Summer Exploration Tools for Kids

Summer is the perfect time to get your kids outside, soaking up sunshine and discovering the wonders of God’s creation. Whether you're homeschooling year-round or simply looking to nurture a love of nature, the right tools can turn an ordinary walk into a thrilling adventure.

Summer Exploration Tools for Kids

Here’s a roundup of our favorite summer exploration tools for kids—simple, affordable items that promote outdoor learning, curiosity, and hands-on science.

1. Magnifying Glass for Kids

A good magnifying glass opens up a whole new world—from the veins of a leaf to the legs of a ladybug. This set is perfect for little hands and durable enough to take on hikes or backyard missions.

2. Bug Catching Kits

Let your kids gently catch and observe insects with a complete kit! This catch-and-release magnifying glass fits perfectly in a bag, and this kit is great for quick nature studies or mini science investigations on the go.

3. Binoculars for Kids

Perfect for birdwatching, cloud gazing, or spotting deer on a nature trail. Make sure to get a kid-sized, shock-proof set like this one.

4. Field Guides for Young Explorers

Equip your explorers with field guides tailored to their age and region. We love the Peterson Guides that help children identify wildflowers, plants, birds, mushrooms, and more.

5. Nature Journals

Encourage kids to sketch what they see, jot down questions, and praise God for His handiwork. Bring along a nature journal on every outing!

6. Bird Identification

Let your kids make their own bird feeders, fill them with seeds, and use this book to identify the birds that gather and learn their calls! 

7. Pocket Microscope

For more in-depth observation, a portable pocket microscope lets kids explore the microscopic world in the field or at home.

8. Nature Scavenger Hunt Cards

Add some structure to your adventures with scavenger hunt cards! Great for family hikes or backyard scouring.

9. Compass and Beginner Navigation Tools

Introduce basic map skills and geography with a beginner compass. It’s a fun, hands-on way to learn direction and navigate their way through God's creation.

10. Catholic Nature Study Connection

Don’t forget to weave in wonder, awe, and praise of God while you explore His wonderful works! Draw your child's attention to the grandeur of God's power, majesty, and goodness in creating such a world for His glory. 

Make this the Summer of Wonder

With the right summer exploration tools for kids, outdoor time becomes a canvas of questions, discoveries, and joy.

Whether you're studying creation through a magnifying glass or praying the Rosary in the forest, this time together can be one of fun, discovery, and faith!

So grab your gear and head outside. The whole earth is full of His glory (Isaiah 6:3)—let’s go explore it!

Ready to dive deeper? 

Here are 4 ways to fill your nets... 

 1. Memorize Bible verses with your children easily with our FREE guide: Stocking the Storehouses

 2. Make your dreams of family prayer a reality with The Daily Feast framework, making it possible in just a few minutes a day. This free guide shows you how.

 3. Want to steward your own prayer life? Check out this Scripture prayer journal we made just for you.

 4. Looking to level-up in your family faith formation? Join over 10,000 families that use our resources. We make open-and-go, family-style resources to make your role as primary catechist easy AND delightful. Click here to browse!