Nature Study

Nature study has been one of the most rewarding subjects in our homeschool through the years. It reaches deeply into every single realm of science. It gets us outdoors for fresh air, sunshine and exercise. It creatively includes other subjects like language arts, math, geography, and even history. But most importantly, God has revealed so much about Himself to us through the study of nature.

Nature study works easily with all homeschooling styles. It makes a huge difference with children who need to be active. It can meet all kinds of learning styles, and offers those with learning disabilities a fresh perspective on learning to give them success. Best of all, nature study works really, really well when teaching multiple ages. I know you’ll enjoy some amazing learning using the lessons you’ll find below. Have fun!

Erosion In Progress

We’ve been on the hunt for signs of erosion this month during our nature walks – and what a treasure we found!  KY is known to have several cave systems because of the large amount of limestone rock that makes up the foundation.  We also live near a large creek, have found many springs on…

Animal Signs in the Snow

We’re having so much fun studying snow, ice and frost this season!  On a recent nature walk, we were looking specifically for animal tracks.  We weren’t disappointed!  Each of the pictures below shows prints or trails made by different animals.  Unfortunately, I’m not an expert tracker yet, so I can’t identify all of them.  I’ve…

Pond Comparisons

Last week’s nature study compared a new pond structure to the older ponds we have been studying. The kiddos observed the differences in plant life, animal life, general activity and sounds. We also compared how the new pond was man-made, while the others we have observed were natural depressions in the land.  You can see…

Traveling Seeds

Have you ever noticed that God made seeds with adaptations that give them the best opportunity to make it to fertile land and grow into new plants?  Hooks, wings, feather, rolling shells, floating bodies and yummy fruit whose seed will be pooped out are several examples.  We took time last week during our nature walk…

Fungi of Summer/Late Summer

Many people think fungi are only around during the wet and warm spring months.  How are these for August and September fungi finds?? I took these pictures near the edge of a creek on rotting logs and on a walk in the woods.  They were everywhere!  Finding fungi is one of my new nature study…

Cumberland Falls

We took a mini-trip to Cumberland Falls in Southern KY not too long ago.  It was such a beautiful afternoon!  The waterfall is majestic, the rock samples are outstanding, the hikes are not too difficult, and the scenery is gorgeous! You’re able to walk right up to the water a short distance before the waterfall….

Wildflower Studies

This month’s nature study is focusing on wildflowers.  Our farm is just abundant with wildflowers this time of year!  During last week’s study, we placed a blanket among a field full of wildflowers to read books and praise the Lord for His magnificent beauty.   Afterward, I sent the kids off on a scavenger hunt. …