A Simple September Nature Activity: Leaf Colour Matching
September is one of our favourite months to get outside and notice the changing season. The first signs of autumn are beginning to appear, with leaves slowly shifting from fresh summer greens to shades of gold, amber, copper and crimson. Yet there is still plenty of vibrant colour to be found, making it the perfect time for a nature-based colour hunt.
This in-between season offers a wonderful opportunity to pause and take a closer look at the world around us. Trees rarely change all at once, so children can discover an incredible range of colours on a single walk. A leaf colour matching wheel helps bring those subtle changes into focus, encouraging children to observe carefully, compare shades and celebrate the beauty of early autumn.
Simple to make and lovely to use, this is an activity that turns an ordinary stroll into an invitation to explore.
How to Make a Leaf Colour Matching Wheel
You'll need:
- A paper plate or circle of card
- Paints, crayons or coloured pencils
- Pegs
- A selection of leaves and natural treasures
Divide your plate into sections, rather like slices of a pie. Colour each section with shades you might find outdoors in autumn, such as green, yellow, orange, red and brown. Don't worry about being too neat. Part of the charm is creating your own nature-inspired palette.
Take your colour wheel outside and head off on a leaf hunt. Challenge children to find leaves that match each section as closely as possible, then peg them onto the correct colour.
You can make it as simple or as detailed as you like. Younger children might focus on matching colours, while older children can compare leaf shapes, textures and patterns too.
Why We Love This Activity in September
September sits in that lovely space between summer and autumn. Nature is changing every day, but often so gradually that it's easy to miss. This activity helps children notice those subtle shifts.
Looking for colour matches encourages children to slow down and really observe. Suddenly, a walk to the park becomes a search for the perfect golden leaf or the deepest shade of burgundy.
It's also a gentle way to reconnect after the busyness of the summer holidays and the return to school routines. There's no pressure to create a perfect craft. The joy comes from being outside together, noticing what's around you and chatting as you explore.
Sometimes the simplest activities are the ones children remember most. A handful of pegs, a painted paper plate and an afternoon spent outdoors can be all you need to celebrate the turning of the season.