The Backyard Explorer

Inspiring children and families to go outdoors to explore and learn more about our natural world.

Monday, October 13, 2014

http://www.mothernaturesmovie.com/the-film/
A short film on the importance of outdoor investigation and play for young people of all ages

Jane MItchell: I worship nature! My children aren't surprised when I pull over to the side of the road to rescue crayfish and other creatures. In mid-conversation I have to point out the melodic song of the Baltimore Oriole. I'm known to wake others to listen to the call of the Great-Horned Owl. Well, it all began, I am told, when my tiny feet walked upon the earth's green back and fell into its cool blue waters. It was then that my natural curiosity began to unfold. Chasing and raising butterflies, observing bumblebees, listening to the birds sing and owls hoot, catching toads and bullfrogs by day and fireflies by night, collecting hermit crabs and minnows to put in the moat that surrounded my sandcastle. As children or adults, life is so exciting that we can lose ourselves in the freedom of nature as we explore the wonders and beauty of all the wild things that surround us all. My parents encouraged me to use my natural curiousity to explore and discover. You should too! Join your child, open your backdoor and begin discovering the magic and beauty that awaits you. I can't wait to hear what you discover!

Catch and Release! This is me at age 9 with my very favorite bullfrog from The Three Ponds. I loved those red boots and I still love catching frogs!

A little Flying Squirrel named Rocky in our little red birdhouse. "Must I leave this lovely little house"? "No! Stay as long as you like"!