Through the study of nature a child learns appreciation and understanding of natural processes and, most especially, keen observational skills. To stand quietly and observe an animal or plant and then to draw its likeness or describe it to an adult, develops clear thought, communication and sensitivity.
Besides improved skills of observation nature study offers inspiration, refreshment, and joyous delight. These are no small things for a child to experience. These special times outdoors sow into their young hearts strength for the future.
How do I teach my child about nature if I don't know myself?
It is easier than you might imagine.
Handbook of Nature Study by Anna Botsford Comstock is a consummate guide to nature study. It is far more than a reference book for looking up the name of a bird or plant.
Handbook of Nature Study is a guided exploration into almost any of nature's wonders of which you can think. Each topic has an overview, suggestions for observation, a "leading thought" which explains what your child (and you) should grasp from your study and suggestions for follow-up questions and activities.
Be sure to read the opening chapter on the teaching of nature study. It has many helpful suggestions for ensuring the experience is a good one.
Handbook of Nature Study also gives nature poems, and activities to follow a time of study. One of my favorite is directions for building a home for slugs.
Planning a nature walk When planning your once or twice a-week nature study, read ahead of time about the particular topic, or simply take the book with you. Use the index to find the topic you need. Comstock's book is remarkably universal even if you do not live in a temperate zone, as many of the studies are of nature plants and animals found the world over (dandelions, slugs, birds, stars, etc.). You can also plan your nature study year-by-year using the table of contents as an overview for the elementary years. For example, the early years can focus on plants, animals and insects to be found in the yard or nearby woods; the later elementary years can focus on such topics as birds of prey, astronomy or weather. Or each of these topics can be studied twice, the second time giving more time to independent study.
Is time outdoors the same as nature study?Time in the out-of-doors and nature study are related but not the same. Charlotte Mason taught that a child thrives by spending many hours in the out-of-doors exploring, playing, imagining. During this time there is much learning taking place. However, nature study is a time for focused looking, usually directed by the parent. Schedule a nature study once or twice a week for no longer than 20-45 minutes, depending on the child's age. This includes the time of observation and an entry into your child's nature journal. Of course, if there is interest, your child can be encouraged to do more than this.
Most of all
Most of all, take time to enjoy nature study yourself. Your children will take their cue from you. If you are learning and delighting in your learning, he will too.
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