Unity Around the Fire

Direct contact with the flora and fauna, working together in the boats, and dealing with constantly changing weather conditions create a wealth of experiences.

Every participant reaches their limits at least once. Too cold, too wet, too hungry, too exhausted. Or: not enough willingness to work hard in their own boat, not enough teamwork when carrying the boat over the weirs or setting up the yurt. Maybe even a spider in the boat or, in the evening, that old friend «homesickness» … Everyone has their own unique point where their comfort zone shrinks and they feel overwhelmed. It’s good when the rest of the group can keep spirits high and radiate confidence. The fact that the community sticks together and gives me the time to regain my footing when I start to falter becomes just as much a certainty in life as the old saying: «After rain comes sunshine.»

None of this would be possible without the help of four to six parents, some of whom take time off work to accompany the trip. They make it possible to set up yurts, cook meals, and build fires—even in the rain—all at the same time. They also ensure that students receive the individual attention they need and that the supply bus can move on. For the parents, in addition to the experiences described above, this offers the opportunity for a change of perspective. They are no longer responsible for their own child’s needs but instead take on a view of the class as a whole. What does the community need, and what guides and strengthens it? And for me, the conversations on the sidelines offer new perspectives on individual children, the class, the school, and my own work.

The heartwarming sense of unity that arises when everyone sits contentedly in a circle after a long day and shares their experiences is truly special. I find that trips like this deepen and strengthen our collaboration with parents. It also builds resilience in the face of future challenges. It’s wonderful when we succeed in creating special experiences for our students through this form of collaboration at our schools and in strengthening our sense of community.