Nature Studies for Kids: Books and Activities

Ready to ignite a lifelong love for the natural world in your children? Dive into the captivating realm of nature studies for kids, where every backyard and local park becomes a living laboratory! With book lists curated by an elementary school librarian, this guide is brimming with elementary science activities and engaging nature lessons designed to spark curiosity and foster a deep understanding of the amazing creatures and plants around us. Whether you are embracing homeschool nature study, exploring the principles of nature based learning, or incorporating the hands on fun of forest school activities, we have you covered.

Get ready to embark on exciting learning adventures with our curated book lists and activity ideas focusing on fascinating subjects like owls, busy honey bees, industrious ants, crisp apples, adorable baby elephants, fluttering butterflies, juicy blueberries, tangy cranberries, curious chickens, leaping frogs, vibrant pumpkins, and delicate wildflowers. This is your starting point for enriching homeschool nature experiences and creating memorable science unit studies. Discover fantastic homeschool unit study ideas and weave the wonders of nature education into your everyday learning.

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Ant Nature Study Book List

Imagine diving deep into the fascinating world of ants with your kids! A curated nonfiction book list makes it easy, offering accurate and engaging information tailored for young learners. Forget endless online searches; these books bring ant colonies to life, explaining their complex social structures and incredible behaviors. It’s the perfect way to enrich your nature study and spark a lifelong love of science. Ready to explore? Click here to get your ant-astic book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple ant-themed nature study activities for kids:

Ant Observation Station:

Find an ant trail outdoors.

Provide kids with magnifying glasses and notebooks.

Have them observe ant behavior: where they’re going, what they’re carrying, how they interact.

Encourage them to draw and write about their observations.

Sugar Trail Experiment:

Place small sugar cubes or drops of honey at different points near an ant trail.

Observe how quickly the ants discover the sugar and how they communicate this information to their colony.

This demonstrates ant foraging and communication.

Ant Habitat Creation (Mini-Formicarium):

Use a clear container (like a plastic jar) and fill it with layers of soil and sand.

Carefully collect a few ants (with adult supervision) and place them inside.

Provide small food scraps like tiny bread crumbs.

Observe how they tunnel and create their own mini-habitat. (Release the ants after a few days)

Apple Nature Study Book List

A curated list of apple books can transform your nature study! Instead of scattered information, you get a focused, age-appropriate resource. These books bring the science of apples to life, explaining everything from pollination to different varieties. Plus, it saves you time searching, ensuring your kids get accurate and engaging information that perfectly complements hands-on learning. Get the book list here.

Related Activities:

Here are three simple apple-themed nature study activities for kids:

Apple Taste Test and Observation:

Gather different apple varieties (e.g., Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji).

Cut them into slices and have kids observe their color, texture, and smell.

Conduct a taste test, asking them to describe the flavors (sweet, tart, etc.).

Record their observations and preferences in a notebook.

Apple Life Cycle Exploration:

Show pictures or real examples of apple blossoms, young apples, and mature apples.

Discuss the stages of the apple’s life cycle (blossom, fruit development, seed formation).

Create a simple life cycle diagram or craft using paper and apple seeds.

Apple Science Experiment: Apple Oxidation:

Slice an apple and leave some slices exposed to air, and others covered with lemon juice or water.

Observe and record how quickly the exposed slices turn brown (oxidize) compared to the covered ones.

Discuss the science behind oxidation and how lemon juice slows it down.

Baby Elephant Nature Study Book List

Baby elephants! Who can resist? Especially after sweet little Tula-Tu was recently born at the Oregon Zoo. A curated nonfiction book list makes learning about these gentle giants a breeze. Forget sifting through endless options; these books offer age-appropriate insights into their development, behavior, and the incredible bond with their mothers. It’s a fantastic way to add a heartwarming dimension to your nature study. Ready to witness the wonder of baby elephants? Click here for your curated book list and start your adventure!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging activity ideas for a nature study about baby elephants:

Elephant Family Role-Play:

Have the children pretend to be a herd of elephants.

One child can be the baby elephant, and others can be the mothers, aunts, and other herd members.

Encourage them to act out how elephants care for their young, how they communicate (using sounds and touch), and how they protect the baby.

This fosters empathy and understanding of elephant social structures.

Elephant Size and Growth Comparison:

Use a measuring tape or string to demonstrate the size of a newborn elephant versus an adult elephant.

Compare the size of a baby elephant to familiar objects (like a child or a large dog).

Discuss how baby elephants grow rapidly and how their trunks develop over time.

You could also compare sizes of elephant feet to the children’s feet.

Elephant Trunk Activities:

Since a baby elephant’s trunk is so important, have the kids try some activities that mimic how a trunk is used.

Use a long tube or hose as a “trunk” to try and pick up small objects (like cotton balls or light blocks).

Have them try to “drink” water using a straw or a squeeze bottle, simulating how elephants use their trunks to drink.

This helps them understand the dexterity and versatility of an elephant’s trunk.

Bonus Baby Elephant Activity:

If you have a zoo nearby with a baby elephant in residence (like the Oregon Zoo with cute Tula-Tu), schedule a field trip to observe a real baby elephant in action.

Blueberry Nature Study Book List

Dive into the delicious world of blueberries with a curated nonfiction book list! These books offer a sweet blend of science and fun, explaining everything from how blueberries grow to their amazing health benefits. Instead of scattered information, you’ll have a focused resource perfect for your nature study. Make learning about blueberries a delightful experience for your kids. Ready to explore this berry special topic? Get your curated book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and fun activity ideas for a blueberry-themed nature study for kids:

Blueberry Observation & Taste Test:

Gather fresh blueberries (or pictures of different varieties).

Have kids observe the blueberries’ color, size, and texture using magnifying glasses.

Conduct a taste test, asking them to describe the flavor (sweet, tart, etc.) and texture.

Compare wild blueberries to cultivated ones if possible.

Blueberry Plant Life Cycle:

If possible, observe a blueberry bush or use pictures to show the different stages of growth (flowers, green berries, ripe blueberries).

Create a simple life cycle diagram or craft using drawings or real blueberries (if available).

Discuss how blueberries grow on bushes and require specific conditions (acidic soil).

Blueberry Art and Science:

Use blueberries to create natural paint by mashing them and mixing them with a little water.

Have kids paint pictures or create blueberry-themed artwork.

Discuss how blueberries get their color (anthocyanins) and how these pigments are antioxidants.

Have them experiment with lemon juice and baking soda on the blueberry paint to see how it reacts and changes color.

Butterfly Nature Study Book List

Embarking on a butterfly nature study? A handpicked list of engaging nonfiction books is like having a knowledgeable guide right at your fingertips! These books can bring the butterfly life cycle to life with stunning photographs and fascinating facts, making learning both fun and educational. From tiny caterpillars to magnificent winged wonders, these resources will deepen your child’s understanding and appreciation for these incredible insects. Ready to flutter into the world of butterflies? Click here to discover the recommended book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging butterfly-themed nature study activities for kids:

Butterfly Life Cycle Observation & Craft:

If possible, observe the different stages of a butterfly’s life cycle (egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, butterfly) in real life or through pictures.

Create a life cycle craft using pasta shapes, cotton balls, or drawings to represent each stage.

Discuss the metamorphosis process and the changes the butterfly undergoes.

Butterfly Garden Exploration:

Visit a butterfly garden or create a mini-butterfly garden by planting nectar-rich flowers.

Observe different butterfly species and their behavior (feeding, flying, resting).

Use a butterfly identification guide to identify the different types of butterflies you see.

Butterfly Wing Symmetry Activity:

Discuss the symmetry of butterfly wings.

Have kids create butterfly wing art by folding paper in half and painting one side, then pressing it to create a symmetrical design.

Or provide butterfly wing outlines, and have the children decorate each side to match.

Cranberry Nature Study Book List

Planning a nature study all about cranberries? A thoughtfully chosen list of nonfiction books for kids is like uncovering a treasure trove of cranberry knowledge! These books can take your young learners from the bog to the table, exploring how cranberries grow, their unique life cycle, and even their fascinating history and uses. Packed with vibrant pictures and engaging information, these resources will make learning about these tart little berries a truly enriching experience. Ready to dive into the world of cranberries? Explore the recommended book list here!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging cranberry-themed nature study activities for kids:

Cranberry Observation and Sensory Exploration:

Provide fresh or dried cranberries for observation.

Have kids examine their color, size, and texture.

Conduct a sensory exploration:

Taste a fresh or dried cranberry (if safe and appropriate).

Feel the bounce of fresh cranberries.

Listen to the sound of cranberries rolling or being crushed.

Discuss how cranberries grow on vines in bogs.

Cranberry Science: The Floating Cranberry Experiment:

Explain that cranberries have air pockets inside, which is why they float.

Have the children drop cranberries into a clear container of water and observe that they float.

Compare this to other fruits or berries that sink.

Discuss why this feature is important for cranberry harvesting.

Cranberry Art and Nature Craft:

Use cranberries to create natural prints by dipping them in paint and pressing them onto paper.

Create cranberry-themed artwork, such as drawings or collages.

If you have access to cranberry vines or pictures of them, create a small diorama showing the cranberry bog habitat.

Use dried cranberries to create simple craft projects, like necklaces or ornaments.

Chicken Nature Study Book List

Thinking about a chicken-themed nature study? A carefully selected list of nonfiction books for kids is like opening the coop door to a world of fascinating facts! These books can guide your young learners through the chicken life cycle, from tiny eggs to fluffy chicks and beyond, showcasing their behaviors, different breeds, and even their role on farms. Filled with captivating images and age-appropriate information, these resources will make learning about our feathered friends an engaging and memorable experience. Ready to peck your way into the world of chickens? Click here to explore the curated list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging chicken-themed nature study activities for kids:

Egg Observation and Candling (with supervision):

If you have access to chicken eggs, observe their size, shape, and color variations.

If possible, candle an egg (shine a bright light through it in a dark room) to observe the air cell and yolk movement. (Adult supervision is essential for this activity).

Discuss the different parts of an egg and how a chick develops inside.

Chicken Behavior Observation:

Observe chicken behavior if you have access to live chickens, or watch videos.

Pay attention to how they scratch for food, dust bathe, communicate with each other (clucking, pecking), and roost.

Discuss their social structure and how they interact within their flock.

If you don’t have live chickens, try mimicking their sounds and movements.

Chicken Anatomy and Feather Exploration:

Discuss the different parts of a chicken’s body (beak, comb, wattles, wings, feet).

If available, examine a shed chicken feather and discuss its structure and function.

Create a chicken anatomy diagram or craft using paper and feathers (real or artificial).

Discuss the different types of chickens and their unique characteristics.

Frog Nature Study Book List

Planning a fascinating frog nature study? A thoughtfully curated list of nonfiction books for kids is like taking a leap into the pond of knowledge! These books can guide your young explorers through the amazing frog life cycle, from tiny tadpoles to hopping adults, showcasing their unique adaptations and diverse habitats. Packed with vibrant photos and engaging facts, these resources will make learning about these amphibious wonders a truly enriching experience. Ready to jump into the world of frogs? Click here to discover the recommended book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging frog-themed nature study activities for kids:

Frog Life Cycle Observation and Sequencing:

Observe the different stages of a frog’s life cycle (eggs, tadpoles, froglets, adult frogs) through pictures, videos, or, ideally, real observation if possible.

Create a life cycle sequencing activity using pictures or drawings, having kids arrange them in the correct order.

Discuss metamorphosis and the significant changes frogs undergo.

Frog Habitat Exploration:

Explore a local pond, stream, or wetland area (with adult supervision) to look for frogs and their habitats.

Observe the types of plants, water, and surroundings where frogs are found.

Discuss the importance of clean water and healthy habitats for frog survival.

If you can’t go to a pond, build a mini frog habitat in a clear container, with water, rocks, and plants.

Frog Sounds and Movement Imitation:

Listen to recordings of different frog calls and try to imitate them.

Discuss how frogs use calls for communication and attracting mates.

Have kids imitate frog movements, such as hopping, swimming, and catching “flies” with their “tongues” (using a rolled-up piece of paper).

This helps them understand how frogs adapt to their environment.

Honey Bee Nature Study Book List

Buzzing to learn about honey bees? A specially selected list of books for kids is like opening the hive to a world of amazing discoveries! These books can guide your young learners through the fascinating honey bee life cycle, from tiny eggs to busy worker bees and the queen, showcasing their intricate social structure and vital role in our ecosystem. Filled with captivating images and engaging information, these resources will make learning about these incredible pollinators a truly sweet experience. Ready to fly into the world of honey bees? Get your curated book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging honey bee-themed nature study activities for kids:

Flower Observation and Pollinator Count:

Visit a garden or park and observe flowers.

Have kids count the number of honey bees (and other pollinators) they see visiting the flowers.

Discuss the importance of bees for pollination and how they help plants grow.

Identify different types of flowers that attract bees.

Honey Bee Dance Communication:

Learn about the “waggle dance” that honey bees use to communicate the location of food sources.

Have kids act out the waggle dance, using different movements to represent distance and direction.

This helps them understand how bees share information within their hive.

Honey Tasting and Honeycomb Exploration:

If available, have a honey tasting session, sampling different types of honey.

Discuss how bees make honey from nectar and how it’s stored in the honeycomb.

If you have access to honeycomb (even pictures), examine its hexagonal structure and discuss its function.

Talk about the roles of different bees in the hive (worker bees, queen bee, drones).

Owl Nature Study Book List

Planning a wise and wonderful owl nature study? A carefully chosen list of nonfiction books for kids is like having a front-row seat to the nocturnal world! These books can introduce your young learners to the fascinating lives of owls, their unique adaptations for hunting, different species, and their important place in the ecosystem. Filled with captivating photographs and intriguing facts, these resources will make learning about these majestic birds a truly hoot. Ready to soar into the world of owls? Click here to explore our recommended book list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging owl-themed nature study activities for kids:

Owl Pellet Dissection (with adult supervision):

Obtain owl pellets (available from educational suppliers).

Carefully dissect the pellets to reveal the bones of the small animals the owls have eaten.

Identify the bones and try to reconstruct the skeletons of the prey.

This activity helps kids understand owl diets and the food chain.

Owl Sounds and Imitation:

Listen to recordings of different owl calls (hoots, screeches, etc.).

Discuss how owls use these sounds for communication and hunting.

Have kids try to imitate the owl calls.

Play a game where kids identify different owl species based on their calls.

Owl Habitat Creation and Exploration:

Discuss the different habitats where owls live (forests, grasslands, deserts).

If possible, visit a local park or nature reserve and look for signs of owls (pellets, feathers, nests).

Build a simple owl “nest box” from a cardboard box or other materials.

Discuss owl adaptations, such as their silent flight and excellent night vision.

Pumpkin Nature Study Book List

Pumpkins aren’t just for carving! A curated book list brings the science of pumpkins to life, perfect for your nature study. Discover how they grow, their different varieties, and even their fascinating history. Instead of a scattered search, you’ll have a focused, age-appropriate resource that makes learning fun and engaging. Ready to explore the wonderful world of pumpkins? Click here to get your curated book list and start your pumpkin adventure!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging pumpkin-themed nature study activities for kids:

Pumpkin Observation and Measurement:

Provide various pumpkins of different sizes, shapes, and colors.

Have kids observe and describe the pumpkins’ characteristics.

Use measuring tapes or string to measure the circumference and height of the pumpkins.

Weigh the pumpkins using a kitchen scale.

Discuss the different parts of a pumpkin (stem, skin, seeds, flesh).

Pumpkin Seed Exploration and Counting:

Cut open a pumpkin and scoop out the seeds.

Have kids clean and dry the seeds.

Count the seeds and estimate the total number.

Sort the seeds by size or color.

Discuss how pumpkin seeds grow into new pumpkin plants.

If you have time, roast the seeds for a tasty snack!

Pumpkin Decay and Decomposition:

Observe a pumpkin over time as it begins to decay.

Document the changes in its appearance, texture, and smell.

Discuss the process of decomposition and the role of microorganisms.

If possible, create a mini-compost bin and add pumpkin pieces to observe the decomposition process.

This is a good way to introduce the concept of the nutrient cycle.

Wildflower Nature Study Book List

Unleash the beauty of wildflowers with a curated book list! These books bring the vibrant world of blooms to life, teaching kids about different species, their habitats, and the vital role they play in our ecosystem. Instead of a scattered search, you’ll have a focused, age-appropriate resource perfect for your wildflower nature study. Ready to explore the colorful wonders of nature? Click here to explore the curated list!

Related Activities:

Here are three simple and engaging wildflower-themed nature study activities for kids:

Wildflower Identification and Sketching:

Take a walk in a local park or field and observe the wildflowers growing there.

Use a wildflower identification guide (book or app) to identify different species.

Have kids sketch the wildflowers in a nature journal, noting their colors, shapes, and sizes.

Discuss the different parts of a flower (petals, sepals, stamens, pistil).

Wildflower Pressing and Herbarium Creation:

Carefully collect a few wildflowers (with permission, if necessary, and avoiding rare or protected species).

Press the flowers between sheets of newspaper or absorbent paper, weighted down with heavy books.

After a few weeks, once the flowers are dried, mount them on paper and label them with their names and locations.

Create a simple herbarium or wildflower collection.

Wildflower Pollinator Observation:

Observe which insects (bees, butterflies, etc.) are visiting the wildflowers.

Discuss the role of pollinators in helping wildflowers reproduce.

Learn about the relationship between specific flowers and their pollinators.

You could create a simple chart or tally to record the different types of pollinators you see on each type of flower.

Bonus Wildflower Activity:

Have each student adopt a wildflower name and be known by that name throughout the wildflower unit. Each student could learn about his or her adopted wildflower be creating a simple research project.

Play Nature Study Bingo

Help students learn nature study vocabulary terms by playing Virtual Bingo. This free virtual bingo template may be played using Google Slides. Make your own copy, then replace the free images and words with images and vocabulary from your chosen nature study topic. Reuse the template as many times as you like!

Get my free virtual bingo board!

More Resources for Readers

The best way to encourage a love of reading is to provide kids with many opportunities to engage with a wide variety of books that are of interest to them. At Book and Tech Tips I want to make it easy for you to find great books kids will love. Over the years I’ve also discovered some helpful tools for connecting kids, adults, and books.

Online digital libraries are one very handy way to do this. Epic! is one of our favorite online libraries. It’s full of over 25,000 books, learning videos, quizzes and more for kids 12 and under…and it’s free for educators. Click here to learn more and sign up.

Another great free digital library is ReadingIQ. It’s also free for educators and has a wide selection of titles.

If you download the free Libby app, you can access many digital audiobooks from your public library. Audiobooks are perfect for car trips!

Looking for a book that is out of print? Try searching Thriftbooks online. There are over 13 million titles available.

Looking for More Book Ideas?

If you enjoyed this list of nature-related books, you might like these book lists as well:

Have a wonderful week, and enjoy creating nature studies for kids!

 

 

Lisa Mitchell is a former classroom teacher, now a school librarian, who likes to use her job as an excuse to stay up far too late reading books and noodling around with tech tools. To learn more about what this website has to offer, click on over to the About page.