February Nature Fun for Kids

Even though January’s 31 days of backyard nature fun is over, it doesn’t mean I won’t be sharing plenty of simple ways to get outside in February and beyond. I’ve got a lot of new ideas coming your way this month. Consider today’s post a sneak peek of what’s ahead.

I know winter has been cold and brutal to more than a few of you so far. February might not be much better. Hang in there! Remember my motto for getting outside: Keep it simple and have fun!

1. Learn about snakes for Chinese New Year.
The Year of the Snake officially begins on Sun., Feb. 10. Plan some Chinese New Year nature activities for kids. Learn more about snakes, make a snake nature craft or go to see some live snakes at a local zoo or wildlife center.

2. Do some backyard bird watching.
This year’s Great Backyard Bird Count takes place Feb. 15-18, 2013. Go backyard bird watching for at least 15 minutes on one or more days of the event.

3. Set up a backyard weather station.
Measure rainfall, temperature and more with your own backyard weather station. If you’ve got snow, record levels with a ruler.

4. Make your own nature Valentine.
Our nature-inspired Valentine last year was a big hit. This year, we’ve collected several ideas for Valentine nature crafts for kids.

5. Join the Winter Nature Photo Scavenger Hunt.
Grab a camera and head outside. There’s still plenty of time to play along with our winter nature photo scavenger hunt.

6. Play in the snow.
If you’ve got it, embrace it! Build a snowman, create ice art, paint snow angels, try backyard snowshoeing or go icicle hunting.

7. Bring nature indoors.
Winter is definitely the right time for connecting with nature inside as well as out. Read nature books, create an indoor garden, put together a nature collection, make an album from photo scavenger hunts or paint a nature scene.

8. Take a winter nature walk.
No time like the present to head outdoors on a treasure hunt in nature. Go on a winter nature scavenger hunt or even a Valentine’s Day hunt for hearts in nature.

9. Start sewing seeds.
Winter is time for forcing bulbs, starting seeds and dreaming of what you’ll plant come spring.

Need a few more ideas for nature fun in February?

• 50 ways to explore nature in your own backyard
• 10 ways to explore nature in February
• Check out my winter outdoor fun board on Pinterest
• Download a FREE copy of the Nature Rocks Winter Activity Guide