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children learning about science and drawing in his nature journal

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Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings

(9 customer reviews)

No Sweat Nature Study LIVE Membership

From: $65.00 every 3 months

Nature study lays a real-life foundation for all branches of science—while building critical thinking through observation, investigation, and exploration. With Mrs. Cindy’s expert guidance, nature study becomes easy and enjoyable for your homeschool. Just press play and learn together!

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Nature-Based Science Lessons Kids Love—Taught by a Real Teacher!

Join Mrs. Cindy West for live, interactive Zoom classes that bring science to life through creative nature journaling. No Sweat Nature Study LIVE is perfect for homeschool families with children in 1st–8th grades—especially those who love hands-on, multi-age learning.

Twice-monthly live classes
Full access to the entire class video library
Printable scientific vocabulary activity sheets, booklists, hands-on activity ideas, nature walk prompts, and more

🎥 Watch a Free Sample Class

What’s Included with Your LIVE Membership

Live Zoom Classes (optional) – Join Mrs. Cindy on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month for interactive science lessons.
Nature Journaling – Each class includes a creative journaling activity to reinforce learning.
Video Library Access – Stream 175+ previously recorded classes anytime.
Enrichment Resources – Optional vocabulary printables, hands-on activities, research ideas, and nature walk prompts.
Multi-Age Friendly – Designed for 1st–8th graders to learn together, with extension ideas for high schoolers.
Flexible Subscription – Choose quarterly or yearly access to match your homeschool rhythm.

Should I Choose the LIVE or On-Demand Option?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Features	LIVE Membership	On-Demand Access
Live Zoom classes	✅ Yes – twice monthly	❌ Not included
Video library access	✅ Yes – full access	✅ Yes – full access
Enrichment printables	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Subscription type	Quarterly or Yearly	One-time 10-month access
Ideal for	Families who love live interaction	Families needing flexibility or using ESA/charter
Charter/ESA compatibility	Sometimes – with prior approval	✅ Yes – often approved

🔵 Learn More About On-Demand Access

Want to Try Before You Join?

You’ll experience a complete class with its nature journaling activity and explore the included enrichment resources.

🎥 Click Here To Enjoy a Full Sample Lesson

Curious About the Topics We Cover?

From botany and animal science to geology, weather, and astronomy, No Sweat Nature Study makes it easy to weave engaging science into your homeschool.

Click Here To See the List of Class Topics

Using Charter or ESA Funds?

The LIVE subscription may require pre-approval due to the interactive component. You may prefer to check out the charter-approved on-demand options instead.

Learn More About Charter & ESA Options

Are You Teaching a Group of Students?

This product is intended for individual family use only. If you plan to use it in a co-op, classroom, or group setting, please contact us for a Group License, specially priced and designed to support multiple students learning together.

Check Out This Season’s Science Topics!

Testimonials

“We love your classes! They are absolutely one of our favorite homeschooling activities!” Cameron

“We have enjoyed Cindy’s classes for a while now and always learn something new. My two boys are loving the nature studies! They are excited to get outside to discover things after every class, too!” Jen

“Thank you so much for your nature studies! Thank you for teaching my kids- they LOVE it. And THANK YOU for teaching me how to TEACH!!! I can’t thank you enough.” Kristin

Meet Your Teacher

Cindy West is a 20+ year veteran of homeschooling with a master’s degree in education. A popular homeschool speaker and author of more than 30 nature study curriculum guides, she’s a very engaging teacher who loves to make learning fun, yet meaningful.

Do you have other questions?

Scroll back up just a tad and click on the Frequently Asked Questions box. You should find answers to just about all your questions there. If not, let me know and I’ll be happy to answer!

Length	Monthly, Quarterly, Yearly

Frequently Asked Questions

No Sweat Nature Study is a creative, nature-based science program for 1st–8th graders and beyond. Through engaging, easy-to-follow lessons, students learn meaningful science concepts in a hands-on, memorable way.

The membership includes twice-monthly classes with Cindy, plus full access to the complete video library of recorded lessons.

If you prefer a non-subscription option, an on-demand version is also available with access to the recorded lesson library.

In every class, students create a nature journal page to build scientific understanding while strengthening observation skills, vocabulary, critical thinking, and a love for learning. All lessons and optional resources are designed to be neutral, with no religious or controversial science content included.

Your membership includes twice-monthly classes with Cindy, along with access to a growing library of more than 200 recorded science classes taught through nature study and nature journaling.

Each lesson is complete on its own and easy to follow.

Optional resources are included with every lesson, such as a companion podcast episode, a curated booklist, a hands-on activity idea, a kid-friendly research prompt, a nature walk suggestion, and a printable scientific vocabulary activity.

How long do the classes last?
Each class lasts about 40–60 minutes.

When do the classes meet?
LIVE lessons take place on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 2:00 PM ET. (See your local time here.)

Where do the classes take place?
Classes are hosted via Zoom. You’ll preregister (it’s quick and simple), then receive a private access link by email before each session.

What if we can’t attend a class?
No worries! All classes are recorded and added to the video library, so you can watch them anytime during your membership.

What supplies will we need?
Most often, students just need a nature journal (or plain white paper) and colored pencils. Occasionally, simple items like watercolors, a tape measure, or a magnifying glass are suggested, but never required. Supply lists are included in each class registration and reminder email.

Where should we sit to view the class?
A sturdy surface is best for nature journaling, so gathering around a table tends to work well.

Do I need to teach anything before or after the class?
No. Each class is fully taught and self-contained. Optional resources are available if you’d like to extend the learning.

Can multiple children in my family attend the same class?
Yes. One membership covers your whole family.

Is this appropriate for a wide age range?
Yes! Classes are designed for 1st–8th graders, with built-in flexibility to challenge older students and support younger ones.

Can other students see or hear my child during the live class?
No. Students are not visible or audible. Interaction is optional and limited to a monitored chat when appropriate.

Will you teach classes during the summer?
Yes! Classes continue through the summer to support year-round homeschoolers and schools. If you take a summer break, you can catch up at your own pace using the recordings.

What topics are already in the video library?
Click here to view the full list of previously taught classes. New lessons are regularly added about plants, animals, earth science, space science, and physical science.

Who gets access?
One membership covers your immediate family, so all of your children can watch the lessons during your active term.

Can I watch lessons on my own schedule?
Yes. You can pause, rewind, and rewatch any lesson at your convenience.

How long do we have access?
You’ll have full access to the video library for the length of your membership.

What happens when my term ends?
Access to the video library and materials ends when your membership expires.

The video lessons with Cindy are the heart of No Sweat Nature Study. Every lesson is complete and easy to follow, so you can simply press play and learn.

Your membership includes access to a growing library of recorded classes, and new lessons are added regularly.

Twice-monthly classes are available if you’d like to join, but they’re never required.

All additional resources, like podcasts, booklists, vocabulary pages, hands-on activities, research ideas, and nature walk prompts, are completely optional. Use them as they fit your family’s learning style and schedule.

No Sweat Nature Study is designed to be flexible, so it can fit easily into your homeschool in a variety of ways.

Here are some of the most common ways families use it:

As interest-led learning that allows students to dive deeper into topics they love
As a complete science curriculum for a season, using the video lessons as the foundation
As a supplement to an existing science program
As a thematic resource that supports current studies or seasonal topics

There’s no required schedule. Some families use one or more lessons each week, some follow along with the twice-monthly classes, and others rotate lessons throughout the year.

Please click here to see scheduling ideas.

Because each lesson is stand-alone, you can easily pick and choose what fits your family’s needs.

Many families use No Sweat Nature Study as their full science curriculum, especially in the elementary and middle school years, while others choose to supplement as their children grow.

Each lesson includes a downloadable learning record with lesson descriptions, objectives, and standards alignment (including NGSS), making it easy to document learning for portfolios, reporting, or requirements.

The lessons are designed to be relevant no matter where you live.

How long do we have access?
Memberships are available as quarterly or yearly subscriptions. You’ll have full access for as long as your membership is active.

Is this a subscription?
Yes. Membership renews automatically at the end of each billing cycle, and you can cancel anytime.

What if I want a non-renewing option?
A one-time, non-renewing access option is available for families who prefer a set term instead of a subscription.

Can I download the lessons?
No. Lessons are streamed online and available anytime during your access period.

Who can use the membership?
One membership covers your immediate family, so all of your children can participate.

Can I share access with others?
Memberships are for one household. If you’re purchasing for a group, classroom, or co-op, separate licensing options are available.

What about charter or ESA funds?
Some programs require the non-renewing option. Be sure to check your program’s guidelines for purchasing or reimbursement.

What is the refund policy for the LIVE Membership?
Due to instant access to digital materials, we do not offer refunds. If you’re unsure, the quarterly option is a great way to try things out. A free sample lesson is also available to help you decide.

Each No Sweat Nature Study lesson includes optional resources designed to help you go deeper, make connections, and add variety to your learning. These include:

Podcast Episode – A kid-friendly audio introduction that builds background knowledge and sparks curiosity
Curated Booklist – Thoughtfully chosen books for read-alouds, independent reading, or research
Scientific Vocabulary Activity – A printable to help reinforce key science terms
Nature Walk Suggestion – A simple idea for taking the topic outdoors
Hands-On Activity – A meaningful, science-focused activity to help students apply what they’ve learned
Kid-Friendly Research Prompt – An open-ended idea for digging deeper into the topic
High School Extension – Optional deeper thinking for older or advanced students

Do I have to use all the extras?
Not at all. The video lesson is the only essential piece. Everything else is optional and meant to support your family if and when you want it.

Where do I find the resources?
All extras are included with each lesson and are easy to access from the video library.

How long do I have access?
You’ll have access to the resources for as long as your membership or access period is active.

No Sweat Nature Study includes a wide variety of science topics designed for 1st–8th graders. Lessons explore life, earth, space, and physical science through the lens of nature study and journaling.

Topics include plants, animals, ecosystems, weather, geology, and much more, giving students a well-rounded understanding of science in a meaningful, engaging way.

In addition to science, many lessons naturally connect to subjects such as language arts, math, and geography through vocabulary, observation, and real-world applications.

All lessons and materials are designed to be neutral, with no religious or controversial science content, making them easy to use across a wide variety of homeschool styles and settings.

See a list of class topics currently in the video library here.

Do lessons meet academic standards?
Yes. Every lesson includes a downloadable Learning Record with clear objectives, lesson descriptions, and alignment to standards like NGSS and ELA, making it simple to document learning for portfolios, charter schools, or other requirements.

See a sample learning record here.

No Sweat Nature Study is designed to work beautifully for a wide range of ages, especially in families learning together.

Each lesson is taught in a way that makes scientific ideas clear and engaging, while still allowing every child to participate at their own level.

Younger students might draw, label, or narrate what they learn
Older students can dive deeper with vocabulary, critical thinking, and written responses

Because of this flexibility, it’s common for multiple children to learn from the same lesson at the same time, without extra planning on your part.

The core content is a great fit for elementary and middle school students, with built-in support to simplify or extend the learning as needed.

For older students, each lesson also includes a high school extension project to encourage deeper thinking, research, and communication skills.

In short, your whole family can learn together, and each child still gets exactly what they need.

Yes! We offer a full sample lesson so you can experience what No Sweat Nature Study is like before committing. It includes a video class with nature journaling and accompanying learning resources. Click here to access the free sample lesson.

Charter and ESA Purchasing
The On-Demand option is required for funding purchases.
👉 Visit the Charter Hub for instructions →

Co-ops and Classrooms
Group licenses are available for teachers.
👉 Learn about group licensing →

Please note: Access to No Sweat Nature Study is intended for single-family use only, unless a group license has been arranged.

9 reviews for No Sweat Nature Study LIVE Membership

Rated 5 out of 5

Michelle Straub –

We just attended our first No Sweat Nature Study on Cattails. My daughter LOVED it! I really like this format because soon we will have so much cold/snow that it will be harder to get all three kids outside for nature study. It was easy to have the few supplies of paper and color pencils on hand and be ready to learn about new things!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jessica –

My son has learned so much from the No Sweat Nature Study Class about science, observation, drawing and nature journals. He has a fresh excitement about each new topic he studies.
Rated 5 out of 5

Amber –

We love Cindy’s live lessons! She is such a great teacher and I learn so much alongside my children! She does a great job keeping ideas flowing for all the age groups in my brood – preschool up to middle school! Best investment I made this year!
Rated 5 out of 5

tamsenfindlay –

We absolutely love Miss Cindy and her enthusiasm for all things Nature! She is an amazing teacher and does a fantastic job keeping the children engaged! We had done quite a few other lessons with Cindy before she got No Sweat Nature Study Live going and loved all of them and we are even more excited about this program! The lessons are informative and fun and my kids (Boy age 8 & girl age 12) absolutely adore these classes! She shows them real specimens when possible and incorporates so much different information for all different age groups! Highly recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5

Angela Bergeron –

I signed up for the monthly subscription to try it out, but I just upgraded to the yearly subscription because we all love it. It is fabulous and so easy! My kids, ages 5, 11 and 12, and I sit down at the table to do it together. I struggle with getting in nature study and nature journaling, but this makes it easy. I like how natural and engaging she is talking and interacting with us. My kids like that she gives you options on what to use for materials and she doesn’t tell you what you have to draw or what it needs to look like. We just attended our first live class this week on birds in winter and it was even more fun. My kids enjoyed answering questions in the chat and answering polls. We’ve only done 3 so far, but it’s secured a spot in our school rotation. The only thing I would change is having it more. I’d love once a week!
Rated 5 out of 5

April Richardson –

We have been so happy with Mrs. Cindy’s monthly subscription. My kids look forward to covering a new topic and drawing in their nature journals each month and frankly I do too. What a treat!
Rated 5 out of 5

Ashley Hoffman –

We’ve been enjoying NSNS Live for over two years now and it’s one of our favorite parts of homeschooling! My children enjoy the live chat feature, having Mrs. Cindy as their teacher and completing the nature study pages. I enjoy the convenience of it for me as the mom – there isn’t planning involved on my end unless I want to add a supplemental activity. I appreciate the engaging format, consistency & dependability of the lessons and the diversity of topics presented. 10 stars! 🙂
Rated 5 out of 5

Jennifer Adams –

We are enjoying the nature study classes so much! This has helped me put into practice exactly what I have been trying to create for the past 5 years with my daughter (10 years old), but I just didn’t have the time to focus on it. “The Handbook of Nature Study” has been sitting on my shelf collecting dust. I am breathing easier, and my daughter actually likes science now. This she will remember… 🙂
Rated 5 out of 5

Gena Mayo –

We used Ms. Cindy’s live No Sweat Nature Study classes for years! My daughter learned so much from them, and still mentions things when the subject (such as the Fibonacci sequence in nature) comes up. 🙂

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