Yesterday my eldest son was on a mission - to return to a beach we had explored a few days earlier, this time clutching his fossil hunting kit put together by his geologist grandpa. In his wonderfully convincing 9 year old opinion, he had discovered an ichthyosaur vertebra and was determined to dig it out of the surrounding rock. My younger son got involved in the expedition as chief 'brusher' dusting away the chipped rock to keep the area clear for the task in hand. The banter between the two of them was wonderful - such enthusiasm and anticipation. Where was the rest of the sea monster?

I love this very entertaining TED Talk by Sir Ken Robinson, author of 'The Element: How Finding your Passion Changes Everything'. He talks quite generally about the place of creativity in the public education system; how children are being educated away from creativity. As you listen you will quickly identify the role that getting children outside into nature can play in addressing the balance. Great stuff....

How about making your own Valentine Cards and gifts this year from recycled seed paper. As well as caring for the environment you are sending a message that keeps on giving and growing! It is also loads of fun and a great family activity.

I met up with David Suzuki's Queen of Green and the resulting video below will show you how!

Couldn't have said it better myself......

Read here what David Suzuki has to say about getting children into nature.