*This post was originally published on 1/8/19. Enjoy!
Winter can be a challenging to time for studying nature. The wet and cold drive us indoors, and nature study takes a back seat. It seems as the earth is resting and we can easily overlook all that is still happening around us. But even in this dreary time of year, there's still so much to be studied and learned. With a little curiosity and insight, you too can find ways to discover the life all around us, even in the winter!
Track the Weather
There is plenty of weather to be observed from the comfort of your own home. Record the weather vs. the weather predictions, how much snow falls in a given time period, the times of sunrises and sunsets. Other great details to observe include moon phases as well as keeping an eye out for the first new shoots of grass or green leaves on trees.
Monitor a Rain Gauge
Monitoring the amount of rain (or snow) this time of year is great for talking about weather, renewing the earth, and the water cycle. It can also serve as a great starting point for water conservation. A great way to incorporate weather study with measurements, observation, and prediction.
Go Snowshoeing
Many national parks offer snowshoeing trail hikes in the winter. Take the time to learn from your knowledgeable park rangers as they point out the life that we might otherwise miss. And keep your ears open for animals foraging on your winter hike.
Create a Wreath
Wreaths don't just have to be for Christmas. Gather any natural material you can find: sticks, berries, holly, pinecones, sprigs, etc. Purchase a wreath form from the Dollar Tree or create your own with wire or a wire hanger. Look for special details to add: ribbon, bells, or burlap to name a few. Or if you're looking for something temporary, create an ice wreath with all your natural treasures frozen in an ice form. Hang outside and observe how long it takes to melt.
Feed the Birds
While most birds will fly south for the winter, some prefer to stay behind. Study up on the birds in your area, identify their species and diet, and then create a place were they can regularly come for food. Break out your sketch books to include your new friends and label their unique features that allow them to winter in your area.
Read Some Poetry
There's something about curling up with a good book in the winter months. So take advantage of that cozy feeling and introduce some nature poetry to your children. These are just a few that we have enjoyed:
It's Snowing, It's Snowing: Winter Poems by Jack Prelutsky
National Geographic Book of Nature Poetry
Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems by Judy Sierra
A Chill in the Air: Nature Poems for Fall and Winter by John Frank
Poetry for Young People by Robert Frost
Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak
Star Gaze
There are such a variety of stars and constellations to notice as the seasons change. It's fun to note what new things you might see in the night sky at winter. And you don't have to stay up very late to do it. With the earlier dark nights, head outside after dinner with some hot chocolate or settle in near the fire pit for some star gazing. Or take an evening walk and admire the stars.
How do you incorporate nature study in the winter?
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