The Great Leaf Detective is one of my favorite activities to do with my kids in the fall. Every time is like the first because you never know what you'll find. Not-to-mention, the beautiful scenery and wildlife you will take in along the way. I hope you have as much fun doing this as we do every year.
The Great Leaf Detective Directions:
1. Print a list of native trees and a picture of each leaf type.
2. Grab a pair of binoculars and a grocery bag and head to a trail in a safe forested area.
3. Collect fallen leaves that match the native species list. Use the binoculars to scope out local wildlife along the way.
4. To make a keepsake book, press each leaf onto a piece of paper and use clear tape to completely cover it, then label.
5. Decorate the title page with your child's name as the author. Make a glossary page, too.
For extra fun, bring along paper and colored pencils to map your path along the way. Be sure to mark where you find leaves or other interesting natural art. Then, the following year, follow your map to find those nuggets of nature you enjoyed the year before along with new beauty the forest brings.