Posted on 10/15/2020
Traits like creativity, and attentiveness are universally associated with a full and rich life. And guess what encourages those very attributes? Spending time in nature. Note that the emphasis is not on identifying or expertly drawing, painting, or otherwise describing what you see in nature. The aim is simply to experience it. In case you're really new to this idea, we'll break it down a little more for you.
Go Slowly
According to naturalist and artist John Muir, "People ought to saunter in the mountains – not hike!" This isn't a race. The entire point of spending time in nature is not to rush through or to get your cardio in. A nature walk isn't about efficiency; it's about efficacy. If you haven't allowed whatever you see to arrest your full attention, then you haven't allowed yourself to truly experience it. And if you don't let yourself do just that, your child won't be able to learn how.
Get Dirty
Let your child know it's okay to touch most plants and critters you'll encounter. While you should be aware of any dangerous species in your area, realize that most children learn by touching. Let them get dirty, splashing in puddles and letting mud run through their fingers. As they become immersed in their surroundings, they might want to stack rocks, climb trees, or pick flowers. As long as you're not in a park that prohibits such activities, it's okay to allow them to participate with their surroundings in those ways.
Gather Beauty
In Nature Walks 101, we mentioned a few things you might want to keep on hand. The purpose of a camera, journal, or sketch pad is to record what you see or experience in some way. Doing so isn't about the finished product but about the process. By recording in words or images, you'll be forcing yourself to notice details more. And by creating some kind of record of your experience, you'll be encouraging yourself to remember and celebrate it and share it with others. The important part isn't whether you choose a simple, inexpensive notebook and basic pencils or pens or something more official like a travel journal, a watercolor set, or a scrapbook. The important part is to do whatever you and your child find helpful in savoring your nature walks and maximizing their benefits.
There is honestly no right or wrong way to appreciate and explore nature, so stop worrying about doing it correctly. At the risk of sounding cliche, you just have to do it.
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