Did you watch the The Story of the Six Suns over in our storytelling sections and feel inspired to make and shoot your own bow and arrow? Well now you get the chance to do just that!
For this activity you'll need a freshly cut straight piece of wood (preferably Hazel or Willow) and 2 lengths of string (about 1-2m each).
Join Danny as he guides you through some simple steps to help you on your journey to becoming an apprentice archer!
Whilst using this nature activity to inspire learning, know you are helping you and your family's wellbeing like this:
1) Get Active - Take yourself outdoors to source your resources while they are growing fresh and pliable.
2) Keep Learning - Use this activity to help you learn how to tie different knots to secure your bow. Learn the basics of shooting an arrow straight so that it will fly. Set yourself up with a safe environment for shooting arrows - eg against a wide high wall (not a fence the they might fly over and hurt someone or damage property or near windows) and set up a target (as simple as a piece of paper with areas marked out or draw one on sensibly with chalk that can wash off in the rain). Hone your skills and aim over time with practice. If you like you can begin close to the target and then slowly increase your distance away.
3) Be Mindful - arrows shot from any bow can hurt, even toy ones, only take aim and shoot at the targets. Consider carefully where they are set up and be considerate of those around you. Consider how you might feel if an arrow flew over your fence and hurt your family or pet, empathy and compassion can help lead us to understanding and then acting more considerately of others.
4) Practice Kindness - Learning to shoot with a bow is not always the easiest of things and some may find it harder than others. It doesn't have to be a game of who hits the target the most, being kind and giving praise at all stages of the learning process can encourage and boost confidence and self-worth.
5) Think Community -share any tips in the comments below or show us your final bows with a picture - did you decorate or personalise yours? - we'd love to find out.
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