Our Pumpkin Patch

I believe that we (children and adults) learn constantly, if you open your eyes and truly observe your surroundings. In my family, we learn from everyday activities and even *gasp* on vacation. Here are a few ideas to turn your everyday into a wonderfully fun learning experience. You won’t even realize you’re learning! ❤

◊  Take a nature walk scavenger hunt–these are super easy to organize. A good link for ideas (and ready-made hunts) is http://www.scavengerhuntsforkids.com/naturehunts.html

◊  Leaf rubbings

◊  Hiking at local or state parks. Many state parks have nature trails already marked. It’s a great way to introduce your children to local resources.

◊ Camping–You can do many, if not all the following activities: bird watching, fishing, identifying edible and poisonous plants, insect gathering, and practicing eco-stewardship.

◊  Explore local forts- There are MANY forts (at least here in Texas) that you can experience with a low-cost and high educational value.
**Always be respectful of rules. You should NEVER graffiti or dump trash at these places, and remember to avoid the use of flash photography if prohibited.

◊  Take advantage of local resources; explore your community. You never know what interesting things might be right around the corner from you.

◊  Museums, especially children’s make wonderful day trips.

◊  Festivals. There are lots of festivals, especially during the summer that are fun, folksy family affairs.

◊  Farmer’s markets, flea markets, and main street expos offer not only good shopping opportunities but you can teach your children the value of buying local, sustainable produce and other goods. It’s a great lifelong eco-lesson (not to mention you get to eat some great food at decent prices =) )