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OK Google, meet Ms. Charlotte Mason's ideas on learning science through nature. Then, let's modernize them for today's world. And now we have . . . {cue drumroll} . . . digital nature study. Seriously, we live in an age where information is available at the touch of a button. We literally carry mini-computers in our pockets! Our fingertips can find out in seconds what used to take … [Read more...]
The fungus that resembles a vintage shade umbrella – the parasol mushroom
The parasol mushroom looks a bit like a button mushroom when it first pops out from the ground in late summer or early fall, but the cap quickly spreads out to resemble the vintage shade umbrella known as a parasol, and these mushrooms are popping up all over our yard right now! You can listen to this post about the parasol mushroom or keep on reading. Either way, you can download a set of … [Read more...]
On Look up in the Sky Day, learn about the amazing constellations
What? You have never heard of Look up in the Sky Day? Well, neither had I until I made it a point to learn about strange holidays this year. Apparently Look up in the Sky Day is celebrated every April 14th and we are going to spend a bit of time tonight looking at the constellations. The Big Dipper is hands-down one of the easiest constellations to recognize in the night sky. It’s … [Read more...]
Is nature study enough for homeschool science? Your {not so} definitive answer
I am often asked - is nature study enough for our homeschool science plans or do we need to add more hands-on science? And I typically answer: Yes, nature study is enough. And, no, nature study is not enough. To which I get a confused look as a response! So I'll ask a few follow-up questions: What are your goals for science? How old are your students? These two questions will … [Read more...]
3 Simple ways to include nature study into your week
Now that you understand the differences between formal nature study and informal nature study. But a question still lingers – how do you include nature study into your week? Is it the centerpiece? Or just an afterthought? By now, you know that I feel nature study is a beneficial way to learn about science. It can be an especially helpful tool when you are studying biology and earth … [Read more...]
Impromptu Nature Study
In our neck of the woods, the weather is finally turning more spring-like, so we have been spending quite a bit more time outdoors. This has provided us with several opportunities for impromptu nature study. This type of nature study is all about taking advantage of the opportunities to study science outdoors as they present themselves. What does Impromptu Nature Study Look Like? The other … [Read more...]