our first experience with nature journaling

On Wednesday (1.12.22), the kids and I went to a nearby park and met with our homeschool group to learn about nature journaling.

Of course, it was more in depth than my littles could retain – but the basic message was

get outside. take time outside. draw, trace, etc. what you see and keep it in a special place for you to look back on.

Rylie decided to focus on drawing a tree. She originally asked me to draw it for her, but I encouraged her to try it on her own and she did a terrific job!

I had packed clipboards and markers for the girls and after we had listened to our fellow homeschool mama, we decided to walk around the park.

It turned out to be a great prompt to get some time outside and cultivate a new (favorite) activity for our crew.

I was very thankful for the prompt and inspiration!

The next day, we took a walk around our property with Daddy and brought him in on our nature journaling.

Aaron pointed out a variety of tracks (deer of various sizes, fox and dog) and showed us where / how a buck rubbed his antlers against a tree.

Since this practice has become such a huge hit with our crew, I contemplated getting a journal / sketchbook for each kiddo to keep their nature drawings in. But after some more thought, I decided I’m going to get 3-ring-binders and hole punch their work. Maybe even add a few page protectors for random leaves or other treasures they might want to keep.

I also want to make a note of this because I always want to be real and share what was going on behind these seemingly picture-perfect moments. AT THE PARK, a member of our crew (no one shall be named) lost their shoes in the car (which eventually were found), was cranky, disobedient, disciplined, had a potty accident and took their shoes off on the playground… guys. hahahah it was ridiculous.

But, like I said, I walked away thankful for the prompt to nature journal and inspiration.

Have you done nature journaling?

Are you inspired to try it out?

One Reply to “our first experience with nature journaling”

  1. Laura Thomas says:

    I love the backstories and having their words describing the drawing noted in quotes with the drawing or on the back. Treasures!

Comments are closed.