The Importance of the Study of Nature

I am really beginning to realize the importance of having an in-depth understanding of nature.  I guess I never realized that loving nature is such a large catalyst for future science.  It makes sense, though, when you think about it.  All of science, whether biology, chemistry, or physics, stem from the simple things found in nature.

Above and beyond the higher science courses, however, is the very fact that God created this world.  To be close to His creation, and to study and learn about its intricacies, will only help us be closer to God... if only because we can see how amazing His creation truly is.

My girls have not had a lot of nature study time.  That saddens me.  Now, with winter coming, I fear the opportunities for the year are limited.  However, I am a determined soul.  Soon Laura will be moving into levels of science that are more challenging.  Without a firm foundation in nature, I fear that she just won't get the higher levels.  Oh, she may be able to recall the facts well, but will she truly understand and appreciate what she is studying?

The rest of this year, to really accentuate our science studies, we are going to put a heavy focus on nature studies.  Our outside time may be a bit limited until warmer, spring weather arrives, though I do want to get outside in the winter too.  However, I have discovered that there is a whole world of living books for nature.  Some of them are relatively easy for my daughter.  I won't let that deter me though.

For instance, James Herriot's Treasury for Children is a wonderful collection of animal stories.  It is recommended in several curricula.  It's usually recommended to be read to the child when they are just beginning school.  I realized that I owned the book, and have decided to have Laura read it.  It may still be a bit under her reading level, though one site I visited has it listed in the 9-12 year old range.  All that I cared about is that the wonderful stories might take Laura into a world of nature.

A strong base in nature studies is a solid science foundation.  So many children today have no clue about nature.  They don't know trees or insects or plants.  Except for the brief periods of time when they might study them in school for a week or two, children usually don't get more deep than a rock collection or seed collection for elementary school.   Ironically, most children love to study the world around them.  They want to know about animals.  They want to look at the different leaves on different kinds of trees.  Their curiosity is killed by the lack of exposure, not only from being able to spend hours outside, but by reading books that dull the wonder of creation.

This week is supposed to be nice outside.  Both Laura and Megan have strep throat.  We had a total sick day today for doctor's visits and recovery time.  I am hoping that later in the week we can go outside and enjoy some nature time.