Wild Child: Nature's storystarters

Did you have a collection as a child? I collected shells and my children have a collection of special rocks and sticks. Do you notice your child starting to collect special items as you explore? An acorn or flower or maybe a special leaf? Collecting things seems to come naturally to children of all ages, and they are an amazing opportunity for learning and growing together.

Collections of treasures give us a chance to help little ones learn new words and how to explain their adventures. You can describe the treasure: rough, round, smooth, bumpy, brittle. You can talk about feelings: happy, excited, tired, frustrated, proud. You can talk about time: last week, yesterday, this morning, at night, afternoon.

When we talk about what we did together, we building our relationship by sharing those common memories. We also practice using our vocabulary and explaining stories using concepts like when and where and how.

Next time you head outside notice the treasures your child is drawn too, and use the opportunity to share the words that help them tell their story. Then notice as they repeat those words to everyone they meet.

Tip: If you don’t want a collection of natural objects in your home a good alternative can be taking a picture together (especially if your child loves bugs and mini creatures). Pictures also allow your child to retell their experience.

Written by Tandy Morton, Wild Child Outdoor Playgroup Facilitator