How to Start a Nature Journal

Learn how to observe the natural world and record your discoveries in a personalized nature journal. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Pick your spot. Find a comfortable place to sit in your backyard, a local park, or even just by a window. You don't need to travel far to find nature; it is happening right where you are.
2. Record the basics. At the top of your page, write the date, the time, and what the weather feels like. Is it sunny, windy, or drizzly? This helps you see how nature changes over the seasons.
3. Observe and draw. Look closely at one thing, like a flower or a bug. Try to draw it exactly as you see it. If you aren't sure how to draw it, just try to capture the shapes you see.
4. Add your notes. Write down a few words about what you see. Use your senses: What colors do you see? Does the plant smell like anything? Does the wind make a sound in the trees? Ask a grown-up if you need help spelling tricky words.
5. Collect and attach. If you find something small like a fallen leaf or a piece of bark, you can use your glue stick or tape to add it to your page. Ask a grown-up if it is okay to pick up the item first.