Your elementary homeschool children will love these spring nature study play dough mats. Playing with dough is more meaningful than you might think! Sculpting with play dough sounds like a preschool activity, but older children can benefit, too. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can practice important science and artistic skills through a motivating…
Looking for a meaningful way to combine math and art in your homeschool? Positive negative symmetry art is the perfect project! This hands-on activity introduces important concepts like symmetry, spatial awareness, and the artistic principles of positive and negative space—all in one simple lesson. It’s a fantastic example of how living math can bring abstract…
Eli and I have just begun our history studies for the year, and I’m very glad to report that I might have another history lover on my hands! This ancient history art project is definitely motivating. This post contains affiliate links. Oh, how I have missed Story of the World. It’s just such a well-rounded program. The…
Research and anecdotal evidence have repeatedly proven that creativity is as vital a trait as resilience or wit. Creativity can often be considered a skill, but it’s such a broad concept that it’s difficult to explain just how to practice it. This list of art and handicraft gifts will help! Creativity can be applied to…
Rainbows are one of nature’s most breathtaking displays—a perfect topic for a rainbow nature study! Whether you’ve spotted one stretching across the sky after a rainstorm or only seen them in books, these colorful arcs spark curiosity and wonder in learners of all ages. In the latest No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode, I answer,…
Whether you currently enjoy nature study time with your children or not, being part of a nature club is a great motivator and provides hours of fun learning time! 1. What is a nature study club? Quite simply, it’s a small or large group of homeschoolers who meet to study nature topics together. (I prefer…
Charlotte Mason was a very wise teacher. I’ve been pondering her thoughts on nature study lately and have to say…she was right! My children are living proof – as are so many children of families who make nature study a priority. Just what exactly was she right? Oh, so many things. I’ve taken some time to pull together several…
Over the years, Our Journey Westward has expanded its selection of homeschool nature study curriculum. With so many options, you might wonder how to decide which is the best fit for your family. Thankfully, this resource will help you sort it out! Seven Homeschool Nature Study Curriculum Options Nature study IS science. So, all of…
Spring is on the way, and nature is coming back to life. It’s such a wonderful time of the year for exuberant nature walks. Enjoy this free spring nature study printable packet designed to help children make detailed observations of flowers, life cycles, and the sometimes wild weather. The six activities in this free packet…
Have you ever heard the phrase “crocodile tears” and wondered what it means? This week’s crocodile nature study podcast episode reveals the truth behind this curious saying! Do crocodiles actually shed tears? If so, why do they “cry” mostly when eating? This short and engaging episode is packed with fun facts and scientific explanations. Your…
There are definitely stereotypes about gifted kids. For instance, people might picture an awkward child with glasses who plays chess and cello and snorts when laughing. Parts of that may be true for some gifted kids, but they’re often not at all like people expect. Some have glasses, and some play instruments. Others are more…
I love using living books to help children “see” math. These math operations picture books specifically focus on addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to help build understanding and connect math to the real world. Books are powerful in helping children relate to abstract mathematical concepts! They can be used as pre-reading before introducing something new…