Nature Journal Struggles

Yesterday a small group of Charlotte Mason homeschoolers visited the Audubon Naturalist Society in Chevy Chase. We tramped around the woods, collecting small items for our nature journals. The children were naturals at noticing things around them and taking the time to draw and record in their journals. It was so easy. Why have I made it so hard?

I've been struggling to integrate meaningful nature journaling in our studies for years. It has been hit-or-miss at best. A few times I've been absorbed in a drawing and thought how much I want this to grow, both for myself and my children, but somehow it gets squeezed out.

Almost ten years ago, I purchased a book in hopes of keeping a nature journal.

Keeping a Nature Journal: Discover a Whole New Way of Seeing the World Around You by Clare Walker Leslie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My 2008 review: Reading some of Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy inspired me to try to capture the natural world on paper -- ideas, impressions, and sketches. It's surprising the amount of nature you can find in your own backyard and by walking down the street! I hope to make this a continuing project with my kids for years to come.

This is a great resource. I sketched our bird feeder this afternoon and incorporated several ideas from Ms. Leslie's book. The struggle continues.