HOME	Los Angeles County Outdoor Science School at Wrightwood

TIPS ON PREPARING STUDENTS FOR OUTDOOR SCIENCE SCHOOL

CONDITIONING-

Two out of the three sites are at mountain elevations and the terrain is rigorous. Students should easily be able to walk one mile

The better fitness level of your students, the more they will enjoy OSS

HOMESICKNESS-

Prepare students for the possibility of homesickness. Let them know it is natural to miss home

Do not promise students they can call home or go home midweek if homesickness persists

Encourage students to bring pre-addressed and pre-stamped envelopes to write home (great cure for homesickness)

99% of all students are able to deal successfully with being away from home

BED WETTING

This is a common problem. Usually there is at least one student per week dealing with this problem

Work with parents and child to reduce chances of embarrassment. Have child bring absorbent underwear.

CLOTHING

Please discuss proper clothing prior to attending OSS! Long pants all the way to the ankle, and close toed shoes are important.

Mountain climate is very different from the Los Angeles Basin. Be prepared for winter weather November – April.

Sunscreen ... bring sunscreen!

Lip protection is very important. Lip balm & Chapstick is a must!

Advise students to pack old clothing they don’t mind getting dirty

Follow weather a week prior to your visit to best advise students on what they should pack

WARM WEATHER

When warm weather is expected, light-weight long pants should be encouraged. This protect legs from scratches, bug bites, and more comfortable when sitting on the forest floor

COOL WEATHER

Students should have clothing which can be layered for warmth

Warm Jack

Broken in warm boots and shoes. This will avoid blisters and keep feet warm

Warm hat, gloves, scarf, and EXTRA SOCKS

WATER BOTTLE

All students must bring their own water bottle that can be reused and filled through out the week. The ensure hydration and the happiness of the student.

ATTITUDE

Prepare your students for a learning environment. They will have many opportunities to have fun, but learning is the main focus of the week. AVOID USING THE WORD CAMP, and use the word SCHOOL describing Outdoor Science SCHOOL

FOR A MS WORD DOCUMENT VERSION OF THIS PAGE, CLICK HERE