Preschool Lesson Plan: Exploring Nature
Objective
To introduce preschoolers to the beauty of nature, encouraging curiosity and appreciation for the environment through hands-on activities and exploration.
Duration
30 minutes
Materials Needed
- Picture books about nature (e.g., flowers, trees, animals)
- Magnifying glasses
- Nature scavenger hunt list (simple items like leaves, pine cones, flowers)
- Drawing paper and crayons
- A container for collecting small natural items
Introduction (5 minutes)
Welcome and Circle Time
- Gather children in a circle.
- Briefly discuss what nature is and what they might find outside (e.g., trees, flowers, animals).
- Show a few pictures from the nature books.
- Ask children about their favorite things in nature.
Activity 1: Nature Walk (15 minutes)
Taking a Walk
- Explain that they will go on a nature walk around the schoolyard or playground.
- Divide the children into small groups and provide each group with a scavenger hunt list.
- Encourage them to use magnifying glasses to examine small items they find.
- Remind children to respect nature by not picking plants that shouldn’t be disturbed.
Collecting Items
- Allow children to collect small, natural items (e.g., leaves, smooth stones) in their containers.
- Encourage them to look closely at everything and share what they find.
Activity 2: Nature Art (10 minutes)
Creating Nature Art
- Return to the classroom and gather around tables.
- Have children take out their collected items and show them to the group.
- Provide drawing paper and crayons.
- Instruct children to draw something they saw on the nature walk or create art using their collected items (e.g., gluing leaves onto paper).
Sharing Art
- Invite each child to share their art with the group.
- Discuss what makes each piece unique and how it relates to what they found in nature.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
Recap and Reflection
- Gather the children back into a circle for a brief discussion.
- Ask questions like:
- What was your favorite thing you found today?
- How can we take care of nature?
- Reinforce the importance of respecting and appreciating the environment.
Closing
- End with a nature-themed song or chant to celebrate what they've learned and experienced.
Assessment
- Observe children’s engagement during the walk and art activity.
- Take note of their ability to express thoughts about nature during sharing time.
Notes
- Ensure a safe environment during the nature walk.
- Be ready to assist children with any questions and guide them in discussions about nature and its importance.