I ntroducing our newest column, The Art of Nature Study! Each issue will feature an article by Tricia Hodges about either art or nature study. These two subjects really do go hand-in-hand. Learning doesn’t fit into neat little boxes, so combining them is a wonderful way to show your children how connected everything really is!

With both art and nature study, children develop observational skills and eyes to see the beauty around them. Drawing, painting, and chalk pastels give kids a creative way to fill their nature journals with flowers, trees, birds, and more.

Tricia begins with the most “natural” place to start by answering the question, “How can I build a habit of nature study in our homeschool?”

If you have wanted to start a meaningful study of nature but get overwhelmed with all the programs and methods, there’s a simple answer:

The key is to study one thing at a time and slowly build the habit of being outside through some interesting topics and relaxed adventures.

This has worked for many families over the years: Study just…

• One Tree
• One Bird
• One Flower
• One Insect
• One Mammal

during the homeschool school year. You can choose three of these to start with or do all five; it’s up to you!

Slowly, gradually, gently… it works! This way of structuring a bare-bones nature study keeps the pressure off as you begin to pursue regular nature study. Working through the study of one subject at a time builds confidence and knowledge in a way that isn’t overwhelming.

This method is sustainable over the years. In my family, I have seen the study of nature closest to us build a love of things that seem common, but on closer inspection, are rather remarkable. Dandelions and oak trees spring to mind as examples of studies we did and gained a new appreciation for their design and beauty.

You can apply this idea to any areas of nature study that you wish. You can try a reptile or a fungus or a constellation. The beauty of easing into nature study with your children is that you can follow their interests.