Geography Explorer

Your Child Will Learn

To notice geographical features in your community

Choose a natural landmark near your community to visit (like: rivers, ponds, mountains, valleys, oceans, caves, waterfalls, parks, forests, etc.). Bring snacks, clothes for outdoor play, and drawing materials.
When you arrive, find a place you can sit and observe. Ask your child to point out things they see around them.
Help your child make a drawing of the area. Talk about which environmental features were made by nature and which were made by people. Add labels to their drawing (“river,” “bridge,” etc.).
Explore the area together.

PAUSE

With your child, close your eyes and notice the sounds all around you. Tell your child about the sounds you’re hearing, and ask what they’re hearing.

ENGAGE

“What do you see? Tell me about all the things you notice around us here.”
“Was the lake made by people? Was the dock over there made by people? Why do you think people wanted to build a dock?”

ENCOURAGE

Children might not yet understand the difference between nature and human-made objects. Try pointing out as many examples as you can throughout your trip.
It can be difficult to draw landscapes. Help show your child where on the page to draw geographical features, but let your child draw the objects.

REFLECT

“What did you like about exploring this place? Where should we explore together next?”

If it’s difficult for your child to notice landmarks, point them out for your child and describe what you see.

Have your child draw a map of the area you visit, marking natural landmarks and human-made landmarks.

They will be able to describe natural landmarks and landmarks made by people.

Variable

Paper and drawing materials