wonder box

The Wonder Box

The Wonder Box is used to hold a collection of various natural, found objects (shells, leaves, feathers, rocks, twigs, deceased insects, etc.). Students can interact with the objects, inspecting them, using their five senses, drawing/sketching, painting, a picture of the object(s), writing a poem, listing describing words, creating a story, etc. The Wonder Box can…

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Resources: Natural Value

Natural Value

A lesson on nature appreciation Students reflect on an image that captures the natural beauty and the intrinsic value that nature has in order to consider their own roles in protecting nature and to help nurture their sense of wonder. Note: As an alternative, students can do this activity focusing on an individual animal. Grades:…

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ladybug

Wonder Walk

Participants take turns leading each other on a silent Wonder Walk to discover the natural world with their five senses. Recommended for all agesTime: 30 minutesRelated IHE Resources: Natural Value

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last child in the woods

Children & Nature Network

Co-founded by Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods, the Children & Nature Network seeks to reconnect children with the natural world. The website offers ideas, resources, tools, and several initiatives to help children, families, schools, and communities connect with nature and renew their love and wonder for the environment. Initiatives and resources…

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tree hugger

Treehuggers: Children’s Picture Books Honoring Trees

by Marsha Rakestraw Trees are mythical, magical and mysterious. We depend upon them for everything from the air we breathe to the inspiration for bad poetry to a source for the very materials that make our lives possible. Kids love trees. They love to climb them, trounce around their leaves, notice who lives in them,…

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beauty in nature

10 Reasons to Take Your Students Outside (& the Research to Back It Up)

A lot of teachers want to offer their students experiences in the natural world, but because of strictures on curriculum, the prevalence of standardized tests, and other challenges, encounters with nature can fall into the category of “nice but not necessary.” But we know from a plethora of research that we humans desperately need that…

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children & nature

Why We Need Humane Education: Study Shows Children Don’t Get Outside Playtime

Research has repeatedly shown that we need regular exposure to the natural world. We’re happier and healthier when we’re connected to the natural world. Studies also show improved cognitive function and stress management and lower obesity levels in children who get time outside. But according to a recent study published in the Archives of Pediatrics…

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Paseo de Maravilla

Paseo de Maravilla

Los participantes se turnan cada líder en un silencio pregunto a pie para descubrir el mundo natural con sus cinco sentidos. Recomendado para todas las edades Duración: 30 minutos

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NATURALEZA ASOMBROSA

Naturaleza Asombrosa

Esta actividad usa ejemplos verdaderos y hechos fascinantes para inspirar la curiosidad del mundo natural. Recomendado para grados 1-6. Duración: 30-60 minutos

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