Get outside

Gardening with native plants is low-maintenance, supports pollinators, and offers great learning for kids. It teaches environmental stewardship, supports physical development, and brings families closer. Start small, use kid-sized tools, pick quick-blooming plants, and involve kids in care. Track progress with a garden journal. Native gardening is a fun, hands-on way to connect kids with nature.

Pretend to be a tree. Stand tall, spread your arms like branches, and plant your feet like roots. Close your eyes and imagine connecting with the earth and nearby trees. Feel the wind, the sun, and the world around you. Trees communicate through touch and underground networks—try it with a friend. After a few still moments, return to your human form. Try this fun nature exercise in a park, forest, or backyard.

An insect census helps scientists study biodiversity and habitat health. Insects are vital for pollination and the food chain. You can join by watching insects near plants, recording what you see, and sharing your data. Use tools like a timer, paper, and a camera. Even if you’re not an expert, your observations help real scientists. Just remember to be gentle and return any insects you catch.

Try a nighttime scavenger hunt to discover things you can only see or hear after dark like stars, bats, fireflies, glowing animal eyes and insect calls. Turn it into a team challenge with flashlights and silly selfies. Explore forest preserves or camp overnight for even more fun under the stars.

Spring is full of sound—chirps, rustles, beeps and songs. Try “fox ears” by cupping your hands behind your ears to hear more. Stand still, close your eyes and take deep breaths to focus. Listen for bird calls, frog songs, rustling grasses, buzzing insects and woodpecker drums. Make it a game by counting how many different sounds you hear. Let the soundscape of spring guide your next outdoor adventure.

World Wildlife Day, celebrated March 3, raises awareness of the beauty and importance of wildlife. Explore nature by observing animals, plants and their signs, then record and share your findings. Visit local preserves, nature centers or zoos to learn more. Celebrate year round by journaling, taking photos and sharing your discoveries to help others appreciate and protect the wildlife around us.

Make a fun winter treat for birds with a snow cake. Just shape fresh snow into layers and decorate with birdseed, nuts, and fruit. Black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, raw peanuts, and fruits like apples, raisins, and oranges attract a variety of birds. Watch who visits, experiment with ingredients, and refill as needed. It’s a creative, eco-friendly way to feed and observe winter wildlife.

Snow is perfect for creative fun like building snow people or snow animals. Start by rolling and stacking snowballs, then decorate using nature or household items. Try sculpting animals from real life or imagination, adding details with sticks or leaves. Dress warmly and take breaks to stay safe. Enjoy the magic of winter and let your creativity shine outdoors.