January and February may be cold and quiet months outdoors, but they’re actually one of the best times to explore nature with children. With bare trees, frosty mornings and birds more visible as they search for food, winter invites children to slow down, observe and truly notice the world around them.
At Little Whispers, we love this time of year for nature play and bird watching — gentle, curiosity-led activities that support learning, wellbeing and connection with the natural world.
🐦 Why winter is perfect for bird watching
In winter, birds are easier to spot. With fewer leaves on trees and hedgerows, children can clearly see birds hopping, feeding and flying. This makes it an ideal time to:
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Learn to recognise common garden birds
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Listen for different birdsong
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Observe behaviour like feeding and nesting preparation
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Develop patience and focus
Even a short time outside — in the garden, park or on a woodland walk — can spark meaningful conversations and questions.
Explore our wooden garden birds and bird identification resources
🔍 Simple nature play ideas for January & February
You don’t need long walks or big adventures. Small moments are often the most powerful.
Try these ideas:
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Set up a bird-feeding station and keep a simple tally of which birds visit
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Use binoculars or magnifiers to look closely at feathers, bark and seeds
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Create a nature table indoors with found treasures like pinecones and twigs
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Combine books with play by acting out bird stories using small world figures
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Encourage children to draw or talk about what they’ve noticed
🌱 Learning through nature play
Nature play naturally supports many areas of learning, including:
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Observation and curiosity
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Vocabulary and communication
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Fine motor skills
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Understanding of seasons and wildlife
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Calm, focused play
That’s why nature-based resources are so popular in EYFS settings, nurseries and primary classrooms, as well as at home.
Browse EYFS-friendly nature and outdoor learning resources
🌿 Thoughtfully chosen resources for nature play
Our Nature Play & Bird Watch collection brings together carefully chosen toys, books and resources to support outdoor learning and discovery. From wooden birds and animals to magnifying tools, binoculars and nature-themed books, everything is selected to encourage open-ended exploration.
Many of these resources pair beautifully with Small World Play, allowing children to recreate what they see outdoors through storytelling and imaginative scenes.
Discover Small World Play for nature-inspired storytelling
❄️ A quiet season full of wonder
Winter teaches children that nature doesn’t disappear — it simply changes. By taking time to watch birds, explore textures and notice small details, we help children build a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.
So wrap up warm, step outside when you can, and let curiosity lead the way.