One of the main goals I set early on in our homeschool was to give my children a love of learning. Creative homeschooling is the mode I’ve used to successfully do that. Don’t think that you can never put your child in front of a textbook or computer screen to homeschool creatively! Instead, think of it as offering your children curriculum and styles to meet their needs. Sometimes that will be a textbook or computer class. Other times, it may be a unit study, living literature, field trips, games, project-based learning, co-op classes, or interest-based studies. These articles show you how. Be inspired!
Have you ever wondered how nature inspires some of the coolest inventions around us? In the latest episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, Mrs. Cindy introduces the concept of biomimicry. This fascinating science shows how humans mimic nature’s designs, like how sticky burrs inspired Velcro. As your family listens, your children will discover…
I love unit studies, and autumn is the perfect time for fun, nature-based science topics. In September, apple orchards are at peak harvest, and it just so happens to be the birth month of Johnny Appleseed! Use any or all of the ideas below to enjoy an educational and yummy autumn unit study about apples…
In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, explore an incredible friendship in nature. During a symbiosis nature study, discover the fascinating bond between clownfish and sea anemones. Mutualistic symbiosis is a unique relationship between species that work together to survive and thrive. This episode teaches how clownfish and sea anemones benefit from…
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…
In this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, discover the relatively dry topic of drought nature study. Meet the microscopic tardigrade, an animal with the shocking ability to survive a long drought with a very special adaptation. Drought Nature Study During or after listening to the drought podcast episode, see how many of…
An ichthyology nature study is a fishy one. You see, ichthyology is the study of all types of freshwater and marine fish. In this No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode, learn where this odd science word comes from and what the scientists do. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be inspired to become an ichthyologist someday! Ichthyology…
If you’ve been around here long, you know that I love games! They are fun and educational, and a great way to hang out with family and friends. This post lists a variety of outdoor fun and games that your kids are bound to love. Whether you’re looking for a yard game, some pool fun,…
We don’t often go underwater for nature study, but that’s where we need to go – at least in our imaginations – to discover some of the tiniest sharks in the ocean. Enjoy shark nature study in another fun No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode! Sharks Nature Study Test your listening skills! How many of…
I recently received a question from a longtime member asking if you can use No Sweat Nature Study in high school for science credit. That’s a great question, and I have good news! Take a peek at the original question. My daughters do not want to stop studying with you! We have decided that one…
Learn about everyone’s favorite domesticated fowl in this chicken nature study! Explore the reason behind a chicken’s unique practice of ingesting rocks. Chicken Nature Study After listening to the podcast episode, quiz listening and comprehension skills by asking these questions about chickens. Chickens Nature Study Video Class In the upcoming No Sweat Nature Study LIVE…
Yes, I’ve told you how much we love literature around here many times. While I teach geography through maps, quizzes, and games, the best way to connect to the maps and their culture is through really good books. Enjoy this giant list of world geography living literature with your elementary children. This post contains affiliate links….
Summer is almost here, and it’s a perfect time to explore nature. This free summer nature study printable packet can help you do that easily! As the days get longer, take the opportunity for nature walks as a family. The activities in the packet can help children make detailed observations of butterflies, summer fruits, and…