January in the Outdoors: Discovering Nature with Your Kids
January may feel like a quiet month, but it’s the perfect time to get outdoors with your kids and explore the beauty of the natural world. The crisp air, soft winter light, and fascinating signs of life all around make this season magical in its own right. Whether you’re strolling to school, embarking on a weekend walk, or making your garden bird-friendly, there are plenty of ways to connect with nature.
What to Look for in January
Nature doesn’t take a break in winter—it’s just a little quieter, giving us the chance to notice the smaller details. Here are some highlights to look out for:
Bare Trees and Winter Shapes: With the leaves gone, trees reveal their beautiful structures. Teach your kids to identify trees by their silhouettes, bark, or remaining seed pods like acorns and sycamore keys.
Winter Birds: Many birds stay active throughout winter, including robins, blue tits, and blackbirds. You might even spot migratory visitors like fieldfares and redwings.
Frosty Wonders: On frosty mornings, look for intricate ice patterns on leaves, grass, and puddles. It’s like nature’s art!
Early Signs of Spring: Keep an eye out for snowdrops and other hardy plants that brave the cold to signal the coming season.
Ways to Get Outdoors
Walk to School (if possible)
Turn the school run into a mini adventure. Walking together not only boosts physical activity but also gives you a chance to observe nature & practice mindfulness along the way. Try spotting birds or counting how many different tree species you can see. Even a short walk can become a memorable part of your day.
Weekend Nature Walks
Make time for a family walk, whether it’s in your local park, a woodland trail, or along a riverbank. Bring a nature guide or print out a scavenger hunt sheet to keep the kids engaged (there are loads of these available for free online). Look for animal tracks in the mud or frost and talk about what animals might have passed by.
Feed the Birds
Help your local wildlife by putting out food for the birds. This is an easy activity for kids to get involved in, and it can lead to hours of entertainment watching the visitors. Choose seeds, fat balls, or mealworms, and place them in a feeder, directly on a bird table or use our Make A Pizza For The Birds Kit. Make sure to place them in a safe spot, away from predators.
Garden Explorations
Even in winter, your garden or balcony can be a hub of activity. Look under leaves and logs for insects, or set up a small tray of water for animals to drink. You could also plant bulbs with your kids that will bloom in spring, teaching them patience and the magic of growth.
Winter Crafting with Natural Finds
Collect interesting twigs, leaves, and seed pods during your outdoor adventures and use them for indoor crafts. Make twig frames, nature mobiles, or icy sun catchers by freezing leaves and berries in water – we have loads of winter craft ideas on our blog page & over on our social media, feel free to check them out!
Plant a Tree to Mark the New Year
Start the year by giving back to nature with a symbolic act of growth and renewal. Planting a tree is a wonderful way to teach kids about caring for the environment and leaving a legacy for future generations. Choose a native species like oak or birch and let your kids help dig, plant, and water it. As the tree grows, it will become a living reminder of your family’s commitment to the planet. (Our Grow Your Own British Tree Kit has everything you need for this activity).
Why It Matters
Getting outside in January isn’t just about fresh air—it’s about fostering curiosity, mindfulness, and an appreciation for the environment. These experiences help kids build a lifelong connection with nature while encouraging healthy habits.
Bundle Up and Head Out!
The great thing about the outdoors is that it’s always there, waiting for you. A warm coat, boots, and a sense of adventure are all you need to make the most of January with your family. Whether you’re feeding the birds, spotting winter wildlife, or simply taking a frosty walk, these moments will spark joy and create lasting memories.
Happy exploring!