Spring is a magical time of year; the flowers begin to bud and bloom, new animals are born into the world, and the air has a freshness to it that’s been missing all winter. The great news is — with days getting longer and nights shorter – Spring 2018 is just around the corner.
This season is a marvelous time to introduce your baby, or child, to the wonders of nature. Whatever age they are, there are bountiful opportunities to bond with your child in the spring season. Here are just some of the ways:
If it’s your infant’s first springtime…
For babies born in the last 6-9 months, experiencing their first spring can be great for their mental and physical development; the new colors, smells and textures outside in the backyard will broaden their understanding of the world around them.
By sitting with them and allowing them to reach out and touch the petals on flowers, or play with the grass between their fingers, you’ll be contributing towards healthy brain development. Another wonderful activity for your infant once the weather is warmer and clearer, is to lie them out in a baby seat or bouncer, in a position that faces them up towards the sky. You can lie next to them, and watch the clouds go by or look up at moving tree branches; the shapes will stimulate your baby’s synapses and strengthen their eyesight. If you live somewhere very bright and sunny, a baby seat with a visor or sun protection is recommended, visit parent.guide to find the best model for you.
Springtime fun for toddlers…
Now that your little one is moving around on their own two feet, they’ve got a newfound sense of independence. As such, they’ll want to get stuck in exploring the grass and plants outside — they’ll also be at an ideal age to start teaching them about the wildlife you can find in the backyard.
If your child has more than a spring in their step and can handle a short walk on their own, then plan a nature walk for the family. Clue yourself up ahead of time, so you know how to identify the insects and critters you might see, and encourage your toddler to be curious about what they find. Lambing season tends to fall throughout spring, so if you live near a farm, then taking your child to see lambs being born is an ideal way to introduce them to the basic biology of life.
Even if you live in a city, and have little access to open green areas or woodland, you may be surprised by the sorts of wildlife you can attract to your home by potting plants on your doorstep, or building a small butterfly house.
Embracing spring every year…
Regardless of age, spring is a beautiful season rich with fun — and educational — activities for the whole family to enjoy. Why not introduce some springtime traditions, which maybe one day your child will share with their children, and their children’s children.
