The sun is getting brighter every day and the songbirds are out! What says spring like a treasure hunt outdoors. This simple game is an excellent means of expanding our vocabulary and learning new words.

Step 1: A list of treasures!

To get started, write up a list of things to try and find on your next walk. Here is a list of examples of 10 things to look for in nature. A true treasure hunt!

And if you come across a mailbox, mail your letter from last week! Remember April 1st’s activity?

Here is a website with more themes to explore.

Step 2: Off we go!

Get a solid bag and head outside, eyes wide open!

You can take a walk in your neighborhood or hit the trails, all the while seeking and identifying the elements on your list. Make sure to comment and share a tidbit of knowledge when your child finds something on the list. For example, if you identify a bird’s feather, depending on your child’s age you could mention “This feather belongs to a Robin! ” or “Did you know birds build and live in nests? “

Step 3: Make an exhibit of your treasures

Find an original way to showcase your treasures! You could form a Mandala like we did during last’s week’s activity “A very natural Mandala“.

Here are a few more options

Inverse the roles and ask your children to hide objects in the back yard. They can then give you clues to go on a search of the hidden objects. With younger children you can engage a game of “Hot or cold”.

When out on a family walk, continue the game, but make it a guessing game. Example : “I spy with my little eye… something with four legs! “

Diary

In today’s diary, the kids can document the days activity. They can draw neighbors reactions as thew walk by and notice the way the treasures are laid out. If your child is up to the task on their own, here are some questions you can ask them to stimulate their imagination:

Out of all the animals we saw today, which one was your favorite and why?
Next time we do this activity, what would you like to add on the treasure list?
What do you prefer about springtime?

Did you know...

… Spring is the best time to find new discoveries outdoors as the snow melts; Make sure to write about todays discoveries in your journal.
… Spring also exists on Mars. During the season, the ice evaporates and produces patterns on the ground.
… During Spring, migrator birds return. The Artic Tern holds the record for the longest migration. Each year they travel over 80 000 km, between Greenland and Antarctica.
… Each year, thousands of trees are planted by mistake by squirrels that have hidden their acorns and forgot about them.