10 Ways to Explore Nature in March

How did March get here so fast? It’s hard to believe that the official start of spring is just a few weeks away.

Every month, I put together a few ideas for ways we can explore nature in and around our neck of the woods. Some of these ideas are seasonal; some can be done any time of the year.

This month’s list includes a free printable so you can print it, post it and use it to inspire your own outdoor adventures. Remember: Keep it simple and have fun!

1. Search for signs of spring.
Are any signs of spring peeking up in your neighborhood – blossoms on trees, butterflies fluttering about or little bits of growth springing up through the snow?

2. Make your own rainbow.
We love looking for rainbows after a rain. But why wait? Create your own with a little sunlight and water. Or make it even simpler by drawing one on the sidewalk with chalk.

3. Search for 4-leaf clovers.
I admit, we haven’t had any luck yet finding any yet. But the fun is in the searching! If you need a little help, you can watch a short video on how to find a 4-leaf clover.

4. Go on a bird watching scavenger hunt.
Turn a routine stroll through the park or neighborhood into a bird watching scavenger hunt. Look for feathers, bird poop, a nest, a big bird, a bird in a tree and so on.

5. Build a nest.
Gather items such as twigs, sturdy leaves and sticks. Make your nest in your garden and leave it there or place it on a low branch in a backyard tree.

6. Explore shades of green.
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect occasion for counting shades of green. Bring along a few crayons, paint chips or strips of colored paper to see how many different shades of green you can spot on a walk around your backyard or a local park.

7. Grow some sprouts.
I love the idea of making eggshell planters. All you need to get started are empty eggshells, seeds, soil, water and a little sunlight.

8. See local wildflowers.
Depending on temperatures, local wildflowers may begin to make their appearance later this month. Best spots to see them? Local gardens, state parks and out on the trail.

9. Hunt for backyard treasures.
Place a few items for your little ones to “discover” (such as gold coins, plastic animals or the like). Or keep it more natural with pebbles, sticks, seeds, flowers and shells.

10. Enjoy some shadow play.
As we “spring forward,” there’s a little more daylight to enjoy playing with shadows. What fun shapes can you see in the shadows made by trees, flowers and other natural elements? Have fun tracing your own shadows with chalk.

Need a few more ideas?

• Read 50 ways to explore nature in your own backyard.
• Check out my Winter Outdoor Activities and Spring Outdoor Fun boards on Pinterest.
• Download a FREE copy of the Nature Rocks Winter Activity Guide.

How will you explore nature in March?