We recently decided to join a nature group and have had many wonderful experiences. Most recently we joined in on a foraging class because our kids have shown so much interest in understanding nature and where our food comes from.

Since having 3 kids 8 and under going on a hike I had to be prepared for our adventure. I got everything together the evening before which made for a smoother morning.

• Water
• Snacks
• Toddler carrier (no strollers on this hike!)
• First aid essentials (bandaids, Neosporin)
• Bug spray
• Backpacks

I recently purchased these water bottle holders after this experience taught me backpacks in the middle of Texas spring are too much on little backs.

I discussed with them ahead of time that we’d going on an adventure to learn about foods we could eat in nature just like we can do in our little garden! They were thrilled and although my son was probably the least excited, he still gained a lot from the experience and does want to do it again.

Once we arrived we had the chance to choose a plant and ask if it was something we could eat or could make us sick. It was amazing to see how much was right around us in one section of the woods. Our group found blackberry vines, field pennycress, mulberry leaves and elderberry plants.

After that we took a hike through the woods and found all sorts of different edible plants, leaves and fungi. It was hot and buggy but thankfully the bug spray was effective.

It was a fun and meaningful way to bond as a group—tasting, exploring, and learning about a wide variety of plants together. The experience deepened our connection to the natural world, right in our own backyard. We’re fortunate to live in one of the most diverse regions for plant life, which became clear by how much we discovered in less than two hours.

My 3-year-old even loved tasting and touching all of the plants. This was such a fun and educational experience. It has given us all a greater understanding of the natural world around us that we all were excited to learn more. We purchased our guide’s book which also includes recipes we want to try. 

As we walked back it was clear that the day had offered more than just a lesson in plants. Foraging taught us patience, observation, and respect for the natural world—and reminded us that learning doesn’t always come from a book. These shared moments in nature, surrounded by friends and the quiet wisdom of the forest, are the kind of education that roots deep and lasts a lifetime. We’ll be back out there again soon, following the seasons, the trails, and our curiosity.