Outdoor Literacy: Learning in Nature with St. Thomas Public Library by Amelia Bainbridge, St. Thomas Public Library Communications & Donor Relations Coordinator Spending time outside isn’t just fun, it’s also a great way for kids to build literacy skills! Whether in a park, on a trail, or in your own backyard, nature is full of opportunities to explore, imagine, and learn. Why Outdoor Time is Important for Kids Research shows that outdoor play helps children develop creativity, confidence, and curiosity. When kids explore the natural world, they use all their senses to observe, ask questions, and make discoveries. This kind of hands-on learning improves problem-solving skills, builds independence, and even reduces stress. Being outside also encourages kids to move more, which helps them focus better when they return to reading or writing. A walk in the woods or a trip to the park isn’t just good for the body; it’s great for the brain! Explore Literacy in Your Own Backyard You don’t need to travel far to help kids connect with nature. Your own backyard or neighbourhood can be a perfect outdoor classroom! Try keeping a nature journal with your child. Write or draw what you see: • Birds in the trees • Insects on the flowers
Encourage kids to describe what they notice. What colours do they see? What sounds do they hear? This simple activity strengthens observation skills and vocabulary. Nature is the Best Playground The outdoors doesn’t need fancy toys. Sticks, acorns, stones, and trees can become anything in a child’s imagination! A stick might be a magic wand, a bridge for an ant, or a pencil to draw in the dirt. Nature encourages creativity without needing screens or gadgets. This is also a great chance to teach kids about respecting nature. Remind them to leave plants, bugs, and animals undisturbed and to always clean up after themselves. Explore with St. Thomas Public Library! The library has great resources to help your family enjoy the outdoors. Check out a Provincial Park Pass and visit one of Ontario’s beautiful parks for free! Or borrow a Nature Backpack, filled with field guides, magnifiers, and activities to make outdoor exploration even more fun. No matter where you go, nature is full of learning opportunities. Just step outside, look around, and let curiosity lead the way! Read more about outdoor literacy activities with these great books available at St. Thomas Public Library: • Outdoor Math: Fun Activities for Every Season, by Emma AdBåge • Kids’ Guide to Hiking: All You Need to Know About Having Fun While Hiking, by Helen Olsson • A Girl’s Guide to the Wild: Be an Adventure-Seeking Outdoor Explorer, by Ruby McConnell
• Squirrels, rabbits, or other critters • Changes in the seasons and weather
Nashville Takeover of Port Stanley June 20–22, 2025
Stories. Songs. Southern Soul – Right Here in Port Stanley.
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend as top Nashville singer-songwriters bring the heart of Music City to the shores of Lake Erie! Experience acoustic, “Bluebird Cafe”-style performances where award-winning artists share the songs they wrote—and the stories behind them—in an intimate, up-close setting. Multiple Venues. One Magical Vibe. Catch performances across town at: Two Forks, Windjammer Inn,
Port Stanley Festival Rooftop Patio, Wildflowers Farm, Secret Backyard Location, Brass Notez (St. Thomas).
Over 70% of tickets are already sold secure your spot now. DM @backyardmusicco on Instagram with the secret word PORTSTANLEY, Or email backyardfrontdesk@gmail.com.
Thanks to our sponsors
Port Stanley Villager
Hometown St. Thomas • May 2025 • Page 39
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