Frozen flowers are a fun and beautiful way to encourage nature play in the summer.

This is something I know I enjoy preparing for and playing amongst in the hot weather, hopefully it’s something that you can also enjoy with your little ones.

Preparing for freezing flowers and a day with ice play can involve a simple walk around the garden or neighbourhood the day before some anticipated hot weather, collecting flowers, herbs or leaves.

Then searching for a selection of both large and small containers from your kitchen cupboards that look like they will create some interesting iceblocks - having smaller ice cubes to play with as well as larger ones that can take some time to melt.

Preparation:

• A range of plastic containers, ice cube trays, little snack packs or large icecream containers.

• A wander round the garden or the neighbourhood finding flowers, herbs and leaves.

• Placing your ‘finds’ in to the containers, adding water and freezing overnight. 

While playing, children can use critical thinking skills, about what to put in the ice, and how long it will take to freeze or melt. Will the flowers will last longer for being frozen or will they deteriorate quickly? Are they edible? Will bugs like the ice cubes? How long can I hold it in my hand, before I have to let go because it’s too cold?

Here’s a few other Bluebird Posts about keeping kids cool and cool ideas for warm days

Add a few tubs of water, a wooden spoon or two, some herbs and some coloured water and you have a solid afternoon of imaginative play and watery fun - that even the dog may want to join in on!

Have Fun!