A nature collection is a great way to get your toddler to learn new words and explore the world around them.
Why not try collecting items from your garden or in the park with your little one. Check out some ideas in the video below.
It’s always a good idea to wash your child's hands after exploring outside.
Why make a nature collection with kids
- Making a nature collection is great for getting kids outdoors on an adventure.
- Taking time to notice the simple things in nature provides children with the opportunity to talk about new things and learn about the world around them.
- They can practise following simple instructions to complete tasks.
- Talking about what they find allows them to use describing words for textures as well as counting words.
- Sorting items by size or grouping things together helps them learn some early maths skills.
Games to play with sticks, stones and leaves
There's loads of fun and games you can make from just getting outside and exploring with your little one.
Try setting children goals like 'can you find 5 sticks?' or 'can you find the biggest stone?' Or let children lead and find items they are interested in.
When they pick something up, ask them questions to describe the items they have like 'what does it feel like?' and 'what colour is it?'.
If they say a single word answer, repeat it back to them and add detail 'yes, it's a smooth grey stone'.
When they've gathered the items together, you could chat about sorting them. You could say, 'shall we put all the stones here and all the twigs here?' or 'can you put all the grey things here?'
You could help order sticks and stones by size - be sure to use words like 'big' and 'biggest' and 'small' and 'smallest'.
More games to play outside
Playing outside is fun, exciting and important for children's learning.
- Our getting outdoors collection gives you loads of tips, advice and inspiration for getting your kids outdoors in nature.
- The outside world is also full of new sounds to name and describe. Try going on a sensory listening walk.
- Check out our big list of things to do at the park.
Please be aware that some plants can be harmful to babies. The RHS has a helpful list of potentially harmful plants . If in doubt about anything your child has come into contact with, seek medical advice from your GP.
