As a mom of three and a former Kindergarten ECE, I?ve learned that going on a “treasure hunt” and finding your materials for nature activities is half the fun. These spring crafts for kids will keep them busy and teach them to appreciate nature?plus, they don?t cost a lot of money. In fact, you probably already have everything you need in your home, in your backyard, or laying around in your local park, if you can safely take a socially-distanced hike or neighbourhood stroll where you live. (Keep two metres apart from passersby who aren?t part of your family.) Enjoying some fresh air and soaking up the sunshine is an instant mood-booster for kids and cooped-up grown-ups, too.
1. Nature paint brush
Photo: Courtesy of Katie Engel
This is just what it sounds like. Go outside and help your child find various items that will be used as a paint brush. Think flowers, pine needles, pine cones, tall grasses, etc. You may choose to use them as is, like a stamp, or try attaching them to a stick (use a rubber band or some string) to make the ?handle? of a paint brush. 2. Yarn wrapping
Photo: Courtesy of Katie Engel
When my kids and I made these, we called them ?magic wands.? Challenge your child to find their favourite stick, then provide them with some string, yarn, or even pipe cleaners (whichever you have on hand) to wrap around their stick. You could also tie some longer pieces of string to the end and add some beads for a fun effect.
3. Build a habitat
Photo: Courte...