Summer Activities

Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and engage in activities that not only benefit children but also help them develop a sense of responsibility towards wildlife. Caring for wildlife is a wonderful way to instil empathy and compassion in children while also teaching them about the importance of preserving our natural world. Here are some fun and educational outdoor spring activities for kids that focus on caring for wildlife.

Birdwatching: Summer is a great time to observe the many different species of birds that are migrating or returning to their breeding grounds. Set up a bird feeder in your backyard and spend time with your kids identifying the birds that come to visit. You can also take a nature walk in a nearby park or nature reserve to spot birds in their natural habitat.

Building birdhouses: Encourage your kids to get creative by building birdhouses out of recycled materials. This activity not only provides shelter for birds but also teaches children about the importance of providing safe nesting spaces for wildlife.

Planting a butterfly garden: Butterflies are not only beautiful to look at, but they also play a crucial role in pollination. Help your kids plant a butterfly garden with nectar-rich flowers that attract these colourful insects. You can also set up a butterfly feeder with a mixture of sugar water to provide them with additional nourishment.

Cleaning up litter: Take your kids on a nature walk and challenge them to pick up litter along the way. Not only does this help keep the environment clean, but it also prevents wildlife from ingesting harmful materials. Make it a fun competition by rewarding the child who collects the most trash with a small prize.

Building a bug hotel: Create a habitat for beneficial insects like ladybugs, bees, and butterflies by building a bug hotel in your backyard. Use materials like bamboo sticks, pine cones, and straw to provide shelter for these important pollinators.

Participating in a beach clean-up: If you live near the coast, organize a beach clean-up with your kids to remove trash and debris from the shoreline. This activity not only helps protect marine wildlife but also teaches children about the impact of pollution on our oceans.

Volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation centre: Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation centre and inquire about volunteer opportunities for children. This hands-on experience allows kids to learn about the care and rehabilitation of injured or orphaned wildlife while also giving back to their community.

By engaging in these outdoor Summer activities, children can develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the environment while also learning valuable lessons about compassion and stewardship. Encourage your kids to get involved in caring for wildlife, and watch as they develop a lifelong love for nature.