,

Lichen, fungi, and bugs, oh my! This week’s newsletter is full of resources and activities to help learners zoom in on the tiny wonders happening all around them in nature and learn about the “world of small.” Read on to find hands-on resources that will spark imagination and connect learners to their creative sides.

For a sit spot this week, you may ask students to look at changing their focus from the big picture down to the little picture. Here are some useful writing prompts to help learners focus their journaling. Encourage students to sit near a rock or tree covered in lichen while they reflect.

Join Wildsight educator Patty Kolesnichenko as she takes learners on a virtual investigation of the world of lichen. Students will learn about the three main types of lichen and how to identify them, and will immerse themselves in “the world of small.”

Learners will connect to little critters with each of these activities that encourage observing, identifying and learning from the bugs they find. Getting low to the ground, turning over rocks and logs and carefully studying the fascinating world of bugs will help learners build empathy towards some of our smallest neighbors in nature.

Using natural materials, fun embellishments and imagination, students will build empathy and compassion for the little critters (and fairies) of the world by building a special habitat for them to live in. When our children are fully engaged in pretend play in nature, they are stimulated in many ways—creating, observing, collecting, exercising, and communicating—all while enjoying and gaining an appreciation for the natural world and quiet spaces.

Join our learning community
Join our Wildsight Education at Home Facebook for more resources and to connect to an inspiring community of teachers, educators and parents.

Invite your friends and colleagues to sign up for our weekly Wednesday newsletter here.