Over on PBS Parents today, I’ve got a very leafy learning activity perfect for Earth Day, Arbor Day or any day this spring and summer. Take a look at how you and your kids can (and should) make a Book of Trees!
I’m not the only one with the great outdoors on the mind though!
Our friends at PBS KIDS will premiere all-new episodes of WILD KRATTS and DINOSAUR TRAIN during Earth Week and have activities for parents and kids to do together online and off. There’s also nature-themed episodes of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood planed for Monday, April 20th — Earth Day — and have a handful (minus the thumb) of tips for your family to get outdoors on Earth Day and Arbor Day and, with any luck, save the planet:
- Be an explorer! – As the weather gets warmer, go on a nature walk with your child – even if it’s just in your own backyard! On the walk, ask your child what they see in the environment and have them make some observations, including the types of animals and plants they spot.
- Plan a picnic! – Having a picnic is a fun way to enjoy nature, time with family and friends, and a delicious meal on a spring day. Pack some healthy snacks and foods. Bring reusable plates, cups, utensils and napkins – and don’t forget the blanket!
- Think green! – Make recycling a fun daily activity at home. Set up bins in an area where your child sees you using them. Allow your child to decorate the recycling bins by creating signs to help them remember what each one is for. It’s a great way to get them more invested in the activity and make them want to use the bins each and every day!
- Save some H2O! – Remind your child to turn off the water while soaping up their hands and turn it back on to rinse them – and that goes with brushing too! Also instead of buying water bottles, think about using a reusable water bottle.
Now let’s have a sneak peek at those new Daniel Tiger episodes airing on Monday, April 20 2015 (check local listings for the time in your area):
Aaaand here’s the skinny on the nature episodes:
“Daniel Explores Nature”
It’s a beautiful day in the Neighborhood! Daniel and his family are spending the day outside exploring, when Daniel spots a beautiful red bird. As they watch the busy bird, they learn about how a bird’s nest is built. But when the nest falls out of the tree, will Daniel and Katerina be able to help save the bird’s home?
“Daniel’s Nature Walk”
There’s so much to explore when you’re outside! Daniel is going on a nature walk in the forest with O the Owl and Uncle X. They see frogs, worms and even spot a rainbow in the sky!