1.       Tools:  Bring paper and pen with you and have your child draw and represent different things they see.  If your children are older, have them free write or journal about how they feel about a certain place or have them list what they see.  If you have a very young child let them be inspired by the landscape (indoors or out) . Other tools: binoculars, guide books, paints, magnifying glass.

2.      Vantage point:  Get down on your knees, climb a tree, go on the roof of a building, lie down. Change vantage points with your child and see how the observations change

3.      Time:  Give it time.  Practice this with your child in different environments, but also set a certain amount of time and sit silently before you start to talk or share your observations.

4.      Questions: Ask your child questions:  What do you see?  Where have you seen this before?  How does this environment make you feel?  What colors do you notice?  Have you heard any new sounds?  Did you notice any textures? Can you make a connection between this place and Blank (insert a place that your child likes or dislikes)  Do you think this is a wild place? Why?  How many natural objects do you see?  Man made?  Show me all the shapes you can find.  If you were to taste this place what would it taste like?  What is missing?

5.      Share:  Once back at home have your child share their findings with another adult by verbalizing, creating movements or painting about what they observed.

You will soon be on your way to opening your child’s mind and perception of what is considered a wild place, an outdoor space, a natural space.  Have them be their own guide in seeing what is truly out there.

Heidi

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