Lichen Detective Nature Study, By Acorns & Aprons
The Lichen Detective Nature Study is a 100+ page, curiosity-led resource designed to help children and families slow down, head outdoors, and discover the quiet world of lichens growing all around them. Through guided observation, gentle explanations, and hands-on activities, like dying wool using wolf lichen, children learn what lichens are, how they grow, and where to find them in forests, backyards, rocky paths, and along trails. This study encourages learning through real-world exploration; looking closely at bark and stone, noticing color and texture, and returning to the same places over time to observe change.
Blending science, art, and outdoor learning, this resource introduces children to the three main lichen growth forms while supporting careful observation. With identification tools, journaling pages, and creative prompts, children build familiarity with lichens in a natural, approachable way.
Designed for homeschool, forest school, and family nature walks, this study supports meaningful, hands-on science learning rooted in curiosity, patience, and wonder.
Lichen Detective Nature Study
What’s Inside;
- 100+ printable pages for outdoor, hands-on nature study
- “What is lichen?” introduction pages with child-friendly explanations
- Guided “look closer” observation prompts and field study activities
- Nature journaling pages for drawing, labeling, and recording discoveries
- Lichen worksheets
- learn about Wolf lichen and how to use it to safely dye wool
- learn which animals use Lichen in the wild
- Printable lichen ID cards to support identification in the field
- Lessons on the three main lichen growth forms:
- Crustose (crust-like)
- Foliose (leaf-like)
- Fruticose (shrubby or bushy)
- Learning about substrates (what lichens grow on, and why it matters)
- Exploration prompts for trees, rocks, soil, and built surfaces
- Lichen-inspired crafts and creative learning activities
- Designed for homeschool, forest school, backyard learning, and year-round use
- and more!
