Nature walk appreciation
2–3 yearsEmotional WellbeingNo materials needed
During a walk outside, point out things you appreciate in nature. Say things like 'I'm thankful for this warm sun' or 'I like these pretty flowers.' Invite your child to touch leaves, smell flowers, or feel the breeze. Ask 'What do you like?' and accept their answer. This teaches appreciation for experiences, not just things.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
During a walk outside, point out things you appreciate in nature. Say things like 'I'm thankful for this warm sun' or 'I like these pretty flowers.' Invite your child to touch leaves, smell flowers, or feel the breeze. Ask 'What do you like?' and accept their answer. This teaches appreciation for experiences, not just things.
Why It Works
Noticing and appreciating nature helps toddlers practice recognizing positive aspects of their environment. This sensory experience makes gratitude tangible and immediate. By modeling appreciation for experiences rather than material things, you build foundations for lasting gratitude habits. Research shows that gratitude practices enhance well-being and positive emotions, with grateful individuals experiencing greater life satisfaction (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
Tips for Parents
Use simple, concrete language. Point to what you're talking about.
Follow your child's interests. If they notice a bug, appreciate the bug together.
Keep the walk short. Six to nine minutes matches their attention span.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Songs, Stories, and RhymesSymbolic and Pretend PlaySocial Learning Through Peers
Loved this activity? Let us do the planning for you.
Imprint personalizes every activity to your child — their interests, their stage, the traits they're building — so playtime is more fun and every moment counts.
Science-backed. Private by design. No spam.