1. Apple Dissection and Stamping

Apples by Gail Gibbons

Let’s cut open an apple, it sounds simple enough. But now, we can investigate what makes up an apple. Once we identify the seeds that will lead us into discussing an apple’s life cycle and how plants grow. Be sure to check out the free printable that includes twelve extension questions to really capture your child’s curiosity.

After you have finished the dissection use those same apple halves for an art project. Pull out the paint and paintbrushes and demonstrate how stamping works. We now have beautiful art to display on our fridge.

2. Pinecone Bird feeders

Birdsong by Audrey Wood

Inspire your child to become an avid birdwatcher by bringing the birds to you. After a nature walk to hunt for pinecones return home to create bird feeders. All you need to pair with the pinecones are peanut butter, seeds, and twine.

After creating the bird feeders, it’s now time to return the pinecones to nature. Hang in a tree or bush and wait for the feathery friends to come. The craft is super simple and you begin and end in nature. My favorite type of learning opportunity scenario.

3. Dancing Grapes Experiment

A Song of Frutas by Margarita Engle

What is it about grapes bobbing up and down in a glass that is so fascinating to a child? Maybe it’s simply because an inanimate object is moving seemingly on its own. In this learning activity we explore density and buoyancy. I also enjoy setting up the control glass with grapes and then showing what we need to add to make those grapes dance as well. Because every grape should get to dance!

4. Play Act the Life Cycle of a Butterfly

Waiting for Wings by Lois Ehlert

We read about butterfly life cycles and see their diagrams but have you had your child become a caterpillar and then a butterfly? This learning activity will spark your child’s imagination and they will want to repeat it again and again.

There is more nuance to acting out than simply squirming around on your belly and, after metamorphosis, flapping your wings. Be sure to check out the activity instructions to learn all the details and use with your child. 

5. Send Hearts by Mail

The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

Show family and friends some love while teaching your child about the components of a letter. Your child will learn how an envelope is addressed and mailed out while designing their own unique creation.

This activity is also perfect for making your own valentines and mailing out but we enjoy sharing the love anytime of year. 

6. Make a Bird Kite

Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss

I enjoy this STEM activity because the materials are simple and as long as your child runs, this kite will fly. There’s no technical expertise when it comes to creating this kite but your child will observe how the wings are folded allowing the air to catch and lift.

It’s also easy to make. A few staples, tape, and string later – we’re ready to fly. To keep the kite aloft they run circles around our house, thoroughly tiring them out. A win, win for everyone.

7. Leaf Rubbing

Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson

A colorful learning activity in the fall and a fun art project anytime. Your child will enjoy rubbing these leaves with different colors of crayons to create different patterns and textures on their paper. And it all begins with a nature walk!

8. Dissect Owl Pellets

Owl Pellets to dissect with your child.

The Barn Owls by Tony Johnston

Gross but sanitary, these owl pellets are always a hit. Your child will be fully engaged in carefully tearing apart the pellets to reveal the various bones and intact skulls inside. The fascination with an owl’s diet and digestive system will be just the beginning for your child to desire to learn more about owls and other nocturnal creatures.

9. Smash Geodes

Geode Smashing Kit

Volcano Dreams: A Story of Yellowstone by Janet Fox

Volcanoes and lava are extremely fascinating for children. This learning activity gives you and your child the opportunity to explore the beauty that volcanoes produce, in geodes. Geodes are rocks that form with a hollow cavity and inside are crystals. 

Pair these rocks with a hammer and safety glasses and you’ll have an eager learner. And after you’ll have a pretty token to display with your nature collection or simply on a shelf.

10. Frog Dissection

Fake Frog Dissection Kit

The Tale of Jeremy Fisher by Beatrix Potter

A wonderful activity to learn about the anatomy of a frog. Use under careful adult supervision.