Treasure Pail – A walk to remember

“ Not all those who wander are lost “ – Tolkien

Have you attempted a treasure pail stroll in the park? It’s a joy to talk a walk with the little ones into Nature’s arms rediscovering its wonder and learning with them. Kids do not need all that’s advertised to be indispensable on TV. Sometimes a break from things and things-that-ought-to-be-done is good.

A walk in the park or lane nearby, collecting the odd things and coming back home to talk about it, is such a simple pleasure. It’s a learning experience for the kids and surprisingly for the adults too.

Things we found and you could find:

• Stones in odd shapes – You can turn them into lovely, painted paperweights.
• Dried twigs in all forms – You can stick them into paper cups filled with mud and glue paper bits onto them
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• So many types of seeds that fall off the trees – You can identify them and make a collection too.
• Flowers – You can press them in books.
• Leaves – Observe their shapes,sizes,textures.
• Scraps of objects (make sure they are not sharp or filthy )
• Feathers – these send them into squeals and there are so many things to do with them(wash and dry them properly)
• Shells – tiny ones found in the sand
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• Smooth pebbles – Can be used for craft later on

As you walk, talk to them and more importantly, listen to them. You will be surprised at their observational skills and their little talk is the best rejuvenator. With the whole experience the kids will learn to explore, communicate their ideas and think creatively about the treasures found. And need I say the hugs and smiles you get in return are priceless?

What you need:

• A beach bucket/a small gardening pail
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• Good comfortable shoes to walk in
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• A park or a garden or a quiet lane near by.
• A small snack in case you want to picnic.
• Each one get a pail/container to collect their memories in and enjoy the walk in each other’s company.