Different finds, one amazing natural world! 

Take the children outdoors for a nature hunt that celebrates diversity and explores how differences make our world interesting. 

Nature is full of variety – different shapes, colours, textures and sizes. This activity encourages children to explore their surroundings, work together and appreciate differences. 

What you’ll need 

• A basket or collection bag for each group (optional) 

• A nature hunt checklist or paper and pencils 

• An outdoor space such as a garden, playground or local green space 

The Challenge 

Working in pairs or small groups, invite children to find or spot: 

• Something bigger than their hand 

• Something smaller than their fingernail 

• Two leaves that look different 

• Something rough and something smooth 

• Something that is one colour and something with lots of colours 

• Evidence of an animal or insect 

• Something that makes an interesting sound 

• Something they have never noticed before 

Important: Encourage children to observe rather than pick. Leave living plants, fungi and wildlife where they are. 

Bringing everyone together 

Once the hunt is complete, gather the children and share what they discovered. 

Ask: 

• Did everyone find exactly the same things? 

• What differences did you notice? 

• What would happen if everything in nature looked the same? 

• How did you help one another during the hunt? 

Make it inclusive 

Adapt the challenge to suit the children in your club. Children can work independently, in pairs or with an adult. They can point, photograph, draw or describe their discoveries rather than needing to write. 

Offer a seated observation option or a shorter route for children who need it and make sure everyone can contribute in their own way. 

The message: Just like nature, our club is made up of people with different strengths, interests and experiences. Everyone has something valuable to contribute!