Spring is around the corner...although in some places, it may not feel like it quite yet! The spring equinox will occur on March 20 in the Northern Hemisphere, which means the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night are nearly equal.
What are some ways to support your child observe the changing of seasons? Grab a jacket/umbrella/hat and head outside! Children are naturally observant of their surroundings. Think about how long it takes your little one to simply walk to the end of the street. First they must check out an insect crawling on the sidewalk, stop to notice a barking dog, and point out their favorite color on a passing car or bus. Take this opportunity to point out early signs of spring with your young scientist. See below for suggestions and download the March Activity Pack for more learning!
- Observe buds on a tree. A week, later, check the same tree and notice whether any of the buds are changing. Ask your child to keep an eye on this tree throughout the season!
- Pay attention to insects. As flowers begin to bloom, these buzzing creatures will be out pollinating! Ask your child what type of insects they notice around the neighborhood. Check out the pollinator mazes in the March Activity Pack!
- Observe the weather. Point out the type of clothing your child is wearing each day and talk about how the clothes help keep us warm or cool or dry. Use the MarcoPolo weather calendar in the March Activity Pack to track the weather and observe patterns or changes.
- Notice the daylight. Spring for the Northern Hemisphere means this part of the Earth receives more direct sunlight, so there is an increase in hours of daylight. How is the light different during your evening activities? Weather permitting, take this opportunity to have a picnic dinner outside one night!
- Go on a nature walk. Look for items that represent spring (flower petals, fresh grass, a green leaf). Take photos for a spring art collage or add sketches to a nature journal. Can you and your child solve Marco’s math garden problems in the March Activity Pack?
Follow along for more learning at MarcoPolo World School. Join us as we celebrate the arrival
of spring! Check out our free printables here for more hands-on activities.
https://www.marcopololearning.com/printables.html
