Back-to-school season is here, and while classrooms and homework are important, kids also need space to play and create. Some of the best learning happens outside.
Think about recess—kids gathering sticks, rocks, and leaves, then proudly showing off their “art galleries” under a shady tree. Or a weekend afternoon at home, when the backyard suddenly becomes a canvas for nature-made creations. That’s the magic behind Nature Designs—a simple, fun activity from Josette and Ba Luvmour’s classic book Everyone Wins. Using nothing more than what’s around them, kids can spark creativity, teamwork, and curiosity while building a deeper connection with the natural world.
Nature Designs
Activity Level: 2 Age Level: 6+
Location: Outside Group Size: 2+
Materials: What nature provides
Game Description:
Objective: Each player creates a work of “art” out of natural objects.
Ask all players to walk around the area and observe colorful natural objects (such as branches, twigs, rocks). They can collect these natural objects to create their art piece. Each person then choses a locale (spot in nature), around which they create their work of art.
Give them a time limit and then invite the group to gather and walk around together to look at each creation.
Variations:
Name a theme, such as a geometric or circular design or animal habitats. Limit the kind or number of objects to be used (e.g., only rocks). Works of art can be limited to certain dimensions (e.g., has to be 2 feet high or within a 3-foot square). Use groups of varying sizes for collaborative expression. Ask players to create a story to guide their work, or provide one for them.
Special Hints:
Demonstrate to stimulate those who have difficulty getting started. Visit each effort; ask questions, but do not offer advice unless asked to.
