Our Version of Nature Study

We probably do Nature study a bit differently than the typical AO family. But I am perfectly ok with that. From what I have read, I have learned that most AO families use Handbook of Nature Study, which we do not. I remember purchasing that book, and waiting excitedly for it arrive (I had heard nothing but rants and raves about it), only to be seriously disappointed in it when it got here. Why was I disappointed, you ask? In a word: boring. B.O.R.I.N.G. 

So I came up with our own Nature study, and even though we might be venturing out of the typical AO "box", it works for us!  :)

Here's a sample of what we've been up to...

We have been studying fall flowers since the school year began. First, we studied Chicory, then Mullein, Thistle, Goldenrod, and lastly, Marigold.

That's what we studied, and here's how we studied them. First, we scour the farm, locate and gather the "specimens" (my children love that scientific term - lol).

Then we bring them inside and sketch...

 (Asher sketching Chicory.)

While the children sketch (and I occasionally get in on the sketching, too), we discuss the medicinal properties and health benefits of that particular plant. And needless to say, the past several weeks have proven to be very informative! 

I believe that the Lord has given us plants for our benefit, and that we just need to do a little bit of  research to find out how much "natural medicine" we have in our very own backyard. I would much rather have natural remedies than convention ones anyway. We were amazed at all the wonderful things we learned about plants that most people consider weeds, or just simple flowers to be looked at, and nothing else.

For example, did you know that Marigolds are wonderful for treating minor burns, allergic reactions, eczema, and bruising? Even better, marigolds are known to be effective against colon, leukemia, and melanoma cancer cells! (source: www.home-remedies-for-you.com/herbs/marigold.html ) Wow!

Ok, back to sketching..

When the sketches are finished, the children list the medicinal/herbal information on their paper, like this..

There you have it: our take on Nature study. It's probably a far cry from the way most CM'ers do it, but I am pretty sure Miss Mason would give it her stamp of approval.  ;)

What about you, friends? How do you do Nature study?

~"And God said, 'See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face on the earth...' "  ~Genesis 1:29a