• Experiential SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Program using nature-based activities

PROGRAM STRUCTURE (8 Weeks)

Week 1: Introduction — Awareness & Presence

• What is “Strength Through Nature”

• Intro to focus + awareness

• Simple grounding exercises

Skill tie-in: handling gear, basic knots (focus + patience)

Week 2: Focus & Patience

• Attention vs distraction

• Practicing slowing down

Activity: casting drills (repetition + control)

Week 3: Frustration & Emotional Regulation

• What happens when things don’t work

• Tools to reset (breathing, pause, reframing)

Activity: casting challenges / “miss & reset”

Week 4: Confidence Through Skill-Building

• Confidence = earned, not given

• Tracking small wins

Activity: accuracy games, progression milestones

Week 5: Resilience & Problem-Solving

• Adapting when conditions change

• Trying again with new approach

Activity: mock “real scenarios” (wind, obstacles, etc.)

Week 6: Peer Connection & Leadership

• Encouraging others

• Working as a group

Activity: partner challenges, peer coaching

Week 7 (optional): Preparation for Water Day

• Safety

• What to expect

• Responsibility + awareness

Week 8: On-the-Water Experience (Capstone)

• Apply everything:

  • Focus

  • Patience

  • Emotional regulation

  • Confidence