Getting outside and experiencing nature in itself is a wonderful activity but you can take this experience to another level by turning it into an active experience. Let me give you some examples of what I mean and how to do it.
Animal Watching: This can be a bit of a challenge if you plan on having your nature walk on a trail or park in or near a big city. But you would still be amazed by the variety of creatures you will discover when you are actively looking for them. Squirrels, pigeons, mice, chipmunks, birds, and so much more. You can take pictures, do drawings or even create logs noting where you spot them.
Eco-System Nature Walks: Your nature walk doesn't have to focus on a particular science. It can focus on eco-systems like Tide Pools, Forests, Woods, Ponds, Rivers, Streams, Oceans, Prairies, or just about any other type of eco system or sub system.
Rocks and Minerals: This is a really fun pursuit and the ultimate goal is to collect small pieces of a variety of minerals and rocks. This tends to be a bit more of a physical pursuit and it is great if you can bring along a variety of tools for digging and chipping. Just make sure everybody wears safety gloves and goggles when chipping at rocks.
Eco Awareness projects: You can also focus on environmental issues and environmental friendly subjects by joining a volunteer organization that does clean up or simply by doing your own clean up. You may even consider making your own composting heap in the back yard.
SOURCE: Nature walk ideas and projects
Some tips and Tools for your Outdoor Adventure Walks
You should decide on the theme of your walk ahead of time. This way you can take all the appropriate materials with you. And before I talk about suggested materials you should also consider some of the more pragmatic aspects of a nature hike.
Remember that you might be outdoors for a full day or for at least several hours and this means a bit of thought to safety should be considered. Bring sun screen, hats, and make sure everybody dresses appropriately. I also recommend you bring drinking water. Being engrossed in a new pursuit can take our minds off of the necessity of drinking water throughout the day. Get a canteen is what I say! It makes the walk a bit more of an adventure and is also eco friendly. No need to add to the litter with throw away plastic water bottles.
An opportunity to convey respect for nature: A nature walk is a great opportunity to talk with the children about conservation and respect for nature. Reinforce the values of being respectful toward nature and of leaving things the same way you found them.
Some tools and stuff to bring along:
- Binoculars - these are always a great idea
- Microscope - is a lot of fun
- Small telescope
- Drawing tools like colored pencils, crayons, markers and sketch pads
- Digital camera or disposable
- Tape Recorder for recording sounds
- Magnifying Glass
- Small vials or jars for collecting samples
- Back pack for carrying all your stuff
- Diggging tools like small shovel and hammer
- Walking Sticks
SOURCE: Nature walk ideas and projects
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