It's always fun to take a nature walk, whether there's a hint of autumn in the air or spring has sprung. When kids are along, the important thing is to take it slowly. Stop and smell the roses, or look at worms, whichever they bring to you. When kids aren't rushed along, they can discover all types of little treasures. Depending on the season, look for leaves, acorns, pine cones, caterpillars, rocks, bugs, birds, and plants. Your child can use some of the items, such as flowers, leaves, rocks, and acorns, to make a collage after you get home. The bugs, however, are best left outside. Nature walks can also be a perfect time to talk with your child and to answer all those ‘why' questions. Why do the leaves turn colors, why do birds fly south for the winter, and so on. Try to see things from your child's perspectiv, too. Get down on your knees and look closely at the ground, or lie on your back and watch the clouds. You may re-awaken that small child that still lives within every mom and dad.
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