Five Senses Nature Observation

Supports this milestone

• observes and describes observable phenomena (objects, materials, organisms, and events). — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

• A collected nature item per child such as a pinecone, leaf, smooth stone, or piece of bark
• A magnifying glass or two to share
• A tray to display the items

Steps

• Invite each child to choose one item and hold it.
• Ask "what do you see?" and help name colors, shapes, and patterns.
• Guide the children to touch the item and describe whether it feels rough, smooth, or bumpy.
• Encourage gentle smelling and listening, asking what they notice with each sense.
• Gather the group to share one describing word each about their item.

Variations

• Hide the items in a feely bag and have children describe by touch before looking.
• Take the activity outdoors and observe items where they are found.

Differentiation

• For younger children, focus on one or two senses such as sight and touch.
• For older children, ask them to compare two items and describe a difference.

Accessibility

• Offer items with strong textures or scents for children who explore best by touch or smell.

Safety

• Avoid items that may be mouthed by younger children and wash hands after handling nature items.

Practices these skills

• Observes and Describes

Evidence

• Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services