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I think one of the best ways to introduce science to children is to get them outside and observing nature! We often walk through the gardens of Minnetrista Cultural Center. Recently we brought a friend along on our walk— Flat Kaleb given to us by my good friend Jolanthe at Homeschool Creations.
Flat Kaleb (adapted from the book Flat Stanley) came to visit us from out East. We decided to show him around our favorite gardens and teach him a thing or two about the critters and plants from our area.
One of the first things we spied was a spider web. We wondered if an orb spider made it. My girls decided that though it looked pretty, they didn’t want to be anywhere near it.
At little way down the path, we came across a daddy long-legs spider trying to scurry out of our way. He didn’t need to worry–my girls didn’t want to go anywhere near him either!
Flat Kaleb was excited to find a house just his size!
Flat Kaleb also got to see the White River. We spied many turtles sunning themselves and geese hoping to get fed. Flat Kaleb wondered why the White River is called the white river if it looks brown? Great question! 
We decided it should be called Geese River instead.
A Twist on a Nature Walk
I originally thought to bring Flat Kaleb along just to snap a couple of pictures to put in his journal. I was surprised at how much my young children enjoyed “showing” him around and pointing out things for him to observe. We go to the gardens often, so the wonder has worn off a bit. When they had to explain things to Flat Kaleb though, it was like we were seeing things new again. It was a perfect game to play because they were the teachers. If you don’t have a flat traveler to take along, try using a stuffed animal or doll.
What nature items can your child show their special guest?
For more nature walk activities for preschoolers see:
