting a tree or other plant in your neighborhood.
4. Build and hang a birdhouse.
5. With your adult partner, go on a walk and pick out two sounds you hear in your "jungle".

These may not seem like much to an adult or to an older scout (and some first graders have had much more exposure to the oudoors already), but the simple act of listening on a walk... or knowing two types of local birds can open doors for many young boys.  

Don't discount the "easy" stuff.  Those may just be the very things that get a couch potato to love nature.

Check out our Backyard Jungle Pinterest Board for ways to implement this adventure:

Follow Cub Scout's board Tiger Adventure: Backyard Jungle on Pinterest.