MAKE a nature journal
Season: All Seasons
Time: 45 minutes
A nature journal is a fun way to encourage observation, reflection, and appreciation for the natural world.
Creating a nature journal can help children:
Develop empathy for the natural world
Practice observation, drawing, and writing skills
Notice changes in weather, plants, and animals
You Will Need:
2 pieces of 8.5”x 11” cardboard or cardstock
8 sheets of 8.5” x 11” paper
3 small envelopes
Glue stick
Scissors
Hole punch
20”-30” of yarn
Crayons or markers
A Song to Sing: Leaf or feather, rain or sun, with my journal, nature's fun.
What To Do:
Begin by describing what a nature journal is: a fun way to keep track of the what you see and hear when you observe nature closely. Explain that they’ll bring it on walks throughout the year to make entries.
Together with your child, gather the materials listed above to make a journal. Use cardboard for the front and back of the journal. Add sheets of paper between the pieces of cardboard. Punch three or more holes along one edge and lace yarn through the holes to bind the journal. Glue envelops to some pages for collecting objects. Encourage your child to decorate and personalize the cover of their journal.
Then take a short walk through your neighborhood or a local park. Encourage your child to look for interesting things that catch their eye - a leaf, an insect, a bird, etc. Ask guiding questions like: What color is it? How does it feel? Is it small or big? If they hear an animal sound, suggest that they write down what it sounds like. Together, think about what animal makes the sound and write that down too. If you see an animal, suggest drawing a picture and writing down the name of the animal.
Help your child take notes as she makes observations. They can draw a picture of what they observed and write a few sentences about it. If your child is too young to write, they can tell you their thoughts to write down.
Sing while you're journaling: "Leaf or feather, rain or sun, with my journal, nature's fun." As seasons change, continue this activity and help your child notice how the weather changes, animal behaviors change, leaves change, etc.
Reflection: Today in nature, I noticed...
After each journaling session, ask your child to share what they noticed outside that day. Did they learn the name of a new plant, animal, or type of cloud? This practice can foster mindfulness and appreciation for the natural world.
We hope you had fun together! Want to share? Snap a photo and share it with us on Instagram.