Engaging Outdoor Activities for 6th Graders: Making the Most of the Great Outdoors

With technology increasingly becoming a central part of daily life, it has become more important than ever to get children outside and active. Playing outdoor activities helps children develop physical skills, social skills, and emotional intelligence. Not to mention, outdoor activities are a fun way to learn about nature! In this article, we’ll share some engaging outdoor activities for 6th graders that will have them learning, laughing, and loving the great outdoors.

Nature Hike and Scavenger Hunt

A nature hike and scavenger hunt is an excellent way for 6th graders to explore their surroundings and learn about the wildlife living in their area. You can make a list of creatures and plants to discover along the way, and children can tick them off their list as they spot them. Encourage children to take photos of the creatures they spot and teach them about the plants and wildlife they discover.

Outdoor Art Class

6th graders are at an age where they’re developing their creativity and artistic skills. An outdoor art class offers a great opportunity to utilize the natural environment and create art that’s inspired by it. Head to a local park or nature reserve and set up a makeshift art studio. Encourage children to draw, paint, or sculpt their surroundings. They can even work collaboratively to create a mural inspired by the natural landscape around them.

Plant a Garden

Planting a garden is an excellent way to teach children about science, nutrition, and sustainability. It’s also a great way to get them out in the fresh air and doing some physical activity. Work with the children to plan the layout of the garden, determine which plants will work best, and visit a local nursery to stock up on supplies. Encourage children to take care of the plants throughout the season, and harvest the fruits and vegetables when they’re ready.

Campfire Storytelling

Kids love to tell stories and what better way to do it than sitting around a campfire on a starry night. Gather around the fire, bring blankets and marshmallows, and encourage children to share their favorite stories. You can even prompt them with story starters such as “Once upon a time, there was a group of explorers who stumbled upon a mysterious abandoned campsite.” Campfire storytelling is a simple, yet effective way to bond with nature and fuel children’s imagination.

Beach Clean-up

Beaches are a popular destination during the summer months, but they’re also prone to litter. Engage 6th graders by organizing a beach clean-up event that teaches them about responsibility and the impact of litter on the environment. Plan the event ahead of time, providing gloves and trash bags for children to collect trash. At the end of the activity, talk with students about the impact that their actions had on the health of the environment.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of fun, engaging outdoor activities for 6th graders to enjoy and appreciate the natural world. Encouraging children to spend time outside and actively engaging with their surroundings will help them to develop physically, socially, and emotionally. With the activities listed in this article, you’ll be able to provide them with a fun and meaningful experience that they’ll remember for years to come.