Have you ever heard the saying that once you notice something, you start seeing it everywhere? It's like when someone mentions that there isn't any neon green in nature, and suddenly, you're spotting pops of that color all around you. That's how it is with early literacy learning in nature – once you start looking, you'll find countless opportunities to explore and grow together!
Early literacy is all about helping young children grasp the idea that one thing can represent something else – a concept that takes time to develop. Whether it's spotting shapes in the clouds, discovering letters in the branches, or arranging natural objects in patterns, each outdoor adventure builds crucial skills in symbolic thinking. And with the rich textures and sensory experiences of nature, these moments become even more powerful, sparking joy and leaving lasting impressions.
So, as you venture into the great outdoors with your little ones, remember the boundless opportunities for early literacy learning that await. Together, you'll create memories, foster imagination, and lay the foundation for a lifetime of literacy and love for the natural world.
Play & Learn at Home
Here are some ways to support literacy learning in nature:
- Sharing stories outdoors is a magical way to engage young minds in the wonder of storytelling. As you weave tales together, children begin to visualize the narrative, adding their own twists and turns along the way. This process mirrors the structure of writing, nurturing creativity and imagination with every word. And by introducing familiar stories, you provide a comforting framework for learning and exploration.
- Bringing books outside opens up a whole new world of sensory delights for children to enjoy. Watching you immerse yourself in a story outdoors can ignite their curiosity and enthusiasm for reading. Whether you're snuggled up together or exploring side by side, your presence as a reading role model is incredibly powerful, shaping their love of learning with every page turned.
Resources we love:
Outdoor activities to boost literacy skills:
https://www.theliteracynest.com/2021/06/outdoor-activities-to-boost-literacy-skills.html
Outdoor literacy ideas:
https://childhood101.com/outdoor-literacy-ideas/
Outdoor literacy actives for kids:
https://www.havefunoutdoors.co.uk/outdoor-literacy-activities-for-kids/
Literacy Outdoors Video
https://youtu.be/38Q2ytH9aa8?si=Thwi64XuTWtJrjwj
