Nature Journaling for the Reluctant Artist

Your child can document their own learning with a nature journal - even if they "hate to write". I have used this technique over and over with 90% success. If you have a reluctant artist in your house, give this sunflower drawing lesson a try.

For this lesson, set up a sunflower in a jar or vase in a sunny window. You can use a piece of paper or a chalkboard to create an invitation to draw. This part is key, if you may have a child who is reluctant to try or is new to drawing. As their parent or caregiver, model this activity using this simple script as inspiration.

“I want to draw the stem first; what color is the stem?” Then pause for thoughtful space to see if your child answers. “Green. I need green.” They may hand it to you.

Draw a straight line for the stem and say aloud, “now the leaves,” and draw leaves on your stem.

“What part comes next?” Pause for thoughtful space again. “I think I’ll draw the middle. What color do I need?” Wait to see if you child answers. “Brown!”

Then draw the center of the flower and finally, “I am looking for yellow to add the petals and then I will be finished.”

Draw the yellow petals.

By saying the steps out loud, you are giving them a sequence to follow, much like the life cycle of the sunflower.

When you pause for thoughtful space, you are communicating non-verbally that they don’t need to rush through this activity.

Let me know if you try this and how it works for you!

Come back tomorrow for another sunflower activity, and if you haven't already, subscribe to my email list here!