Seasonal observations, nature notes, and homeschool reflections from the week outdoors.
Nature Notes · Early Summer
This week of early summer brought many changes. The dogwood tree dropped its petals, some spring plants began going to seed, and new visitors appeared in our yard. We added a pollinator home, thought about growing our own hybrid plants, and stayed up late to watch fireworks on the Fourth of July.
What We Noticed
- A new gray squirrel visited our yard
- Dogwood petals look like leaves scattered on the ground
- It was dark enough for fireworks at 10 pm
- A pollinator home may help support the garden
Weather Conditions
Cool all week, then sunny for the holiday weekend.
Field Notes
Many different flying visitors were in the yard:
- Honeybees
- Bumblebees
- Flies that look like bees
- Butterflies
- Wasps
- Hummingbirds
- Other birds
- Ladybugs
Some plants are already going to seed, including chives and carrots from last year.
Wondering About
Can we grow our own hybrid plant by pollinating flowers with a paintbrush?
Reading Together
- A Place for Butterflies – Melissa Stewart
- Fireworks – Matthew Burgess
Find our related seasonal book lists and story reflections at our blog: parMINDary.com
