Nature Study Encouragement for the “Indoorsy”
From Desiree Salcido, Support Specialist
For anyone who prefers the comforts of home, the idea of nature study may feel challenging. But Charlotte Mason’s philosophy offers many ways to cultivate a love for nature, even if you're more “indoorsy” or if you struggle with the concept of nature study in general. We encourage you to get outdoors when you can, but here are a few simple ways to bring nature study into your weekly rhythm if getting outside doesn’t come easy to you:
- Bring nature inside: Gather small treasures like rocks, leaves, or flowers and set up a “nature display” at home. Observing nature close-up can be both easy and enriching.
- Observe through your window: Set up a bird feeder outside your window, keep binoculars handy, and let your students observe birds or changing skies from inside.
- Read living books: Dive into nature-inspired books like the awesome Nature Lore books recommended in our Community Read Alouds list which you can find in the Grades 1-3 Literature/Grades 4+ Citizenship lesson plans.
- Journal indoors: Nature journaling can be done indoors! After a quick walk, use collected leaves or flowers as subjects to sketch indoors. Or look up an animal or insect you are learning about online for pictures to draw inspiration from.
- Virtual learning: Explore webcams and documentaries to experience nature digitally. Try live webcams in national parks or the Planet Earth series for inspiration.
- Quick walks: A short walk outside to look at a flower, cloud, or even the sunset can build an appreciation for nature. It can be simple and sweet but still have a great impact. Visit the same small patch of grass each day and search for changes or visitors. It is amazing all that happens in one small square of yard!
- Learn on your own: If you aren’t naturally gifted with things of the outdoors, take the time to learn about plants and animals in your area. When you do go for a nature walk, however short, you will feel more confident in pointing things out or answering questions from your students.
Even a brief, simple nature study routine can inspire a lifelong love for the outdoors! Hopefully, these simple steps will lead to a love for nature and encourage you to spend even more time outside. Don’t forget about the amazing Outdoor Work resource that has amazing tips and ideas for nature study throughout the year, you can find it in the Quick Links section of your science course lesson plans. We hope these resources are helpful!
Notes:
- 2026 CMI Conference: In a distracted age, we are gathering to slow down, pay attention, and be faithfully present. Join us July 23–25, 2026, in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. Learn more here!
- BINGO: Thanks to everyone who played along. We hope you enjoy your sticker! And congratulations to Ashley B., the winner of a 2026 Conference ticket!
- Classical Learning Test: Alveary families can now receive a discount on the Classical Learning Test (CLT) - perfect for those in states that require testing for homeschool students. Use code CMI25 when purchasing assessments online. This code will activate 25% off all assessments including lower grade (CLT3-8), CLT10 and CLT.
- In the Company of Ideas: During March, we will be discussing The Fool and the Heretic over in the Hive. We would love for you to join the conversation!
- Student Showcase: Creating is a big part of a Charlotte Mason education, from handicrafts and poems to artwork, compositions, and lab reports. If your student would like to share their work with the CM community, please upload it here and watch for CMI blogs featuring collections of work over the coming months!
- Compassion Grant: Struggling with curriculum costs? Applicants who receive an HSLDA Compassion Grant can purchase Alveary membership at a greatly reduced price or receive a discount on individual subjects in our store.
