Taking your toddler or preschooler outside is a great way to help them connect with nature and learn about the world around them. But sometimes, it can be hard to get them excited about going for a walk or hike, especially in Singapore, with our air-conditioned nation culture. Here are some items that can make spending time in nature more fun and engaging for your little one.
This blog post includes some gift ideas that are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. We also provide tips on how to use these gifts to encourage your child’s interest in nature.
Gifts to encourage a child’s interest in nature
Magnifying glasses are great for exploring the natural world up close. Toddlers and preschoolers can use them to look at bugs, leaves, and other small objects.
Rain jackets or rain ponchos will keep your child dry and comfortable when you’re out in the rain. This particular rain jacket is super lightweight and folds up tiny into its own pocket, making it super easy to pack into a child’s own bag.
A compass and whistle is essential for outdoor adventures. A young child can be introduced to cardinal directions and the general idea of navigation. A whistle will allow a child to call for help in case of emergencies.
A properly sized backpack allows a child to carry their own gear, learning independence and responsibility. You could even create a checklist and have your child pack their bag on their own with reference to the list.
Which child doesn’t love playing with a torch? Torches are great for exploring darker places, and at night.
Aqua shoes provide sufficient protection for a child’s feet while also allowing them to feel the ground, and step into muddy and wet areas.
Binoculars are perfect for birdwatching or stargazing, and provide a different perspective.
Guides and books about nature can help your child learn more about the plants and animals they see outdoors. We love this local bird poster, and this guide can be brought along on walks to identify what they see!
If your kids are into bugs, a bug jar provides a place to hold on to a bug and examine it in detail before letting it go back into nature. If they’re big on flowers, a flower press helps preserve some of the pretty treasures that they pick up!
Tips to encourage a child’s interest in nature
Here are some tips on how to use these gifts to encourage your child’s interest in nature:
- Let your child explore on their own. Don’t hover over them and tell them what to do. Let them wander around and see what they can find. The goal isn’t to complete a trail or a certain distance. Let them take the lead and don’t worry if you don’t cover much ground.
- Ask questions. Prompt your child to talk about what they’re seeing and doing. Ask them what they think about the different plants and animals, and wonder with them why things might be as they are.
- Be patient. It takes time for children to develop an interest in nature. Don’t get discouraged if they’re not immediately interested in the things you’re showing them. Repeated exposure, much encouragement, and having a fun time together helps!
Getting your toddler or preschooler interested in nature is a great way to help them learn about the wonderful world God created. The gifts we’ve shared in this blog post are a great way to get them started. Just remember to let them explore on their own, ask questions, and make it fun!
If you’re looking to explore nature while traveling, do check out our itineraries for Jeju, South Korea and Kyushu, Japan (including a farm stay!).
