Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Children explore the features of natural objects by sorting them according to their different characteristics (such as weight, size, colour and texture). Younger children then create a collage using these natural objects, while older children experiment with making patterns using these natural objects as stamps in either play-doh or paint.
This activity is designed to help connect children to the wonders of the natural world through sensory and play-based learning.
This lesson is designed to be taught outside. It contains all the tools required for children to reap the benefits of being outdoors while meeting the learning outcomes of the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia. By spending time outdoors and connecting to nature, children are more likely to care for and conserve nature as adults.
We’ve taken elements of this lesson and adapted them for remote learning. You can find this activity here.
EYLF Learning Outcome |
Elaborations |
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world |
3. Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment |
Outcome 4: Children are involved and confident learners |
1. Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, imagination and reflexivity 3. Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies, and natural and processed materials |
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators |
1. Children interact verbally and non verbally with others for a range of purposes 3. Children express ideas and make meaning using a range of media 4. Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work |
Resources required:
- A range of natural objects with different textures, shapes, colours and smells. Consider including leaves, nuts and seeds (sealing in a tub if small), flowers, roots, feathers, stones, pieces of wood, shells etc. Camera (optional).
- Younger children – cardboard and glue for creating a collage.
- Older children – play-oh or paint and paper.
Supporting resources:
- Why learn outdoors?
- Tips for making outdoor learning easier
- Designing your outdoor learning space
- Outdoor Learning – Risks/hazards and actions
Cool Australia would like to thank The Albert George & Nancy Caroline Youngman Trust – managed by Equity Trustees.
The team at Cool Australia continually reviews and refines our Early Learning resources in line with expert advice and current educational practices.