Wonderfull Earth

When Howard Gardner first outlined his theory of Multiple Intelligences ( Frames of Mind , 1983) – a model of thought that differentiates "intelligence" into various sensory modalities, rather than seeing it as a single general ability – it did not include the Naturalist Intelligence. It wasn’t introduced to his list of intelligences until the late 90s ( Intelligence Reframed , 1999), after Gardner realized that the understanding of nature and living things was not sufficiently covered by the original seven intelligences ( verbal/linguistic; mathematical/logical; spatial; kinesthetic; musical; interpersonal; and intrapersonal intelligence) . He introduced and defined the Naturalist Intelligence with: The very term naturalist combines a description of the core ability with a characterization of a role that many cultures value. A naturalist demonstrates expertise in the recognition and classification of the numerous species -- the flora and fauna -- of his or her environmen...

View the original newsletter here.   Nature Net News Your Source for Tips and Tricks for Exploring Nature with Your Kids  "We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one." -Jacques Cousteau  Dear Reader, This issue of Nature Net News is dedicated to the wonders of the water cycle--one of nature's recycling factories. From collection to condensation, this cycle is part of the natural wonder of this world that keeps us going! So sit back with a tall glass of water and get ready to learn about the timeless journey of this precious resource. Enjoy! Kathe, Sarah & Brenna The Folks at Nature Net Did You Know... There is no such thing as "new" water. All the water that ever existed on Earth still exists today and moves around the planet in an ongoing cycle. That means that the water you drink today could have been sipped by dinosaurs or dodo birds. It also means that the water around now is all we have, and it needs to be taken care of! What to Do...

What are your favorite outdoor games? Nature Net has great suggestions on fun ways to engage kids outside . From leaf rubbings and windchimes, to scat tracking and bird calls, these activities are great for kids (and adults!) of any age. The Animal Game (which consists of thinking of an animal and getting other players to guess it - as described here ) is another simple classic. Other fun ideas include: collecting nature smells in small jars or unused film canisters and having others guess what they are. cloud gazing or star gazing. Who can find the most shapes or constellations? using magnifying glasses or your own eyes to see who can spot the most bugs in one tree/leaf pile/cup of soil/patch of grass. sack races, May poles, tag and other fun games will get your kids running around and burning off energy! Comment below with some of your family or schoolyard favorites!

Calling all photogs and shutter bugs! Send us pictures of your family or students enjoying nature, and you may win a Nature Net prize package. * Submit digital images (5MB or less) to info@naturenet.com . Include names and ages of photo subjects along with a brief caption. Submissions must be received by February 28, 2011. [*Winner will be selected by Nature Net staff. All photos become property of Nature Net and may appear on Nature Net websites, newsletters or other promotional materials.]

Welcome to the very first Nature Net blog post. Nature Net is a non-profit consortium of nature centers, parks and museums in south-central Wisconsin, devoted to integrating fun and learning with the marvels nature and the outdoors. Our members offer hands-on environmental adventures for families, children and teachers, and are dedicated to cultivating an appreciation of the natural world. Here we will share the same great resources found on naturenet.com , including news from our members, event updates , and information from our monthly Nature Net News . Plus, we will have frequent tips, fun facts about nature, and posts from special guest bloggers. We also hope this site serves as a meeting place for families, teachers, and others to share great ideas, fun activities, and special events going on in the Nature Net community. Most of all, we hope this resource is helpful to you. Please contact info[at]naturenet.com with suggestions, comments or feedback!