Spring In The City!

The Our Time, Fiddle Dee Dee song describes this picture perfectly: "Oh the pretty butterflies, how they flutter, how they flutter. Oh the pretty butterflies, how they flutter all around"

These are some pictures from my trip to Callaway Gardens! Oh what fun we had exploring all of the beautiful Azaleas, butterflies, and we even came across a cute turtle a long the way too! Are you looking for some fun spring adventures yourself? I found a great idea for a nature walk perfect for you and your little ones!

(taken from http://www.drspock.com/ )
Spring Crafts for Toddlers and Preschoolers

by Susan E. Davisreviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Two of the greatest joys of living with toddlers and preschoolers are their curiosity about the natural world and their enthusiasm for arts-and-crafts projects. Here are some simple ideas that harness both these passions. Have fun with found objects.

Young children love to collect things and stash them away. Put that passion to good use by taking your child on a nature walk and encouraging him to pick up as many objects as he can find. He'll have a world of choices: pine cones, rocks, feathers, leaves, acorns, berries, and shells, among others. Remember that young children usually can't tell a fern leaf from poison ivy or a raspberry from a poisonous fruit, so keep a close eye on your little one's explorations.

When you get home, spread the objects out on some newspaper. Then let your child's imagination take over. To make a collage, simply glue the objects onto cardboard or heavy construction paper.You also can glue the objects into a shoe box to make a 3-D display, also known as a shadow box. If your child likes the idea, help him to line the inside of the box with colored construction paper and paint the outside for an extra artistic touch. When it dries, have him arrange his chosen objects inside, affixing them with glue. Place the box on a shelf or tabletop where all can appreciate its wonders.Note: Think your urban neighborhood has nothing to offer from the world of nature? Look again. Even city streets contain leaves, twigs, and feathers. Or visit a local park, where the variety will be even greater.