Bringing Nature Into the Preschool

Children love nature. It is always a great idea to include field trips in an early childhood setting that allow children to experience a natural setting. Sometimes, though, that is not always the easiest option depending on where the preschool or daycare is located, staffing and budget. Yet, whether a childcare facility is in the country or city location, nature can always be brought inside.

Create Nature Boxes

There are many seasonal activities children can experience by bringing the outside in, that must occur that day or within a week before the items begin to perish. But, there are some things from nature that can be collected and stored to bring out when needed, such as shells, bark, smooth wood, feathers, sand, and pinecones. A science discovery box is a great idea as well, which could hold such things as bird nests, bee hives, snake skin, and so on. When the boxes are full, then setting up areas that include nature throughout the preschool or daycare becomes an easier task for caregivers.

Using Nature in Art Projects

Children enjoy using natural collections for art projects. The items can be used for specific art projects or made available for children to create their own masterpieces.

Natural Discoveries for Science Displays

One of the best ways for children to experience nature when a field trip is not available is through other people's discoveries being shared. By having an actual bird's nest, for instance, young children are allowed to see, touch and perhaps even smell the amazing creation of our feathery friends. When the nature display is combined with open ended questions, books, songs and so on, young children are inevitably learning about nature.

Nature in Drama Areas

As long as the items are safe, nature can be used to help create scenes in a drama center. For example, if the staff member is setting up a camping theme with a tent, then placing real twigs, pinecones and bark around contribute to the scene and the child's imagination.

Nature Walk Collections

The best experience of all would be for a daycare or preschool to go for a nature walk and collect items for the classroom. If the group is not able to, perhaps having families bring in items from their walks, yards, gardens or trips could help collect material for the children to use. With the collection, children could create nature collages, nature mobiles or nature wreaths to name a few.

Bringing the Inside Out

If permitted, it is also fun to bring inside activities outside, for instance by painting snow and ice in the winter, or painting autumn leaves and then pressing onto the ground to view the image. Further, children can trace their shadows with large pieces of paper, or use sidewalk chalk to decorate buildings.

Learning about nature is such an important part of young children's development. Preschools and daycares should include trips to farms, local parks and other safe outdoor settings, to allow children to experience the elements of nature. But, when that is not available for various reasons, bringing nature into the childcare setting is a wonderful option.