Contact/About

Our Mission

Our son Liam amazed us. When we brought him on a hike as a 4 year old, we didn't know what to expect. Would he
be fearful? Would he get tired? To our surprise and delight he loved it! Rocks were better than play structures, rivers
cried for stones, and every tree had an interesting story. He couldn't wait for the next hike. He even loved preparing
and packing as a family. More amazing still was the similar reaction from his friends. Seems that the outdoors is
"Naturally Fun" for kids! Plus, it's great exercise, builds confidence and is truly calming. Indeed, kids have a strong
natural attraction to the outdoors.

But kids aren't getting out. "Nature Deficit Disorder" is the phrase used by author Richard Louv's for the problems
associated with kids' disconnection from nature. His group Children and Nature Network) cites disappearing wooded
areas, extended TV time, hyper-stimulating screen games, and hectic scheduling are among the causes. Many
parents simply don't know where to begin.

BSKO believes that many parents want to get out into nature with their kids. By providing a few simple tools, we aim
to open the door to great family experiences and healthy, grounded kids. We want to share the happiness we saw in
Liam. Our goal is to provide:

* Free, easy to join weekly hikes
* Guidelines to help parents make hikes safe and fun
* Training on technical skills for more advanced hikes
* Connections with other organizations that offer complementary services
* Easy access to information about hiking in the region.

Our hope is that once kids and parents get started, they'll move forward independently and spread the word to other
families.

BSKO Team

Brian McBride
An avid Hiker since his childhood in Berkshire County, Brian started leading hikes with the Bates Outing Club in
college. He's hiked the Himalayas, in Borneo and throughout New England. Inspired by Liam's experience, he
founded BSKO. He's a graduate of Appalachian Mountain Club's Mountain Leadership School and has Wilderness
Medical Associated Wilderness First Responder certification. Contact

Lucy Conroy
A graduate of Harvard's Graduate School of Education and a middle school teacher, Lucy is a recent convert to
hiking. Her connection with kids and nature began with years spent as a teacher at the Outward Bound inspired
Harbor School of Expeditionary Learning.

Seeking Naturalist Volunteer
Seeking volunteer to enhance our trips with insights on natural history, geology and botany. Looking for individual
with past experience working with groups of children and will to join hikes on occasion