We haven’t followed a formal plan for nature-based homeschool lessons in our homeschool but more of an unschool approach to spending time outside. We take an unschool approach to most of our subjects. Being in nature has many health benefits – mental and physical, as well as cognitive development. I think it is important for our kids to be outside in all weather, each season, all year long experiencing nature.
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To think about adding an other element to your homeschool day or plans but I think it cane be a lot more relaxing than that. Thought there are different, amazing, options to choose from for a more guided way to include nature studies in your homeschool.
Nature-Based Homeschool
This is something that has been growing in popularity over the past few years as parents are interested in children’s connection with nature and harnessing its benefits for their educational development.
Forest school are popping up for all ages. I would have loved to have had something like these for kids when we lived out west. Now I can’t keep my kids in the house.
What is Natured-Based Learning?
Nature-based learning, or learning through exposure to nature and nature-based activities. It occurs in natural settings and where elements of nature have been brought into built environments, such as plants, animals, and water.
How to Get Started in Nature Based Homeschooling
Start by getting outside in every season. Winters can be hard, the cold is not everyone’s favorite thing, I for one really struggle with it, but we still make a point of getting outside everyday.
There are some amazing books you may want to check out to help you get started with nature based homeschooling. I often use books of this nature as a jumping off point. A way to kick my brain into high gear, get the ideas flowing.
Gardening – fruit, vegetable, or flower. All are get options for learning about plants growing in nature.
Bugs – build a bug hotel. I’ll be the first to say I don’t do bugs, but there are quite a few insects that are quite useful to us.
Playing with Natural things – do you make mud pies? How about building with old sticks and/or logs? Let your imagination be free. Playing outside grows resilience, self-confidence, initiative, creativity and more.
Similar posts you may be interested in:
Why We Garden in Our Homeschool
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