Young children learn through their senses. Following weather patterns and seasons changing is a great way to play and learn with your child. They can experience what’s happening all around them.
Nature-based experiences can introduce new vocabulary related to the natural world, such as different types of trees, animals and weather patterns. Observing and describing things in the natural world encourages language development and communication.
When children go on nature walks and are able to listen, touch, see and smell while they explore, they are using their senses as they play and learn. Nature provides a rich, sensory learning environment that stimulates all the senses, encouraging exploration and fostering a deep connection with the natural world.
Nature and Play
Nature Walk
Explore local parks and trails, paying attention to the sounds, smells, and textures of the environment. Exploring nature's elements like rocks, leaves, and water encourages experimentation and critical thinking. The natural world is full of wonder and possibilities, sparking children's curiosity and imagination. Unstructured play in nature allows children to freely explore their ideas and create their own scenarios.
Other Benefits
Outdoor play and interaction with nature can reduce stress and anxiety. Collaborative play in nature promotes social skills, including communication, turn-taking, and sharing.
Nature-based activities like climbing trees, digging in the dirt, and using natural materials to build structures help develop fine and gross motor skills. These activities also enhance balance, coordination, and agility.
Book Recommendations
Song and Movement Activities
Flower song
Try this fun flower song to the tune (or you can chant) to: “The Farmer in the Dell.”
Grown-ups, you can also create hand and finger movements when there’s an action! (Ex: pretend to dig a hole with your hands, plant seeds, rain falls with your fingers, etc.)
The gardener digs a hole.
The gardener digs a hole.
Hi, ho the Derry-O,
The gardener digs a hole.
Continue the song:
The gardener plants the seeds.
The rain begins to fall.
The sun begins to shine.
The plants begin to grow.
The flowers smile at us!
Activity at home: “Dot” the Letter
This art and sound activity is a fun way to support letter knowledge.
Materials: Any kind of paper, dot markers or dot stickers
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The adult helps draw a large letter of the child’s first name and makes the letter sounds in the child's name.
- For example: Write an L for Lauren. What does L sound like?
- The child chooses to either use dot markers or dot stickers to outline the letter.
- Bonus: Encouraging children to do the “dotting” on their own strengthens their fine motor skills.
Interested in more STEAM for ages 2-5? Check out the Little Explorers program and other children's literacy programs.
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