Ohio Parent Information Network

Parenting Exchange

There are currently 13 articles available that discuss nature connections, pets.

Bird Watching Helps Children Become Nature-wise

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, outdoors, manners, identification
Description: Children are fascinated by discovery, especially when it deals with nature. Here are some tips for taking a child bird watching.

Butterfly Garden Activities Stir Children's Sense of Wonder

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, net, flutterbys
Description: Bufferflys provide children a unique connection with nature. Learn some butterfly basics and how to build your own butterfly garden.

Camping Brings Children Closer to Nature and Family

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, tents, science, nature, emotional bonds, memories
Description: Camping is one of many ways to acquaint a child with nature. Read about how to use camping as a fun way to increase your child's connection with nature and science, while developing a unique emotional bond and creating lifelong memories.

Children Honor Mother Nature When Exploring Spring

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, exploration, five senses, observations
Description: The beauty of spring brings about a sense of warmth, sunlight, and the return of animals. Exploring nature in the spring can be as simple as taking a walk or bird watching out the window. Enjoy the beauty of spring by learning about these suggestions and more.

Children Reap a Bushel of Benefits From Outdoor Gardening

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, family, hobby, energy
Description: An outdoor garden not only provides fresh vegetables and beautiful flowers, but can be a sense of pride and accomplishment. Explore some tips to plant your own garden and develop your child's green thumb.

Creative Ways for Kids to Enjoy Snow Play

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, winter
Description: If the temperature is below freezing and the snow is falling, it's time to play in the snow. Discover some creative ways to enjoy the white stuff.

Fall Offers Families A Variety of Sensory, Seasonal Fun

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, autumn, leaves, color change, family, adventure
Description: The coming of Fall signifies cooler temperatures and changing colors, and the ability to discover and explore new things. Check out these suggestions for fall activities.

Family Pets Help Children Develop Positive Traits, Values

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, dogs, cats, hamsters
Description: Are you considering buying a pet? Discover some of the pros and cons to pet ownership and suggestions for examining all of the areas a pet might affect in your life.

Gardening With Children: Green Thumbs Grow Inside, Too!

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, hobby
Description: Sometimes gardening in the city (or in the winter) is not possible outside, but don't take that as a limitation. Children can explore the art of gardening inside, too! From pineapple to green hairy monsters, learn what kind of fun can be dug up inside.

Nature Connections for Kids in Cities and Suburbs

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, outdoors, gardens
Description: Many adults attribute their connection with nature to their experiences as a child. Learn some practical suggestions for encouraging children to engage in the natural world, even in the midst of a city or suburb.

Snow Activities Let Children Explore the Wonders of Weather

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, winter
Description: If the temperature is above 20 degrees and there is snow on the ground, it's time to let your child experience the wonder of snow. Find out some simple suggestions to helping their play go beyond just snowmen.

Teach Kids Caring and Safe Ways With Pets

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, pet etiquette
Description: Owning a family pet offers the opportunity to teach children about the responsibilities of caring for a pet. Read about establishing ground rules with your child for playing with pets.

Ways to Help Children Cope When a Family Pet Dies

Author: Karen Stephens, Parenting Exchange
Key Words: nature connections, pets, fears, anxiety related to death, tragedy, or war, pet etiquette
Description: Dealing with the death of a beloved pet can be difficult. Explore some suggestions for talking honestly and openly with a child when the family pet dies.