Nature Treasure Hunt

Nature Treasure Hunt

Kids love to explore nature!
This activity gets kids outside
and helps them focus on observing
the world around them.

Safety Warning: Adult supervision is required.





What You Will Need:

• Nature Treasure Hunt Bag (small) and/or Nature Treasure Hunt Bag (large)
• Backyard, Park, Woods, or Field

What You Do:

• Create a Nature Treasure Bag by downloading the printable template above. Make one bag for each child, and have them write their names on their bags.
• Make sure children are dressed for the weather and the location that you will be exploring.
• While walking in the woods, in a park, your backyard, or wherever you've decided to explore, encourage your children to look closely and find interesting objects in nature. See the list below for ideas of things to look for.
• Upon returning with your collection, use field guides or the internet to identify the items that were collected. You may want to organize and store your collection in a small plastic box for future studies.

Ideas of Things to Look For:

• Interesting Leaves
• Acorns
• Pinecones
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Leaves
• Fallen Bark
• Flowers

Variations:

• Plan a nature hike that focuses on a particular theme. For example, one hike could focus on leaves. Have children collect as many different leaves as they can find and add them to their Nature Treasure Bag. Use a field identification guide to help you identify the types of trees the leaves are from. Another nature hike could focus on collecting things that are brown (or whatever color you choose). Have children collect as many different things as they can in the color you've decided on.
• Before assembling your Nature Treasure Hunt bag, write a list of items on the bag for children to find during their hike. Carry along a pencil and have the kids check off the items they've found.

Additional Notes:

• We strongly recommend adult supervision when going on a nature hike.
• Be careful not to disturb living things while on your hike. If you are in a public park, please observe the park rules about collecting items from the park.
• Move quietly while on your hike. If you sit still for a few minutes, you may be able to observe animals in their natural habitat. Sometimes hiding behind a tree helps the animals feel more comfortable.
• Never pick up an item that is unfamiliar. You don't want to end up touching a poison plant or insect!
• Always leave the area in the same condition it was when you arrived.
• Trash is not treasure! If you see trash, pick it up and bring it back home with you to dispose of properly. You may want to carry an extra bag to collect trash.
• Stay safe! Observe your surroundings. Walk carefully and watch your step.