Get Outside

Where I live in the UK, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining for longer, and the fields are green.  It is a wonderful time to connect with nature.  Exploring the natural world helps children develop valuable skills and values. Here are some activities to get children outside and exploring!

Your Child as the Tour Guide

Skills: Map Reading, Navigation, Oral Speaking, Storytelling, etc.

Values: Adventure, Leadership, Determination, Creativity, etc.

• Choose a location with a map and some trail markers, if possible.

• Give your child the map and have them point out various things on the walk.

• Let them be creative; don’t worry about accuracy - just don’t get lost!

Bug Hunt

Skills: Observation, Fine-motor skills, Paying Attention, etc.

Values: Curiosity, Compassion, Attentive, Collaboration, etc.

• A great activity even for your own garden.  If you do this in a public space, make sure your eager children don’t damage the area!

• You can bring small, clear containers to collect bugs for observation, remember to release them after they have been observed.

• If you have a magnifying glass, this will add to the exploration. You can also make a look alike from cardboard!

  
  

Gardening

Skills: Planting, Fine-motor skills, Researching, Reading, etc.

Values: Collaboration, Respect, Service, Creativity, etc.

• Plant flowers, start a vegetable patch, or add herbs to a windowsill.

• Let your child(ren) get hands-on and dirty - so make sure you have the time/space before getting started!

• Turn this experience into a transdisciplinary experience

  by using this 4 Act Quest to guide your child in transforming a space in your home or garden with a focus on nature.

Being outside provides so many opportunities for learning that are fun and engaging for young children. Taking the time to explore household plants, your garden, a local park or a new hiking trail are all valuable. Allow your child to ask questions, make mistakes and build an appreciation for nature. It is a key part of being a thoughtful human.

I would love to hear your outdoor experiences and activity ideas, please share in the comments.