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Being outside is not seasonal. Let that set in. Being outside in nature is a year round experience you get to give your family. From season to season, rain, snow or sunshine, there is always something new, something to explore and share with your children. To make your next nature walk a success, be sure you are dressed for the weather, have snacks packed, and have a nature backpack for kids.
Having a backpack dedicated to exploring nature, packed and ready will support your family to be present while on hikes or nature walks. Give your trip to the metro park purpose or focus. When you have a nature backpack for kids, you have the best classroom or science lab at your family’s disposal. Whether you are homeschooling your child, or want to have a weekend adventure, remember to have your nature backpack in hand.
A complete nature backpack with have the following items –
- Nature Journal – Write down the date of your nature walk. Have your children write or draw what they see. Ask them what is different from one adventure to the next – What did the trees look like? What did the air feel like? What animals did you see? How did you feel on this trip?
- Writing Utensils (pencils, pens, colored pencils, and a sharpener) – have these available for your child to take notes, draw a picture, or make a leaf rubbing
- Tape – to add nature items to the journal
- Multipurpose Tool – to cut things or to possibly widdle
- Plastic baggies – to collect pieces of nature that are not flat
- Binoculars – to explore birds or other animals at a safe distance
- Magnifying glasses – to get up close and personal with small creatures and plants
- Handheld microscope – to get a really close view on interesting items found
- A small first aid kit – because kids (you know it’s true)
Once your nature backpack for kids is packed, keep it near the door for homeschooling field trips, neighborhood walks, or trips to the park. Tailor what is in your nature backpack based on what your children are interested in or learning about in school. Doing a tree study unit? Research parks for tree treks! Studying local flora and fauna? Add a state field guide. If you are looking for ways to integrate content areas, use your nature journal to compare and contrast what you have seen at different times of year and discuss similarities and differences.
Your children won’t remember the things that they get. They will remember the time and experiences you give them. With a nature backpack for kids, you are giving your family the freedom to explore the world around them, and really get in and interact with nature. Giving them the opportunity to be outside, no matter what the weather, will support them to be curious, life long learners. So, as Ms. Frizzle would say, “Take chances, make mistakes, get messy!”
What is the weather like where you are right now? Where are you wanting to adventure with your kids and their nature backpacks first? Let me know in the comments!
Until Next Time – Truly Love,
Cassie
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