I’m going to let you in on a little secret…exploring the natural world doesn’t require a trip to a faraway forest or park. A simple nature walk along the sidewalk can be a magical adventure for young children, filled with opportunities for discovery and learning!
Before you set off on your sidewalk adventure here are a few things you may want to bring:
-Notebook/paper and crayons: This is great for stopping to draw or write about what they see. (These are my favorite crayons to take outside. As a kindergarten teacher, I love that they come in their own little case and each crayon has its own little home to snap into. It really helps children keep track of their crayons. Plus they color beautifully!!
–Magnifying glass: you can use a traditional one with a handle or a built-in one like the kind in a bug catcher. ( I use the ones linked and have had great success with young learners!)
-Water bottle and Snack: don’t mean to state the obvious but staying hydrated is important and snacks are always a good idea!
-Hats and Sunscreen: sunny days are great and so is great skin protection.
–Nature Guide: this may come in handy if your learner has some questions they would like to research or look up on their own. This is a great book that is easy to bring along and has great illustrations!
Now pack up your supplies, find the closest sidewalk, and just walk, easy as that. Or if you can’t go very far just sit right outside your living space. One little slice of concrete will do. Just take a seat or stand whichever is most comfortable and watch! You will be surprised to see what comes along the little stretch of concrete. From insects to shadows to the rocks and bumps there is something to observe on that little patch of hard earth. Next, just take a breath and enjoy the fresh air, see where this time take you and your scientist.
Here are a few things more things you can look for on or off your sidewalk:
-Insects (grasshoppers, flies, bumblebees, beetles, butterflies, and ladybugs)
-Flowers (try looking for the Natives too!)
-Rocks: you can look for different sizes, textures, and patterns
-Weather: observe the sky, movement of the clouds, and temperature in different places
Well scientist I hope you have a lovely time exploring the concrete nearest you and I can’t wait to hear and see what you all find!
