The Wonders of Nature

The Wonders of Nature

Dawn Marie Barhyte

Exposing children to the natural wonders of the world is a worthwhile endeavor that is often overlooked in the rush to provide educational activities. Capturing their innate curiosity can lead to a keen interest in, lifelong respect for, and need to protect Gods handiwork. However, we are gradually losing touch with Gods creation as our lives become saturated with technology and achievement standards. Children can develop their innate sense of wonder and awe if the adults in their lives encourage them to look, touch, and listen. You dont need to be a nature enthusiastbut remember your attitudes are a powerful influence on kids in your care. Children allowed to play freely in the out-of-doors grow a love for the natural world. Perhaps equally important, if we introduce the joys of nature to children early on they will become stewards of the earth and Gods creation.

 

Being outdoors can include nature preserves, botanical gardens, beaches, zoos, parks, lakes, farms, trails, and even the playground. Here are some teacher-tested ideas that appeal to all ages and stimulate the senses while playing outdoors:

 

Notice color, shape, size, and form: an ant meandering on the sidewalk, a colorful caterpillar crawling on a maple leaf, or a blue jay collecting berries from evergreens.

 

Feel things that are soft, smooth, rough, cold, wet, and prickly: a feather from a bird, a smooth stone, or a pinecone. You can collect some interesting tactile objects and place them in a bag for further exploration and identification. Take turns reaching into the bag without looking and see who can identify the most objects. Then use the materials for a nature collage.

 

Listen for loud and soft noises: trees swaying in the wind, animals calling for their mates, or waves rushing to the shore.

 

There are lots of activities and projects you can do while out on a rambling nature walk, in a nearby park, or even in your own backyard. Whichever location you choose, you can have an adventure that is bound to tickle the senses and delight kids as they explore and discover.

 

Start a nature journal

 

You will need white paper, assorted drawing materials, and objects found during exploration. Using nature as both a springboard and a medium, have children make bark and leaf rubbings or draw pictures of insects and animals. When you are done you will have a charming keepsake of your adventure.

Pinecone bird feeder

 

You will need large pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Have the children cover the pinecone with peanut butter and then roll in birdseed to make a feeder. Place the feeder in a tree that can be viewed easily.

 

You can then have the children make a bird watching journal or add to their nature journal by using markers, crayons, and colored pencils. Encourage them to record the birds seen through drawing. Help children identify the birds in their journal, recording the names of each.

 

Teach respect for all Gods creatures great and small

 

Encourage kids to cherish and take care of all animals and critters, whether an ant or bumblebee; always take care not to harm them. Explain why they are important to the world and how God loves all his creation. Raise money for your local animal shelter. Collect blankets, towels, collars and leashes for the shelter.

 

Plants seeds and watch them grow

 

Whether you plant sunflowers or tomatoes, the growth cycle is magical to children and a terrific learning experience.

 

Read the Bible and Pray Together

 

Dont forget to mention all Gods creation in your classroom devotionals and pray for Gods protection on the earth. Read and meditate on passages from the Bible that talk about creation, such as those found in Genesis and Psalms.

 

Dawn Marie Barhyte is a widely published freelance writer who has served the needs of children and their families while teaching and codirecting in both secular and Sabbath centers. She continues to touch the lives of children through her writing.