Wild Child: Noticing and sharing what we see

“I crossed the creek using the logs!” “I found a a stick with a bulge!” “I played in squishy mud!” “I built a dam!”

Fall is the perfect time to head outside and notice the changes. For little ones who may not remember last year, each day is a new treasure hunt filled with surprises. What is an acorn? A Jewel-weed pod? Why are some leaves red, orange, yellow, brown? What is that tiny red and black fuzzy caterpillar curled under the leaves? What are the squirrels doing? Look at the purple, yellow, white flowers!

For older children remembering the fun of last year, and rediscovering those changes with more understanding is just as exciting.

It is wonderful to step into the magic and see the changing world through your child’s eyes.

All those changes also give you a chance to share new and familiar words. You child will learn from you how to use words to describe what they see, and be able to ask more specific questions to learn new words.

When you hear: What’s that?

Try: Can you tell me more? What colour do I see? Am I looking at something big or something small?

If your child can’t describe yet try suggesting describing words.

Try: Am I looking at something green? Am I looking at something flying? Am I hearing a noise like a siren?

When you see something interesting model describing it. “I see a big green tree” “I see something yellow”.

Later talk about your finds and adventures with other family members. You will help your little one strengthen those special memories and empower them with the words to share what is important to them.

Written by Tandy Morton, Wild Child Outdoor Playgroup facilitator