Winter’s shorter daylight hours come with at least one benefit: The chance to go exploring outside in the dark before bedtime. There are all kinds of fun ways to explore nature at night, like going on a glow stick walk. (If you don’t have a glow stick, don’t worry. Try a flashlight walk instead.) Before you head out, make sure everyone is dressed for the weather. Layer up … [Read more...]
Fun Friday: 2014 Winter Nature Photo Hunt
The nature photo hunts I create each season continue to be a big hit around here. So I apologize for the delay in getting this winter’s list together. Without further delay, I am pleased to announce that the 2014 Winter Nature Photo Hunt is now ready! (If you live in the southern hemisphere, you’ll want to check out the summer version instead.) Here’s how the winter … [Read more...]
15+ Ideas for Getting Outside & Into Nature in March
With the official kick off of spring just a few weeks away, it’s hard not to get excited about spending time outside in March. There are plenty of excuses for kids to celebrate – St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and the Spring Equinox all happen this month. Still cold and snowy in your neck of the woods? Check out 31 days of backyard nature fun for a month’s worth of all-weather … [Read more...]
Backyard Weather Station
The Big Explorer was pretty excited by the weather station he received for Christmas last year. The mild winters we have in Southern California meant we could put it right to use. (In the absence of snow or freezing temperatures, a backyard weather station can be operational any time of the year.) Data from weather stations helps forecasters to see patterns in the weather, … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Connect With Nature When You’re Inside
I hope I haven’t given you the impression that the only way to connect kids with nature is to head outside. There’s actually quite a lot of exploring and learning to be done inside, too. Which comes in handy this time of year, don’t you think? Not only are there days when the weather severely limits (or prohibits) you from heading outdoors. But there are also those pesky … [Read more...]