• Building a shelter using the materials that are on hand is a valuable skill for anyone who spends time camping or hiking. Teaching young people to build shelters can give them confidence and help build their self esteem. After you've taught a number of shelter-building skills, it's fun to challenge the youths to a shelter-building game so they can show off their new skills.
  
  

Lean-to Race

• In a lean-to race, participating youths are divided into two teams, and they compete to see who can build a sturdy lean-to structure in the least amount of time. The competition may take place in the wilderness where the youths will have to scavenge for materials, or you can provide materials and allow them to just focus on building the lean-to.
  
  A proper lean-to uses two large sticks, each with a Y-shaped branch junction at the end. Work these into the ground, so the "Y" end is straight up. Ideally, each stick will extend into the ground at least a foot, with at least three feet protruding aboveground. Place a long, sturdy, straight stick across the top, using the Y-shaped ends to hold it securely. Next, drive long branches into the ground about four feet behind the structure and then lean them against the top pole. If possible lash them to the top pole. Finally, use pine boughs, grasses and large leaves to cover the leaning branches to keep out rain.
  
  In the lean-to race, judge the teams primarily based on how quickly they build their lean-tos, but give bonus points for quality.
  
  

Snow Cave Countdown

• In a snowy area, invite two or more teams of youths to build a snow cave shelter. Give them a set amount of time---at least three hours---to build the biggest and sturdiest snow cave possible. At the end of the given time, examine the snow caves and declare the best one the winner.
  
  Build the snow caves in an area that is safe from avalanches. A safe snow cave is at least four feet in height, and so each team must find an area where they can dig out a snow cave of this size. For safety, they should mark the roof with ski poles or another obvious marker. The youths should dig the snow out through a door that is two or two-and-a-half feet in diameter, forming a self-supporting dome shape as they go. When finished, the interior of the snow cave will be much the same shape as an igloo.
  
  A snow cave's stability depends on its dome shape, its thick walls, and a cold temperature. Make sure it is 34 degrees or colder out when holding this contest, or the snow may become wet and heavy enough to collapse. The teams should each check the thickness of their snow cave walls at regular intervals. Walls near the bottom of the caves must be at least two to three feet thick. No wall or any part of the ceiling should be thinner than 18 inches. This tapering in thickness makes it possible for the walls to support the ceiling. The finished snow cave should have ventilation holes and a sleeping floor that is higher than the door. Proper ventilation is crucial for a safe snow cave.
  
  

Improvised Shelter Competition

• In this competition, each team of youths receives a number of materials. Possible options include ponchos, a parachute, a tarp and small hatchets. Host this competition in a wilderness area where there are possibly natural formations that can provide shelter. Give each team a time limit, and explain clearly the boundaries that they can work in. In the given time, they must locate a good area to build a shelter and construct one that will protect them from the elements, including high sun, strong winds or heavy rains. Judge each shelter on how well it meets these requirements.