As the crisp air blows, orchards are growing ripe with apples. Living near apple orchards allows my family to create fall memories filled with hot apple cider, hayrides, and annual apple picking. It is something we enjoy throughout the fall season. Since we are so close to the apple orchard it provides opportunities for field trips for our homeschool and for the homeschool co-ops in the area. Orchards are a wonderful place to explore and learn.
Ways to Learn at the Orchard
Study the different types of apples.
Sit under an apple tree and draw the scenery.
Learn about cider making. Many orchards will offer a demonstration.
Learn about caring for the apples trees.
Ways to Extend the Lesson at Home
Study “A” for apple.
Use the apples you picked as counters.
Bake an apple pie together and allow the kids to do the measuring. While it is baking have the kids draw a picture of their favorite part of their trip to the apple orchard.
Cut an apple open to see the seeds. Most apples will have five seeds. Use the seeds as counters or to count by fives.
Cutting the apple in half will reveal a star shape where the seeds are which will give you a shape to study.
Cut apples in half, press in paint, and make an apple painting.
If you live in an area near an apple orchard, I encourage you to take the time to visit this fall. Some orchards are large and may have farm animals while others simply offer apple picking. Regardless of the size, apple picking is a fun activity for the whole family. Go prepared with nature journals, crayons, and backpacks for some fun nature lessons. Just don’t bring too much or you won’t be able to carry all the apples you will pick.