Hobbies And Interests
I Spy Plants
Recycle old games, like "I Spy," by using plants instead of other objects. For instance, on a trip to the park, botanical garden, zoo or even a lazy day hanging out in the yard, use only plants in the "I Spy" game. When the parent says "I spy something red" it can only pertain to a plant. For older kids, include a camera and a notebook on an outing. Have them photograph the plant and note the name if provided. Ask them to document their trip by creating an online photo gallery with descriptions or thoughts about each plant.
Drawing Plants
Get the kids involved the next time landscaping is done. Have them draw the plants being used and create an art gallery showing. Take the learning one step further by locating color photos of each type of plant or take your own. Print them in doubles. Cut one of each photo up into puzzle pieces (triangle pieces are the easiest) mix them up. Ask the kids to re-create each photo (that's what the second photo is for) with the puzzle pieces.
Recycle Games
Once kids outgrow board games, recycle them by replacing the games objects with plants (flower shaped buttons work well) or creating game cards with plant photos and information. Use photos or color copies and glue sticks to mount the plant pictures to the board or create separate game cards. Remake the game "Old Maid"--use poison ivy in place of the Old Maid card. Identify a plant that resembles the other characters and apply color copies and photos over the original.
Finding Tools
Cardboard drink coasters make good cards for homemade kids games and can be found in a variety of shapes. Blank playing cards can be found at arts and craft stores and sometimes artist supply stores. A company called Plain Cards sells a perforated playing card stock for use in a printer. They provide a software program called Quick Cards that helps the user create playing cards on their computer.