Connecting with nature is at the heart of what we do, but caring for ourselves and our communities comes first. On days when the air quality isn’t safe, there are still many meaningful ways to foster curiosity and stay connected to the natural world from indoors. There will be many more opportunities to get outside when conditions improve.
Staying Informed
Knowing what the air quality is like where you live can help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities. Here are a few reliable tools:
- Purple Air – An interactive map that uses community air quality monitors to provide highly localized, real-time air quality information.
- IQAir – A mobile app that displays local air quality readings, forecasts, and health recommendations based on conditions in your area.
- Windy.com – An interactive weather website that shows real-time forecasts, wind patterns, smoke movement, temperature, precipitation, and other weather conditions.
Caring for Your Mental Well-being
Wildfires can bring feelings of worry, sadness, grief, or anxiety. These feelings are a normal response to the challenges of climate change, and there are excellent resources available to support both adults and young people.
- Unthinkable is a collection of resources curated by Dr. Britt Wray, a climate and mental health researcher. It includes guided exercises, therapist directories, podcasts, poetry, art, videos, articles, and a self-guided quiz to help you find the kind of support that feels right for you.
- The All We Can Save project is a community and resource hub for climate thinkers, feelers, and doers. It offers stories, activities, workshops, and opportunities to build hope, resilience, and meaningful action alongside others who care deeply about our planet.
Connecting with Nature Indoors
When smoky skies keep you inside, there are still plenty of ways to nurture a love of nature and continue exploring together as a family.
- Visit your local library- Borrow a field guide or a book about your favourite species, or discover one you’ve never heard of before! Learning about the plants and animals around us can inspire future outdoor adventures. Check out our previous blog post on things you can find in your local library!
- Watch wildlife live– Explore.org offers free live cameras from around the world, where you can observe everything from brown bears catching salmon to nesting birds and underwater marine life.
- Explore nature through science- The Canadian Museum of Nature has engaging online articles, activities, and resources to help children learn about wildlife, fossils, insects, ecosystems, and more.
- Check out NatureKids BC’s Kids’ Corner- You’ll find colouring pages, crafts, puzzles, stories, and other nature-themed activities to keep curious minds engaged while spending time indoors.
We’re Thinking of You
To all of our NatureKids families, volunteers, and communities who may be experiencing wildfire impacts this season, we’re thinking of you. We hope these resources help you stay informed, care for your well-being, and continue finding moments of connection with nature.