The winter holidays present a unique chance for families to explore nature through fresh eyes. At Moranbah Early Learning Centre, we encourage families to slow down and observe the world around them, especially the creatures that share our environment. This holiday season, turn your local outings into exciting wildlife adventures.
Even in cooler weather, gardens, parks, and nature reserves come alive with activity. Birds, insects, and small mammals continue their routines, offering families a chance to observe, ask questions, and learn together. Bring a small notebook and let your child record what they see. Can they spot a magpie, hear a kookaburra, or notice a trail left by a snail?
Animal tracking is a great winter activity. Look for prints in the mud, scratch marks on tree trunks, or nests in the branches. These discoveries fuel curiosity and spark conversations about habitat, adaptation, and seasonal change.
At home, extend the experience by researching the animals you saw. Watch short documentaries or draw your favourite creatures. You might even create a ‘holiday wildlife wall’ featuring photos, drawings, or facts you’ve learned together. This supports learning in literacy, science, and art, without feeling like structured lessons.
Craft projects can take inspiration from nature, too. Use leaves, twigs, and feathers to build animal sculptures or create stories around their habitats. Encourage your child to imagine what their chosen creature does during winter—where does it sleep, what does it eat, and how does it stay warm?
At Moranbah Early Learning Centre, we support experiential learning that builds wonder and connection to the world. Exploring animal life with your child builds empathy, respect for nature, and confidence in asking questions.
This winter, allow your family time to wander slowly, observe quietly, and enjoy discovering the small, wild wonders all around you. Nature is one of the richest classrooms, and it’s open every day, rain or shine.
