Nature Journaling #116: Starry Night

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!

The moon

Today’s Prompt: Starry Night

Ask your parent or guardian if you can go out tonight after dark. Find a spot you can lay down and look up at the sky. Can you see any stars out tonight? They might be faint, so let your eyes become adjusted to the darkness and look again. What do you think stars are made of?

Comet NEOWISE will be most visible this week and is bright enough to see with the naked eye or binoculars. Can you see the comet while star gazing? What do you think comets are made of? For more information on how to see Comet NEOWISE, visit NASA’s website.

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.


Amy Roell
Director of Education & Events