Nature Journaling #206: Connect the Dots With Stars

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!

Stars shine over a snow-covered countryside.
Photo courtesy flickr user robin_24/Creative Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Today’s Prompt: Connect the Dots With Stars

Since it gets dark early now, head outside after dark. Look up into the sky. Do you see any stars? Do the stars make any kinds of pictures if you connect-the-dots? For thousands of years, people have looked into the sky at night and connected the stars to make pictures. These pictures are called constellations. People created stories to tell about the pictures.

Make your own connect-the-dot picture from the stars you see and create a story to go with it.

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.