September: Observation and outdoor learning

Nature Journaling

What is a nature journal?

A nature journal is a journal that is kept to record one’s observations of nature. They often contain written observations, sketches, pressed plants, photographs, and nature-inspired quotes or poems. They are the product of time spent in nature observing the world around you.

Nature journaling is a great way for students to connect with nature and their own feelings. It is a great way for students to learn to observe, and records their observations. Nature journals are usually an on-going process throughout the year.

While young children may not be able to write their observations in a nature journal, they can draw pictures, add colors or shapes they see, glue leaves, feathers, etc in a journal, and record their observations with the help of an adult or older student. You may also choose to make a class nature journal that everyone contributes to.

Observations to encourage:

·         Use your senses – what do you see, smell, hear, what does it feel like?

·         Wildlife:

o   What is it doing?

o   How does it move? Sound?

o   Why do you think it is here?

·         Plants:

o   Is it tall or short? What color? Etc…

o   How does it change over the seasons?

o   How do you think it got there?

o   Are there insects on the plant?

·         Sketch a picture, take a photograph, take a “sample”

o   If you can, sketch a quick picture of what you are observing

o   Take a picture with a camera and later print a picture to put with your observations

o   Take a “sample” of what you have observed, a small leaf or flower petal, a feather that you found from a bird, etc…only take something that will not disturb the area or wildlife

·         Look within and reflect

o   How do you feel while you are out in nature?

o   How do you feel when you see wildlife? When you smell a leaf, soil? Etc…

Stick Journal

What you need:

·         Paper (8.5 x 11 cut in half width-wise)

·         Rubber bands

·         Small but strong sticks about the width of your paper

·         Hole punch

Cut stacks of paper in half creating sheets that are 5.5 x 8.5. Along the top edge of each stack of paper (one of the 5.5 sides, this is your width) punch two holes approximately ½ to 1 inch from side edges and ½ inch from top edge. From the back side thread a rubber band through the holes. It should lay across the back between the holes with ends or loops sticking through to the front. Place the stick across the front top edge over the holes. Place the stick through the rubber band loops that are sticking out of each hole. The rubber band and the stick are now holding the stack of paper together. This is your stick journal. Cardboard or cardstock can also be used to create a cover. Just cut to size and hole-punch with the paper before stringing with a rubber band and stick.

For more ideas check out The Nature Connection: An Outdoor Workbook for Kids, Families, and Classrooms by Clare Walker Leslie.