Create a DIY Pond Viewer

Cut off the top and the bottom of the milk carton to create a rectangular tube.

Tear off a sheet of plastic wrap. Help your child place it over one of the open ends and fold it down. Make sure the wrap is smooth and tight for clear viewing.

Using the tape or the rubber band, secure the plastic wrap in place. Keep the plastic wrap as tight as possible so your child has a flat viewing surface. You will place the plastic wrap end of the viewer into the pond and look in to the open end of the viewer.

Now, it's time to put the pond viewer to work! Accompany your child to a pond. Ask, “What do you think happens in the water?” Or, “What do you think you might see with your pond viewer?” If the shoreline is murky, and the water is safe to enter (no alligators or venomous snakes!), slowly wade out to your knees, where it may be less murky. Be still as possible when using the viewer to avoid stirring up mud. Ask your child to describe what they see. If there’s not a lot of activity, the two of you can try a different spot.