Whether it’s a crisp day in fall or a sunny day in spring, it’s always a good time for a nature walk! Nature walks are a wonderful way for kids to practice curiosity, mindfulness, and play outdoors. Not to mention, they can be a fun way to fit in a bit of exercise! Here are 5 activities to do on your nature walk to keep your kids endlessly entertained.
Bird Watching
There’s a reason bird-watching is so popular… in part because it’s so easy! With just a field guide and a trusty pair of binoculars, you can jump into the wonderful world of birding; no experience required!
This Observation Checklist is a great resource you can print and throw in your backpack the next time you and your little ones go for a walk. But beware! You might accidentally create a budding ornithologist in the process.
Want to help your kids recognize everyday birds? Try my North American Bird Flashcards! A pocket-sized resource for every birding adventure.
Log Flipping
Is there anything more secretive than a log? These moss-covered installments might look unassuming, but they could be your ticket for a memorable adventure. Logs house a collection of cool critters underneath them, from salamanders and frogs to centipedes and beetles. Flip a few logs during your next walk and discover what life is underneath.
A few tips for your next log flip:
Use your shoes, not your hands
Roll the log towards you
After investigating, roll the log back to its original place. The critters underneath will thank you!
Nature Collage
Is nature art? One stroll in the woods will probably leave you thinking…yes! A nature collage lets your little ones flex their creativity while exploring items in nature. Take a bag with you on your next walk and let your kids fill it with anything that makes them go, “Wow!” When you return home, watch them turn their materials into an amazing art project.
Scavenger Hunt
There’s no better place for a scavenger hunt than the great outdoors. An endless array of sights, sounds, and textures provides an all-in experience for the senses. I created this Bundle Pack of Scavenger Hunts so that you can enjoy them year-round, but you can also use this free one to get started. Happy hunting!
Gather natural dyes
Natural dyes are colors sourced from materials in nature. They are a terrific art medium for kids, as the lack of chemicals makes them a safer way to create and play. Kids can forage for materials in the woods, like flowers and berries, then take their ingredients home to smash, grind and steep their colors to life. With just an added dash of honey, they’ll be left with a wonderful array of colors, made au naturel.
Print out my Paint-by-Nature instructions before your walk for a list of natural dyes. You can use the free honeybee canvas too!
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