Wait. If nature study is science, does that mean we could do nature study instead of science textbooks? Does that mean I could (and maybe should) view nature study as more than just an extra in our homeschool schedule? Are you sure our time spent outdoors in nature can really count towards real science instruction? Yes! Yes! Yes! The very essence of nature study is science. Of course, there are all sorts of additional skills that happen alongside nature study – geography, art, writing, reading, research, and even math – but the very purpose is centered fully on science. Real science: botany animal science earth science astronomy physical ... Read More
A Simple Machines Unit Study
I love to teach simple machines through hands-on, experimental lessons. While it took just a bit of time to gather materials, the engagement factor made this quick and simple unit study a hit with my children. Simple Machines Unit Study Before even reading the first book about simple machines, I set up some little centers for self-discovery. The kiddos had to visit each center over the course of a few days and complete a few thought-provoking questions about what they learned. After visiting each center, we talked about the particular machine types more thoroughly and thought about when, where and how we use these simple/complex machines daily. Center #1 - Levers In this ... Read More
Charlotte Mason Was Right About Nature Study
(This post contains affiliate links and links to my business website.) Charlotte Mason was a very wise teacher. I've been pondering her thoughts about 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 about? Oh, so many things. I've taken some time to pull together several of her thoughts about nature study that have rung true in our home. 16 ways Charlotte Mason was right about nature study | Eli wanted to know everything about this exoskeleton | 1. Nature study is important. "Nature knowledge is most important for young children. It ... Read More
Nature Study: Fossil Walk and Follow Up Fun
(This post contains links to my products.) Boy, I hope your neck of the woods contains as many fossils as mine. In Central KY, we can find fossils hidden just about everywhere - and that makes our rock walks so much fun! We get to be scientists (petrologists, paleontologists, archaeologists or rockhounds - you decide) and detectives, which are pretty motivating titles for my children! Since we've been studying rocks for many years now, we're getting better at identifying rock types without the help of a field guide. Fossils, however, are not as easy for us to identify. That means a fossil hunt is followed by a research-based identification session on the internet when we get home. ... Read More
Ultimate Guide to Nature Study
As an eclectic Charlotte Mason homeschooler, nature study is near and dear to my heart - and the hearts of my children. We have learned SO much about our Creator and the sciences through our weekly nature walks, all while touching on bits and pieces of almost every other subject under the sun, too. You don't have to be a Charlotte Mason homeschooler to enjoy the benefits of nature study, though. Heck, you don't even have to be a homeschooler! In an effort to help you get started (or keep going) with nature study, I've pulled together a post of THE most wonderful resources I've found over the course of the last few years. I hope this Ultimate Guide to Nature Study proves to be your ... Read More