Lesson 8 of 9
In Progress

Seasonal Tree Scavenger Hunts

Description

Scavenger hunts are an engaging and playful way to explore the outdoors and teach children the art of observation. Learning how to pause and look closely is an essential skill for any naturalist.

One observation that children can easily identify is the change in seasons. As the weather changes with the seasons, so does life outside. Look closely at the trees around you and observe them over the course of a year. How do the trees change each season? Which trees stay the same? Which tree parts are more visible during certain times of the year?

Allow your child to help choose the scavenger hunt that matches the season in which you are currently. Then attach it to a mini clipboard and offer your child a writing tool. You might even want to pack up the tote bag with the magnifying glass and identification guides, because you never know when those will come in handy! 

Pre-hunt, point to each item on the list and ask your child to name the parts. Explain that when he finds something on the list, he can color in the circle or mark it off with an “x.” During your outdoor adventure, remind children (and yourself) to pause and look closely. Notice the changes happening around you and take in the beauty of the season. This is truly a time for connection – connecting with your child and connecting with nature.

Materials

From Your Kit:

  1. Explore a Tree Scavenger Hunts (printable versions)
  2. Leaf and Tree Identification Guides (printable versions)
  3. Magnifying Glass
  4. Tote Bag

You Provide:

  1. Writing Tool or Crayon Rocks

Optional Add-Ons:

  1. Mini Clipboard

Books to Inspire

  1. My Tree and Me: A Book of Seasons by Jo Witek
  2. Tree: A Peek-Through Picture Book by Britta Teckentrup
  3. Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson

More to Explore 

  1. Seasons of a Tree
  2. Nature Observations