Sometimes you just need to get outside, even if it’s chilly and wintery out there! A quick walk or a bundled-up garden or playground visit will clear the head and get some movement into your day :) While you’re walking, shivering, or playing, make some observations!
Just like a “noticing” walk in Springtime*, take the experience to a new level by generating new vocabulary and slowing down to really see what’s outside. You might find some deserted (or not!) habitats for small animals. The undersides of fallen tree branches or beneath small piles of leaves are likely places for hidden wildlife such as insects. You might see some frozen icy spots, with cool cracking to snap a quick photo of. There are wonderful sights to see, when you slow down a little and really notice :)
Closely examine the pieces of nature that your little ones find ... It’s treasure to them! Look for pine cones, big and small, collect different types of needles from evergreen trees, or snatches of bark that you might find on your travels. Even a twig or a fallen feather will be a source of wonder for a child.
Take the “treasures” indoors and use in drawing and writing projects for little ones or older students. Children may want to use a magnifying glass to really look closely at their chosen objects, like the scientists that they are. Sketching and labeling are good first activities to get started for the younger ones.
Older children may generate a list of words for writing. Begin with a shared writing chart to build vocabulary first. Students may help with beginning sounds and more, depending on their abilities. Try doodling a little picture next to each word, or hanging an actual sample in a clear bag right on the chart.
Use this as an anchor chart for writing and labeling, and moving on to full sentences, where appropriate. No matter where your students are developmentally, you can bring some of that winter nature right into the classroom! It’s a great way to level the playing field with shared experiences :)
Have fun!
*link to Mindful Noticing in Springtime post below
https://makeearlylearningfun.blogspot.com/2017/04/mindful-noticing-in-springtime.html
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