Nature Study for Toddlers

Nature Study for Toddlers
Nursery Age 1 Curriculum Suggestions
by Katrina Lybbert

Nature Study Overview

Toddlers are curious about the world around them. We can learn a lot from our little ones as we see their wonder in each of God's creations. It can be so refreshing to take time from our regular busy routines and get outside to enjoy nature. Nature shows us how much there is to be grateful for.

I have chosen 6 activities for each of the four seasons. You can choose one suggestion to use with whatever lesson you are on. As you may start the curriculum at a different season from another family, I felt it better to leave the actual lesson suggestion choice up to you. You can choose one of my suggestions, appropriate to the season, or you can come up with your own ideas.

Try to get outside as often as you can. The following suggestions only need doing once or twice per week. Talk with your toddler about all you see and do.

Suggestions for Autumn

go for a walk and crunch in the leaves.
collect leaves to bring home; then create a leaf picture to hang on the wall.
visit a pumpkin patch.
show your toddler a garden ready to harvest.
watch birds migrate.
take a walk near a small stream (keep toddler in arms reach).

Suggestions for Winter

set out a bird feeder; take your toddler out to check the feeder and look for birds.
discover your shadow on the snow (or sidewalk).
make footprints in the snow or look for animal tracks.
discover frost on the window.
look for icicles.
look at evergreen trees and contrast with deciduous trees.

Suggestions for Spring

splash in puddles.
take a walk and point out signs of spring.
look for blossom trees.
look for pussy willows.
visit a duck pond (keep toddler in arms reach).
set out a bird bath in addition to your bird feeder; watch for birds to return.

Suggestions for Summer

walk barefoot in the grass.
take a walk to look for flowers.
look for butterflies.
find a rainbow in your sprinkler or water from a garden hose.
look at the clouds.
point out different insects to your toddler.

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