Sunday, May 15, 2011

May 2011 Book and Activity

Since the nice weather is finally here in most parts of the country, it's time to get outside and enjoy it! There is no better time to teach the kids about nature and their surroundings. This month I would like to recommend the book "Fun With Nature"- a take-along guide, published by NorthWood Press, Minnesota. There are 6 chapters in this book, each written by a different author. Illustrations are by Linda Garrow. It covers the topics of Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies, Snakes, Salamanders and Lizards, Frogs, Toads and Turtles, Tracks, Scats and Signs, Rabbits, Squirrels and Chipmunks, and finally Trees, Leaves and Bark. It is a wonderful reference book, specifically written for adults who needs accurate information to answer kid's questions.

Activity:Scavenger Hunt  NOTE: CHILDREN SHOULD NEVER TAKE A NATURE WALK WITHOUT AN ADULT!

When you get this book, choose the next good weather day to go exploring. You can use, your backyard, neighborhood, park, pond, stream or woods. Decide before you go on what things you will look for, based on the child's interest and age. Use some blank paper to create a journal. A good list might be:
a feather
a leaf
3 different plants
a rock with more than one color
moss
an animal sighting
a stick shaped like the letter Y
a seed
hearing a bird's song
something you think is interesting

The items can be brought home for further study or left in place. Each should be drawn or written about in the journal (children can dictate to the adult). Make sure to include date and location where the items were found. Change your list every time you go and try to take a few walks during the summer to see how things change. Get out and enjoy!

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