Simple Nature Study Walk


"Our wise mother, arrived, first sends the children to let off their spirits in a wild scamper, with cry, hallo, and hullaballo, and any extravagance that comes into their young heads."Charlotte Mason, Vol 1, II, Out-Of-Door Life For The Children, p.45


After a bit of getting their energy out, they can then find what interests them on that day. If they don't notice anything after a while, I will point out something, but I do like to go with their own interests as much as possible because then it has real meaning to them.

"The child, though under supervision, should be left much to himself--both that he may go to work in his own way on the ideas that he receives, and also that he may be the more open to natural influences."
(Vol 1, Part V Lessons As Instruments Of Education, p.178)

Today's interest was the dogs down the street from us. They loved stopping and petting them and spent quite awhile at it.
Some might not realize that this too can be nature study, if they are paying close attention to them.

You can ask some simple questions or make small comments to direct their attention to the dog's temperament or physical features, but is not always necessary.

It also fosters a respect and love for other creatures.
"Be sure that your children each day have something to love, something to do and something to think about."
-Charlotte Mason

Some things, like the flower, won't last but most things can be kept for quite awhile.

We have a dish in which we keep the finds of the day. This encourages them to gather what they fancy on any particular day.
They are often looked at and commented on as they make observations.
Sometimes these finds turn into a more serious collection, but meanwhile it is enjoyed by all.

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