Exploring Nature

When we explore our surroundings, making intentional observations, we begin to see how we all impact one another whether we are human, animal, or plant. We start making connections, which leads to compassion and understanding.

Children don't usually need a reason to explore and discover. They are naturally curious and inquisitive. These lessons will cover the numerous benefits of being in nature and offer some advice on how to get the most out of the experience. 

Check out these articles, tips, and activities below!

Challenge:

Explore one new place! Make observations, journal about your experience, draw pictures, or simply enjoy being in the moment. If you have a GSLA Fledglings Club passport from a club meetup, record your experience in your book.

 

ACTIVITY: NATURE JOURNALING

Nature journaling is a process of recording your observations, questions, and descriptions of the nature you see around you. This can be done through writing, drawing, or even painting. Nature journaling is a great way to experience the outdoors. It’s easy, can be done from anywhere, and can be done in any way you like. Here’s how you do it!

Step 1. Gather materials

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All you need to journal is a paper and pencil, but if you like to do it often it could be fun to keep a notebook or sketchbook handy for your explorations. Some papers hold up to markers and watercolor paints better than others, so find the notebook that meets your individual needs. 

If you like to write, take along your favorite pen or pencil. If you like to color, be sure to grab your favorite coloring or painting supplies.  

Step 2. Pick a spot

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You don’t have to go outside to nature journal, but we certainly encourage you to! Find a comfortable spot near a window in your house, in your yard or garden, or anywhere else you happen to be. You’ll want a relatively quiet spot with several plants or animals, and without too many distractions.

Step 3. Watch

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Take a few minutes to simply observe your surroundings. Close your eyes. Look up. Look down. Touch the ground. Smell a flower.

Ask yourself questions as you look around. What do you hear? What plants or animals do you recognize? Which ones are unfamiliar to you? Are any interacting with each other? Do you see signs of the season or weather? 

Step 4. Record

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If you would like, write the date and where you are. Record your observations in your journal. Write about what your senses are picking up. Draw a picture of what you see. Pick a nearby plant and try to match the colors with your paints. 

The more often you nature journal, the more connections you will notice. You may see how a certain plant changes from one week to another. You may notice a new bird visiting your yard that wasn’t there a week ago. You may realize you have a favorite flower and decide plant one in your own yard. It’s impossible to number the potential discoveries you may make during your nature journaling adventures.