While I may not be the most adventurous soul when it comes to the great outdoors—camping is definitely not on my agenda, and my idea of a long hike is anything longer than a quick stroll—I still possess a deep appreciation for nature. I find myself captivated by stunning sunsets and can easily spend ages observing a caterpillar meandering along a branch.
In spite of my limited enthusiasm for outdoor activities, I’ve successfully nurtured a similar love for the natural world in my two boys. Just this past week, we’ve been fascinated by a snail that has made its home on our front porch. Initially, it was hanging out near the door frame, but over the course of a few days, it has made its way up to the top of the door. My kids were overjoyed this morning to see it inching its way toward the potted plants. Even my 9-year-old, who usually rolls his eyes at anything juvenile, was fully engaged in tracking our little snail friend. When my younger son reached out to touch it, his older brother admonished him, saying, “Be gentle with it!” This moment warmed my heart, especially since he can be quite rough with his sibling when it comes to playtime.
I realized that there are straightforward, uncomplicated ways I’ve encouraged this love for nature over the years. Most of these activities took place during their preschool years, but the habits we formed then have continued to thrive. Here are some effective strategies:
- Explore Bugs Up Close.
While I might avoid certain critters, we’ve spent countless hours observing ladybugs, butterflies, and ants. Watching these fascinating creatures can spark curiosity and wonder in kids. - Engage in Gardening.
I’m no gardening expert, but every spring, we plant easy-to-grow flowers like marigolds and sunflowers. My children love witnessing their growth and blooming each year, and even if some plants don’t survive, it provides a valuable lesson about life cycles. - Appreciate Sunsets and Rainbows.
We’ve instilled in our children the idea that witnessing a spectacular sunset or spotting a rainbow is a moment worth celebrating. They eagerly call out to us when they see either, filled with excitement. - Encourage Play in the Dirt.
Initially, I was horrified when my first son crawled through the dirt at a park. However, I soon realized that exploration was far more important than cleanliness. Plus, a little dirt can be beneficial for their immune systems. - Read Books About Nature.
We’ve borrowed books about everything from potato bugs to the planets, and some have become so loved they’re nearly falling apart. These stories help connect the outdoor experiences with the knowledge gained from reading. - Go Fruit Picking.
While we’ve been remiss in this activity lately, there’s nothing quite like showing kids the origins of their food. They tend to enjoy eating much more when they’ve picked it themselves. - Create a Moon Appreciation Group.
My kids are passionate about the moon. We track its phases throughout the month, and their enthusiasm is infectious, often leading to delightful moments of discovery. - Let Them Splash in Puddles.
While I might not relish being outdoors in the rain, my kids view it as an opportunity for play. I strive to let them enjoy those moments, as childhood is fleeting, and they won’t always find joy in splashing through puddles. - Collect Natural Treasures.
Children love to gather items from the ground. My boys collected everything from twigs to acorns, and I fondly remember my purse being filled with their finds—except for the items best left alone, of course! - Allow Free Exploration in Safe Spaces.
When I asked my son what contributed to his love of nature, he mentioned how much he enjoys running freely in parks without playgrounds. There’s something incredibly enriching about letting kids roam in open spaces where they can explore at their own pace.
While I may not be raising a future Thoreau, I’m thrilled that my children appreciate the natural world. It fosters a sense of responsibility towards our planet and cultivates their intelligence, compassion, and respect for all living beings.
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Summary
Encouraging a love for nature in children can be achieved through simple, engaging activities that promote exploration and curiosity. By fostering an appreciation for the environment, parents can help their children become more compassionate and responsible individuals.