Nature Study is the firsthand observation of nature. Charlotte Mason tells us that there is no part of a child’s education more important than that he should lay, by his own observation, a wide basis of facts towards scientific knowledge in the future.
Much time spent out of doors each day in all weather and in different environments is necessary for students of all ages. For children younger than six school time should consist primarily of time spent outside. He must live hours daily in the open air, and, as far as possible, in the country; must look and touch and listen; must be quick to note, consciously, every peculiarity of habit or structure, in beast, bird, or insect; the manner of growth and fructification of every plant. He must be accustomed to ask why — Why does the wind blow? Why does the river flow? Why is a leaf-bud sticky? And do not hurry to answer his questions for him; let him think his difficulties out so far as his small experience will carry him. (HE, pg. 264)
In the younger grades, science, too is taught through nature study and in the upper grades through “living” science books, and first hand experiences.
