If you feel like your world is tilting off its axis these days, you’re not alone. With news reports that seem more like science fiction than reality, kids at home for the foreseeable future, and routines in complete turmoil, it’s easy to feel off balance.
To get back on solid ground, step outside or open a window. Touch the earth, or look into the distance, find a tall tree, and imagine that’s you, rooted deep in the soil. Feel the solid ground beneath you, real or imagined. Notice…it’s not shaking, even though you may be.
Indeed, the spinning earth is even now circling the sun, just as it has for eons. And Spring has arrived right on schedule, complete with a rainbow of colors, symphony of birdsong, and the rich fragrances of rainfall and wildflowers. Resilient nature is alive and well, full of hope, and present right in your yard, nearby natural areas, and outside your open windows.
So how can your family tap into this source of free and abundant comfort?
Nearby Nature is developing resources for home “nature-schooling” to help support families and teachers during this challenging time. We’re considering creating Nature-School Live programs — from our yards to yours! Ready now — Explore Activity pages are available every Monday and Thursday. And our Natural Neighbors project with iNaturalist is waiting for your input today! See the boxes below for details.
*Note: With COVID-19 health and safety recommendations in constant flux, please take into account any changes in local, state, or national policies that might impact activities suggested on our website, especially with respect to social distancing, spending time outside, or visiting public parks and natural areas.
Nature-School Live
We are exploring the possibility of creating live and/or recorded nature programs for kids — from our yards to yours! We’ll keep you posted as our programs develop. Email us your ideas if such resources would be helpful for your family!
Explore Activities!
Enjoy nature puzzles, scavenger hunts, craft ideas, and more! New materials posted on our Explore Activities page every Monday and Thursday. If you would like Explore Activity pages (PDFs) sent directly to your email, email us your name and note EXPLORE PAGES PLEASE in the comment section.
Natural Neighbors Project
Get to know your natural neighbors! Take photos of whatever is blooming, buzzing, hopping, or chirping in your yard or neighborhood and upload them to our Natural Neighbors project on iNaturalist. It’s easy and fun to participate — learn how here!