Picturesque!

By Anelia Van Zyl

Spending time in nature is not only fun—it’s essential for our well-being! Research shows that kids who spend time outside benefit in the body, mind, and spirit (1). Little ones are always growing and learning from their experiences, and what better way to do it than in the fresh air? Numerous fun outdoor activities can assist in their development and well-being. Check out some of the ideas below (2).  

• Try a picnic in a local park with friends and family, and don’t forget a frisbee or ball to keep the fun going.
• Take your storytime reading outside, and in keeping with the theme, why not choose books about nature or a story that takes place in nature?
• Organize a nature-based scavenger hunt where kids collect leaves, rocks, seeds, and other natural materials. Give them lists where they can tick off their findings or challenge them to add to an existing collection. 
• Build nature sculptures with the materials you find outside, or make imprints in clay with natural objects. These activities are great for practicing motor development and creativity. 
• Play in the mud. Dress for the mess and enjoy! Get into that mud puddle, make mud cakes, build mud castles, make mud racing tracks for toy cars, or simply wallow in the messy joy. The possibilities are endless and will create hours of fun and learning.

This month, Weewee and I will show you how to bring nature into your home by making beautiful photo frames using natural materials. They’re easy and fun to make and the perfect places to frame your holiday photos! 

Head out to the garden, a local park, or wherever your favorite place in nature is and collect your natural treasures. Then get ready to create your unique photo frame. 

Tips for collecting natural materials

• Be safe and explore with an adult.
• Choose items that have naturally fallen to the ground.
• Take only what you need.
• Check local laws regarding the collection and removal of natural materials. For example, all shells should be left on the beach where they belong to protect coastal ecosystems.

Photo frame with natural materials

Supplies 

• Cardboard photo frame
• Craft glue
• Natural materials such as bark, seeds, and feathers
   

Process

1. Arrange your natural objects on the frame so they all fit in. Start with the bigger objects, then fill in the gaps with smaller ones.
2. Smear a generous amount of glue on the flattest side of an object and attach it to the frame by pressing it down firmly.  
3. Repeat for each object in turn. 
4. Let the finished frame dry for at least 24 hours.
5. Slip a picture from your holiday inside the frame.
6. Step back and admire your work!

Photos courtesy of the author.

References

1. National Wildlife Federation (nd) Health benefits and tips. nwf.org/Home/Kids-and-Family/Connecting-Kids-and-Nature/Health-Benefits-and-Tips 
2. Glassy D., and Tandon P. (2023) Playing Outside: Why it’s important for kids. healthychildren.org/English/family-life/power-of-play/Pages/playing-outside-why-its-important-for-kids.aspx

About the Author

Anelia is a performing artist from South Africa. She has been living and working as a teacher in Thailand for nine years. She also writes educational children’s books, makes music, and loves to spend time in the kitchen. Follow her adventures on IG @aneliavz.