Author: Shirley Vels

Shirley Ann lives in the UK with her husband, two daughters, and two cats who think they rule the roost. She's a veteran homeschooler of 13 years and is passionate about home keeping, homeschooling, nature study, and seasonal living, Shirley regularly blogs about her Charlotte Mason-inspired homeschooling and British lifestyle on her blog, 'Under An English Sky'.
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Can You Add Nature Study To Your Homeschool High School Transcript?

Let’s talk about nature study and your homeschool high school transcript.

As your homeschooled teen moves into the high school years, you may be wondering how to document your nature studies. If so, then you may want to bookmark this post!

Having homeschooled my daughters using the Charlotte Mason method of learning and maintaining that way of learning throughout their entire schooling career. You may be wondering how you can continue to include subjects such as nature study and what it may look like on your high school transcript.

Can you add nature study to your homeschool high school transcript? Yes! Read our comprehensive guide to get you started.

I will say at the outset that the key to compiling a comprehensive transcript is by deploying meticulous record keeping skills. I would advise getting your teen into the habit of recording the time spent on nature study (or any practical application activity) and what it was that they covered. This encourages your student to start taking an active role in his/her education. In this post, I share the approach we took in our own homeschool in documenting nature study in our high school transcript.

Your Homeschool High School Transcript: The Basics

Creating a high school transcript for your homeschooled teen involves recording and presenting their academic achievements in a clear, organized manner. Since homeschooling allows for greater flexibility than traditional schooling, you have the opportunity to customize the transcript to reflect your teen’s unique learning experiences and achievements. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Basic Structure of the Transcript

  • Student Information: Include the student’s full name, date of birth, and contact information. You might also include a student ID number if applicable.
  • School Information: List your homeschool’s name (you can create one if you don’t already have a name), address, and contact information.
  • Transcript Title: Clearly state “High School Transcript” at the top of the document.
  • Dates of Attendance: Specify the years your teen attended high school (e.g., 2020-2024).

2. Course Listings and Credits

  • Course Names: List each course your teen completed. You can be more descriptive than traditional schools, reflecting the specific focus or approach of the course (e.g., instead of just “Biology,” you could write “Advanced Biology with Lab Focus on Genetics”).
  • Credits Earned: Assign credits to each course, typically based on the amount of time spent. In the U.S., one credit usually represents one year of study in a subject. You can adjust this if your homeschool follows a different system.
  • Grades: Record the grades earned for each course. You have the flexibility to use letter grades, percentages, or even descriptive assessments (though letter grades are most commonly recognized).

3. Customizing with Flexibility

  • Course Descriptions: Unlike traditional transcripts, you can include brief descriptions of each course to provide context. For example, “World History: A study of global events from the Renaissance to the present, with a focus on cultural interactions and primary source analysis.”
  • Unconventional Learning: If your teen engaged in non-traditional learning experiences (e.g., internships, travel-based learning, independent projects), these can be listed as courses or electives. For instance, “Photography: A self-directed study culminating in a portfolio and a community exhibition.”
  • Specialized Subjects: If your teen pursued specialized or niche subjects, include them. For example, “Environmental Science: An in-depth exploration of local ecosystems, including hands-on fieldwork and a final research paper.”

4. GPA Calculation

  • Grading Scale: Clearly outline the grading scale you used (e.g., A = 90-100, B = 80-89, etc.).
  • Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA: Decide whether to use a weighted GPA (which gives extra points for advanced courses) or an unweighted GPA. Calculate the GPA based on the grades and credits earned.

5. Additional Sections

  • Extracurricular Activities: Include a section for extracurricular activities, highlighting your teen’s involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or hobbies.
  • Standardized Test Scores: If applicable, list standardized test scores (e.g. SAT).
  • Awards and Honors: Mention any awards, recognitions, or scholarships your teen has received.

6. Finalizing the Transcript

  • Signature and Date: At the bottom of the transcript, include a line for your signature and the date. This signifies that you verify the accuracy of the transcript.
  • Seal or Logo: If you want to make the transcript look more official, consider creating a simple seal or logo for your homeschool.
Can you add nature study to your homeschool high school transcript? Yes! Read our comprehensive guide to get you started.

Tips for Flexibility and Descriptiveness

  • Tailored Learning: Emphasize how the curriculum was tailored to your teen’s interests and strengths.
  • Interdisciplinary Courses: If your teen’s studies crossed traditional subject boundaries, create interdisciplinary course titles that reflect this.
  • Narrative Evaluations: Consider adding brief narrative evaluations or comments for each course or a summary at the end of the transcript to provide more insight into your teen’s performance and growth.

Creating a homeschool transcript allows you to showcase your teen’s education in a way that is personalized, thorough, and reflective of their unique educational journey. By being flexible and descriptive, you can ensure that the transcript effectively communicates your teen’s academic achievements and readiness for their next steps, whether that be college, vocational training, or entering the workforce.

Can you add nature study to your homeschool high school transcript? The answer is a resounding yes!

How to Account for Nature Study In Your High School Transcript With Examples!

Accounting for nature study in a high school transcript is a great way to highlight the hands-on, experiential learning that often occurs in a homeschool setting. Nature study can be integrated into various subjects or listed as a standalone course, depending on how it’s approached in your homeschool curriculum. Here are some ways to incorporate nature study into a high school transcript, along with examples of how to describe the learning:

1. Biology Credit

  • Course Title: “Biology with Emphasis on Ecology and Field Studies”
  • Description: “A comprehensive biology course with a focus on ecological systems, species identification, and the study of local flora and fauna through regular fieldwork. Students conducted independent research projects on ecosystem dynamics and prepared detailed field journals.”
  • Credit: 1 Credit (Lab Science)

2. Integrated Science Credit

  • Course Title: “Integrated Environmental Science”
  • Description: “An interdisciplinary study combining biology, chemistry, and earth science with a focus on environmental systems. Students explored topics such as soil composition, water quality, and plant biology, supported by regular nature hikes and lab work involving data collection and analysis.”
  • Credit: 1 Credit (Science)

3. Elective Credit

  • Course Title: “Nature Study and Outdoor Education”
  • Description: “A hands-on elective focusing on the observation and study of natural environments. Students engaged in activities such as bird watching, plant identification, and wildlife tracking, with an emphasis on developing skills in journaling, sketching, and outdoor survival techniques.”
  • Credit: 0.5 to 1 Credit (Elective)

4. Environmental Science Credit

  • Course Title: “Environmental Science: Field Ecology”
  • Description: “An in-depth exploration of ecosystems, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Coursework included field trips to various ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, where students conducted species inventories and assessed the impact of human activity on natural habitats.”
  • Credit: 1 Credit (Lab Science)

5. Physical Education Credit

  • Course Title: “Outdoor Adventure and Fitness”
  • Description: “A physical education course that combined fitness with outdoor skills, including hiking, orienteering, and survival skills. Students also participated in activities like rock climbing and canoeing, while learning about the physical and mental health benefits of regular interaction with nature.”
  • Credit: 0.5 to 1 Credit (Physical Education)

6. Art Credit (Interdisciplinary Approach)

  • Course Title: “Nature and Art: A Creative Study”
  • Description: “An art course focused on nature as a source of inspiration. Students created detailed botanical illustrations, landscape paintings, and nature-inspired sculptures. The course also included lessons on the history of nature in art, with visits to local parks and gardens for on-site sketching.”
  • Credit: 0.5 to 1 Credit (Art)

7. Independent Study or Capstone Project

  • Course Title: “Independent Study: Ecology and Conservation”
  • Description: “A student-led research project focused on local conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and species preservation. The study involved regular fieldwork, collaboration with local environmental organizations, and the creation of a final report and presentation on findings.”
  • Credit: 0.5 to 1 Credit (Elective/Science)

Tips for Describing Nature Study on a High School Transcript

  • Be Specific: When describing the course, focus on the specific skills and knowledge your teen gained. For example, rather than just “plant identification,” you might say “identification of over 50 native plant species and their ecological roles.”
  • Highlight Hands-On Experience: Nature study often involves practical, hands-on learning. Mention field trips, outdoor labs, or independent research projects.
  • Interdisciplinary Learning: If nature study crossed over into multiple subjects, make that clear in the course title and description. This can show the depth and breadth of the learning experience.
  • Use Professional Terminology: Incorporate relevant scientific terms where appropriate to give the course a more academic tone.

By thoughtfully integrating nature study into your teen’s transcript, you can provide a clear and compelling account of their engagement with the natural world, highlighting both their academic and personal growth.

More Resources for High School Nature Study In Your Homeschool

Can you add nature study to your homeschool high school transcript? Yes! Read our comprehensive guide to get you started.

For more support you may be interested in our Nature Study Credit Planner and Tracker above. Simply sign up below to get your free record keeping sheet.

Get Your Nature Study Credit Tracker!

Subscribe to get your free Nature Study Credit Tracker and Planner for High School.

    We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

    Options for high school and advanced learners included in Homeschool Nature Study membership!

    We hope that this post has been useful to our homeschooling high school families. Please do let us know in the comments if you would like us to cover any other homeschool high school nature study topics or let us know if you have any questions.

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    Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study: The Homeschool Mom’s Guide

    This comprehensive guide to Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study includes activities and resources for family learning.

    As August gives way to September and summer slowly slips away to allow autumn to wrap us up in its brilliant display of color, mother turns her attention to planning her fall homeschool.

    Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study

    In our Charlotte Mason homeschools, autumn is a time of fresh starts, fresh plans and new hope for the forthcoming year.

    This comprehensive guide to Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study includes activities and resources for family learning.

    As the season shifts and the days begin to draw in, it seems natural to start our plans by considering our fall nature studies. Nature study intertwines beautifully with other areas of study such as art appreciation, poetry, geography and science. It also gifts the humble homemaker ample opportunity and inspiration to cultivate an atmosphere of coziness within her home(school).

    Apples, cider, crisp leaves, corn mazes, frost and cold air are all part of the season and simply beg to be explored, studied and brought indoors!

    Activities For Fall Nature Study In Your Homeschool

    Tree and Leaf Studies Perfect for Fall

    I think we all agree that you simply cannot embrace all that fall is without planning a seasonal tree and leaf study. Autumn days are filled with colored leaves, falling leaves, raking leaves, and jumping into great big piles of fallen leaves. Have a look at some of our wonderful tree and leaf studies from our archives and from our own personal blogs:

    This comprehensive guide to Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study includes activities and resources for family learning.

    Downloadable Resources

    Pumpkins and Apples for Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study

    As the pumpkins ripen in the fields and the apples in the orchards, local farmers open up their farms to the public providing the perfect opportunity to plan a ‘pumpkin and apple homeschool’ week. Enjoy a trip out to the farm and pick out a few pumpkins and basket of apples. Then come home and bake a pumpkin or apple pie and enjoy reading some seasonal read-aloud books as you learn more about these delightful seasonal fruits.

    This comprehensive guide to Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study includes activities and resources for family learning.

    Fall Fungi

    “In times of old, not only was it believed that toads sat on them (toadstools), but that fairies danced upon them and used them for umbrellas. The poisonous qualities of some species made them also a natural ingredient of the witch’s cauldron. But science, in these days, brings revelation concerning these mysterious plants which are far more wonderful than the web which superstition wove about them in the days of yore.”

    Anna Botsford Comstock, Handbook of Nature Study, page 714
    This comprehensive guide to Fall Charlotte Mason Nature Study includes activities and resources for family learning.

    As can be seen from the excerpt from the Handbook of Nature Study that we have long held the view that mushrooms are rather mysterious, enchanting and quite fascinating. We can also agree that most of us regard mushrooms and toadstools with suspicion and caution, and for good reason. There are many poisonous mushrooms out there, and some of them are deadly. Names such as ‘death cap’, ‘destroying angel’ and ‘funeral bell’, warn us to steer clear!

    One of our favourite fall activities in our homeschool is to go on a fungus spotting walk through out local woodlands. There is something quite atmospheric and wonderful about walking through a woodland in autumn all wrapped up in our hand knits and kicking through fallen leaves as we hunt for fungi and mushrooms.

    Here are a few posts to get you started as well as some lovely free downloadable spotter sheets for you to take with you.

    plant pot mushrooms nature craft

    Downloadable resources

    Keeping a Nature Journal This Fall

    We all know that Charlotte Mason encouraged her students to keep a Nature Notebook or Nature Diary. These notebooks were inscribed with fine prose and illustrated in delicate watercolours.

    According to Charlotte’s recommendations, all illustrations should include captions: the Latin name of the specimen, it it’s available, as well as the familiar name. A flower and bird list can be kept at the back of the Notebook, as well as other lists which may interest the individual child such as fungi, insects, trees etc.

    These notebooks should be considered a part of a living education where the child’s relationship with nature can be expressed within its pages. Try to avoid criticism, unless it is to give helpful suggestions.

    Anna Botsford Comstock said of notebooks, “of whatever quality, are precious beyond price to their owners. And why not? For the represent what cannot be bought or sold – personal experience in the happy world of outdoors.”

    The Nature Notebook is a way for our children (and us) to connect better with nature and to learn its patterns. If you have not dipped your toes into the world of nature journaling, I would encourage you to dive in this fall. You do not need to invest in expensive art supplies, just grab a blank notebook, some pencils and get out there. You can purchase an inexpensive field watercolor set of paints in the coming weeks but for now I would encourage you to just take the leap and do a quick sketch of what you can see before you. Don’t judge your drawing, you are not an artist yet. You are a scientist, simply recording what you see in this moment of time.

    Here are some helpful links for your adventure in nature journaling.

    Below are some additional Charlotte Mason resources for your homeschool. We hope that you have a wonderful fall season of exploring and learning outdoors.

    Additional Charlotte Mason Resources For Your Homeschool

    Endless Access to Outdoor Hour Curriculum in Homeschool Nature Study Membership

    We are sure that this fall Charlotte Mason nature study guide will keep you very busy however, we would encourage you to join the Homeschool Nature Study membership. With our membership you will have Homeschool Nature Study resources at your fingertips and can incorporate nature study at your family’s own pace.

    You can choose guided or independent nature study with the membership monthly calendar prompts and printables.

    We have monthly, quarterly and annual homeschool nature study memberships and you will enjoy endless access to everything including our exclusive Nature Craft Course, Nature Journaling Course and The Outdoor Mom Course!

    Be Inspired. Be Encouraged. Get Outdoors!

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study membership Now
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    Homeschool Nature Study for Teens: Tips For Learning And Fun

    Is nature study still relevant for your homeschooled teen? Yes! It plays a crucial role in developing observation skills and much more…

    Nature Study Doesn’t Have To End In The Teen Years!

    Trust me! I have homeschooled two teens and I have grappled with the temptation to throw aside nature study and the arts in favor of a more bookish education. I even succumbed to the temptation once for a couple of weeks, but it just didn’t sit well in my soul or with the Charlotte Mason ethos that we had lived by for so many years.

    I’m pleased to say that I came to my senses. I chose to trust that Charlotte Mason built her career on and reinstated our Friday nature studies.

    Now that I have navigated through our high school years and both my daughters graduated our homeschool and their respective university courses, I can speak from a place of experience, understanding and knowledge and confidently tell you that nature study doesn’t have to end in the teen years!

    Is nature study still relevant for your homeschooled teen? Yes! It plays a crucial role in developing observation skills and much more...

    Charlotte Mason believed that education should be broad and balanced, incorporating not just the academic but also the artistic and natural worlds. Nature study, plays a crucial role in developing observation skills, appreciation for the environment, and a sense of wonder.

    Warning! You may want to bookmark this post as it is packed with high school nature study resources!

    The Importance of Nature Study in High School

    Before I give you some tips for homeschool nature study for teens, I want to touch on the importance of nature study in your homeschool high school…

    Nature Study Enhances Scientific Understanding

    • Field Work Integration: Nature study offers practical fieldwork opportunities, which are essential in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science. High school students can engage in hands-on experiences that textbooks alone cannot provide.
    • Observational Skills: Regular nature study hones students’ abilities to observe, record and analyze natural phenomena, which are key skills in scientific research.

    Nature Study Fosters Critical Thinking and Creativity:

    • Interdisciplinary Learning: Nature study naturally integrates with other subjects such as art (through nature journaling and drawing), poetry (writing inspired by nature), and geography (understanding ecosystems and landscapes).
    • Problem-solving: Encountering the real-world issues in nature, such as ecological changes or conservation challenges, encourages students to think critically and develop problem-solving skills.
    Is nature study still relevant for your homeschooled teen? Yes! It plays a crucial role in developing observation skills and much more...

    Nature Study Promotes Mental and Physical Well-being:

    • Stress Relief: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health, which is particularly beneficial during the often-stressful high school years.
    • Physical Activity: Engaging in outdoor activities promotes physical health and provides a healthy break from screen time and indoor study.

    Nature Study Encourages Lifelong Learning and Appreciation for Nature:

    • Sustainable Living: Developing a deep connection and understanding of nature fosters a sense of stewardship and responsibility toward the environment.
    • Continuous Curiosity: Nature study encourages a lifelong habit of curiosity and learning, as the natural world is ever-changing and endlessly fascinating.

    Tips For Homeschool Nature Study Specifically With Teens

    If you’ve momentarily set aside nature study and are considering reintegration, here are some practical tips to help your teen get back into nature study:

    Tip 1: Schedule Nature Study Days

    Designate specific days or times each week dedicated to nature study, ensuring it remains a consistent part of your curriculum. For our family we had always reserved Fridays for our nature and arts study. It was always a day to look forward to after a week of academic learning and it was a great way to kick off the weekend!

    Is nature study still relevant for your homeschooled teen? Yes! It plays a crucial role in developing observation skills and much more...

    Tip 2: Incorporate Technology in Your Nature Study for Teens

    Use apps and online resources to enhance nature study, such as identifying species, tracking weather patterns, or participating in citizen science projects. It could even be a simple as using digital photography or videography!

    Tip 3: Field Trips and Nature Walks

    Regularly plan outings to local parks, nature reserves, or botanical gardens to provide diverse and rich experiences. There are around 63 national parks in the United States. Visit as many of them as you can. Observe the flora, fauna, wildlife, insects, and birds that you see in each.

    ‘We have a wealth of posts in the archives to help you get the most of your national park’s nature study. Here are just a few to get you going:’

    Tip 4: Nature Journaling

    Encourage students to keep detailed journals of their observations, including sketches, notes, and reflections, which integrates art and writing skills. Here are a few posts from our archives on keeping a nature journal:

    Cross-Curricular nature study projects for homeschool and how to incorporate them

    Tip 5: Cross-curricular Projects

    Design projects that combine nature study with other subjects, such as writing research papers on local wildlife, creating ecological maps, or developing conservation plans.

    Conservation projects can be a fantastic way for teens to learn about nature whilst taking part in a project. Here are some ideas:

    • Participate in The Great Backyard Bird Count
    • Volunteer as a sea turtle nest parent
    • Clean up waterways, beaches and woodlands.
    • Plant trees
    • Build nesting boxes for birds, squirrels, or bats.
    • Volunteer at a zoo or aquarium. This a great opportunity to learn about creatures that most of us will never see on a typical nature walk.
    • Animal rescue or rehab centres – look for volunteer opportunities at a local animal rescue or rehab center.
    • Camping or caving – both of these activities provide for an opportunity to see nature from a unique perspective. Caving may provide opportunities to watch creatures such as bats. Camping will have you observing all sorts of flora and fauna by day, and stargazing by night!
    • Visit botanical gardens or butterfly houses. Bring along your nature diaries and a picnic to make for a fun day out.

    Additional Resources for Homeschool Nature Study

    It is important to encourage your teen to pursue their own interests in nature. Remember, “Education is the science of relations”

    ~ Charlotte Mason

    We want our teens to form deep connections with the world around them. We must therefore provide an environment in which our teens can ask questions and learn how to find and recognise clues to the answers they seek.

    To wrap up this post on homeschool nature study for teens, I am leaving you some additional nature study resources that you can delve into. Homeschool Nature Study has a wealth of resources for your nature studies in our archives so we hope that you will spend some time exploring and finding something that may be of assistance as you navigate your homeschool high school years.

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study Membership for Nature Study Curriculum and Year Round Support

    There are so many benefits to joining. You will access our full range of curriculum, our interactive learning calendar as well as a brand new homeschool nature study challenge post each week!

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study membership Now
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    Nature Study And High School Science: A Complete Guide

    It is often the case that once our homeschooled children reach their teens, nature study is pushed aside. Perhaps we think that because our children are now in high school, learning should be more textbook based. But the opposite is true!

    Don’t believe me?

    This article has quotes from the Royal Geographical Society on the importance of field work in higher learning – that goes way above high school learning!

    In fact, there are academic journals and papers written about the importance of learning in the field. You can see for yourself right here.

    Highs School Science Doesn’t Have To Be All Textbooks

    Here’s a thought for you.

    If hands-on, experiential learning is no longer appropriate for our teens, then why are there lab work classes in high school?

    Why do natural scientists and great wildlife film makers, and academic researches still head out into the field to observe nature?

    Why do environmental and marine scientists still gather specimens, conduct experiments or spend months at a time out in nature studying the behaviour of all manner of animals?

    The problem is not the continuation of nature studies in your homeschool. The problem is the manner in which it is presented.

    Learning directly from nature and the environment is a primary source of learning. It’s observational, it’s experiential, it’s how esteemed naturalists and scientists still discover and learn.

    Are you convinced yet?

    The good news for you, for your children, and your homeschools is that:

    You do not have to stop nature study lessons and your outdoor hour time just because you have hit high school! You just need to change the delivery.

    On the contrary, please continue to spend this precious time learning outdoors because it is valuable and it is deemed necessary by many learned academics and naturalists.

    Nature study in high school is one of the most perfect ‘labs’ available for experiencing and understanding high school science concepts so I urge to to dive deeper into your nature studies rather than dropping them out of your homeschools.

    Studies Show Hands-on, Experiential Learning is More Effective

    Many years ago, J. Dewey (1938) recognised the close connection between learning and experience. The question of how to efficiently bridge the gap is still occupying the attention of educational psychologists and researchers. (Kolb, 1984: Experiential Learning: Experience as the source of learning an development; Reigeluth & Carr-Chellman, 2009: Instructional-design theories and models: Building a common knowledge base – vol iii; and J.Roberts, 2018: The possibilities and limitations of experiential learning research in higher education).

    I am currently finishing off my Masters degree in Pro Bono legal work – and it is entirely examined on reflections of hands-on legal work undertaken in law clinics.

    Lawyers, medical professionals and many others have the textbooks but they also spend a great portion of their education getting hands-on experience and putting their head knowledge into practice. They move from the abstract to the concrete by actually DOING.

    If educational psychologists and researchers recognise the value and spend hundreds of thousands of hours researching the importance of experiential learning – we really have every reason to keep up our hands-on nature studies throughout the high school years in our homeschools don’t you think?

    Incorporating Nature Study Into High School Science

    Okay, so we have now established that we have every reason (backed by those far more cerebral people) to continue our nature studies in our homeschools as we move into the high school years.

    But HOW do we go from our carefree romps in nature to being a bit more purposful about it all?

    Teenagers need to have a different sort of follow-up to their nature observations, something a bit more than just their nature journals – although don’t give this up!

    They need to be more connected to their nature study by finding patterns and relationships between past experiences and new ones. Take what they already know and build on it with new observations so as to develop a real interest in knowing more.

    Key: Teens need to find the answers to their own questions and then express those answers in a way that makes sense to them.

    There are three steps to nature study success with teens. You should aim for these in your nature studies

    1. Observation – encourage them to really see what they are looking at with direct and accurate observation.
    2. Reasoning – understand why the thing is so and what it means.
    3. Expression – their observations and reasonings should pique an interest in knowing more about the object.

    Here is a real-life illustration of nature study with teens from Barb, the founder of Outdoor Hour Challenges:

    My two boys and I regularly made visits to my dad’s pond together.  When younger, they would go right to the business of scooping up water and critters and talking in excited voices about what they were finding. But once they reached the teen years, I noticed a different atmosphere, an attitude of “we’ve been here and done that”. I tried to remind myself that this was their normal teenage reaction to just about everything. They rarely appeared to be too excited on the outside. More often than not, they would later on relate the whole experience in a more favorable light to their dad or one of their siblings. Apparently, the outside of a teenager doesn’t accurately reflect the inside at all times.

    So if you have older children and they appear to not be interested at first, don’t give up. It may be that they just aren’t showing it outwardly but inside the experiences are deeply affecting them. Don’t give up on the habit of nature study with your teens.

    Barb McCoy – Founder of the Outdoor Hour Challenge

    Enhancing a Nature Walk with Teens

    Digital Photography: A love of the natural world does not come automatically for all children and sometimes we need to find a way to hook them into getting outdoors. Most of our children have a lot of screen time each week. Rarely are they without a device that has a camera function. Take advantage of this tool in enhancing your time outdoors!

    Although there are advantages to taking a walk “unplugged”, there are distinct benefits to allowing your teens to take photos as part of their nature study time.

    • It slows them down.
    • Helps them focus and really see an object.
    • Everyday things in their own backyard can now be captured and viewed.
    • They can see the beauty.
    • They make their own connections.
    • Perfect for our teens…they are comfortable with the technology and love to share with their friends.

    Nature Study and Studying Biology

    Tricia, owner and editor of Homeschool Nature Study has given us a wonderful example of how her family’s Apologia biology studies complimented their homeschool nature studies.

    Her family’s experience beautifully illustrates, in a very practical way, how you could approach high school biology in your homeschool. She has shared a full account in both these posts:

    But to briefly summarize, you could take one of two approaches to homeschool nature study with high school biology. I must just say at this point that this same approach can be used with any of the Apologia science textbooks – or whatever textbook you use in your homeschool.

    1. You can choose to start with the Homeschool Nature Study challenges and supplement them with a text; or
    2. You can start with the text and supplement it with nature study.

    Now, here is the hands-on exciting bit for your planning dear homeschool mama!

    Go over to Tricia’s post How Nature Study Enriches High School Biology In Your Homeschool. You will see that she has matched up the Outdoor Hour Challenges with the textbooks chapters.

    Not only that but she has added in supplementary books and biographies for you to use!

    If you are using Apologia Biology in your homeschool this year, you now have a wonderful lesson plan for the entire course which includes the nature study challenges that you have loved and used in your homeschools!

    More Resources for Nature Study In Your Homeschool

    We are fortunate here at Homeschool Nature Study to have homeschool moms who have successfully traveled the high school homeschool road through all subjects including science and nature. All of these families have continued to use nature study and field work as a useful tool alongside their textbooks in their homeschools.

    We have collated some high school specific nature and science posts and resources from the archives of all out websites (Curriculum Choice, Homeschool Nature Study and Your Best Homeschool). We pray that these will be a blessing to you and an encouragment to keep up your nature studies in the changing face of your homeschools.

    Charlotte Mason Exam Questions for homeschooling high school - Wondering how your high school homeschooler can continue nature study in a way that is compatible with high school science?

    From the Archives

    Apolgia Biology Curriculum Reviews

    The Big Question:

    We pray that this article gives those of you who are moving into your high school years the courage to stick with nature studies in your homeschool and to continue to experience the joy and blessing of hands-on, experiential learning.

    Handbook of Nature Study high school studies

    The Outdoor Hour Challenges Bring The Handbook of Nature Study to Life in Your Homeschool!

    For even more homeschool nature study ideas for all seasons, join us in Homeschool Nature Study membership! You’ll receive new ideas each and every week that require little or no prep – all bringing the Handbook of Nature Study to life in your homeschool!

    Find Out More About Homeschool Nature Study Membership!

    Be inspired. Be encouraged. Get outdoors!

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    The Homeschool Mom’s Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study Guide

    Our Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study Guide is perfect for this time of year.

    Are you dreaming of summer yet? Soon we will be winding down our homeschools and taking advantage of the warm summer days ahead of us. Weeks of picnics and walks, weeks of sunshine and warmth. Lovely!

    Closing the doors to our schoolrooms brings a time of rest for all of us, and of consolidation. The break from regular studies seems to help the children’s brains to consolidate what they have learnt and cement tricky concepts that they struggled with, for I often found that when we returned to studies in the autumn, they can tackle these things with ease.

    Let's tuck into an array of learning opportunities with this homeschool mom's Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study Guide.

    But as we know, learning does not stop in the school room. For life and the great outdoors remains the best classroom. Summer is a time that I like to really focus on my children’s education in a different way.

    Opportunities For Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study

    I like to place before them a smorgasbord of opportunities. Things like visiting galleries, museums, camping, and spending as much time outdoors and visiting as many different ecosystem’s as possible.

    “On fine days when it is warm enough to sit out with wraps, why not take tea and breakfast, everything but a hot dinner, be served out of doors? For we are an overwrought generation, running to nerves as a cabbage runs to seed; and every hour spend in the open is a clear gain, tending to the increase of brain power and bodily vigor, and to the lengthening of life itself. They who know what it is to have fevered skin and throbbing brain deliciously soothed by the cool touch of the air are inclined to make a new rule of life, Never be within doors when you can rightly be without.

    Charlotte Mason – The Original Homeschool Series.

    I found it rather interesting from the quote above that Charlotte Mason spoke of the symptoms of stress being so prevalent in her own Victorian society. She speaks of them being an ‘overwrought generation’, just as are we today. She knew the remedy for overwrought nerves.

    It’s a secret that many of us share but perhaps you don’t yet know it. Well I’ll let you in on the secret…its spending time outdoors. Nature has a calming and healing affect on our mental well being.

    And so this summer, let us make it a practice of giving ourselves and our children plenty of purposeful time outdoors

    The Charlotte Mason Approach: Where to Begin

    Charlotte Mason says that a good starting place is for meals to be taken al fresco. Why? Because they are joyous and there is “nothing like gladness for converting meat and drink into healthy blood and tissue“.

    Imagine every meal being one that is joyous and an event to be stored up in our childrens’ memories. I love Charlotte Mason’s sentiment on alfresco eating:

    The Charlotte Mason approach: where to begin

    Now that seems to me to be as good as reason as any for making this summer one to strive to have as many meals al fresco as possible. I love the thought that decisions I take today will stand my children in good stead far into the future.

    Picture Painting

    Some of my most precious, vivid, and lasting memories of my happy childhood shared with my parents and siblings, are of times we spent outdoors together. I clearly remember one particular day hiking out in the mountains. We found a natural pool in a clearing surrounded by trees. The sun was beating down, we were hot from our walk.

    We decided to take a swim in the cool, clear water. Afterwards I lay down on a large warm rock at the side of the pool to dry. I remember closing my eyes and being overwhelmed by the peace and tranquility of my surroundings. The warm sunshine, the sound of the birds and my family talking and laughing. The feel of the gentle breeze drying the cold water droplets from my skin. When I opened my eyes, the sight of trees stretching up into the blue sky that was littered with fluffy white clouds slowly moving across the skyscape.

    Charlotte Mason picture painting

    The impact of that day and its lasting memory had a profound affect on me. So much so, that my lovely mother bought a poster of the mountains and forests with a scripture verse, so that I could hang it in my room as a wonderful reminder.

    The truth is, I didn’t need a poster to recall each and every detail my surroundings because I had taken in every feature and detail of that landscape that I could narrate it perfectly to you today had we the time and space for me to do so rather than a short post to write about it.

    Charlotte Mason calls this ‘picture painting’. Here is how it is done:

    • Get the children to look well at a patch of landscape, then shut their eyes and narrate the picture before them (are seeing a correlation here to picture study?)
    • If any part of it is blurred, they need to look again.
    • When they have a perfect image before their eyes, let them narrate what they see in great detail.

    When we engage all our senses: Seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, coupled with a joyous atmosphere and yes, good wholesome food, we are doing more for our children’s education than any expensive textbook ever can.

    Heading Outdoors

    Are you beginning to see how we can continue our summer nature studies Charlotte Mason style? So this summer we are going to do much ‘sight-seeing’, ‘picture painting’ and ‘al fresco’ dining as we can. Try and include as many different ecosystems as possible.

    I recommend getting out into the country in the meadows and farm-lands, a visit to the beach, a river, the mountains and a woodland. I’ll give you ideas for each setting but first, lets get our field haversack/backpack’s prepped for our summer studies.

    Pack Up Your Haversack

    When you go out on field work you will need to take your collecting apparatus with you.

    • A haversack/backpack for each child
    • pond net
    • trowel
    • collecting jar (to collect insect and water creatures)
    • basket (to collect plant specimens)
    • scissors
    • field note book and pencil

    In addition to this field kit, your little naturalists will most certainly appreciate a lovely picnic, plenty of water and of course, sun hats and sun screen. Read this Outdoor Hour Challenge (OHC) post on planning your picnic.

    Let's tuck into an array of learning opportunities with this homeschool mom's Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study Guide.

    Now that we have covered all the basics, lets focus our summer exploration and nature studies and walks.

    I have collated a collection of posts from my own blog as well as from the archives that will hopefully inspire you to just get outdoors this summer and explore these different habitats and biomes. You may find that one day you are simply enjoying being outdoors together and other days may lend themselves for a more in depth exploration/study.

    If you are planning on traveling at all this summer then be sure to read our Nature Study and Summer Travel post from the archives for some great tips on how to prepare.

    Whatever you decide to do, above all, please just enjoy creating memories of long summer days spent outdoors.

    A Seaside Walk: Perfect for Summer Nature Study

    Have you ever looked down into the sea on a clear, still day from the side of a boat – as you cross over the rocks below? Imagine yourself looking down into this watery picture. You might see anemones opened up with their tentacle-like petals waving as waves rush in over the rocks.

    Or perhaps you will see a starfish or a sea-urchin crawling along the bottom of the rock pool, or a crab rush under a rock the moment it sees your shadow.

    There is no end to the delights that the seashore can offer up. It may be a bit of a drive for some but if you can, plan for a fun beach day-trip to explore this amazing habitat.

    Charlotte Mason Summer Guide to Exploring the Seashore

    Be inspired by these posts from the archives.

    Summertime Stroll in the Meadows and Fields

    In early summer-time there is more sunshine and we see that the grass is growing long in the fields. Let us lie in the grass of a field and keep very quite. What happens in this grassy jungle?

    We shall see many different kinds of grasses and many common wildflowers and weeds. Insects and other little creatures often make their homes here.

    Do you see any patches of bubbly white stuff which sticks to grass stalks? We call them “cuckoo spit” but it’s not made by the cuckoo bird. Have look at a post from our archives to find out just what it is!

    Exploring the meadows and fields Charlotte Mason nature study guide

    Be inspired by these posts from the archives.

    A Wander Through the Woodland

    Who can resist a woodland walk! Woodlands always seem so magical don’t they? To be surrounded by great towering trees, to explore the delicate mosses and lichens, some of which look like pixie caps on stalks.

    What plants can you find? What creatures can you spot. Can you hear the woodpecker drilling?

    Or wouldn’t it be fun to collect pinecones and acorns from the woodland floor to make fir-cone birds and people? Or perhaps collect different leaves and make leaf-prints.

    The woodland has so much to offer that it would certainly make for a lovely afternoon out.

    Exploring the woodlands in your homeschool Charlotte Mason style

    Be inspired by these posts from the archives.

    Summertime Walk by the Pond, River, or Lake

    When last did you wade into a shallow stream and turn up some of the stones on the stream bed? If you do so, you may find some interesting creatures on or under them.

    You may find caddis worms, which are not really worms at all. They are larvae of the caddis fly and the build little homes for themselves out of tiny stones or little sticks or hollow stems. The river or pond will provide hours of exploration fun for children.

    Make sure you go armed with a net and some collection jars for this visit!

    Exploring rivers, ponds and lakes Charlotte Mason nature study guide

    Be inspired by these posts from the archives.

    Outdoor Hour Challenges Are Perfect For Charlotte Mason Summer Nature Study

    Rather than give you formalized Outdoor Hour Challenges, we hope that guide provides you with an inspired springboard of ideas for your own summer nature adventures that Charlotte Mason would have approved of.

    Find Out More About Homeschool Nature Study Membership with Weekly Outdoor Hour Challenges!

    Be Inspired, Be Encouraged and Get Outdoors!

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    The Outdoor Mom Series – New Feature for Homeschool Moms

    This month we start a new Outdoor Mom series focused on the Outdoor Hour Mom. Yes, this is all about you! As homeschool moms we give…A LOT, which is why it is so important that we carve out a little time to nurture our own well-being.

    This month we start a new Outdoor Mom series focused on the Outdoor Hour Mom. Yes, this is all about you! As homeschool moms we give…A LOT, which is why it is so important that we carve out a little time to nurture our own well-being.

    This does not have to be finding swathes of time to do something extravagant. Most of us don’t have that time.

    But it is important to develop a heart for the simple joys that come from the most ordinary of tasks and the most fleeting of moments. For it is these things that help us create moments of calm throughout our day and it is in these unhurried moments that we can see and hear the voice of our Saviour and experience His peace.

    Our vision for the Outdoor Mom series is to inspire you to slow down, find beauty in the ordinary, in celebrating your home, in ordinary everyday tasks; your hobbies, interests and of course, nature journaling, nature and the seasons.
    This is Shirley Vels in her garden!

    What Is The Outdoor Mom Series?

    Our vision for the Outdoor Mom series is to inspire you to slow down, find beauty in the ordinary, in celebrating your home, in ordinary everyday tasks; your hobbies, interests and of course, nature journaling, nature and the seasons.

    Join Homeschool Nature Study membership to enjoy the NEW Outdoor Mom series – with nature journal prompts – by your Outdoor Hour hostess, Shirley Vels.

    New Series for Members!

    Nature Study Members: Find the NEW Outdoor Mom posts in the Outdoor Mom course.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Cgq2EVjI7gm

    We Invite You To Participate!

    Not a member? We invite you to us!

    You can also participate with the prompts below:

    How Do You Join?

    Answer all or just one of the prompts in a post on Instagram – and tag us at @outdoorhourchallenge! You can also answer in a blog entry on your own blog or right here on our blog in a comment. If you answer on your blog, make sure to leave me a link in a comment so that I can pop over and read your responses.

    • During our outdoor time this week we went….
    • The most inspiring thing we experienced was…
    • Our outdoor time made us ask (or wonder about)…
    • In the garden, we are planning/planting/harvesting….
    • I added nature journal pages about….
    • I am reading…
    • I am  dreaming about…
    • A photo I would like to share…

    Whether your family spends a few minutes a week outside or hours at a time, share what is going on in your world.

    Outdoor Mom’s Journal

    Here is an entry by Barbara McCoy!

    The most inspiring thing we experienced was.….traveling to two national parks, Zion and Grand Canyon! My husband and I spent three days at each park and put a lot of miles on the old pedometer as we hiked and hiked and hiked.

    zion national park nature journal

    I added nature journal pages about.….both Zion and Grand Canyon. I created “twin” sorts of entries for each park. I am in the process of finishing off my pages but here is a sneak peek.

    Please join us! Share something that you have done lately. We are looking forward to reading your entries and comments!

    Be inspired. Be encouraged. Get outdoors!

    Shirley and her family have used the Handbook of Nature Study and Barb’s Outdoor Hour Challenges from the beginning of their homeschooling. Having begun their homeschool journey in Cape Town South Africa and finished it in the UK, the challenges and the Handbook of Nature Study have proved to be adaptable and relevant across continents. Shirley lives in Chester, England and blogs at Building A Household of Faith where she writes about homeschooling the Charlotte Mason way, nature study and encouraging homeschooling moms in their great charter as Christian wives, mothers and keepers of the home. She also hand-dyes yarn in her home studio Under An English Sky, which is inspired by the English countryside and of the great living books she and her family enjoyed over their homeschooling journey.

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    Outdoor Hour Challenge – Winter Weed Nature Study

    Outdoor Hour Challenge – Winter Weed Nature Study

    Winter weeds are a quick and easy nature study topic that you can complete in your yard or neighborhood, or at a local park or alongside a road (be watchful of traffic). Spend a few minutes this week to take notice of any weeds you may have, searching for seeds or signs of animals feeding nearby.

    Beloved by homeschool families worldwide, this study focuses on the Handbook of Nature Study and winter weeds this week.

    Easy And Engaging Homeschool Nature Study

    You can use these links for some specific Winter Homeschool Nature Study ideas:

    Beloved by homeschool families worldwide, this study focuses on the Handbook of Nature Study and winter weeds this week.

    Getting Started With The Outdoor Hour Challenge In Your Homeschool Nature Study


    Download your free copy of our Getting Started ebook and complete challenge #6. You may wish to make a list of weeds you observed in winter and then check the list during the summer to see if you can add some more entries.   

    Get your free Getting Started Ebook

    Join The Homeschool Nature Study Membership For Support All Year Long

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study membership Now
    An image showing the full collection of Nature Study courses

    Connect With Our Homeschool Community On Social Media

    Did you enjoy this Outdoor Hour Challenge? Be sure to tag us on Instagram @outdoorhourchallenge and use the hashtag #outdoorhourchallenge so we can see and comment!

    This week’s Outdoor Hour Challenge is from the Winter Wednesday Course and Curriculum.

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    Outdoor Hour Challenge – Winter Tree Silhouettes Homeschool Nature Study

    Outdoor Hour Challenge – Winter Tree Silhouettes

    This week we are going to be on the lookout for interesting tree silhouettes in our own yard and neighbourhood. Here is the link to the previous challenge: Winter Wednesday – Tree Silhouettes

    Outdoor Hour Challenge Winter Tree Silhouettes

    In this challenge, be sure to look for the list of four ideas to use when completing this challenge with your children. You can also work on your Winter Tree Study and your Four Seasons Tree Study.

    Homeschool Nature Study: Outdoor Hour Challenge

    Special Activity: My Tree is a Living World
    This may be a great week to revisit this activity:
    My Tree is a Living World

    Outdoor Hour Challenge Winter Tree Silhouettes

    You might also like to see how Tricia’s family enjoyed this winter tree silhouettes challenge. They did a blind contour drawing. They also noticed how paying attention to winter tree silhouettes made them notice the backyard birds!

    Getting Started With The Outdoor Hour Challenge In Your Homeschool

    Getting Started Suggestion:
    If you already own the Getting Started ebook, complete Outdoor Hour Challenge #4. Use the ideas in the challenge to start a focused study of trees with your children. Use the accompanying notebook page to record your outdoor time and your focus area.   

    It is simple to get started. We will show you how. Grab this free Homeschool Nature Study Guide and discover the joys of nature study in your homeschool.

    If you do not own the Getting Started in the Outdoor Hour Challenges guide then hop on over to our shop and grab your free copy! We would love to have you join our membership for full access to the new year’s nature study plans as well as access to the curriculum with detailed lesson plans for each weekly challenge.

    Homeschool Nature Study Membership - Bring the Handbook of Nature Study to Life in Your Homeschool

    Join Our Homeschool Nature Study Membership for Helpful Tips Year Round

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study membership Now
    An image showing the full collection of Nature Study courses

    Connect With Our Homeschool Community On Social Media

    Did you enjoy this Outdoor Hour Challenge? Be sure to tag us on Instagram @outdoorhourchallenge and use the hashtag #outdoorhourchallenge so we can see and comment!

    In addition to this winter tree silhouette challenge, our nature study homeschool members enjoy so much more! Membership includes three sets of Winter Handbook of Nature Study curriculum, additional nature study resources and ideas plus a calendar FULL of easy, daily nature study prompts. This Week’s Outdoor Hour Challenge comes from:

    Handbook of Nature Study - An Outdoor Hour Homeschool Curriculum - Winter Wednesdays
    Outdoor Hour Challenge Winter Tree Silhouettes

    Did you enjoy this Outdoor Hour Challenge Winter Tree Silhouettes? Be sure to tag @outdoorhourchallenge on Instagram and use the hashtag #outdoorhourchallenge so we can see and comment!

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    This Festive Homeschool Nature Study Challenge Is Perfect For Christmas Time

    Are you up for a wintery festive homeschool nature study challenge?

    Christmas time is so busy and it is easy to get distracted by all the hurry of the season. Sometimes it is just nice to get outdoors with the children and leave the pressures behind.

    How about a festive homeschool nature study this winter? Now is the perfect time to include some themed nature crafts and studies in your homeschool.

    How Can I Make Our Homeschool Nature Study Festive?

    I’m glad you asked! Our winter series of curriculum ebooks and courses have so many wonderful winter challenges to inspire your homeschool nature studies and because we are known for our challenges only taking about an hour (or longer if you prefer). It does not have to be an onerous task during this busy season.

    A festive homeschool nature study can be as simple as wrapping up warmly and going on a lovely winter walk to find some winter colors. Challenge 1 in our Winter Wednesday book does just this. You can read about Barb’s hunt for red and green on a wintery walk she took a few years back. You can also read her World of Winter post which fits in nicely with our wintery festive homeschool nature study theme.

    I always find that you can add a little fun into your nature studies by including a few nature crafts and a festive nature study is the perfect time to do just that!

    Read my Winter Nature Crafts Post and my Snow Nature Study & Winter Stars Post for some ideas on crafting some festive fun activities into this months nature studies.

    How about a festive homeschool nature study this winter? Now is the perfect time to include some themed nature crafts and studies in your homeschool.

    Challenges from our Winter Wednesday Outdoor Hour Challenge Book

    Our Winter Wednesday ebook and accompanying course has lots of other wintery nature topics to explore in your homeschool:

    • Challenge 2 – Snow
    • Challenge 3 – Winter Star Constellations – this would tie in beautifully with the story of the wise men from the east as they followed the star to find Jesus in the stable at Bethlehem!
    • Challenge 4 – Trees: Silhouettes
    • Challenge 5 – Trees: Cones
    • Challenge 6 – Winter Weeds
    • Challenge 7 – Winter Insects
    • Challenge 8 – Birds
    • Challenge 9 – Mammals
    How about a festive homeschool nature study this winter? Now is the perfect time to include some themed nature crafts and studies in your homeschool.
    Please be sure to share photos of your nature time with us! Use the hashtag #OutdoorHourChallenge when sharing so we won’t miss your photos!

    A Homeschool Nature Study Membership For Helpful Tips Year Round!

    Our members’ Outdoor Hour Challenges for January will come from the Winter Wednesday ebook and course. If you would like to join our nature study membership then please visit the link below to join – we would love to have you along.

    Members also now have a printable plan for the upcoming year for guided nature study – January 2022 to August 2022. We will be following highlighted challenges from the Winter Wednesday, Spring, Summer and the Garden books and courses.

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study membership Now
    An image showing the full collection of Nature Study courses

    Connect With Our Homeschool Community On Social Media

    Did you enjoy this Outdoor Hour Challenge? Be sure to tag us on Instagram @outdoorhourchallenge and use the hashtag #outdoorhourchallenge so we can see and comment!

    Outdoor Hour Hostess Shirley lives in Chester, England and blogs at Building A Household of Faith where she writes about homeschooling the Charlotte Mason way, nature study and encouraging homeschooling moms in their great charter as Christian wives, mothers and keepers of the home. She also hand-dyes yarn in her home studio Under An English Sky, which is inspired by the English countryside and of the great living books she and her family enjoyed over their homeschooling journey. No doubt you will be sure to recognise some of the names of her yarn from literary childhood favourites!

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    7 Top Tips For Using The Handbook Of Nature Study In Your Homeschool

    Have you ever wondered how to use The Handbook of Nature Study? Does one look at it have you feeling completely overwhelmed? Here are 7 top tips to help you use The Handbook Of Nature Study In Your Homeschool.

    The Handbook Of Nature Study: Perfect For Your Homeschool

    This is a BIG book and can be a little intimidating!

    Don’t worry, I felt the same way which is why I want to share how The Handbook of Nature Study might be helpful in your homeschool.

    Don't be put off using the Handbook of Nature Study, read our top tips on how to use the handbook of nature study in your homeschool.

    The Pros And Cons Of Using The Handbook Of Nature Study As A Guide In your Homeschool

    What made me not want to use this book before:

    • 1. Size-over 800 pages doesn’t transport well in my backpack
    • 2. Black and white photos
    • 3. I was trying to use it as a field guide.
    • 4. I wanted to just start at the front and work my way to the back like a “regular” book.
    • 5. I thought it would take too much time to use this book in our nature study because of the size and the sheer volume of information.

    The Benefits Of Using The Handbook Of Nature Study As A Resource In Your Homeschool

    Here are some thoughts that I have now that I took the plunge and started using this wonderful book:

    • 1. Read the pages at the beginning of the book that talks generally about nature study.
    • 2. Pick a topic to focus on and read the introductory pages for that section only. We are focusing on insects this term but you can pick anything that seems appropriate for your family. You could change your focus each season if you wanted to. 3. Take the time after your nature walk to look up things that you saw on that nature walk. I turn to the table of contents and just scan down the list and see if I can find what I want to research. For instance, you might have seen a honeybee and it is very easy to skim down and find honeybee and turn right to those few pages.
    • 4. Read the small section (usually 1 or 2 pages) that pertain to that object or creature.
    • 5. Write in the book……gasp. Yes, write in the book as you go along to highlight the little bits of information that you want to share with your children.
    • 6. If you don’t have time after your nature walk to look something up and share it right then, research it in the Handbook before your next nature study session and then share it the next time.
    • 7. Realize that nature study is a lifelong project, or at least I think it should be. You don’t need to cover every aspect of everything you find.
    Tips for Using the Handbook of Nature Study

    Making Homeschool Nature Study Easy And Effective

    Anna Botsford Comstock suggests that nature study be only 10 minutes to half an hour in length. (page 6) I am finding this is a wonderful way to spend a few minutes outside with my boys each day….yes we are committing to 10-60 minutes outside per day. We all feel so much more refreshed and it has actually helped us be more focused when we are doing our indoor homeschooling.

    If you’re not a member here on the Handbook of Nature Study yet, please consider joining to gain the benefit of having a nature study library at your fingertips. There are numerous resources available for you to help create the habit of nature study within your family.

    Join the Homeschool Nature Study Membership Now!