Nature study is a Charlotte Mason educational practice where children learn science foundations through regular, direct observation of the natural world outdoors, creating personal connections with nature before formal science instruction.
What is Nature Study?
Nature study is the practice of learning science through direct, regular contact with the natural world rather than through textbooks or classroom instruction. Charlotte Mason considered it foundational to science education, providing firsthand experience with living things before introducing abstract scientific concepts. The approach emphasizes observation, wonder, and personal relationship with nature over memorization of facts.
Key Takeaways
- Foundation for later formal science, not a replacement for it
- Emphasizes direct observation over book learning
- Follows seasonal and local focus rather than prescribed curriculum
- Anna Botsford Comstock's 1911 Handbook of Nature Study remains the classic resource
- Creates first-hand knowledge contributing to future studies
Nature Study vs. Formal Science
Why Nature Study Isn't Enough
Charlotte Mason never intended nature study to replace formal science. You cannot observe chemistry reactions, understand electricity, or study astronomy through nature walks alone. Science education in her schools included living books on scientific topics alongside nature study. Nature study provides the observational foundation and interest in the natural world that makes formal science meaningful. Without it, science becomes abstract facts disconnected from experience.
The Handbook of Nature Study
Anna Botsford Comstock published her Handbook of Nature Study in 1911, and it remains the definitive resource for nature study over a century later. Available free online through the Internet Archive or in print for around $30, the book provides background information on insects, birds, animals, plants, and more. Parents don't need natural science expertise - Comstock wrote specifically for teachers without specialized knowledge. Living Book Press has updated editions with color photographs.
Practical Implementation
Most Charlotte Mason families schedule nature time once or twice weekly, weather permitting. Go outside without agenda, observe what presents itself, and record in nature journals. Study what you find - if butterflies appear, learn about butterflies. If rocks interest your children, examine rocks. Some families follow rotation schedules: reptiles one season, wildflowers the next. The key is consistent outdoor observation with recording, not following a prescribed order of topics.
The Bottom Line
Nature study teaches children to observe carefully and wonder about the natural world, skills that make formal science education meaningful later. It requires nothing but regular outdoor time and attention. The Handbook of Nature Study provides all the background knowledge parents need. Many families overthink nature study when the practice itself is simple: go outside, look closely, record what you see. Years of this simple practice create scientifically minded children.
