A First Book of Nature: questions to ask and activities to try
Beachcombing, stargazing, berry crumble and bird feasts. A First Book of Nature is a beautiful mix of poems, facts and recipes about the natural world on our doorstep.
What age is it for? A First Book of Nature is best for ages 3–8. Good for: A first taste of nature, season by season.
A First Book of Nature (Nicola Davies and Mark Hearld)
- Age
- 3-8
- Best for
- A first taste of nature, season by season
Dip in by season rather than reading it all at once. Pick one page and go and do it: a walk, a recipe, a look at the stars.
What it helps with
- Noticing nature through the year
- Poetry and calm language
- Outdoor activities and recipes
- Wonder at everyday things
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What season is it now?”
- “What can we see outside right now?”
- “Which page would you like to try?”
- “What do birds eat in winter?”
- “What’s your favourite season?”
- “What did we find on our walk?”
5-minute activities to try together
Seasonal walk
Go for a walk and collect three things that show the season.
Bird feast
Make a simple bird feeder with seeds and watch who visits.
Free printables: A First Book of Nature worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Trees (Lemniscates)
- Best for
- Noticing trees through the seasons
- Age
- 3-7
Surprising Sharks (Nicola Davies and James Croft)
- Best for
- Real facts about sharks, and looking past first impressions
- Age
- 4-8
Yucky Worms (Vivian French and Jessica Ahlberg)
- Best for
- Discovering how amazing worms really are
- Age
- 4-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.