# From Nature to Nurture: Educational Walks and Crafting for Kids
## Synopsis
This article explores captivating ways to engage children with the natural world through educational plant walks and creative crafting sessions. These experiences not only stimulate learning but also foster a deeper appreciation for nature, providing young learners with hands-on activities that are both fun and informative.
### Engaging with Nature: Wild Edible and Medicinal Plant Walks
One fantastic way to immerse children in nature is through wild edible and medicinal plant walks, such as those offered at Cougar Mountain. Participants, guided by expert herbalists like Natalie Hammerquist, are taken on an interactive journey through a forest teeming with life. From salmon berries to Oregon grape, children learn to identify various plants while engaging their senses—tasting, smelling, and observing the intricate details of their environment.
**Logistics and Preparation:**
– **Location:** Meet at the parking lot of Sky Country Trailhead at Cougar Mountain.
– **What to Bring:** A small bag, pocket knife, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, and a notebook for jotting down observations.
– **Age Guidelines:** Children over 13 are welcome, making it an ideal family outing for those with older kids.
Natalie’s sessions emphasize hands-on learning and encourage kids to actively participate by asking questions and engaging with the surroundings. For parents, this provides a perfect opportunity to instill an appreciation for nature and a grounding in herbal education.
### Crafting Creativity: Elementary Kid Crafternoon
In addition to outdoor explorations, creative crafting sessions like the Elementary Kid Crafternoon at the Sammamish Library are a perfect complement to a nature experience. Scheduled for May 8, 2025, this event invites elementary schoolers to drop in and engage with peers while spending time crafting. The library provides materials, but kids are also encouraged to bring their own craft ideas, fostering individuality and creativity.
**Event Highlights:**
– **Date & Time:** May 8, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
– **Location:** 825 228th Ave SE, Sammamish, WA
– **Target Age Group:** For children aged 6 to 12; no registration is required, but space is limited.
These crafting sessions not only promote creativity and fine motor skills but also offer a space for socialization among peers, making it a well-rounded experience for children.
### Combining Nature and Nurture
By participating in activities that blend education with creativity, children can learn about the environment and express themselves artistically. Whether through exploring the wild edibles of Cougar Mountain or crafting at the library, these experiences enrich children’s lives, cultivate curiosity, and deepen their connection to the natural world.
In conclusion, engaging children through educational plant walks and creative crafting sessions provides invaluable opportunities for growth and discovery. It’s a chance for families to bond over shared experiences in nature while fostering a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Join these events and watch as children grow from nature to nurture, developing a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and lessons that the natural world has to offer.