How to Take Kids on a Nature Walk

By Elizabeth McGuire

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Nature
Comfortable clothes and shoes
Sunscreen
Plant/bird ID books
Binoculars
Camera
Snacks and water

Step 1:
Find a local greenbelt or park and map out a short hike. If possible, look for an area with a variety of flora, fauna and terrain. (Although you can also take a nature walk in the middle of the city—see Resources below.)
Step 2:
Plan the route according to your child’s age and attention span. Some young kids may walk only a quarter-mile before they get tired, so unless you want to piggyback them home, watch for signs of weariness.
Step 3:
Dress your kids in comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes. Consider long pants if you will be walking near tickly grasses. Sunscreen and a hat are a must.
Step 4:
Unless your kids are avid hikers, plan an out-and-back route or a very short loop. (One mile can easily take you an hour if you are stopping and looking under every last rock.)
Step 5:
Bring items to help everyone appreciate what they are seeing: a simple plant or bird identification book, a magnifying glass, a pair of binoculars, a small sack for leaves and a clear container (holes punched in lid) for lucky critters.
Step 6:
Look up, down and all around. Encourage your kids to stop and see the big picture and the small one. Trees, bushes and rocks can all hide something interesting.
Step 7:
Teach kids what poison ivy looks like and how to steer clear of it.
Step 8:
If your kids are old enough to work a camera, let them shoot photos of what sparks their interest. Putting them in an album will remind them how much they enjoyed the walk.
Step 9:
And as with most kid-friendly outings, a small snack goes over big. Pack dried fruit, granola bars and bottled water for everyone.

Tips & Warnings

If you turn over rocks (not recommended) pull them toward you in case a snake is living underneath.
If you are hiking on a greenbelt path, stay on the trail. Do not make shortcuts.

Resources

How to Take a City Nature Walk

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