For a long time, nature study was an overlooked and often neglected treasure in my homeschool. I loved the idea of it, but in the day to day it just seemed like one more thing on our never ending list of learning needs.I loved the idea of it and envied the families who seemed to spend so much time appreciating Creation as a cornerstone of their homeschools. I was willing, but how to actually do it is what felt difficult in the day to day.
Over the years, as we’ve gotten more and more practice with nature study in our family, I have learned first hand how valuable an integrated approach to nature study can be.
The benefits of integrating nature study into your homeschool art and academics
Cultivates Curiosity
When children observe a leaf changing color or a bird building a nest, they naturally begin asking questions—“Why does that leaf turn red?” or “How does the bird know how to build a nest?” Nature study taps into this curiosity, encouraging independent thinking and a deep desire to understand the world around them.
Hands-On Learning
Unlike textbooks or screens, nature study is a tactile, multi-sensory experience. Children learn by touching, smelling, observing, and exploring. This hands-on approach makes concepts come to life, increasing scientific understanding of ecosystems, weather patterns, plant growth and so much more.
Fosters Critical Thinking and Observation Skills
In nature study, children learn to observe details, notice patterns, and make connections. This kind of practice translates to other subjects, whether it’s science, art, or even literature. Developing the ability to observe carefully and think critically is a vital skill that can be applied to any area of life.
Increases Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Time spent in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and boost overall well-being. For our children, it can offer a break from traditional learning methods and allow them to engage with the world in a peaceful, calming way. Nature walks, outdoor journals and sketching, or even quiet observation can give kids a healthy mental reset.
Integrates Learning Across Subjects
Nature study naturally integrates various subjects. Whether it’s math (counting seeds, measuring tree height), science (understanding plant life cycles, animal behavior), or art (sketching, nature journaling), there are countless opportunities to link nature exploration with academics, making learning rich and interconnected.
Weave Nature Study Into Your Homeschool Lessons Today
Because I have seen firsthand how incredibly valuable this can be, we have incorporated nature study into much of what we offer, both in free resources and in our Ultimate Clubhouse!
For example, this lesson incorporates literature, art and nature study to provide your children with engaging, well-rounded, integrated learning.
- An Example of Nature Study Woven Into Literature and Art
- The Beauty of Art and Nature Study in Your Homeschool
- A Pond Nature Study Your Kids Will Love!
- Online Art Lessons Perfect for Nature Journaling
We also offer a combined You ARE an ARTiST Complete Clubhouse membership, Fine Arts Membership AND Homeschool Nature Study ultimate option. Let us do all the legwork so you can enjoy seamless, integrated learning in your homeschool.
From the beauty of creation around us to your child’s simple artwork on the page, remember…You ARE an ARTiST!
Shawna Wingert is a special education teacher turned writer, speaker and consultant. She is also a homeschooling mom of two brilliant boys with differences and special needs. Shawna has written four books for parents – Everyday Autism, Special Education at Home, Parenting Chaos and her latest, Homeschooling Your Child With Special Needs. She helps parents of children with learning differences, behavioral challenges and special needs every day at DifferentByDesignLearning.com.