Birds build their cosy nests up in trees to prepare for the arrival of their chicks. Did you know birds only spend a few days building their nests, but still build a design unique to their breed? Can you help your children build a nest that will keep a clutch of eggs safe? It’s time to challenge your children…
This activity can be done anywhere, whether that’s at home, in the garden or at the park. You can keep the nest simple or make it elaborate and detailed.
You will need:
- A range of nest building materials
- Small pebbles or pinecones, to represent the eggs
- A storybook about birds (optional)
- Books about birds (optional)
Method:
- To begin with, start helping your children collect materials that can be used to build the nest, including twigs, sticks, long grass, leaves and moss.
- Work with your children to help them create a small nest out of the materials you’ve collected. If they want an extra challenge, try using just one hand – birds can only use their beaks after all!
- Now head outside and find a low-fork in a tree where two branches meet to put the nest.
- When you’ve finished, look for a few small pebbles or pinecones to represent the eggs.
- Put them in your nest and see if it can hold them.
- With the ‘eggs’ still in the nest, encourage your children to give the branch a light shake to see if the nest stands up to the wind.
Remember to take pictures of your children’s nests and share them with your friends.