Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Nature Study: Getting Started

Although last week went smashingly, we did not get a chance to go for a nature walk.
The kids play outside constantly but it is nice to set out together with the goal of "finding something interesting" (as Piper would say!).
Today, the weather was lovely so we nabbed the opportunity!
We're following the Handbook of Nature Study Getting Started Challenges and the very first one states: 

Charlotte Mason knew what she was talking about when it came to nature study. Somehow in our modern life we have forgotten the simple pleasures of outdoor time. For this challenge, just go for a walk. Don't worry about taking any tools or supplies with you. Enjoy the outdoors and your children and then spend some time talking about your experiences together.

So simple!
Too often I make such things more complicated and stressful than they need to be!
We set out for a nice afternoon walk down our street and then down another that leads to an open space where there are lots for sale.
Nothing too crazy or difficult but the girls made some great discoveries and had a fantastic time!

We found caterpillars.



And beetles that were too quick for me to catch with the camera!


Specific plants caught Piper's eye.
I quite liked this one too!
I'm not sure what it is yet although I have been searching...
Something in the willow family perhaps?
At the very least I think those fuzzy little things are called catkins!


Daisies are always attractive!


We came across a multitude of deer tracks!


This was pretty exciting and Piper knew that it belonged to a deer right away!


Pipe just stood here and took it all in for awhile.
Then she turned to me and said, "Mom, it's beautiful!"
I think that just may be the point of nature study...


Many items were gathered on our nature walk and added to our nature tray.
It makes for a nice centerpiece at our kitchen table and a great conversation starter!


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