STEP OUTSIDE® with Mom on Mother's Day
NEWTOWN, Conn.—Mother's Day is this weekend, and for those last-minute shoppers looking for a gift, the great outdoors might have the perfect treat for Mom and the family.
Spring turkey hunting seasons are in full bloom in many states, and a number of fishing seasons are under way as well. Or, perhaps Mom might like to spend the day target shooting at the local range.
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A printable "STEP OUTSIDE Gift Certificate" for moms is available from the STEP OUTSIDE site.
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The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s STEP OUTSIDE® program is encouraging outdoor enthusiasts and families to give moms across the nation a Mother's Day to remember this weekend.
"Many mothers would be delighted to receive an invitation to spend a memorable day outdoors with their families," said Melissa Schilling, NSSF manager of recruitment and retention. "Hunting, fishing and target shooting are all great ways to bring the family together."
A "STEP OUTSIDE Gift Certificate" for Mother's Day can be downloaded at www.stepoutside.org/gift_certificate.html and printed out as an outdoor invitation for moms.
For those who may be introducing a newcomer to an outdoor activity this Mother's Day, the STEP OUTSIDE program offers a few tips:
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Pick the right activity. There are many activities that take a day outdoors well beyond the routine hike. A day at a shooting range may be perfect for the whole family. To find a range near you, visit www.wheretoshoot.org. Spring turkey seasons are typically held in April and May. To find a specific state’s hunting seasons and regulations, visit www.huntinfo.org. Archery is another target sport that provides a thrill for newcomers. Fishing is an activity that anyone can enjoy.
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Keep it fun. Don’t get too serious or competitive. There’s no need to turn novices into pros on their first outing. It’s far more important to just have a good time.
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Instill safety standards, etiquette and ethics. By teaching safety and ethics you’ll be showing what sportsmen and sportswomen are all about. Your guests will be impressed and have a better experience through their understanding of proper conduct.
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Start with the basics. Make a conscious effort to explain and demonstrate step-by-step how to enjoy the selected activity. For example, show them how to mount a shotgun or hold the rod. Provide guidance so individuals feel comfortable doing these things on their own.
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Create instant success. Recognize small successes such as good stance or a smooth cast. These accomplishments should be applauded. Hitting the target or catching a fish is always a bonus and helps them appreciate the experience even more.
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Be positive. If you build your guests’ self-esteem and confidence as they progress, it is more likely they’ll enjoy outdoor activities and want to go again. A well-timed compliment can go a long way.
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Share your love of the outdoors. Help your guests notice things around them. Stop and listen to birdcalls and sounds of a rushing stream. Draw their attention to signs of wildlife. Help them understand the important role that outdoor enthusiasts play in the conservation of these precious resources.
Since its inception, STEP OUTSIDE has helped introduce thousands to target shooting, hunting, fishing and archery by encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to invite others to share in their outdoor experiences. The program has assisted state fish and wildlife agencies, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, hunting clubs and conservation organizations in providing first-time experiences for newcomers through grants, workshops and other sponsored events. Learn more at www.stepoutside.org.
