3 Easy Ways to Implement Nature Study in Your Homeschool Curriculum
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The beauty of Spring is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to set up class under a willow tree, by a creek, or at your favorite park. The benefits of spending time in nature are incredible! Studies have shown time in nature helps improve mood, lower stress hormones, and reduce nervous system overload.
Many homeschooling parents crave hands-on activities when it comes to science curriculum - they want to see their kids out of doors, getting muddy, and learning new things all at the same time.
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming to create hands-on science opportunities as there are easy ways to implement nature study in your child’s schedule! I’m happy to share a few ideas with you, including what we offer here at The Gentle + Classical Press!
Idea 1: Make a Nature Journal
If you have been on Pinterest or Instagram longer than five minutes, you’ve seen how wildly popular nature journals are. The interactive journals provide an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature, while also learning more about the world around us. Including nature study in your homeschool curriculum has incredible benefits for your child’s learning experience.
Nature journals are used to document anything you and your child want to focus on. Here are just a few ideas:
Weather patterns for one week
The changing of the leaves in Autumn
Life cycle of honeybees
The night sky
Your child may make their own nature journal with everyday supplies such as:
3-hole-punched paper
Crayons
Markers
Watercolors
Colored Pencils
The Gentle + Classical Press also has a nature journal freebie that we think you’ll love! This 80-page Nature Collection Journal was created to help us organize and consistently pursue the attainments of being intimately acquainted with God’s creation.
Nature journals are just one way you can provide a hands-on learning experience for your child while enjoying some fresh air.
Idea 2: Use Nature Memory Statement Flashcards
Learning facts about nature is even more fun when it’s turned into a game!
Memory Statement Cards are a simple tool used to facilitate a visual trigger for both parents/teachers and students as they familiarize themselves with terms and statements through recitations that aid in giving proper terminology to everyday experiences and observations.
nature volume 1 features a unit on honeybees. you have 3 different levels of statements so that all children, preschool to 6th grade, can participate at their level.
What’s even better is that your child can learn facts while also learning a new language. Choose from French or Spanish if you utilize our Nature program.
We have created beautifully illustrated cards to make learning fun and effective. Both of our options have been created to make Charlotte Mason's "Formidable List of Attainments for a Child of 6" all the more attainable without overwhelm.
Choose your path below to learn more:
Gentle + Classical Nature Volume 1: Inland Waterways and Forests
Gentle + Classical Nature Volume 2: Shorelines and Oceans
Idea 3: Try the Full Nature Study Curriculum
If you’re super excited about the G+C nature study options so far, you’re going to love the full curriculum which includes all mentioned flash cards and nature journal!
Here’s what happy customers are saying!
We have used several of Erin's products and this does not disappoint! The workbooks and collection guides are fabulous - full of so much information. My 3 year old took her collection notebook to bed with her for 2 days, she was so excited to look at it! We have done most of Unit 1 and have so enjoyed all the different ways we are incorporating nature into our day-to-day routine. Yet another home run from the Gentle & Classical Press! -Laura F.
Erin brings back the importance of nature while most of us are lost in the hustle and bustle of the big city. We may experienced nature during our childhood and as time went by, we have totally forgotten about its root and how it will cultivate the life foundation and shape our children into a peaceful and loving person who are responsible for their actions. I can't thank Erin enough for such a robust Nature curriculum! - Shirlene L.
If you’re not sure about committing just yet, I’ve made it easier to decide. Here are the first two units of Shorelines and Oceans for FREE! Simply click the link below to get started!
Try Volume 1: Inland Waterways and Forests for FREE
Try Volume 2: Shorelines and Oceans for FREE
OR You can find both the complete Teacher’s Guides on this page in our shop.
Before You Go
Nature has so much to show us about our Creator - we only need to slow down to notice. I hope you and your kids have a meaningful time exploring, learning, and giving thanks together.
I’m praying you enjoyed this post and found it helpful. I am always excited to bring you resources that bring you and your kiddos joy! If you’re new here, welcome! I’d love for you to get more freebies while you’re here at G+C. Sign up for my free resource library here to get immediate access to freebies.
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