Through my work running the Nature Journaling North Grenville programs, I have developed a handful of nature journaling prompts and activity sheets. (View the NJNG past monthly journaling prompts here.) Below are a variety of tools to spark inspiration for you and/or your family when you are out on the trail — or simply exploring your own backyard or neighbourhood playground.

Consider keeping a notebook or sketchbook specifically for recording your nature journaling observations and drawings. Be sure to include the date, time, and location on each page. This will allow you to look back at species or events you observed from season to season and spot any interesting trends or changes. Your book can then become a meaningful tool for citizen science in your area!

Happy nature journaling!

Scavenger hunts

These are a great resource for individuals who are still developing their literacy skills. Each item on the list has both a small drawing and a word. You can cut these into narrow sheets to bring along during camping trips or walks in a local green space. You can always add your own items to the back of the sheet! DOWNLOAD THE FILE.

Map making activity

Whether you are observing birds and insects nesting in your garden or mapping out wildlife or botanical highlights spotted on a trail, this activity is ready for your creative touch! Consider what sorts of simple symbols might work well to represent different types of plants, trees, and ground cover. This activity can help you keep track of an animal den or bird nest (at a distance). Include some meaningful landmarks so you know where to look the next time you visit the trail. Go back with binoculars and watch for signs of young being fed by their parents or getting ready to move out on their own!  DOWNLOAD THE FILE.

Nest spotting

Fall, winter, and early spring are excellent seasons to look for signs of bird nests — especially when leaves are off of (or just budding) on deciduous trees. See how many nests you can find in your neighbourhood. If you can access them easily, consider measuring them and taking note of the specific materials used to build the nest. Who might have built it? How many eggs do you think it fit? DOWNLOAD THE FILE.

Nature journaling mini booklet

This is a more comprehensive collection of activities. It is designed to print on 8.5 x 11 paper which you can fold into a little book. 

DOWNLOAD IT HERE.

Create a bird zine

Make your own mini-magazine with facts about a bird species in your region. This is a fun activity to do in the classroom or with friends — everyone can pick a different species. When you are finished your zine, make photocopies and share them. Everyone will end up with their own mini library of bird books!

Download the bird zine template and prompt sheet here.

For instructions on how to fold and cut your finished sheet of paper, check out this helpful video.