Spring Has Sprung: Outdoor Activities & Crafts for Kids
Spring invites parents and nannies to introduce children to the wonders of the natural world. After a cold, rainy winter, it’s the perfect time to get kids engaged in outdoor activities and crafts.
What’s the best way to take advantage of this time of year? We’re so glad you asked! Let's explore how some of our favorite ways to make the most of spring and cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature.
A few activities we love are:
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In addition to being a fun, interactive activity for all ages, flower pressing teaches patience and delicacy in handling natural materials.
Supplies Needed: Fresh flowers, heavy books, parchment paper, glue, and materials for creating (e.g., bookmarks, greeting cards, heavy paper for framed art).
Instructions:
Pick fresh flowers or leaves.
Place them between two pieces of parchment paper.
Put the parchment paper inside a heavy book or under several heavy books.
Leave them to press for 7-10 days.
Carefully remove and use glue to affix the pressed flowers to your chosen craft material.
PRO TIP: Choose flowers that are not too bulky for easier pressing.
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This is a rfun, hands-on project that has the added benefit of teaching children about sustainability and the importance of caring for wildlife.
Supplies Needed: Recycled materials (plastic bottles, milk cartons), birdseed, string, scissors, and paint (optional for decoration).
Instructions:
Clean and dry your chosen container.
Cut openings for bird access.
Decorate with paint if desired (ensure it's dry before proceeding).
Fill with birdseed.
Attach string and hang from a tree.
PRO TIP: Place bird feeders in a location where children can quietly observe the birds. Discuss the importance of not disturbing the birds and the role of different bird species in the ecosystem.
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Use this activity to teach responsibility and the basics of plant care. Discuss the growth cycle and the importance of sunlight and water.
Supplies Needed: Seeds or young plants, soil, gardening tools, pots or designated garden space.
Instructions:
Choose easy-to-grow plants suitable for your climate.
Let children dig holes, plant seeds or young plants, and water them.
Regularly check on the plants, water them, and observe growth.
PRO TIP: Select easy-to-grow plants (sunflowers, peas, tomatoes).
Tips for a Successful Spring Adventure
Dress appropriately for the weather to ensure comfort and safety during outdoor activities.
Encourage curiosity by asking open-ended questions about the nature they observe.
Be prepared with the necessary materials for crafts and activities to maintain engagement and excitement.
The Gift of Spring
Spending time outside during spring has numerous benefits for children. It fuels their creativity as they find new ways to interact with their environment while the natural light and fresh air improve mood and physical well-being.
Outdoor activities can deepen a child's connection with nature, teaching them the value of mindfulness and the importance of conserving our beautiful planet. Charting the growth of plants, identifying insect habitats, and discussing seasonal changes are just a few ways to turn fun activities into educational experiences. These activities not only enrich a child's knowledge but also cultivate observational skills and a scientific mindset.
So, grab your gardening gloves, prepare your craft supplies, and get ready to step into the sunshine! Through simple, hands-on activities, parents and nannies can guide young explorers on a journey of discovery, creativity, and stewardship. As we embrace the wonders of spring, let's remember that the greatest gift we can give our children is not just the knowledge of nature, but the love and appreciation for it that will last a lifetime.