Question
How does Natasha Nicholes connect with nature through children's activities?
Answer
I connect with nature through my kids by making it part of our everyday life, not just a “special trip.” As a homeschooling, city-dwelling gardener, I pull the outdoors into our lessons and our play as much as possible.
A big way I do this is through gardening. We started with our own backyard and then expanded into our community garden initiative, We Sow We Grow. The kids help plant, water, harvest, and share food with neighbors, so they see nature as both science and community care.
Travel and homesteading-style projects also matter. Whether we’re exploring new places, preserving food, or dreaming about chickens, I fold the kids into the process so they learn where things come from and how we’re connected to the land—even in the middle of Chicago.
Would you like ideas for specific nature activities to try with your own kids?