Did you know that some trees can live for thousands of years? Or that birds can often be identified by their song before you ever spot them? Amazing discoveries are waiting in every backyard, park, and nature trail. You just need to know where to look!
In our Backyard Naturalists Family Unit Study, you’ll slow down, look closely, and discover the incredible world that exists just beyond your doorstep. Through hands-on activities, you’ll learn to observe nature like a scientist, identify plants and animals, record your discoveries in a field journal, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you.
Below, I’m sharing the 10 topics included in the unit study along with some of the fun activities you’ll get to experience together!
What is a Family Unit Study?
But first… what exactly is a Family Unit Study?
This unit study, like all of our ever-growing library of unit studies, takes one big theme—Nature—and breaks it down into ten manageable, bite-sized learning topics filled with engaging activities for kids. This format gives you the freedom to dive into learning at a pace that works for your family. Perhaps you do one topic per day, perhaps one per week. Whatever suits your fancy! You can learn about nature and explore a topic from start to finish in about 1-2 hours each.
Dive in and watch the sparks of wonder ignite. Watch the child-led learning take off. Watch what happens when children are engaged in what they are learning!
Each of the 10 topics includes:
- an interesting fact,
- a discussion question,
- informative information,
- a curated YouTube video,
- a recommended book,
- a math or literacy enrichment question (with three difficulty levels),
- and an ultimate-can’t-be-beat hands-on activity!
Plus, all subjects are covered across the 10 topics! Geography, History, Science, Social Studies, Music, Art, Health, Literacy, and Math.
When everything connects across subjects, learning just makes more sense. Kids remember more, understand better, and actually enjoy the process. It’s the kind of learning that really sticks. 🙌
Before we head outside and begin exploring the wonders of the natural world, I wanted to share a little something to make your homeschool days just a bit easier (because we all need that, right?).
Our Mini Homeschool Toolbox is a simple, go-to resource filled with helpful printables – like math charts, number lines, and writing supports – to keep your days organized and your lessons running smoothly.
It’s completely free and so handy to have on hand as you move through your homeschool routine. Simply enter your email address below, and a copy will be instantly delivered to your inbox.
Backyard Naturalists Unit Study for Kids
Let’s take a more detailed look at what you can expect with the Backyard Naturalists Family Unit Study. Below are the 10 topics and some examples of the hands-on activities you will enjoy:
Topic #1: What is Nature?
What comes to mind when you think of nature? In this topic, you will discover that nature is all around you, from towering trees and colorful flowers to buzzing bees and singing birds. The fun continues with a Five Senses Nature Walk, where you’ll explore the outdoors and experience nature in a whole new way.
Topic #2: Using a Field Journal
Scientists don’t just make observations; they record them! Learn how field journals help naturalists document discoveries, spot patterns, and track changes in the world around them. Then, you’ll create your very own field journal to use throughout this unit study. It will be a special place to collect sketches, notes, and discoveries from all your outdoor adventures.
Topic #3: Colors in Nature
Have you ever stopped to notice just how colorful nature can be? Discover the important roles colors play in the natural world, from attracting pollinators to helping animals survive and thrive. Then, head outdoors for a Color Scavenger Hunt and see how many beautiful shades you can find hiding in your own backyard or neighborhood.
Topic #4: Trees
Some trees can live for hundreds – even thousands – of years! In this topic, you’ll learn about the important role trees play in nature and discover the species that grow in your area. Next, you’ll head outdoors and put your observation and math skills to the test by measuring the height of a tree using a clever technique.
Topic #5: Tree Identification
No two tree species are exactly alike. From the shape of their leaves to the texture of their bark, trees leave clues that can help you uncover their identity. You’ll learn how naturalists use these features to identify different trees, then head outdoors to collect leaves and create beautiful leaf-resist artwork inspired by your discoveries.
Topic #6: Birds
Owls can’t move their eyes, but they can rotate their heads up to 270 degrees to see what’s happening around them! In this topic, you’ll discover how birdwatchers identify different species using visual clues and bird calls, turning every nature walk into an exciting scavenger hunt. Along the way, you’ll extend your learning with a fun bird-themed math activity.
Topic #7: Backyard Birds
Your backyard can become a busy birdwatching hotspot with just a little planning. You’ll learn how bird feeders attract different species and why they are such a useful tool for observing birds in their natural environment. Then, take on a DIY Birdfeeder Challenge as you design, build, and test a feeder created especially for the birds in your area.
Topic #8: Insects
What do ants, butterflies, dragonflies, and ladybugs all have in common? You’ll uncover the special features that make insects different from other creepy crawlies and learn how to identify some of the most common insects found in nature. Then, become an insect detective as you explore outdoors, record your observations, and create fact cards about your discoveries.
Topic #9: What is a Compass?
Finding your way in nature takes more than just a good sense of direction. You’ll learn how a compass uses Earth’s magnetic field to point North and discover how cardinal directions help scientists and naturalists accurately record their observations. Next, you’ll create your own working compass using simple materials and watch it guide you just like the real thing!
Topic #10: Nature and Art
A fallen leaf, a smooth stone, or a collection of pinecones might not seem like art supplies, but in the hands of a creative artist, they can become something extraordinary. You’ll explore how Andy Goldsworthy uses materials from nature to create beautiful works of rt, then head outdoors to design and photograph your own nature-inspired creation.
And there you have it! Ten engaging topics and hands-on activities that will inspire your family to step outside, slow down, and discover the wonders waiting right in your own backyard.
From creating a field journal and identifying trees, birds, and insects to building a bird feeder, making a compass, and creating nature-inspired art, this unit study is filled with meaningful learning, outdoor exploration, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the natural world together.
I’d love for you to pop on over, take a closer look, and see if the Backyard Naturalists Family Unit Study would be a great fit for your family!
Get the Backyard Naturalists Family Unit Study today!
https://shop.howweelearn.com/products/family-unit-study-backyard-naturalists
Thanks so much for reading, friend!
xo
Sarah
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