Exploring the Seasons: Fall Science Play for Young Children

Early Learning Made Easy

Exploring Changing Seasons Through Play

Making Early Learning Simple, Joyful, and Evidence-Based — by Ms. Vanessa | Early Learning Made Easy

🍁 Noticing the World Around Us

As the world outside changes color, temperature, and texture, children notice every detail. Fall is the perfect time to slow down and explore nature with all five senses. Early observation builds science curiosity and strengthens language, attention, and focus.

🧠 Science for Little Learners

When preschoolers watch a leaf fall, notice frost on the grass, or see clouds move across the sky, they’re exploring cause and effect. This is the foundation of scientific thinking—noticing patterns, asking questions, and forming ideas about how the world works.

🌳 Playful Observation Activities

Encourage your child to explore through play: collect leaves, jump in puddles, measure shadows, or make weather drawings. Observation journals, sensory bins, and nature walks all strengthen early science learning and curiosity.

❤️ Why It Matters

Children learn best through experience. Outdoor play that includes nature observation helps develop focus, creativity, and appreciation for the environment—while also supporting brain growth through rich sensory input and emotional connection.

📋 Free Printable (PDF): Fall Nature Scavenger Hunt

The printable scavenger hunt lives inside the PDF version of this article. Print, take it outdoors, and let little scientists explore!

Download the Article + Scavenger Hunt (PDF)

📚 Helpful Books & Tools

• The Leaf Thief (Alice Hemming)

Follow Squirrel on a lively forest adventure filled with bold, colorful illustrations that bring the magic of autumn to life. As Squirrel searches for the mysterious “leaf thief,” young readers discover a gentle story about seasonal changes—and the big feelings that can come with them. Includes bonus pages that explain how and why the seasons shift. A charming read that’s sure to become a fall favorite.

• We're Going on a Leaf Hunt (Steve Metzger)

Tag along with three cheerful friends as they set out on a lively leaf-collecting journey inspired by a favorite childhood song. Their hike over hills and through the woods reveals a rainbow of autumn leaves just waiting to be discovered. And when their bags are full? They dive right in for some joyful leaf-pile fun! With catchy rhymes and playful sounds, this energetic fall tale is perfect for reading aloud.

• Autumn In The Forest Deluxe Lift-a-Flap & Pop-Up Seasons Board Book for Fall

Celebrate the magic of fall with this interactive lift-the-flap board book! Little readers can follow a sweet chipmunk as it scampers through the forest, gathering acorns, walnuts, and buckeyes to get ready for winter. Pumpkins swell on their vines, apple and pear trees are heavy with fruit, and the forest floor is sprinkled with crunchy nuts. With cozy scenes and playful surprises under every flap, this charming story is a perfect way to share the joys of autumn with your toddler.

Related Post:

 Invite your child to explore fall through all five senses! This joyful sensory play guide for toddlers and preschoolers, build curiosity and language 

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About Early Learning Made Easy:
Created by Ms. Vanessa, CDA-certified Early Childhood Educator. This blog provides simple, joyful, evidence-informed learning activities for families and caregivers.

Affiliate & Research Disclosure:
This site may include Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Content is independently created and informed by evidence-based research.

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