Stocking Stuffers: Encourage Time Outdoors and in Nature

Children are spending less and less time outdoors and in nature. Physical activity and exposure to nature is important for the development of a healthy child. Instead of a new video game or DVD try these stocking stuffers to get your child away from the television and out the door.

The Fun With Nature Take-Along Guide
The Fun with Nature Take-Along Guide is a great first nature book for the preschool to early grade school child. It covers a wide range of topics all in one book. Your child can use this guide to learn about animals, bugs, and amphibians that they would likely come across. There is even a section in the book about identifying animals by what they leave behind such as tracks and poop. There is a section about trees too. The Fun with Nature Take Along Guide has a durable hard cover. Available online from A Toy Garden.

Pee Wee's Composting Book Set
Do you have a garden that needs fertilizer? Why not make your own compost. This series of books for kids will get you started and provides a fascinating read. Included in the set are three books: Pee Wee and the Magical Compost Heap, Pee Wee's Great Adventure: A Guide to Vermicomposting, and Pee Wee's Family in a Nutshell. Learn about the worms and insects that make a compost heap work and the differences in a backyard compost and vermicomposting. These books are a great guide to get you started on your own composting adventures. Available online from A Toy Garden.

Magnifying Glass by Haba
Encourage closer examination of bugs, leaves, and other findings with this magnifying glass by Haba. This magnifying glass is a great option for kids as it comes on a cord so that it can be worn. The magnifying glass comes in a small tin that can be used for safely storing the magnifying glass when not in use. This is a great gift to encourage kids to take the time to observe objects closely and in detail. Available from Oompa.

Nature Press
The nature press provides a way for children to press the leaves and flowers they collect. Instead of using bolts and screws, this press uses velcro making it ideal for children to operate on their own. Encourage children to take nature walks and gather items to press. Later use a field guide with your child to identify the items that they have collected and preserved. Available from For Small Hands

First Nature Activity Book
The First Nature Activity Book is filled with over twenty activities for you to do with your child. Instead of feeling stuck about ways to get your child outdoors this book provides interesting hands on activities with easy to follow instructions. One of my favorite things about this book is that it encourages observation and knowledge about the natural environment closest to them. Available from For Small Hands

Small Garden Hand Tools
Children love to have their own child sized version of adult tools. This set of garden tools includes a trowel, rake, and a spade just right for little hands. Encourage children to start their own little garden and to work along side you with this stocking stuffer. These durable tools have metal heads and wooden handles. Available from For Small Hands

Seashore Nature Study Kit
Planning a trip to the beach or live near the ocean? The Seashore Nature Study Kit is a neat all in one set for an older child. Laminated cards provide information and pictures about creatures, shells, and other things you will discover. A net and collection jar are also included to help you get up close to enjoy your discoveries. This kit makes a great activity for a child and parent to use to learn together. Available from Magic Cabin.

Turbo Bug Vac
Do you have a little one who likes to pick up bugs for a closer look? The Turbo Bug Vac sucks up bugs into a magnified tube for close examination. The bug vac allows your child to safely handle bugs. No worries about if the insect is harmful or that it is going to end up squished by little fingers. Available from Hearth Song

Best Value Binoculars
Arm your little explorer with a pair of binoculars. These are great for getting a better look at birds, animals that are far away, or ones that easily startle. They are just the right size for kid's hands, are durable, and light weight. Available from Hearth Song

Sea Scope
The sea scope is a unique product that allows children to see under the water. Your child can easily observe a whole other world of creatures with the sea scope. A light allows children to see even in cloudy water. Make sure to pick up a couple of double AA batteries for the light. Available from Hearth Song