Creating a Nature Kit

Getting kids outside is a great way to help them appreciate nature and the earth. Young children need nothing more than dirt to dig in and grass to run in, however older children that are curious about the world around them may enjoy a nature kit to help them explore. Putting together a simple nature kit that will help kids find out more about nature can be simple and inexpensive. Here are all the things you will need to give your child their own way to explore nature.

A magnifying glass. Small bugs, the tiny parts of flowers, and small animal tracks are all easier to see with a good magnifying glass. Choose one made of sturdy glass with a small handle that will fit in your child's hand. Most magnifying glasses are made for adults, making them too large and heavy for children to use. Be sure that the one you pick is light weight and small enough for your child, yet strong enough not to be broken easily if dropped.

A good pair of binoculars. Not everything in nature will be close enough to see with a magnifying glass, or even the naked eye. A pair of binoculars are a great addition to a nature kit as they will help children see animals that are far away. As with a magnifying glass, choose binoculars that are small and lightweight yet sturdy enough not be broken if dropped.

A nature book. Not everything your child finds out in nature will be as common as grasshoppers and . Having a good nature book that your child can reference for various plants, bugs, and animals will help your child understand more about the outside world. You can often find books dedicated to covering native plants and animals in certain areas. These can be ideal for finding out more about what is growing and living right around you.

Sketch book and pencils. Part of the fun of exploring nature is being able to record some of what you have found. A small, inexpensive sketch book and a set of colored pencils will give your child reason to sit down and study the plants, bugs, and animals they will find.

A camera. Not every child has an artistic side or the ability to draw everything they find. A good camera inside your nature kit will help your child save images of the interesting things they find along the way. Choose a good digital camera for the ability to take several, high quality photos. Yet, if your child is not yet reliable enough to be given a digital camera a simple disposable one can be just as good.

Small bags for collecting. Sometimes children find things they will want to bring home and save. Rocks, leaves, and bones are all interesting finds that your child can carry home to begin a great nature collection. Include small, reusable bags that can hold any treasures they might find. Snack sized zipper bags are great for holding things, and can be easily washed and used again and again.

A sturdy backpack. Once you have all of your items together you will need a sturdy backpack to put them all in. Choose something small enough not to cause back strain in your child, yet durable to withstand being out in the elements. A backpack with lots of pockets and a place to carry water bottles is a great choice.

Putting together a fun and simple nature kit that your child can take with him as he explores outside is a great way to help your child build a love of nature. Packing these basics will give your child nearly everything he could need to go out and learn more about the natural world.