As the winter snow melts, signs of spring will begin to timidly peek out from hidden places. Other signs are bold, ready to show their presence and boast of their uniqueness and beauty. Spring brings with it a warmer earth with more abundant daylight. These two aspects come together to awaken animals from hibernation. They become more active and food is readily available. From there, breeding and birth happens.
In the plant world, increased daylight hours, warmth and those familiar April showers create the perfect conditions for growth. To make these springtime miracles more interesting to kids, turn them into a game! From plants to animals, this is the season of new life and we should get out and enjoy the view while we can! So, hop up, get off of that couch and soak in the beauty of nature in fun and safe ways like these:
Smartphone Photo Contest
Just about everyone has a smartphone these days, even the kids. Put those devices to work while out and about in nature. Create a competition where you see who can score the most intriguing variety of subjects in their photos. Then Google the finds and add a short description to describe what they are. Whoever has the greatest photos and correct answers wins! (And secretly learns a lot too!)
Bird Watching
There’s not a kid out there that won’t get excited when they see a baby bird with its beak wide open waiting for a meal! Pick up a pair of inexpensive binoculars like these and head out on a hike to spot and record your findings. Teach patience while waiting for momma bird to return as the little featherless creatures may not yet be identifiable.
Critter Categorization
Spring brings bugs and reptiles out of hiding too so now is a good time to learn about outdoor hazards in exchange for a lifetime of protection from danger. Many people have no clue which are good snakes and which are poisonous. The same goes for spiders and more. Print this guide for snakes, this for insects and go here to get a free spider identification chart mailed to you. You’ll be able to learn the difference and how to protect yourself should you or your kids have an unexpected encounter. It could truly save a life!
iSpy for The Littlest Family Member
Everyone can join in on the fun thanks to this printable iSpy game. Your tiniest tot will feel like they’re part of the fun and will be able to find things that they can identify when you take the family on a hike or adventure outside.
Make and Play Spring Bingo
Hunt for, pick and press small flowers to make spectacular bingo cards using a technique like this. Place the pressed flowers bingo style on cardstock and cover with a clear sheet protector. Instead of bingo, call it “Spring-o”. Gather white clover flowers for the markers, then proceed as usual! If you prefer a quicker route on a rainy day, which will happen often this time of year, use printables to create your game! You can also find spring word scramble, spring color by number and spring word search to bring nature in when the weather won’t let you out!
Gather Your Next Snack
You never know when you might get caught on a hike or springtime adventure with no nourishment in sight! Using caution, learn what safe delicacies nature provides! Dine on dandelions, violets, cattails and wild berries in a pinch. Or play it safer and visit a local nursery for some mint and herbs to plant in your own yard for a true learning and growing experience! This is a great book to read around the campfire before your next unexpected or planned event that leaves you foraging in the forest!
Related: 7 Easter Egg Alternatives To Make With Your Little Bunnies!