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. This is your journal – something to help you connect to the natural world around you and make discoveries along the way.

If the weather is too awful to go outside for your nature observation, take a peak out a window from the comfort of inside your home! If you do venture outside, you may want to take a small pocket notebook to make notes or quick sketches to work further with them when you get back inside. Also, use a pencil – ink in a pen could freeze if it is too cold! Any notebook will work for your journal.

Today’s Prompt: Spring is the Time to Go Batty

Spring is here, temperatures are getting warmer and the insects are back! No better time to celebrate the only truly flying mammal we have here in Ohio – the bat! Today is Bat Appreciation Day. Many people do not like bats and are afraid of them. But bats are very important to us and for us. They control insect populations here in Ohio and around the world, some also help pollinate foods that we love.

At dusk, sit outside and look into the sky. Can you find any small, flying creature zipping back and forth? Draw a picture of a bat in your journal.

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.