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: Senses in Nature | Hearing

We’ve already focused on vision and smell, now we move on to hearing.

Find a place to sit – maybe under your favorite tree or on a bench in a park. Close your eyes. What do you hear? Keep your eyes closed for about five minutes. How many nature sounds do you hear? How many different animals do you hear calling or moving around? How does your hearing help you make sense of the natural world around you?

If you do not have the sense of hearing, how do your other senses help you explore the natural world around you?

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.