Why you need Nature Walks in your Homeschool
Nature walks are an integral part of the Charlotte Mason method of homeschooling. Some reasons why it should be a regular part of your homeschool is:
- Getting outdoors for fresh air and open spaces
- Connecting with nature and God
- Opportunity for exercise and movement
- Observation and science related learning
- Mental wellbeing and feelings of wonder and peace
- Reduced anxiety, negative thoughts and sadness
- Better immune system so less likely to get ill
Nature has an amazing overall benefit to our general wellbeing and health. It also incorporated learning in a fun and engaging way. Children who don't enjoy sitting in one place for long, nature walks are perfect for them! Visual and kinaesthetic learners will thrive in the environment of nature.
Ideal Locations for a Nature Walk
You can start off in your back garden if it's big enough or if you have one.
Other places are:
- Local parks
- Fields
- Friends and families garden
- Country parks
- Public gardens
- Farms
What to do on Nature Walks?
It can be as simple or structured as you like depending on your homeschool approach. For complete flexibility and natural learning- go with the flow, see what interests your child and let them simply enjoy being in nature. You can always come home and reflect on what they enjoyed and learned.
For a bit more structure or goal-oriented learning, have simple learning objectives planned beforehand. Some items you may need:
- Clipboard, paper and pen
- Bug catching kit
- binoculars
- magnifying glass
Nature walks are perfect for sensory and hand on learning. Encourage your child to observe, touch and interact with findings such as grass, trees, flowers, insects (carefully using bug catcher tools), water, and anything else that peaks their interest. There's no wrong way to do this, most important of all is to enjoy the experience.
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