Research the habitat you will be exploring and be prepared to answer any questions your preschooler may have. Discuss with your preschooler what you will be looking for on your walk before setting out.
During your walk, point out interesting natural elements. Encourage your preschooler to observe and ask questions. Talk about the types of trees and plants you are looking at. Discuss the season you are currently in and what effect the seasons have on the trees.
Allow your preschooler to gather items from nature, such as rocks, leaves, bark, flowers, seed pods and feathers. Have him place the items in his paper bag to take back to the class.
Use a magnifying glass to look at insects together. Take some specimens back to class in a glass collecting jar with a vented lid that allows the insects to breathe. Look at identification books with your preschooler to help her identify different species. Talk about respecting nature and release the insects back into the environment at the end of the activity.
Record the animals, insects and natural objects you have found in a notebook. Take photographs with a digital camera of interesting finds. Discuss animal habitats and environments.
Extend the project back in the classroom by having your preschooler make a collage with the natural materials he has gathered, gluing them to construction paper. Help him to label the things he has found.