How to Become a Backyard Nature Explorer

Discover how to turn your own backyard or local park into a world of adventure with these simple observation techniques.

1. Pick your observation spot. Find a small patch of grass, a tree, or a garden bed. Sit very still for three minutes and listen. What sounds do you hear that are not made by people?
2. Look for the tiny details. Use your magnifying glass to look at the underside of a leaf or the texture of tree bark. Notice the patterns, colors, and shapes you might have missed before.
3. Document your findings. Draw a picture of what you see or write down three things you noticed. If you see an insect, try to sketch its legs or wings rather than just drawing a generic bug.
4. Ask a grown-up for help with identification. If you find something you want to know more about, ask a grown-up to help you look it up in a library book or a safe nature website to learn its name.