RESOURCES
We believe nature is the best classroom. The best playground. The best gym.
We also know that having new resources to inspire more ways of engaging with nature can help us appreciate it in other meaningful and creative ways. As GOL! develops and curates activity ideas, lessons, tips, tools, and websites that we think are particularly swell, we want to share them with you!
Please check out the ever-growing collection below. If you have ideas to share, please let us know!
(Note, sharing these resources does not imply GOL!’s endorsement.)
Nature Programming Websites
These websites offer countless ways for you and your family to learn about nature right from your home. Let the exploring begin!
- www.FindingNature.org – Children & Nature Network is a leader in the field of environmental education and has provided a compilation of resources for families.
- www.amnh.org/explore/ology – The American Museum of Natural History has a fantastic website for kids that encourages exploration and learning in a range of science topics.
- Audubon for Kids – Audubon has curated a range of interactive ways to learn about birds, including quizzes, videos, crafts and more.
- Captain Planet Foundation – This site houses nature-based activites, experiments, and art projects, searchable by grade level and topic.
- The Ecologist School – Families in Nature is curating environmental lessons geared towards older school children in topics ranging from Geology to Oceanography. Their goal is to provide “ideas to get out into nature in your own backyard, to encourage siblings to play and learn together at home, and to support or supplement your family’s science education.”
- SOLE – Schools and Outdoor Learning Environments is a partnership between Colorado Parks & Wildlife and Get Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) bringing you environmental learning resources.
Nature-Inspired Activities & Lessons
These activities are great for school-aged children to learn about the environment around them while having fun! Perfect for curious minds and busy bodies.
- Colorado Parks & Wildlife Coloring Book – Downloadable, bilingual coloring pages of Colorado wildlife
- Buddy Bison’s Backyard Bingo – The National Park Trust has created a bingo challenge with activities that encourge your to explore your backyard. Spanish version here!
- Build a Fort Activity – Spend a day outside or inside using found materials to create a shelter.
- Journaling – Once you’ve made a fort or shelter, try this journaling activity.
Standards-Based Environmental Education
Tried and true resources created by educators, so learning can continue from home.
- Natural Inquirer – teaches about scientific process and nature
- Project Learning Tree – An award-winning environmental education program designed for teachers and other educators, parents, and community leaders
Other Goodies
Technlogy can take us to places we otherwise wouldn’t go. Try these virtual experiences to inspire and entertain you!
- Ebird.org – Birding app that lets you track and share your observations
- Earthcam.com – Webcams let you virtually visit animals from around the world
