- Walked around the duck pond. Discussed which birds were on the water, marveled at the water fountain, predicted what we might see in each stretch of pathway ahead, searched for painted rocks hidden alongside the path, inspected and discussed the drawings on rocks that we found, explored different terrain (path, steep lakeside, flat grass, steep uneven hills with tree roots, bridges), played with different styles of walking (normal, fast, slow, scuffing feet, stomping on bridges/wooden jetty). discussed and looked for different bird species and practiced their English and Te Reo Māori names. Watched a Tui stripping bark off a tree and speculated that it might be building a nest to lay eggs in. We looked in the water for eels or fish, collected and inspected different sticks and stones, looked at newly opened daffodils and carefully avoided stepping on any new shoots, said hello to others using the path, selected our route to our end destination.

Art

• The child observed and discussed the drawings on rocks, developing an appreciation for different artistic styles and creativity.
• They collected and inspected different sticks and stones, exploring different textures and shapes.
• The child marveled at the water fountain, appreciating the beauty of the water's movement and patterns.
• They looked at newly opened daffodils, observing and appreciating the colors and shapes of flowers.

English Language Arts

• The child practiced their English language skills by discussing and describing different bird species and their names.
• They engaged in conversation with others on the path, saying hello and practicing social communication skills.
• The child predicted what they might see in each stretch of the pathway ahead, developing their imagination and storytelling abilities.
• They searched for painted rocks hidden alongside the path, practicing reading and recognizing words or symbols on the rocks.

Foreign Language (Te Reo Māori)

• The child practiced the Te Reo Māori names of different bird species, expanding their foreign language vocabulary.

Math

• The child selected their route to the end destination, making decisions based on spatial awareness and navigation skills.

Music

• The child played with different styles of walking, exploring rhythm and movement in relation to their surroundings.

Physical Education

• The child explored different terrains, including steep uneven hills with tree roots, developing their balance and coordination.
• They played with different styles of walking, engaging in physical activity and exercise.

Science

• The child observed a Tui stripping bark off a tree, speculating about its behavior and potentially building a nest.
• They looked in the water for eels or fish, exploring aquatic life and habitats.

Social Studies

• The child said hello to others using the path, demonstrating social etiquette and awareness of their community.

Continued development can include encouraging the child to create their own rock art by painting rocks and discussing their designs. They can also practice identifying different bird species and their characteristics through birdwatching or using bird identification books. Exploring different terrains and environments can be extended by visiting other natural areas or parks, discussing the unique features and wildlife present. Additionally, incorporating nature-themed music and movement activities into their playtime can further stimulate their creativity and physical development.

Book Recommendations

• My First Book of Birds by National Geographic Kids: This book introduces different bird species and includes beautiful photographs for identification.
• The Stick Book by Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks: This book explores the creative possibilities of sticks, encouraging children to collect and use them in imaginative ways.
• Flowers Are Calling by Rita Gray and Kenard Pak: This book celebrates the beauty of flowers and the creatures that visit them, including birds and insects.