Signs of Spring - Learning through the seasons.
Having a child-led approach to learning recognizes that children are naturally curious and and have an innate desire to explore, investigate, and learn about the world around them. Too often we get lost in the details of planning the perfect moment or activities for learning when much happens organically when you allow children to spend time with nature. Whether it's a fascination with insects, a finding tracks, hearing the wind blow, the birds chirping or watching the rain fall hopeful to play in the mud, these interests can all become the foundation for deeper learning experiences.
Seasonal transitions present a huge opportunity for learning if we lean into children’s curiosity as our guide. As we embark on the last few weeks of Winter, nature is waking up and ready to teach us all - especially children! This is a great time of year to get outdoors, go for a walk and visit your favorite trails in search of signs that Spring is coming. Below are some ideas to meet childrens wunder organically with learning opportunities both on and off the trail.
Learning On the Trail
1. Nature Journaling:
As children observe the changing landscape it’s a great time to capture it! Provide each children with a journal to document signs of spring, such as budding trees, blooming flowers, or migrating birds. Depending on their age, developmentally both their approach and output will obviously vary. Engage them in conversation about their ideas and what they’re seeing. Provide space for them to create however they want.
2. Plant Identification:
As they observe sprouting life, teach children to identify early spring plants and flowers. Discuss the importance of each plant in the ecosystem and its role in supporting local wildlife. I try to avoid apps and Googling. As adults, if we aren’t using our phones during these experiences it fosters the idea of being present in nature. Fandex and Finders Series guides are my favorite to take along with me!
3. Weather Observations:
Spring often brings changing weather patterns which makes for great discussion. Using all of their senses allow them to monitor and discuss what they’re observing. Discuss how these changes affect plant growth and animal behavior. Weather is also a great subject for their journaling as well.
4. Animal Behavior & Tracks:
Explore the behavior of animals as they emerge from winter. Children can observe and research local animals, such as insects or birds, and learn about their habits during spring. Children also LOVE to spot tracks in the mud this time of year which is a great segue into animal behavior studies as well. Adventure with Keen makes great pocket size guides to take with you on the trail for identifying tracks.
5. Story Time with Nature:
Pack some books for your hike! Stories that feature themes of renewal, growth, or springtime. Discuss the themes and encourage children to create their own stories inspired by the signs of spring they observe.
Recommended Books Ages 3-5
Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring by Kenard Pak
Up in the Garden, Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner
Little Dandelion Seeds the World by Julia Richardson
When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes
Let’s Go on a Hike by Katrina Lui
How to Say Hello to a Worm by Kari Percival
Bug Hotel by Libby Walden
6. Nature Art, Patterns and Sorting!
Children love to create with natural materials they find along the trail. Sticks and stones are wonderful materials art at home or right on the trail. Let them gather. I’m on the “leave nature the way you found it” team so I encourage no picking of blooms but anything found along the trail that’s separated on its own can be used. Patterns in nature are all around us, offering a wonderful way for young children to explore, observe, and learn. Collect various rocks, stones, sticks, leaves and twigs then let children create patterns, sort or create art there or at home. These hands-on activities enhances fine motor skills and creativity. Sorting and patterns help them develop an awareness for noticing similarities and differences, building observational skills while also introducing early math concepts.
As a teacher who adopts a child-led approach to learning, I recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to education yet nature herself presents so many wonderful opportunities for learning in the wild.
Below is a list of some of favorite trail systems and parks in the Dayton area where signs of Spring are starting to arrive! Be prepared for muddy terrain and wear shoes with good treads. Make sure the to check the park pages before visiting for additional considerations or trail conditions.
FAVORITE DAYTON AREA TRAILS TO FIND SIGNS OF SPRING!
Marie Aull Trail at Wegerzyn Park
All Trails at Sugarcreek Metro Park
Learning Tree Farm Wooded Loops & Trails
Happy Hunting for Signs of Spring!
Stay wild,
Shana