By February, you might feel as if you simply can’t stand one more second of winter, especially when the beautiful magic of holiday snow has given way to muddy slush and never-ending darkness. Don’t despair, though! Even when winter refuses to relinquish its icy grip, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. As a matter of fact, winter brings unique opportunities for connecting with nature that are not available in the warmer months – opportunities that will help your children appreciate the natural world even when it’s less than ideal. So while waiting for spring to make an appearance, use the ideas below to get out of hibernation mode and into discovery mode! (Psst…your comfy blanket and hot drink will be waiting for you afterwards!)
Snowy playground
While snow can be a bit of a headache (gotta keep that driveway shoveled!), the white fluffy stuff also offers a free playground of possibilities. Bundle up with your kids for an afternoon building snow forts, a snowman family, or unique snow sculptures. Ask your kids to create a game that involves snowballs then challenge the whole family to compete. And what snowy day wouldn’t be complete without sledding? If you have a hill near your home, have your children experiment with various “sleds.” What works best – a kitchen tray, garbage can lid, cardboard box, etc? These activities not only spark creativity, but are also great ways to get in some physical exercise!
Who’s been here?
If you think wildlife is sparse during the cold months of winter, think again! There are plenty of critters out and about, leaving evidence behind for us to find. Head to a natural area the afternoon after a snowfall for a footprint hunt. The area around creeks and other water sources are excellent places to look. Critters that came out during the night and early morning in search of food and water will leave easy to find trails. Search online for free guides to help your children identify the tracks they discover.
Frosty delights
When temperatures plummet, a world of icy magic appears! Explore the mesmerizing world of these frosty formations by taking a walk to observe intricate frost patterns on surfaces, study the formation of icicles, or explore frozen ponds (safely from the bank!). Have your child take close up photos of their ice discoveries for a winter-inspired art project. When you get home, grab a cup of hot chocolate and watch educational videos about the science of ice and crystal formation.
Winter wonder walk
Grab your boots and head outside for a winter wonder walk. Even if you don’t have pretty snow or twinkling ice, there is a lot to admire! Encourage your children to meander slowly and purposefully, taking in all the sights and sounds around them. Compare the buds of various trees (they’re promises of spring to come!), count the number of used bird nests now visible, search for nibbled walnut shells, tune into the chattering of a squirrel, etc. The goal with a wonder walk is to soak up everything around you – not cover a certain number of miles. So take your time and keep your eyes – and ears – peeled!
Window to the world
Help out our feathered friends while also enjoying some indoor nature study by hanging bird feeders outside a window. Sunflower seeds and suet cakes are among birds’ favorite treats because they provide much needed energy on cold days. Your children can also make simple feeders from pinecones, peanut butter, and seeds. Keep binoculars and a bird identification guide near the window so your children can observe and ID their visitors. Don’t be surprised if a squirrel, chipmunk, or other critter stops by too!
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Living in an urban environment often means concrete jungles, tall buildings, and bustling streets. But even in such settings, there are a plethora of opportunities to immerse children in the magic of nature. So if you live in the city, check out these 10 ways you can cultivate a child’s love for nature without venturing far from home!
Nature Connection
I want you to take the word “study” out of nature study, crumple it up into a ball, and toss it over your shoulder. Now replace it with the word “connection.” Nature connection!
This simple word switch will change your mindset AND how you approach nature study – nature connection – with your child.
