Wild Child: Intentionally Noticing Seasonal Changes

Autumn slowly ending and winter is starting to arrive. Everyday is different. Some days are warm and puddly, some are cool with frost or light snow. It’s the perfect chance to head outside and search for something new with your child each day.

• What is different from yesterday?

• Can you notice nests in trees that were hidden before? (those big bundles of leaves in trees are old squirrel nests)

• Can you find a new shape of leaf? Which tree did it fall from?

To extend the fun, find a way to preserve the memory so you can look back together at what you discovered.

You can create a collaborative Nature Journal where you draw, write, take rubbings, or stick your finds. Any notebook works.

Use a big piece of cardboard from a box and create a memory mural. After each adventure draw or stick something you found to the cardboard. You can add insights or experiences in marker or crayon.

Take pictures together. If you are comfortable letting your little one record their memories using a camera this is a priceless way to capture the world as they see it. Turn the pictures into a digital gallery and look through them together or print them and create a memory book.

Create a collection. Does your child have a favourite nature item? Maybe sticks? Snail shells? Leaves? Rocks? Something else. Try to find one of those items on each adventure. Just remember not to pick or take any living things. (Management tip: having a basket or other container for these items to live in can help keep them from spreading around your home).

Don’t miss the fun, if you don’t see it today it may be gone tomorrow.

Written by Tandy Morton, Wild Child Outdoor Playgroup facilitator