Easy Winter Nature Study Ideas
As winter approaches, many of us retreat indoors to beat the cold, but nature study doesn’t have to end when the temperatures drop. There are plenty of interesting, engaging, and easy winter nature study ideas that you can do inside and learn about the natural world.
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Easy Winter Nature Study Ideas
You don’t have to go outside to take part in a winter nature study. You can learn about winter while staying in the house too!
Read about winter
Books are so great for nature study because they help prepare us for what we’ll likely see outside and help us understand what’s happening around us, especially for younger learners.
Here are some of our favorite selections:
- Winter Walk – This one focuses on things you may see on a winter walk.
- Sizing Up Winter – We love how this series combines math and nature! This one can be used to introduce or reinforce measurement skills.
- Over and Under the Snow – This adorable picture book is especially nice for learning about what’s happening underground during winter months.
Learn about snow.
Dig into this snowflake study resource. She shares several fun ways to learn about snow there: a snow and ice unit study, snow measurement activity, snowflake science, and more.
Go on a winter nature hunt.
A nature scavenger hunt is a great way to strengthen observation skills and appreciate the winter landscapes.
Not sure what to look for? Take a look at my nature walk tips and grab the free winter nature hunt printable to guide you while you hunt.
Do an Online Book Club.
If you love reading about winter, why not try joining an online book club? These groups not only provide great books to read but also encourage further exploration and activities to help you take your book time to the next level!
This online book club for the book Winter is Here is a great place to start. It covers learning about trees, migration, hibernation, and more through reading, writing, and hands-on learning.
Make an ice melt.
Gather nature items like leaves, berries, and pine needles. Then freeze them a little at a time using a layered approach. After everything is thoroughly frozen, your kiddos can melt the block and observe the items.
Get artsy.
Don’t let the idea of winter-themed art projects stress you out! Get creative with your winter nature study and use You ARE an ARTist’s winter art lessons! You won’t need much to get started – just construction paper and chalk pastels! Have fun with it!
