Children love to play rather than sit idle. Toddlers generally roam around and like to explore things around them.
As educators or facilitators, prioritizing outdoor activities is crucial for children’s development. During summer months, engaging children in nature walks can be highly beneficial. Encourage them to collect natural materials such as dried leaves, fallen seeds, old twigs, and flowers. These collected items can be used to create a nature journal or scrapbook. [A subsequent guide on creating a simple scrapbook at home will be provided.]
In addition to nature exploration, cultivating a love for plants can be fostered by engaging children in gardening activities. Encourage them to grow small plants and nurture them by watering them daily. Witnessing the growth process, observing the emergence of tiny leaves, and understanding the plant life cycle can be a truly exciting and educational experience.
These outdoor experiences can seamlessly integrate into Environmental Studies (EVS) lessons. Educators can utilize these opportunities to teach about various aspects of nature, such as leaf shapes and colors, the process of leaf decomposition (color change from green to brown), and the vital role of nature in providing food for humans and other living beings.