A Spring Walk

The spring of mid-April is not the same as that of late March.

Take a walk with your child, observe your surroundings, and put some words to these changes.

What’s new? What’s different?

“I noticed that the tulip plants across the street are growing taller. But they have not yet bloomed.”

“The daffodils around the border of the playground are dying. They bloomed so beautifully last week.”

“Did you see the grass in the park is more green than it was a few weeks ago?”

“I found some leaves unfurling on this tree branch! Can you?”

“Many magnolia petals are on the ground today after the rainstorm.”

“The giant puddle is almost gone. How do you think that spot became dry again?”

“I think I am hearing more birdsong in the yard this morning. Have you noticed that? I wonder what time of day is the best time for to hear their singing - in the morning or the evening? Let’s try to listen before dinner.”

“There are lots of earthworms out after the rain. The robins seem to be finding a good meal…”

“I feel sunlight on my face today. I pushed up my sweater sleeves because it is so warm today!”

“I feel a breeze - and I can hear it, too. Can you hear the sound of the wind?”

These types of observations will be different based on your surroundings, but try to take a walk and share these types of comments as you go.

Remember, your child’s capacity for attentive analysis - and the foundation of scientific thinking - starts with observing the everyday.