Do you have a favorite tree? Maybe one you have seen in a park, your neighborhood, a parking lot, or a movie or magazine?

In your mind, try and picture that tree…Think about the age of the tree- is it older or younger than you? Think about how that tree might be feeling right now, wherever it lives, given the temperature and weather. Consider a year in the life of the tree. What does it see, hear, feel, or experience during that year? Who might visit the tree throughout all the different seasons? What might that tree mean and represent to other animals and people?

Now take a moment and close your eyes. Pretend you are a tree and stand with your legs and arms in a way that feels most like a tree to you. How does it feel to be rooted in place? 

Open your eyes, and consider sharing your experience with a friend or family member. Share details of the tree, such as the physical and emotional experiences. Consider drawing the tree or, if possible, going and visiting the tree (either virtually or in real life). Does the tree look or feel different to you in any way now? Remember, there are no right or wrong answers!

The Minnesota Zoo would love to see examples of how you used this activity at home! Please share pictures or comments via email at [email protected], and take less than 5 minutes of time to provide us feedback by completing this short survey.