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: Heightened Hearing

Head outside with an adult or friend and take a blindfold with you. Put the blindfold over your eyes and sit quietly with your partner. Listen intently and call out what you hear, having your partner write them down as you call them out. Do that for a few minutes and then switch. After you both have had a turn being blindfolded, write about the sounds you heard and when you think you heard more sounds – with the blindfold on or off? What does your partner think?

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