Nature skills workshop for kids coming to Sutton Park
On Friday, Aug. 9, Sutton Park will host a unique, hands-on workshop for children aged 6 to 12, led by Jacob Brideau, a farmer, eco-animator, and father of four. This bilingual event will run from 9 to 4 p.m. and promises to introduce young participants to essential forest survival skills, including friction fire, primitive technologies, knot tying, and archery. With a cap of 10 participants and a sliding fee scale of $30 to $60, the workshop aims to foster a deep respect for nature and teamwork among children.
Brideau, who has been teaching forest skills since 2020, shared his enthusiasm for the event in an Aug. 3 interview. “I started in Glen Sutton, running a forest school for kids from 6 to 12 years old,” Brideau explained. “We covered everything from primitive skills to bow hunting and wigwam construction. Now, I’m excited to bring these activities to Sutton Park.”
Brideau’s background is rich in hands-on experience and self-taught knowledge. He spent 12 years living on a farm in Bas-saint-laurent, where he honed his skills in farming, forestry, and land stewardship. “I learned a lot about tree recognition, plants, and wildlife,” he said. “I also do basket weaving, wood lathe sculpture, and carving. All these skills have been integrated into my teaching.”
Participants in the workshop can expect a day filled with engaging activities that promote both individual and group learning. “We’ll focus on friction fire, knot tying, and primitive skills,” Brideau noted. “The talking circle at the beginning and end of the day helps us emphasize respect and listening to each other and the environment.”
A highlight of the workshop will be the introduction to archery. Brideau shared, “We’ll start with traditional bows made of fiberglass, which are easy to handle. Some kids might even get the chance to craft their own primitive bows in future workshops.”
The event is designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring that every child can participate meaningfully. Brideau mentioned, “For younger kids who might be shy, we’ll have activities like clay pottery. Older kids can dive into more complex tasks like making a pump drill or learning advanced knot tying.”
Brideau also emphasized the importance of fostering a connection with nature among children. “When they’re curious, they develop a sense of belonging to the territory,” he said. “This is crucial for our generation, and I want to help cultivate that curiosity and connection.”
Future plans for the program include more in-depth workshops and potentially even sleepover events. “We’re just getting started,” Brideau promised. “In September, I want to offer a bigger schedule, including workshops for adults on basket weaving and other skills.”
As Brideau looks forward to the event, he is hopeful that it will inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature and the skills to thrive within it. “Connecting with nature is so important,” he said. “I hope this workshop will be the start of a journey for many kids in our community.”
Registration for the workshop is required, and space is limited. Interested parents can sign up their children online through the Sutton Park website.