TIPS FOR TEACHERS AND OUTDOOR LEADERS
The intervention is most useful as a series of group based activities led by teachers, parents or support workers, run in a natural environment such as a woodland, for 90 minutes to 2 hours, weekly for 6 – 12 weeks. The group focuses on survival based, team-building activities, which have been shown through adventure learning and forest school activities to be beneficial for confidence building and improving social interaction.
STAFFING NEEDS
In order to run the group successfully it is essential to have a group leader with extensive experience of working with the targeted population and sufficient support staff (this will depend on the needs of the group but may be 1:1) at least one of whom has experience of leading outdoors activities.
WHO WILL BENEFIT?
The intervention was developed for teenagers with high functioning autism disorders and ADHD, however as it is easily adaptable with a range of activities, and as evidence shows that nature based activities are beneficial for most people we believe it will have positive effects for a wide range of populations. It is NOT recommended for individuals with a history of psychosis, PTSD or severe anxiety. It is essential a risk assessment is carried out and for group leaders to decide if the intervention is appropriate.
HOW TO USE THIS INTERVENTION
Zombie Survival can be run as a series of sessions, gradually building confidence within the natural environment, and allowing the group to get to know each other and the group leaders. Following the flow learning method (Cornell, 2015) it is suggested that each week the group starts with a simple activity to awaken enthusiasm, such as following a trail to reach a camp fire, or base camp. Once there, hot chocolate can be offered and the task for the day explained. This time can be used to focus attention and calmly draw attention to an aspect of nature. Any one activity from the intervention is then introduced as a direct experience. The missions can be taught in any order. If time allows suitable games can also be played , some examples are offered here. Finally regroup at the end of the session to discuss and share experiences. The full zombie experience is offered on the final week.
PREPARATION
· You know your students best- ONLY take them on a zombie survival session if you feel they are comfortable with the concept, and make sure they understand this is a game and they can stop at any time. If you are using a zombie actor, ensure you have signals or are within earshot to direct how realistic or close they come. It is important that this session helps children to feel confident and overcome fears- not make them scared of the woodlands.
· Ensure everyone is suitably attired with warm, waterproof clothing and footwear and bring a rucksack full of spare clothing in case of a downpour! Cold wet children are miserable!!
· Bring snacks to keep energy and motivation levels up.
· Make sure all staff/ helpers are also suitably attired.· Prepare students for session, so they know what is expected of them, and what the day will entail. This will reduce their stress levels and make them properly prepared. Keep it positive and focus on collaboration and co-operation.
· Plan your route and make sure you are able to set clear physical boundaries that are obvious to everyone. If necessary use ribbons tied in the trees to show these boundaries.
· Make sure you have suitable risk assessments for your site and know access details for emergency vehicles. Check that you have phone connection.
· Make sure you are aware of any allergies your students may have.
· Make sure you have sufficient adults for the number of children in the group and that they are checked
ON THE DAY
· Make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone, first aid kit, water, emergency contact details, and a whistle for emergencies
· You may wish to bring a camera/ video camera to record the event. Don’t forget to fully charge batteries and bring spares.
· If it is cold and wet, try not to be negative about this- children can have fun no matter what the weather but will soon learn negative connotations from others.
· If students do express fears be sensitive and listen to them. Do not dismiss their fears, but be understanding and non-judgemental
· Keep instructions simple- you do not want your students bored.
· If you meet a dog off the lead, ask the children to stay calm and walk on past with their arms crossed.
· Have fun!!
Reference
Cornell, J. (2015) Deep Nature Play California: Crystal Clarity Publishers.