Charlotte Mason homeschooling encompasses everything that is wonderful about homeschooling. Gentle lessons in a literature-rich environment, short lessons that focus on real-life with plenty of opportunity to explore the world indoors and out. And, these are just a few of the reasons I love this style of homeschooling! In these articles, my goal is to share the wonder, joy and creativity of the Charlotte Mason style, while giving you plenty of ideas and practical advice for implementing it in your own home. Enjoy!
An Ansel Adams nature study introduces children to the art of observing nature through the lens of a camera. In this podcast episode, young learners meet the photographer who became known for capturing the beauty of wild places in black and white, helping others notice details they may have never seen before. Instead of studying…
Imagine an activity where your child explores creativity, practices art, and enjoys nature—without fear of mistakes. That’s the magic of how nature journaling builds artistic skills in a fun, pressure-free way! This simple practice blends observation, creativity, and self-expression in a relaxed and fun way. Whether your child loves art or feels unsure, nature journaling…
Why would anyone use picture books to teach expository writing? Because picture books are written by master authors who can teach us clearly through their examples. Not to mention, it doesn’t take long to read through most picture books, so you can share examples and get right to the work of writing. What is expository…
It’s time for another peek into the real-life study of nature! In this post, you’ll see how easily Amber Oliver and her children could explore and discover wildflowers through an interest-based nature study. I believe in occasionally letting our children have a say in their schooling. It’s highly motivating for them to make decisions and…
Get ready for a hummingbird nature study that’s as vibrant as the bird itself! In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, children will learn why hummingbirds appear so dazzling in the sunlight. Using age-appropriate language, Mrs. Cindy introduces the fascinating science of structural coloration, a concept found in feathers, light, and reflection….
A tides nature study is a fantastic way to explore ocean science with your kids, especially when it includes fascinating tide pool animals! In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, children learn what happens when the tide goes out and discover how creatures like sea stars, crabs, and anemones survive in ever-changing…
Get ready for a wild underwater adventure with this octopus nature study! In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, kids will learn why octopuses have blue blood, how their bodies collect oxygen, and what makes them so perfectly suited for life in the ocean. From hemocyanin to camouflage, this short science lesson…
A sunflower nature study is the perfect way to mix summer fun with meaningful science learning. In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, kids find out what’s really hiding inside a sunflower seed. They’ll learn about seed parts, the process of germination, and how one tiny seed grows into a towering sunflower,…
Ready for a fun vegetable nature study? In this No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode, kids will investigate a big garden mystery: Which vegetable grows the fastest? With a bit of science and a lot of curiosity, Mrs. Cindy will help young learners make predictions and learn why some veggies seem to shoot up overnight….
A mother’s job is never done, especially when she homeschools her children. But, these homeschool mom summer tasks should help you feel less frazzled in the day-to-day. You can enter a new school year organized and refreshed! Summer is a wonderful time in every childhood. There are weeks on end of late nights, fireflies, the…
There is not one teaching resource I treasure more than children’s literature. The good ones have such a masterful knack for presenting factual information amidst incredible storylines. The illustrations, of course, help children put pictures to names, places, and ideas. This list of picture books for nature study is perfect for exploring science topics. When…
These living chapter books for nature study capture the attention of readers with wonderful tales that beautifully weave a storyline and nature together! From harrowing adventures to hidden gardens, many of these timeless stories have been well-loved for years. They also happen to subtly encourage a love for nature and make perfect read-alone or read-aloud…