As we step into summer, I always find myself looking forward to the unique opportunities this season brings. Life tends to slow down just enough for us to notice things we often miss during the busier months. Longer days, time outside, and shared family moments create space for something deeper. We get to pause, look closely, and truly enjoy the incredible world God has made. Psalm 19:1 reminds us, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims His handiwork.” Some of my favorite memories, both growing up and now in ministry, come from simple moments outdoors where curiosity and truth come together. My encouragement to you this summer is simple. Be intentional. Help your children not just explore creation, but recognize the Creator behind it.
The beauty of summer is that meaningful learning does not require complicated plans. Even something as simple as spending time in your backyard can turn into a rich time of discovery. Slow down and observe what is right in front of you. Watch insects move, examine leaves, dig into the soil. Ask your children questions like why there are so many different kinds of bugs or why plants grow in different shapes. These small conversations help train their eyes to notice detail and design. Romans 1:20 reminds us that God’s invisible qualities are clearly seen in what has been made. Even the smallest creature points to His power and intentional craftsmanship.
Water is another natural pathway to wonder. Whether it is a sprinkler in the yard, a trip to a stream, or even a bucket on a warm day, kids are drawn to it. Take advantage of that curiosity. Watch what floats and what sinks. Observe how water moves through sand or around rocks. Talk about how God designed systems like the water cycle to sustain life. Psalm 104:24 says, “O Lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all.” These are more than just fun moments. They are opportunities to show that God’s creation is thoughtful, purposeful, and carefully sustained.
As the day winds down, summer nights open up another door for meaningful conversations. Lying under the stars together has a way of shifting perspective. Ask your children how many stars they think are in the sky or why we can see them from so far away. Then point them to Psalm 147:4, which tells us that God determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. The same God who created that vast universe knows them personally. That truth alone is powerful.
One of the best summer outings for families is a trip to the zoo, and with just a little intentionality, it can become something far more meaningful than entertainment. Before you go, build excitement by talking about the animals you might see. Ask your children what they already know or what they are curious about. Frame the visit as an exploration. Proverbs 25:2 reminds us that searching things out is a good and God honoring pursuit.
When you are at the zoo, resist the urge to rush. Instead of trying to see everything, choose a few animals and really observe them. Watch how they move, how they interact, and how they are uniquely designed. Ask questions together. What makes this animal different? How is it equipped for where it lives? Point out details like the grip of a primate’s hands or the design of a bird’s beak. These features are not random. They reveal purpose and creativity. Job 12:7–9 encourages us to learn from the animals, reminding us that in God’s hand is the life of every living thing.
As you walk through exhibits, gently connect what your children are seeing to deeper truth. Remind them that God is incredibly creative, that He cares for every creature as Matthew 6:26 tells us, and that human beings are uniquely made in His image according to Genesis 1:27. These conversations do not have to be complicated. In fact, the simplest ones are often the most meaningful.
After your visit, keep the experience going. Talk about what stood out. Have your children draw their favorite animal or share something that amazed them. Ask them how they saw God’s creativity on display. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 encourages us to weave truth into everyday life, and these small moments of reflection help those lessons take root.
If you are looking for ways to continue these kinds of conversations throughout the summer, I would love to support your family in that journey. Our Creation Creature Feature book series was created to help children explore the fascinating design of animals while clearly connecting those features to Biblical truth in a way that is engaging and memorable. We have also developed a Zoo Guide available on Amazon that you can take with you on your next visit. It is designed to help you slow down, ask meaningful questions, and turn a day at the zoo into a Christ centered learning experience.
Summer does not need to be packed with activities to be meaningful. Often, it is the simplest moments that have the greatest impact. My prayer for your family is that this season would be filled with curiosity, meaningful conversations, and a growing sense of wonder at the world God has made. As you explore together, may you be continually reminded that “from Him and through Him and to Him are all things” (Romans 11:36).
Whether it is flipping over logs to find worms and toads, or now helping to relocate rescued alligators or even snorkeling with sharks, exploring God’s incredible creation is where I often find myself. My name is Joseph ‘Wildlife’ Wasil, and I have been a Christian high school biology teacher for nearly two decades, along with spending close to ten years working at an accredited zoo. I also lead a national creation ministry and have had the privilege of teaching many homeschool science groups. One of my greatest passions is to share the truth of our Lord as both Creator and Savior.
We are excited about the opportunities and adventures that lie ahead. Thank you so much for your continued support and prayers. I invite you to explore our full catalog of engaging wildlife adventures from a Biblical worldview on Amazon by searching Wasil Science, and join the high energy journey on our Wasil Science YouTube Channel.
Amazon Catalog: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mr.-Joseph-Paul-Staples-Wasil-M.-Ed/author/B0DZWKF7YJ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=e20de034-b19b-41d4-a783-cf21d30df3ed
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wasilscience5541
Thanks again for the opportunity to share!
Joseph Wasil
Wasil Science, LLC