In this episode of “Your Morning Basket,” host Pam Barnhill and co-host Heather Tully, a mom of ten and a veteran morning time homeschooler, discuss the enriching experience of nature study. Parents will discover the benefits of incorporating nature study into their homeschool routine, learning how it can foster observation skills, connect children with science in a vivid and approachable way, and significantly benefit mental wellness by encouraging outdoor time.

This episode covers practical tips for making nature study a seamless part of morning time, including building drawing and watercoloring skills as well as choosing specific topics for deeper exploration. Listen in for inspiring strategies to bring the wonders of the natural world into your homeschool.

Key Takeaways:

• Nature study in homeschooling encourages children to observe and connect with science in a tangible and engaging way.
• Integrating nature study into morning time can be achieved through skill-building activities like drawing and watercoloring, and by focusing on thematic studies such as rocks or evergreens.
• Even without venturing outdoors, nature study can be effectively conducted at the table with resources like nature lore books and magnifying glasses for closer observation.
• Consistency in nature study can be fostered by forming groups for regular nature walks, thereby making the practice a communal and anticipated event.
• Nature study not only deepens child's understanding of the natural world but also promotes mental well-being by encouraging them to spend time outside, observing and appreciating their surroundings.

Links and Resources

• Your Morning Basket+
• Gather: Exploring the Wonder, Wisdom & Worship of Learning at Home
• Heather Tully Photography
• Eyes and No Eyes: Volume 1
• Among the Meadow People
• The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling by John Muir Laws
• Circle of Seasons; The Journal of a Naturalist's Year
• Simply Charlotte Mason

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb150

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Confidently Homeschool High School—You’re Not Alone

Feeling the pressure of homeschooling high school? Navigating High School is here to walk with you through the overwhelm. Join Pam Barnhill and a team of experienced homeschool moms as they help you tackle your biggest fears, answer the toughest questions, and equip you with practical tools—like a transcript generator, expert interviews, and a private podcast. This live course starts April 7th, and doors close April 4th. Don’t miss the bonus Q&As—head to pambarnhill.com/navigating to join today!

Navigating High School