How to Start Your Own Nature Collection

Learn how to gather, identify, and display natural treasures you find outside while keeping the environment safe. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Pick your collecting spot. Choose a nearby park, your backyard, or a nature trail. Make sure a grown-up knows where you are going and is nearby to help if you need it.
2. Look for fallen treasures. Focus on things that are already on the ground, like pinecones, acorns, or interesting rocks. Avoid picking living flowers or pulling leaves off healthy trees so nature stays beautiful for everyone.
3. Document your findings. Before you put an item in your bag, use your notebook to write down where you found it and what it looks like. If you have a camera, take a picture of it in its natural home first.
4. Organize your collection. When you get home, use your egg cartons or boxes to sort your treasures. You can group them by color, shape, or where you found them. Use your labels to write the date and location on each section.