Kids and nature make a perfect combination for summer learning and fun. Wherever you live, nature is always near. There are entire worlds to discover around the trees in your yard. You can also explore the carpet of grass or beneath that pile of rocks.
With school vacations rapidly approaching, you may already be thinking of ways to keep your children busy. Well, how about setting up your own Nature Camp! Moreover, an appreciation of nature will stay with children forever. It teaches them the importance of caring for the environment and all living things, including themselves.
Top Nature Activities for Kids
Spring and summer nature activities with your child could be simple or complex. For instance, they could be as easy as a daily walk around the block. Alternatively, they could be as involved as starting your own backyard wildlife preserve. Popular options include various outdoor adventures that connect kids and nature.
Simple Nature Activities to Try
Here are some engaging ways to connect kids and nature through hands-on exploration:
- Nature walks and wildlife watching – Take a stroll through the woods or nearby meadow. Observe and gather interesting items along the way. Additionally, spend time watching ants, earthworms, caterpillars or butterflies. Take evening walks to look for fireflies and bats. Listen to crickets and frogs creating nature’s symphony.
- Collecting natural treasures – Very young children love collecting rocks, feathers, flowers, shells and leaves. See how many different types, colors, shapes or sizes they can find. Meanwhile, older children might start pressed leaf or flower collections. They can also capture insects for identification and observation.
- Wildlife spotting adventures – Note different species of birds during your walks. Look for other wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits or deer. Create a nature journal to record discoveries and observations from each outing.
Butterfly Life Cycle Projects
Consider raising butterflies or moths from caterpillars. Note how they grow and change in a nature journal. Alternatively, document the process through photographs to create a scrapbook. When they’re ready to be released, let the child experience the wonder. They can connect with nature as their fluttering friends fly free.
Creating Wildlife Gardens
A more extensive nature activity involves planning and planting a wildlife garden. Help your child design a whole garden devoted to attracting wildlife. Plant trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals that attract birds and butterflies. Include hummingbird-friendly plants for added excitement.
Additionally, install bird feeders, bird houses and bird baths throughout the space. This creates a miniature wildlife refuge that you and your child can enjoy for years. These projects strengthen the relationship between kids and nature through active participation.
Benefits of Nature Activities
Nature activities provide numerous benefits for children’s development. First, they improve observation skills and scientific thinking. Second, they build patience and appreciation for living things. Third, outdoor activities promote physical health and reduce screen time.
Getting Started with Your Nature Camp
We’ll be delighted to help you and your future naturalist get started. We can help you select plants suitable for a wildlife garden. We can also assist with planning a backyard refuge. Furthermore, we’re available to identify flowers or leaves collected on your nature walks.
So, what are you waiting for? Make the most of this spring with a child. Go back to nature and discover the amazing world waiting just outside your door!
