Leaves! Leaves! Leaves!: Nature Walk + Sort + Describe

Toddlers learn best through action + language together.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

Large basket or bag for collecting

Assortment of real or artificial leaves in various sizes, colours, and textures

Magnifying glasses (child safe)

Small collection tray or shallow bin

Pictures of different family members (from home if possible)

Crayons or chunky markers

Large drawing paper

Learning Objectives

Children will be able to explore the classroom environment and natural elements with curiosity.

Children will demonstrate an ability to sort leaves into at least two observable groups based on a simple characteristic (e.g., colour, size).

Children will use at least one descriptive word to talk about a leaf (e.g., "big," "soft").

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Begin by introducing the idea of leaves and how they are found on trees outside, just like the plants around their own homes. Show the children the collection basket.

2. Invite children to a "nature walk" around the classroom or a safe outdoor space. Encourage them to look for "treasures" like leaves.

3. As children find leaves, help them place them gently into the collection basket, talking about their discoveries.

4. Back in the classroom, gather the children around the leaves. Show them the variety found.

5. Introduce the small tray for sorting. "Let's sort our leaves! Some of these are green like [child's sibling's shirt], and some are brown like [family pet's fur]."

6. Guide children to place leaves into the tray, creating simple piles, perhaps by colour or size.

7. Offer magnifying glasses for close observation. "Look closely! What does this leaf remind you of at home? Maybe a rug?"

8. Provide paper and drawing tools. "Can you draw a leaf, like the ones you found? Maybe you can draw your favourite leaf next to a picture of your family!"

Educator Tip

Safety first! Ensure all leaves collected are non-toxic and free from hazards. Encourage children to use gentle hands. To involve families, send home a note asking them to bring in a leaf from their yard or a local park. You could also ask them to send in a photo of their child near a tree or plant at home to display during this activity.

Assessment

Observe children's engagement during the nature walk and their exploration with the materials. Note if they make attempts to sort the leaves, even if it's not perfectly organised. Listen for any descriptive words they use when talking about the leaves or their creations, and document their participation in the drawing activity.

Educator tip

Use choice questions; keep groups small.

Assessment

Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observe participation, imitation, labelling.

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