The Story of Trees

"The Story of Trees" is an activity for children aged 3–10 to help them learn more about trees—our most important friends in nature—and develop empathy for them. This activity encourages children to use their imagination to understand the life cycle of trees, their importance, and how to build a better relationship with them.

Objective of the Activity:

leaf Increase children’s love for nature and the environment.

leaf Help them understand the role and importance of trees in nature.

leaf Encourage them to create imaginative stories using their creativity.

leaf Develop their observation skills and focus their attention on their surroundings.

leaf Improve their ability to empathize with trees.

leaf Instill environmental conservation awareness in children and increase their sensitivity to this issue.

First the Story

While Tako and Ruka were playing in Grandpa’s garden, they noticed a strange mark on the trunk of a large plane tree. The mark seemed to be deeply carved into the tree’s bark. Ruka stared at it in amazement.

What’s wrong, Ruka? What are you looking at?

Tako, how do you think this strange mark appeared on the tree’s trunk?

Hmm, maybe a deer rubbed its antlers against it, Ruka.

Really? Do you think other trees might have marks like this too, Tako?

Of course they might. Every tree encounters different animals, birds, and weather conditions. That’s why each one has its own story.

That’s a wonderful idea! We should discover these stories. Shall we make this an activity, Tako?

Yes, let’s get started! This will be so interesting, Ruka.

My little adventurers, I can’t wait to hear all about your adventure.

Obu obu obu!

Of course, Obu, your help will be very useful. Let’s begin!

Materials

pencil notebook

Activity

For this activity, first go with your child to a park, garden, or an area with a natural tree. Sit next to a tree chosen by your child. Examine the tree’s trunk, branches, and leaves. Observe how tall the tree is, how many branches it has, and the color of its leaves. This step helps your child notice details about the tree and look at it more carefully.

In the next step, ask your child to look at the marks on the tree’s trunk and imagine the adventures it might have experienced. Talk about the kinds of stories the tree might have. Perhaps birds live in its branches, or maybe rabbits play beneath it. How does the tree see snow in the winter? How does it feel the sun in the summer? Help your child create these stories using their imagination.

In the final step, have your child tell you the story of the tree. While listening to the story, ask them questions and encourage them to add more details. This activity helps your child empathize with trees and use their imagination. It also teaches your child the value of nature and the importance of protecting it.

This activity can also be planned as a group activity in classrooms.

Attention!

During activities, the safety of children should always be our top priority. Do not encourage children to climb trees or cut branches without adult supervision.

Teach your children to respect trees and their natural surroundings. Be careful to avoid harming the trees and do not allow children to peel off tree bark or break branches.

Do not allow children to eat wild plants, fruits, or seeds found in nature. Some plants and fruits may be poisonous and could cause health problems.

Make sure children are careful around insects that live in and around trees, especially bees and wasps. Some children may have allergic reactions to insect stings.

To ensure children’s time in nature is enjoyable and safe, always use sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing. Also, make sure children have access to water, snacks, and first aid supplies.

Evaluation Questions

leaf Where did you learn what trees are used for?

leaf Why do you think trees are important?

leaf Do you think trees are important for the animals in our environment? Why?

leaf What can we do to protect trees?

leaf Did you know there are different types of trees? What do you think about these different types?

leaf Do you know how trees grow? What do you think about their growth process?

leaf Do you know in which seasons trees bloom? What are your thoughts about this?

leaf What benefits do you think having trees around our homes and schools provides?