Journaling about nature is a wonderful way for kids to explore the outdoors, engage with God’s creation, and grow their curiosity for the world around them.
The great thing about a nature journal is that it allows for so much creativity. It can be used for drawing, writing, or simply taking notes on observations. But more than that, a nature journal encourages kids to engage with the world around them in a deeper way. Instead of just being outside, they start to pay closer attention to their surroundings. As they use their journals, they begin to notice new and exciting details they might have overlooked before. And the best part? Kids love writing or drawing about what they see, making the experience both fun and meaningful.
Let’s explore some of the best nature journals for kids, along with tips on how to get started.
Why Use Nature Journals?
Nature journaling helps children:
- Develop observation skills
- Foster a love for creation and outdoor exploration
- Encourage creativity through drawing and writing
- Create something to remember their outdoor adventures by
- Strengthen their connection to God’s creation
- Improve mental health
- Learn critical thinking skills
- Improve enthusiasm and test scores in school (Johnson, 2020)
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Top Nature Journals for Kids
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My Epic Nature Journal by Anthony Porter
Join Outdoor Anthony on an exciting nature adventure! Take a deep breath of fresh air and jump into the incredible world around us. This journal invites kids to draw, write, glue, color, and explore in so many creative ways. With engaging activities on every page, your child will love filling it in as they embark on their outdoor adventures.
I especially love the colorful illustrations and the variety of activities. This journal is so fun and inviting—it makes me want to run outside and join in on the adventure too!
Nature Journal: A Kid’s Nature Journal by Alice M Cantrell
This nature journal is more open-ended, giving children the freedom to draw what they see in nature. Each page is thoughtfully designed with a space for drawing, along with sections for notes on observations, date, time, and the moon phase. What makes this journal even more special is that the author created it with the help of her 9-year-old, ensuring it is truly kid-friendly.
I like this journal because it encourages children to step outside and explore without pressure. All they need to do is find something that catches their interest and sketch it. This makes it especially great for kids who enjoy art, as it allows them to combine creativity with their love of nature.
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Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids by Kim Andrews
A nature book full of fun activities for kids to do in nature! There are science experiments, art, skills checklists, fun facts, and a wide variety of things to learn and try. The illustrations inspire learning. There are so many different things for kids to do, it will take them awhile to complete this book and by the time they are done, they will have learned about so many wonderful things in nature.
I love this nature journal because of the wide variety of things for kids to do. The interactive activities like scavenger hunts and fun facts are perfect for kids who enjoy hands-on learning. The book covers so many different topics, it is a great addition to any curriculum.
Nature Activity Book for Little Ones by Samantha Lewis
This nature activity book is designed specifically for young learners, making it perfect for little explorers. The activities focus on key developmental milestones and require little to no prep work, making it easy for parents and caregivers. Through fun, hands-on experiences, kids will build problem-solving skills, communication, and a sense of responsibility—helping to prepare them for more advanced tasks as they grow, whether in school or homeschool.
I love this book because it’s made just for 2–5-year-olds. The language and activities are thoughtfully designed for younger kids, making it easy for little ones to engage and enjoy. It’s a great choice if you’re getting a nature journal for older siblings and want your youngest to join in on the fun too!
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On the Nature Trail by Editor’s of Storey Publishing
Designed to be the perfect companion on the nature trail, this book is packed with activities, games, and crafts for kids to enjoy while hiking. It teaches them what to look and listen for as they explore, helping them become more observant of the world around them. Plus, it even includes a magnifying glass for up-close discoveries along the way!
I love this book because it’s made specifically for the trail. It helps kids identify different animals, plants, and many other things they might come across while walking. I also appreciate the mix of real pictures and drawings, which makes it engaging for a wide range of kids and learning styles.
DIY Nature Journal Inspiration
Creating your own nature journal is easy! Here are some simple ideas:
- Sketchbook: Write down prompts for your child such as “what do you see/hear/touch/smell/taste?” Have them draw or paint what they observe.
- Binder: Print your own nature observation sheets and add them to the binder as you go. This allows you to personalize each activity for your child.
- Notebook: Press flowers and leaves to glue into the notebook. Have your child add notes about where they found it and other observations they made.
Tips for Encouraging Kids to Use Nature Journals
- Go on Nature Walks: Take a walk at a park, wildlife preserve, national park, trail, or even your own backyard.
- Make Fun Challenges: Tell your child “draw 3 things you see on the ground” or “describe all the sounds you hear in 30 seconds.” If you have other siblings or are willing to participate with your child, you could compete to see who can make the most observations in a set amount of time.
- Create a Routine: Add journaling as part of your homeschool or afterschool routine once a week. This could be a great way to spend time as a family outside.
- Keep it Simple: Don’t overcomplicate this. Just have fun with any nature journal you like and let your kids enjoy the process.
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Nature journaling is a wonderful way for kids to slow down, appreciate God’s creation, and participate in outdoor learning. Whether you choose a guided journal or make your own, these can inspire a lifelong love for the outdoors and nature.
Do your kids have a favorite nature journal? Share in the comments below!
SAVE THIS FOR LATER!
Chelsea
I love your blog. It is really beautiful!
Makenzie
I’ve added several of these to our wish list! Thanks for sharing!
Cassia Mange
I absolutely adore this! As someone who grew up barefoot and playing outdoors, my mission is to create the same environment for my children while documenting their journey.