2 hours
2 hours
This introductory class explores what to do in an emergency survival situation. Class discussion includes practical steps to take, as well as psychological aspects of survival. Afterwards, participants will head out to build a shelter using natural materials found in the area.
Primitive Fire Starting takes a look at the science behind fire, and the hallmarks of an effective fire. Participants will have the opportunity to practice fire starting using basic methods. This class is a precursor to Advanced Fire Starting. Advanced Fire Starting includes class discussion about fire maintenance, "the right fire for the right job," and the opportunity for participants to practice their fire-building skills with advanced methods, and using all-natural materials.
basic survival
Fire Craft
knife safety
2 hours
Become confident and efficient with cutting tools in emergency survival and wilderness living situations. This class covers different types of survival knives and their uses. As safety is paramount, much of this class will focus on proper handling and use of knives. The last portion of the class will have participants use their knife to safely process firewood from fuel to tinder before building a basic fire.
2 hours
Whether in a survival situation or simply going for a hike, knowing where to find food and useful materials outdoors is an important skill. Participants will learn about the traditional uses of local plants and trees, as well as how to identify other useful plants that would support wilderness survival. This class is a precursor to the Wild Food and Outdoor Cooking class.
foraging
2 hours
Participants will learn how the 5-C framework can help support them in packing for day and overnight trips, as well as stocking emergency survival kits. Discuss what the 5 C’s are and learn examples of each, before breaking up into smaller teams to find as much of each C as possible, including natural materials. Group discussion of found items will end the class.
2 hours
Participants will examine snow and ice as a survival asset. Look at the uses of snow (shelter, insulation, water, as an aid for tracking animals etc.) while on a trail walk before returning to the meeting area. Time how long it takes to process snow and/or ice for drinking water compared to fresh water, and discuss the findings. If cold enough, learn about and observe the Mpemba effect!
science
of snow
the 5 c's
natural
adhesives
2 hours
Learn to make an all-natural adhesive using ingredients found in nature. Class discussion will include the traditional origins of adhesive, as well as practical uses. Participants will then create their own adhesive using materials found in the area.
2 hours
torch making
Torches have many uses in survival situations and can be made fairly easily with some firsthand knowledge. This class will allow participants to create their own torch, building confidence for future outdoor experiences. Participants may benefit from the Basic Knife Safety course before trying their hand at torch-making, however it is not a prerequisite.
spruce workshop
2 hours
Learn about the many wonders of the spruce tree. Discuss the origins of spruce salve and its many beneficial applications, and warm up with a cup of spruce tip tea. Participants will assist in making spruce salve with the group and will have the opportunity to take a sample home, as well as learn about the benefits of spruce tip tea.
first aid
(noncertified)
2 hours
In an emergency survival situation, first aid knowledge can be imperative. This class focuses on building a stretcher outdoors, hypothermia risks and preventative measures, basic survival measures, and more.
spoon carving workshop
3 hours
This spoon carving workshop allows participants the opportunity to hone their knife skills, while creating their own utensil that can be taken home. This skill is transferrable to long-term wilderness living, and allows participants the opportunity to slow down and develop a new skill. It is recommended that participants take the Basic Knife Safety class before this workshop, however, basic knife safety will be covered at the beginning of the session.
walking stick carving
4-5 hours
Walking sticks are an excellent way of giving support and confidence to those who want to get out in nature while minimizing risk. This workshop gives participants the opportunity to create their very own, unique walking sticks that will last a lifetime. All materials and supplies are included. It is recommended that participants take Basic Knife Safety and/or Axe and Saw Safety first, however it is not a requirement.
2 hours
Learn to track animals with this class that explores different types of animal tracks, animal behaviours, as well as natural habitats. This class teaches students of the outdoors the unexpected skill of slowing down and paying attention to natural surroundings, as well as building appreciation of the ways nature works as a system.
2 -3 hours
Continuing on from the Foraging class, this session teaches a wider knowledge of locally sourced food materials, as well as covering how to cook them. Participants will learn tips and tricks of where to look for ingredients growing naturally, and will end with a homemade snack or beverage cooked over the fire.
reading nature
wild food and outdoor cooking
2 hours
Many Kaykima classes focus on emergency wilderness survival skills, but oftentimes long-term outdoor living stems from a desire to be outdoors. Learn what to pack when heading out into the wilderness, safety tips, as well as shelter and fire building designed to last. For a more in-depth approach to the skills taught in this class, participants may consider the Shelter Building, Fire Starting, or Wilderness First Aid classes.
2 hours
long-term survival
axe & saw safety
Learn the difference between an axe and a hatchet, as well as how to safely and effectively chop wood. This class also allows participants to use a folding saw safely. Participants will be given the opportunity to practice their axe and saw skills in a safe environment before ending class with a fire built from the wood they have processed. This class is a great complement to the Basic Knife Skills Class, as well as Basic/Advanced Fire Starting classes.
book a class
To book a class, please email us with the following information:
- Your name and contact phone number,
- Who your group are and what kind of programming you are looking for,
- Preferred dates, class options, and locations
Due to the nature of our work, we are not always able to respond to emails immediately. Please allow up to a week for response times.
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