In today's fast-paced, screen-driven world, the value of connecting children with nature cannot be overstated.
Nature study is not only beneficial for children’s academic growth, but it also promotes emotional well-being and creativity.
Homeschooling offers the perfect opportunity to embrace nature study in a way that’s tailored to your child's needs. Whether you live in an urban area or surrounded by nature, there are endless ways to explore the world around you with your kids.
Here are some easy ideas for getting started:
Set The Stage
Encourage your children to see themselves as explorers or scientists. Nature study isn’t about checking off boxes—it’s about slowing down, noticing details, and asking questions.
- Create a nature journal: Have each child start a nature journal to record their observations. They can draw what they see, take notes, and add clippings or pressed leaves. This will help them develop a habit of observation. Our Nature Book Flood includes printable nature journal pages.
- Start small: Begin with the nature around you, whether it’s a backyard, a local park, or even an indoor garden. Encourage interest with living books on nature topics. Explore our Nature Book Flood booklist here.
- Ask questions: Let your children to ask questions about what they observe. This can lead to further exploration and learning. “Why do birds migrate?” or “What do insects do in winter?” are great conversation starters.
Indoor Nature Study Ideas
- Bring nature items inside
- Create a nature table or shelf together
- Watch nature-themed documentaries
- Dissect, organize and categorize
- Make nature inspired crafts
- Use photos and the internet
Outdoor Nature Study Ideas
- Make a habit of daily nature walks
- Find a tree and "adopt" it
- Eat meals outside
- Go on nature-themed scavenger hunts
- Start a garden together
- Bring a journal and watercolors
Nature Study Supplies
- Nature journal or sketchpad
- Travel watercolors
- Prisma colored pencils
- Magnifying glass
- Pocket microscope
- Binoculars
- Field guides
- Foraging bag or basket
- Tweezers
- Small containers for collecting
Nature study is a wonderful way to nurture your children’s curiosity, creativity, and connection to the beautiful world around them.
If you're looking for homeschool nature study resources, we've got you covered! All of our homeschool curriculums include nature-themed activities. Explore some of them here:
Nourishing Nature Kindergarten
Nature Book Flood (click here for a free sample)
Autumn Guide
Winter Guide
Spring Guide
Summer Guide