Week 1
Getting to Know Trees
Children begin observing trees, identifying their parts, and sharing what they already know.
- Tree walks
- Observing bark
- Leaf collecting
- Nature journals
- Tree vocabulary
Children investigate trees through science, art, math, literacy, dramatic play, music, and outdoor exploration using affordable everyday materials.
Everything you need for the Trees Study in one place.
The Trees Study encourages children to observe, question, compare, measure, create, and discover the important role trees play in our environment.
Each week builds children's understanding through exploration, observation, discussion, and hands on learning.
Children begin observing trees, identifying their parts, and sharing what they already know.
Children investigate roots, seeds, leaves, water, sunlight, and seasons.
Explore animals, insects, birds, nests, habitats, and food that trees provide.
Children discover how trees help people, animals, and our planet.
Most classrooms already have these materials available.
Use these questions to guide conversations and investigations throughout the study.
Words children can hear, use, see, and explore throughout the study.
Use quality literature to encourage discussion, vocabulary, and curiosity throughout the study.
Janice May Udry
Jennifer Ward
Lois Ehlert
Lois Ehlert
Use movement, rhythm, and imagination to connect children with trees and the outdoors.
Movement song using arms, stretching, and counting.
Children pretend to float like leaves.
Simple movements showing roots, trunk, branches, and leaves.
Use clapping, tapping, and gentle instruments to imitate wind, rain, and sounds heard around trees.
Simple, affordable classroom invitations.
Build forests using wooden blocks and cardboard tubes.
Create leaf rubbings, bark paintings, and nature collages.
Add books about forests, trees, seasons, and wildlife.
Observe leaves with magnifying glasses and compare textures.
Transform the center into a campground or forest ranger station.
Dance like leaves blowing in the wind.
Float sticks, leaves, pinecones, and seeds.
Draw favorite trees and dictate observations.
Sort leaves by color, shape, and size.
Use these prompts while children explore trees, leaves, bark, seeds, habitats, and outdoor materials.
What does the child notice about the tree, leaf, bark, branch, or seed?
Does the child use tree vocabulary to describe what they see, feel, or discover?
How does the child compare, sort, measure, investigate, or test an idea?
Does the child ask questions, make predictions, and notice changes over time?
Observe carrying, collecting, building, arranging, digging, and manipulating natural materials.
Notice how children share materials, cooperate, communicate, and participate with others.
Simple ways families can continue the Trees Study beyond the classroom.
Invite families to find a tree near home and notice its bark, leaves, branches, and shade.
Invite families to share a photo of a favorite tree or outdoor discovery.
Explore a tree or nature book together at home or at the local library.
Printable files for classroom use will be added here as the Trees Study resource library grows.
Printable weekly investigation plans.
Coming SoonPrintable teacher observation pages.
Coming SoonVocabulary, activity, and classroom printables.
Coming Soon