Nature study is the wonder and curiosity of the natural world. All subjects converge here, where children cultivate a love of color, sound, movement, and companionship of the living things surrounding them.
Childhood has changed since I was a child of the 70’s and 80’s. We spent all our hours out-of-doors that we were not in school. Shoes were optional and we were only allowed inside if we needed to use the bathroom.
Today, statistics show that children spend about seven hours each day indoors on a device of some kind. This leaves little to no time outside for fresh air, free time or exercise. Children are missing a vital component of their day,
unstructured outdoor play.
The indoor movement has created an impact on children and the future of nature for generations. If we have never been taught to love, appreciate, or get out in nature, why would we want to protect it?
My goal is to inspire you to take small steps to work nature study into your routine. Eventually allowing your children one hour a day, at least, of time to wonder, explore and imagine outdoors.
Along the way, I hope you, the parent, will begin to see the benefit for yourselves as well.
Children have a natural curiosity to explore the world around them. However, sometimes they need a nudge to see things they might otherwise miss. They may become bored quickly or reluctant if nature is not a big part of their routine. Give it time and try a few simple tips to get them moving and outside.
The Bubble Effect
Bubbles are my favorite way to get kids outside. Here are a few reasons why:
each one is different
the colors are just like a rainbow
light makes the colors swirl and change
some bubbles are big, small, stick together and pop
they can stay close or travel far
Using bubbles to start nature study will attract children of all ages together in one spot. This will allow them to get their energy out by chasing a few bubbles then coming back for the lesson. You can use bubbles each time for your nature study as a signal that you are beginning an activity or, use it as a way to end the lesson and bring everyone back together.
How does chasing bubbles help children focus on a lesson?
Start them out by chasing the bubbles.
Then, have them look for different sizes of bubbles.
Next, have them count the bubbles.
Now, ask them to look for the different colors in the bubbles.
Last, catch one bubble and study its shape, color and movement.
You have started them off wide in getting out energy. Then you slowly bring them into a specific focus that will bring them back closer to you. They can now re-direct their focus on a new task with excitement and curiosity.
Use the bubble effect if getting out-of-doors is new to your family or just a fun way to begin a new adventure. Bubbles are also a great way to relieve the stresses of the day for everyone in the house!