Looking for a way to fill the summer holidays? At the Wainwright Prize, we celebrate stories that connect us more deeply to nature, and that includes sparking that connection from a young age. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, carer, or simply looking for meaningful ways to engage children outdoors, these easy nature-based activities are perfect for encouraging curiosity and wonder.
Here are 7 simple (and screen-free!) ways to explore nature with children:
Turn over logs, peek under stones, and explore the insect world in your backyard, park, or local woodland. Use a magnifying glass and sketchpad to note your finds.
Perfect Pairing: Bothered by Bugs by Emily Gravett
A clever and comic crawl through the insect kingdom, ideal for inspiring fascination (and a few giggles!) during a bug hunt.
Draw leaves, record birdsong, collect fallen feathers, anything that sparks wonder. Journaling helps children observe, reflect, and connect.
Perfect Pairing: Wild Eyes by Bex Sheridan
A poetic celebration of seeing the world with curiosity and care. A perfect companion for young explorers documenting their own wild observations.
Use recycled materials to build a simple bird feeder and hang it somewhere visible. Keep a lookout for your feathered visitors… binoculars optional!
Perfect Pairing: How to Know a Crow by Candace Savage, illustrated by Rachel Hudson
A fascinating deep dive into one of the cleverest birds around, perfect for sparking interest in backyard birdwatching.
Lie back on the grass and name the shapes in the sky. Keep a weather diary or invent stories inspired by the clouds.
Perfect Pairing: Cloudspotting for Beginners by Gavin Pretor-Pinney, illustrated by William Grill
A beautifully illustrated and inspiring guide to the skies above, sure to turn a lazy afternoon into a creative sky adventure.
No garden? No problem. Use containers or windowsills to grow herbs, sunflowers or even wildflower seed bombs.
Perfect Pairing: How to Grow a Garden by Frances Tophill, illustrated by Charlotte Ager
An accessible and beautifully illustrated guide that shows kids how to plant for joy, beauty and biodiversity.
6. Go for a Nature Sound Walk
Walk slowly and quietly, listening closely. How many sounds can you count? Birds, bees, wind, footsteps, your own breath…
Perfect Pairing: The Colour of the Sky by Layn Marlow
A gently told story about seeing and hearing nature in all its seasonal beauty. Ideal for reflective walks and mindful moments.
Take part in the Big Butterfly Count, track birds, or map wildlife sightings. Help kids feel part of something bigger.
Perfect Pairing: Wildlife in the Balance by Dr Sharon Wismer, illustrated by Terri Po
Explores how species are interconnected and how young people can help protect this delicate balance.