Introduce Kids to the Joys of Birdwatching
Birds are some of the most amazing creatures on this planet, and you can find them almost anywhere! They live on every continent including Antarctica and thrive even in the busiest of cities. For this reason, birdwatching is one of the easiest activities to do with kids, and one of the most life-changing.
It is impossible to watch birds and not feel a deep appreciation for this planet. As birds soar and nest, jump and fly, they show us what it means to have a deep connection to nature. They teach us how to provide, how to be provided for, and that life on earth truly is a cycle.
So if you want to introduce kids to the many benefits and life lessons of this beautiful practice, start by taking these steps:
Choose a pair of binoculars
The best pair of binocular is going to be one that kids can hold for a while, because birdwatching is a patient art. It’s best if they have somewhere from two to eight times the magnification and objective lens sizes between 21 to 32 mm.
Introduce the GISS method
Some people think that looking at the markings on feathers is enough to identify a bird species, but remember, there are many species that look alike! So a more effective way to identify birds is the GISS method. GISS stands for the general impression of size and shape. And it includes noting things like the location, activity, size, shape, color, and flight pattern.
Give them a sketchbook
to record findings
Kids do not have to be artists to use a sketchbook while they birdwatch. Just the act of drawing the shape of a bird and making notes about its activity will increase their presence (and most likely, their interest!)
Teach them about bird habitats
Depending on the species, birds can be really picky about where they like to nest, eat, breed, and migrate. To really give kids the knowledge they need, you’ll have to teach them about habitats, biomes, and migratory patterns. If you need a little help with this, the book below is a great source for beginning birders!
In the woods, in cities, in your backyard—birds are everywhere. But do you know the difference between a robin and a wren? A raven and a crow? In this fully illustrated book, you will learn how to identify birds in an array of habitats and seasons (thanks to migration, there are always new birds to find). You’ll also learn the different behaviors/habits of birds—from why blue jays divebomb other birds’ nests to what attracts hummingbirds to certain flowers. As the popularity of birding and birdwatching reach new heights, more and more children have the opportunity to connect with nature, whether indoors or outside and with no equipment other than one’s eyes (and this handbook, of course). What’s not to love?
Featuring Michelle Carlos’s vibrant illustrations, this gorgeous (and gifty) book includes interactive elements like quizzes and crafts, as well as accessible charts/guides that will lead to endless fun!
And for more birding fun,
have kids take this interactive quiz
to find out which bird they are!
