As we approach the Fall season, we start to notice changes in nature happening all around us! This is the perfect time to get your kiddos outdoors for a Fall Scavenger Hunt! Head out to your backyard, local park or even stop by one of the Walking Mountains Science Center locations to complete the scavenger hunt below! Be sure to follow “Leave No Trace” Principles by staying on designated trails and leaving the area as you found it. Taking pictures or drawing what you see is a great way to get creative and track the items you find.

Exploring Fall Leaves

Spending time outdoors is beneficial to both physical and mental health and is a great opportunity for children to learn through play while exploring the world around them. When a child is given the chance to explore outdoors they build confidence, learn independence and responsibility and feel a sense of imagination and creativity. Becoming acquainted with the world around them builds a connection with the earth and inspires lifelong stewardship. A great way to interact with nature is to use your senses (touch, sight, feel and smell) to explore what is around you! This time of year is perfect for pointing out the changes in nature happening around us, take your kiddos out to do the scavenger hunt then wait two weeks and do the same walk and try to point out some differences that you notice! Above all, this fun activity is a great way to bond with your little one while being physically active!        

Kids running to wooden shelter

Tori DePauli is a naturalist at Walking Mountains Science Center  who enjoys spending time outdoors and connecting with mother nature.