Nature Study is learning about science through direct experiences with the natural world. It's about observation and connection, rather than just memorizing facts.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. Most homeschool families report completing core academic subjects in 3-4 hours per day for elementary students, compared to the 6-7 hours typical of traditional schools, due to the one-on-one instruction and absence of classroom management overhead (NHERI, 2024).
What is nature study?
Nature Study is all about learning science by being outside and interacting with nature. Instead of reading textbooks, kids observe the world around them. Charlotte Mason believed this hands-on approach is essential for science education. It helps kids connect with living things before diving into complex scientific ideas. The focus is on observation and curiosity, not just memorizing information.
Why nature study isn't enough
Charlotte Mason didn't mean for Nature Study to replace formal science classes. You can’t learn about chemical reactions, electricity, or astronomy just by walking in nature. In her schools, they used living books along with Nature Study. This combination helps kids build a foundation for understanding formal science. Without Nature Study, science can feel disconnected and just like a bunch of abstract facts.
The handbook of nature study
Anna Botsford Comstock published her Handbook of Nature Study in 1911, and it’s still a go-to resource today. You can find it for free online or buy a printed version for about $30. This book covers insects, birds, plants, and more. You don’t need to be a science expert to use it — Comstock wrote it for teachers without specialized knowledge. Updated editions from Living Book Press even include color photos.
Practical implementation
Most families following the Charlotte Mason method set aside time for Nature Study once or twice a week, weather permitting. Just go outside and see what you can find. Keep a nature journal to record your observations. If you spot butterflies, learn about them. If your kids are curious about rocks, explore that topic. Some families rotate topics by season, like studying reptiles one time and wildflowers another. The key is to observe regularly and record what you see.
The bottom line
Nature Study teaches kids to observe and appreciate the world around them. These skills make formal science education much more meaningful later on. All it takes is some regular outdoor time and curiosity. The Handbook of Nature Study gives parents all the info they need. Many families complicate Nature Study when it’s really simple: go outside, look closely, and write down what you see. Over time, this practice helps kids develop a scientific mindset.
