In our modern high-tech world it seems that there is a greater push to get out in nature. Being out in nature has many positive, physical, emotional, and spiritual effects on us. And, scheduling regular outdoor time is a great way to begin incorporating nature study into your homeschool. But, with so many other subjects to cover, why would you make time for Nature study in your schedule?
What is Nature Study?
Nature study at its core, is the study of the world around us or the study of all the visible things created by God. Nature study is a wonderful approach to introducing your children to the natural world around them from a young age and going on into adulthood.
My homeschool mentor is noted for saying, “Make your child a naturalist before you make them a scientist.” In other words, let your children thoroughly explore the natural world around them, before you put them in the textbooks of science.
One of the most eminent naturalists of his time and a devoted Christian, John Ray (1628-1705), believed that the wisdom and power of God could be understood by the studying of His creation, the natural world.
Why Add It to Your Homeschool?
Once we understand what nature study is, it leads to the question, why would we do nature study?
One of the reasons we have touched on; nature study is the foundation of science. Observation is essential in science. Scientists use observation to collect and record data, which enables them to form hypotheses and theses.
Observation is foundational in science. Observation leads to discovery. Scientists use observation to collect and record data. They use this tool to test hypotheses and theories.
Helping children develop the skill of observation through the use of their senses – sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing, children encourages a passionate curiosity and a passion for knowledge.
One of the foremost naturalists of his time and a devout Christian, John Ray (1628-1705), believed that the wisdom and power of God could be understood by studying His reaction, to the natural world.
There are many other benefits of incorporating nature study into your homeschool. Here are just a few;
- Promotes creativity and imagination
- Teaches problem-solving
- Grows an appreciation for nature and the world around them
- Builds their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being
- Grows a child’s power of concentration, delayed gratification, and resilience
- Higher levels of coordination, balance, and fine motor skill
A study of children diagnosed with ADD and/or ADHD showed fewer symptoms present after their time in nature. You can read more about this at https://www.colorado.edu/cedar/sites/default/files/attached-files/cye_benefits_of_nature_2013.pdf
How to Begin
Knowing what nature study can do for your children (and many of these same benefits can apply to you momma), you are probably ready to incorporate it into your schedule.
Nature study does not have to be complicated or a daily task. As a matter of fact, the more laid back you make nature study, the more benefits your children will gain. This sounds counterintuitive, but it is true.
Beginning your nature time with a weekly sense walk, a time of just walking around interacting with their surroundings using their senses will spark their own curiosity and imagination. To encourage closer observation, do a nature scavenger hunt. We have provided a free download here.
During or after your walk, give your children a simple notebook to record what they see, hear, feel, smell, touch, (and under supervision) taste. Provide pencils, crayons, watercolors, and other medium to make it more interesting. Remember this isn’t about being an artist, they can record what they see with words, drawings, or pictures you take on your phone or camera.
In their notebooks make a list of books that would support what interested them. Books or guides about trees, local animals, bugs, and more borrowed from the local library add to their curiosity, imagination, and storehouse of knowledge.
These walks can happen in your own yard, at a park, or grassy field. The amazing thing is how much goes on right in our own backyards that we may not know about.
It is beneficial to pick a spot to go back to often so that your children will observe the changes in the area during the different seasons.
As you gain more confidence and experience in your nature study you might consider joining a nature study group, hiking club, or beginning one yourself. This is a wonderful way to learn both from nature and each other.
Nature Study Resources
Books & Curriculum
Families who want to make nature study a regular part of their homeschool schedule will find these nature study titles helpful;
The Nature Connection: An Outdoor Workbook for kids, families, and classrooms by Clare Walker Leslie
Exploring Nature with Children by https://raisinglittleshoots.com/buy-exploring-nature-with-children/
Podcasts for Nature Study
Read-A-Loud Revival, Read Books, Go Outside: Simple Homeschool Nature Study (Includes a free download book list and activity guide.)
Nat Theo; Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible, A podcast for kids with Eryn Lynum, Mater Naturalist & Bible Teacher
Are your older students ready to move into outdoor science? Check out our blog post Outdoor Science for Older Students by clicking HERE.
