Nature journals are a fun way to pass the time. To many Great Parks nature interpreters, they are a tool that fosters meaningful connections with the natural world.

Want to create a nature journal with your child? Grab some paper and a pencil, step out the front door and use the prompt below. We’ll publish a new prompt daily, so be sure to check back here for more!

Today’s Prompt: Soak in Your Surroundings

Head outside on a sunny day. Pause when you first get into the sun. Close your eyes and soak in the sun. What are you feeling right now? Peaceful? Anxious?

After a few minutes, open your eyes and make your way to a shady spot to sit and observe. Once again, close your eyes. Using all of your other senses except for sight, soak in what is going on around you. Stay like that for about ten minutes. Open your eyes. How do you feel now? Do you feel the same way you did when you first walked out of the door? Write about how you are feeling today and if being outside made you feel any different.

A Few Tips for Success:

• Work with your child’s attention span. If they aren’t enjoying an activity, allow them to choose a new one. If they are highly focused, give them plenty of time to continue the observations.
• Allow creativity. Children often have interests that go beyond the questions we pose. Create a safe environment so they can create and explore on their terms.
• Journal along with your child. You never know what you may discover and it’s a great way to spend some quality time together.
• Try activities at different times of day. Observations may change with time and temperature.

Want to try your hand at different nature journaling topics? Click here for more prompts.

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Amy Roell
Director of Education & Events