How to teach children about local wildlife when off-grid?

Creating a Wildlife Journal

A wildlife journal is an excellent tool for children to record their observations, sketches, and notes about the local wildlife. Encourage them to draw pictures of the animals they see, note the date and time of the observation, and include any interesting behaviors or characteristics they notice. For example, children can record the size, color, and type of birds they see, and note the types of plants or trees they frequent. This helps children develop their observation skills, patience, and attention to detail.

Outdoor Exploration

Take children on guided outdoor walks to explore their surroundings, pointing out different types of plants, animals, and insects. Encourage them to ask questions and make observations about the natural world. For example, take a 10-minute walk through the forest and ask children to observe the types of leaves, trees, and birds they see. This helps children develop a sense of exploration and curiosity about the natural world. Consider creating a “Nature Scavenger Hunt” list with pictures or names of animals and plants for children to find and identify.

Using Technology to Enhance Learning

Use technology to enhance children’s learning experience and make it more engaging. For example, download a wildlife identification app, such as iNaturalist or Merlin Bird ID, to help children identify animals and plants. Create a digital wildlife journal using a note-taking app, such as Evernote or OneNote, to record observations and notes. This helps children develop their critical thinking and research skills, and makes it easier to access and share information about the local wildlife.