It's almost April and, although a little late, the sun is beginning to shine brighter, the temperature a bit warmer and plants a bit greener. Winter hibernation is turning into long awaited spring fever. There are so many things we want to do outside, but we can't just yet. So what can we do? While I was brainstorming this same question for my lessons at the Wyck Historic House, Garden and Farm, I came across a Facebook post by Nature Rocks. They shared a link, "10 Ways to Explore Nature in March" by Go Explore Nature. This awesome article shares wonderful ways families and teachers can get their kids out of the house or classroom and into nature. It even has printables! Don't have kids to take outside? Numbers 4, 7 and 9 can be done by adults.
Number 8, “See local wildflowers,” is one of my favorites that everyone can do. I especially love that there are so many places to do this in the Philly area. My favorites are Wissahickon Park,Wissahickon Environmental Center, the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Awbury Arboretum, and the Wyck Historic House, Garden and Farm. And that's only the Northwest section of the city! What are your Philly area favorites? What are your favorites from where you live? What do you love to do outside in March? I hope thinking about these questions and reading this article has you inspired to get outside and play. Even on a rainy day, the physical and mental benefits to outdoor play for children and grown-ups are immeasurable.
Now that you have a pre-spring to do list, get outside and love the nature around you. Nature is as close as your door step, no matter where you are from. Enjoy!
