Fun-gi Facts: A Guide for Exploring Fungi in Early Years

At Fig Tree Day Nursery, we believe that exploring nature is an essential part of early childhood development. It gives children the opportunity to learn about the world around them, develop their senses, and use their imaginations.

Fungi are a particularly fascinating part of the natural world, and they can be a great way to engage young children in learning and exploration.

Here are some tips for exploring nature and looking at fungi with young children:

• Find a good spot. The best places to look for fungi are in damp, shady areas, such as woodlands, parks, and gardens. Look under trees, on dead wood, and in leaf litter.

• Be prepared. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring a magnifying glass to help you get a closer look at the fungi you find.

• Take it slow. Don't rush your exploration. Give children plenty of time to look around and ask questions.

• Be gentle. Fungi are delicate creatures. Be careful not to damage them when you're looking at them.

Here are some activities that you can do with young children to explore fungi:

• Go on a fungus hunt. Challenge children to find as many different types of fungi as they can. You can even make a game of it by keeping score.

• Draw or paint fungi. Encourage children to draw or paint the fungi they find. This is a great way for them to practice their fine motor skills and learn about the different shapes and colors of fungi.

• Make a fungus collage. Collect different types of fungi and leaves, and use them to create a collage. This is a fun and creative way for children to express their creativity.

• Read books about fungi. There are many great books about fungi for children. Reading these books can help children learn more about the different types of fungi and their important role in the ecosystem.

Here are some specific safety tips for exploring fungi with young children:

• Never eat any wild fungi unless you are 100% sure that they are safe. Many wild fungi are poisonous. If you are unsure about a fungus, it is best to leave it alone.

• Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly after handling fungi. This will help to prevent the spread of germs.

• Supervise children closely when they are exploring fungi. Make sure that they do not touch any fungi that they are not sure about.

Exploring nature and looking at fungi is a great way for young children to learn about the world around them and develop a love of nature. By following these tips, you can help children to have a safe and enjoyable learning experience.