Are you a parent of a home-educated teenager or a teenager who cannot access mainstream education? Are you looking for ways to help your child develop practical skills that can benefit them in the future? Well, look no further! Rural skills are a fantastic way to learn practical skills and develop an understanding of the environment. In this article, we’ll explore five reasons why home-educated teenagers should learn hands-on rural skills with a focus on practical environmental conservation.
- Develop Practical Skills
Learning rural skills like gardening, animal care, and food preservation can help teenagers develop practical skills that can benefit them in their future careers or daily lives. These skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making, which are valuable in any field.
- Conservation-Based Education
By learning rural skills with a focus on conservation, teenagers can develop a deeper understanding of the environment and the importance of sustainability. They can learn about the impact of human activities on the environment and how to reduce their carbon footprint. This education can help them become more environmentally responsible citizens.
- Physical Exercise and Mental Health
Rural skills involve physical activity, which can help teenagers stay active and improve their physical health. Physical exercise has also been linked to better mental health outcomes, including reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Social Connections
Learning rural skills can provide opportunities for teenagers to connect with others who share their interests. This can help them build friendships and social connections that can benefit them in their personal and professional lives.
- Entrepreneurship and Career Opportunities
Rural skills can lead to entrepreneurial and career opportunities in fields such as farming, agriculture, and conservation. By learning these skills, teenagers can develop the knowledge and expertise needed to start their own businesses or pursue careers in these fields.
In conclusion, rural skills are an excellent way for home-educated teenagers and those who cannot access mainstream education to develop practical skills, understand the environment, and become environmentally responsible citizens. They provide opportunities for physical exercise, social connections, and career development, making them a valuable investment in your child’s future.
If you’re interested in learning more about rural skills and how to get involved, check out our Rangers program – a program designed to provide opportunities to learn and practice practical rural skills in a supportive and engaging environment in and around Hebden Bridge (HX7).
References:
- Nairn, K. (2019). Learning in rural places: the value of practical and place-based learning. Educational Review, 71(5), 545-560.
- Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological science, 19(12), 1207-1212.