BRANCHING OUT: Fun ways to share nature with children

Heidi Bloebaum | Victoria County Master Gardener

Jun 24, 2024

Contributed photo

Contributed photo

In today’s world, many children spend the majority of their time inside, staring at screens and not connecting with nature. It is essential for children to learn about the environment and the importance of protecting it. Engaging children in fun, hands-on activities that allow them to discover and interact with nature in meaningful ways is one way to accomplish this awareness.

When I was an elementary school teacher, I discovered that taking my students on nature walks was one of the most enjoyable ways to share nature with them. Whether it’s a stroll along the beach, or a visit to a local park, walking in nature provides kids with the opportunity to observe plants, animals, and natural landscapes up close.

On walks we can encourage children to use their senses to fully engage with their surroundings. For example, they can listen to the birds singing, touch the rough bark of a tree, smell the fragrant flowers and describe the beauty they see.

Another activity that allows children to dig deep into nature is gardening.

Planting flowers and vegetables allows children to witness the growth process first hand. Next gardening helps them develop a sense of responsibility as they care for their plants.

It is important to get children involved in every step of the gardening process. Starting with planting seeds and watering plants to harvesting the fruits, vegetables and flowers. Gardening is a way they can learn about the life cycle of plants while also feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Scavenger hunts are a great way to make outdoor exploration exciting for children. Create a list of items for children to find. Think of items like pinecones, feathers, smooth rocsk, or leaves then ask them to describe the characteristics of each item. Next let them search for these treasures in nature.

Scavenger hunts encourage kids to pay attention to their surroundings, develop their observational skills, and learn about different elements of the natural world.

Organizing arts and crafts activities inspired by nature is a creative way to help kids learn about nature. Children can use twigs, leaves, flowers, and other natural elements to create stunning pieces of art, such as leaf rubbings, flower petal collages, or nature prints.

These activities not only nurture children’s creativity but also deepen their connection with the natural world by incorporating its materials into their artwork.

Birdwatching is another fun and educational way to share nature with children. Set up a bird feeder in your yard or visit a local bird sanctuary, and encourage children to observe and identify different bird species.

Provide them with a bird identification guide or binoculars to enhance their birdwatching experience. Kids will enjoy learning about the habits and behaviors of birds while developing a sense of appreciation for these winged creatures.

Camping is a classic outdoor activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. Gather around a campfire and introduce children to the wonders of stargazing. Teach them how to identify constellations, planets, and other celestial objects in the night sky. Share folklore associated with the stars and planets to spark their imagination and curiosity about the universe.

Sharing nature with children through fun, hands-on activities is a rewarding experience that can enrich their lives and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. By involving children in any or all of the above activities, we can instill in them a sense of wonder, curiosity, and stewardship toward the environment.

Let’s make it a priority to get the children in our lives outdoors where they can connect with nature. Also you will help them create lasting memories that will inspire them to protect and preserve our planet for future generations.

The Gardeners’ Dirt is written by members of the Victoria County Master Gardener Association, an educational outreach of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension – Victoria County

REFERENCES

TINY TRAVELER: Exploring the Great Outdoors: Fun Ways To Teach Kids About Nature

CHILD MIND INSTITUTE: Ideas for getting your kids into nature

BE OUTDOOORS: 10 backyard nature activities for children

TYLER TELEGRAPH: Greg Grant – The Earlier We Learn The Better