One great way to connect with nature in your backyard, and to re-purpose materials, is to create a nature loom and go on a nature walk!

Here is what you need:

  1. Piece of cardboard/tag board, including empty cereal box, shipping box, etc.
  2. Some yarn, ribbon, or string.
  3. Scissors.
  4. Adult support for younger children that may need assistance with cutting.

Here is how you create the loom:

  1. Cut out a piece of cardboard that is approximately 9 inches by 5 inches. Really any size is fine, so feel free to cut the material smaller or larger or use scraps you find!
  2. Measure out ½ inch distances on the sides of your cardboard/material, and cut a ¼ to ½ inch slit on both edges.
  3. Wrap your yarn or string starting on the top edge of your loom and weave it from side to side until you have covered all slits, then tie a knot or tape it down.

Suggestions for your nature walk:

  1. Set aside 30 minutes (or more or less that fits your schedule) and walk slowly around your neighborhood, or even in your house!
  2. Allow yourself to focus on the sights you are experiencing- what different colors, and shapes are you seeing?
  3. During your slow walk, if you find an object that is safe to pick up (i.e. dried leaf or flower) add it to your loom.
  4. Continue collecting objects throughout your walk.
  5. At the end of your walk, your loom will have objects that tell the story of your walk.
  6. Share the loom with friends and family! Or, if possible, go on a walk with friends and family and see how different your nature looms are. Share your stories and experiences of nature!

What to do if you do not have any of these materials or do not want to pick up objects? No problem! Consider finding a scrap piece of paper and make drawings of what you see on your walk. Or, take pictures, write a poem, or make a song! There are endless ways to share your nature walk!

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.