Nature journals are an accessible, hands-on way to engage people of all ages in learning. Nature journaling teaches the skills of observation, perception, inquiry (asking questions), and making connections. Journaling can be adapted for any grade level, for a range of topics and themes, and used in many kinds of settings, both indoor and outdoor.

Nature journaling allows people to:
DISCOVER… a new way of seeing the world and different forms of expression
LEARN… more about themselves and about their environment
SELF-DIRECT…as active participants in their learning experience by observing and asking questions and fostering curiosity
DEEPEN… connections to their surroundings, reflection and understanding, as well as retention of classroom learning

Programs at Nurture Nature Center

 

 

 

– Schools or organizations: beginning nature journaling workshops are available for all age groups upon request (1-2 hours).
– Schools: abbreviated journaling activities are available to partner with one of our Science on a Sphere Shows (30-45 minutes) including: Journaling About the Weather, Exploring Habitats, and Journaling: a Micro-hike in the Garden.

Please discuss your interest in scheduling a nature journaling workshop or activity with the program coordinator when you call to arrange your group visit.

Nurture Nature Center receives state arts funding support through a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  

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Resources for Educators
Through a partnership Lehigh Valley Greenways Conservation Landscape, Nurture Nature Center has developed a nature journaling starter kit for informal environmental educators who wish to lead nature journaling groups. Each kit includes starter journals for participants, reusable tools including rulers, magnifiers, drawing implements, and field reference cards. A guidebook is included. These kits are available upon request as supplies last. Please email Keri Maxfield at kmaxfield@nurturenature.org. A printable version of the guidebook and additional resources can be found on the right sidebar of this web page.

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NNC’s Nature Journaling Station Program
Nurture Nature Center partners with students, scouts, and volunteers looking for a project and communities seeking to add amenities and programs to their parks. Our specially designed journaling stations provide a bench, drawing surface, cabinet for materials and self-guided instructions – all that you need to get started! As of December 2022, we have 10 journaling stations installed in the eastern Pennsylvania area, with two more on the way. Additionally, Nurture Nature Center staff will help your community celebrate the installation of a new journaling station by offering a free workshop on location, in the park. If you are a volunteer or community interested in this program, please contact Keri Maxfield at kmaxfield@nurturenature.org