Summer is finally here. For millions of South Africans, it’s a time to spend lazy days on the beach or by the poolside. But it is also a wonderful time to spend time in nature with your kids through the interesting field of nature study.
Nature study can become so much more enriching if you plan activities beforehand. Let’s discover all the fascinating ways you can plan your nature study in summer:
Ways to prepare for nature study in summer
Read up about summer
We all know the basics about summer: The weather is warmer; it becomes drier and many animals come out to seek water to cool off. But there is so much more to learn about summer. For example, did you know that the heat also increases the insect population, offering smaller animals to eat more? You can use books or documentaries to learn more about what happens in summer and what to look out for.
Plan a field trip
Getting out in nature is an important part of nature study. However, during the summer season nature parks and hiking trails can get really busy. Therefore, it is essential to do your homework to find out what the best times and dates are for visiting parks and trails.
Start a summer nature journal
Once you’ve done some research around the summer season, you can start a special journal in which you write down all the things you hope to see. This can include different plants, animals and weather patterns. Doing this, you can tick off your sightings when you’re out and about.
Start your own little summer garden
Your kids will love planting their own seeds and watching their little plants grow. This is a great way to teach kids about the science of nature and what to expect during the different phases of growing plants. However, it is important to find out exactly which plants can be planted in the summer season and how to take care of them.
Why nature sturdy is important throughout the seasons
Every season is unique. And nature study is a great way to enable your kids to learn about the beauty throughout the year. Nature study also allows your kids to create a connection to science that they can use in other subjects throughout their school career. Additionally, it cultivates a sense of interconnectedness to the world.
Summer is a great time to get out with your kids, as the weather is typically pleasant and the days are longer. Encourage your kids to look around them and to write down or draw what they see. This not only boosts the learning process, but it can also promote creativity.
Interested in nature study? Talk to us at Nature Journaling Thru The Seasons about our broad learning approach to nature study and how you can get your kids involved.
